Top tourist places to visit in India during winter: A credit card guide

Winter is the perfect time to explore India’s diverse landscapes, from snow-covered mountains to serene lakes and vibrant deserts. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a nature lover, the winter months offer a unique charm to various destinations across the country. With the right travel tools, such as IDFC FIRST Bank’s Credit Cards, you can enhance your travel experience by saving on bookings, enjoying rewards, and making the most of your winter getaway.

Popular winter destinations
 

With India being home to so many captivating tourist destinations, winter can be the perfect season to enjoy a memorable family getaway! Here are some of the best places that you can visit this winter for a truly unforgettable vacation -

1. Himachal Pradesh – Manali
 

Manali is a winter paradise, offering breathtaking snow-covered landscapes, valleys, and rivers. Perfect for adventure enthusiasts, Manali provides skiing in Solang Valley, paragliding and trekking in winter months. For a cozy experience, visit Old Manali, known for its cultural cafes and scenic walks. With the IDFC FIRST Bank FIRST SWYP Credit Card, you can save 10% on hotel and flight bookings with EaseMyTrip for amount above ₹5000 and get access to exclusive offers that make your stay in this enchanting hill station even more affordable. Moreover, with the FIRST SWYP Credit Card, you can convert your large purchases into easy EMIs at flat monthly EMI conversion fee and zero interest charges, especially suiting your travel shopping needs.

2. Uttarakhand - Nainital
 

Nainital is famous for its picturesque lakes and tranquil winter vibes. The Naini Lake, surrounded by snow-covered mountains, offers boat rides and scenic views that add to the charm of this destination. During winters, the town becomes a serene retreat perfect for relaxation and reflection. For a more seamless experience, use the IDFC FIRST Bank FIRST Wealth Credit Card for comprehensive travel insurance worth USD 1200 for baggage loss/delay, travel document security or delay in flight. Get free trip cancellation worth ₹10,000 twice during the policy period for last minute change in plans and air accident cover worth ₹1 crore, allowing you to make the most of your budget while exploring the beauty of Uttarakhand.

3. Jammu & Kashmir - Gulmarg
 

Gulmarg, often referred to as the “Heartland of Winter Sports,” is ideal for those seeking adventure. The Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable cars in the world, offers spectacular views of the snow-capped mountains, while its ski slopes attract winter sports enthusiasts. IDFC FIRST Bank’s FIRST Select Credit Card can earn you up to 10X rewards on spending above ₹20,000 and 3X rewards on spending below on various categories like shopping, hotel bookings, making it an excellent choice for those looking to save on their accommodation during a winter trip to Kashmir.

4. Rajasthan – Jaisalmer
 

For those seeking a warm winter getaway, Jaisalmer offers an entirely different experience with its desert beauty. Explore the golden architecture of Jaisalmer Fort, take a camel safari in the Thar Desert, and relax in luxurious desert tents. The IDFC FIRST Bank metal Credit Cards like Ashva and Mayura offer several perks on travel, shopping, entertainment, like 4 complimentary lounge access to domestic airport/spas and railway stations to make your visits seamless and many other offers on every swipe in dining and curated experiences, making your stay in the Desert city a luxurious and memorable one.

Tips for winter travel in India
 

1. Pack wisely: Carry layered clothing, thermal wear, and essentials like sunscreen and moisturisers for harsh winter climates.

2. Book early: To secure better deals, especially in popular tourist destinations, it’s best to book flights, hotels, and transport in advance.

3. Use the right Credit Card: Credit Cards offer ample flexibility when you travel. Cards like the FIRST Wealth Credit Card and FIRST Select Credit Card benefits like railway and airport lounge access, interest-free cash withdrawal for up to 45 days,  and up to 10X reward points to help you maximise your travel budget.

4. Hydration is key: Winter air can be dehydrating, so drink plenty of fluids to keep refreshed.

5. Carry the right clothing: Winter in the mountains can be chilly, while deserts remain warmer – dress accordingly.

Conclusion
 

Winter in India is a magical time to explore new places, from snow-capped peaks to deserts. Whether you’re visiting the snowy hills of Himachal Pradesh or enjoying the desert charm of Rajasthan, IDFC FIRST Bank’s Credit Cards make your travel more rewarding and budget-friendly. By earning rewards and saving on travel expenses, you can enjoy a hassle-free and memorable winter vacation while maximising your benefits.