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As we bid adieu to the monsoons in India, clear skies and cool winds greet us with open arms, making way for a pleasant drop in temperatures. November is a great month to travel and witness India’s vibrant natural beauty that thrives under the warm winter sun. The snow is yet to find its way to the roads of Northern India, and the setting sun in Eastern India turns the turquoise sky a shade of mesmerising orange. The cool sands of Western India open up a natural background for photography, and the abundance of verdant greens comes alive in Southern India.
There are plenty of places to visit in India that offer a little something to every kind of traveller. From adventure-filled family vacations at hill stations to the beach for a solo trip or a quaint hamlet in the Himalayas, we have handpicked the best places to visit in November for you. Lined with fairs and festivals, experience a holiday packed with a treasure trove of emotions as you explore the best places to visit in winter in India.
Where to go in India this November: Best Places to visit in November
1. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat
One of the finest places to visit in November in India is the Rann of Kutch. The white desert of India, holding on to its princely state from the past, the Rann of Kutch, from November to February, captures the true essence of the surreal state of Gujarat. Hosting the famous Rann Utsav during this period, it’s a much-awaited extravagant festival that brings the desert to life. It is an undeniably fun-filled affair to attend with your family. You can indulge in activities like bird watching, rifle shooting, jungle safari, meditation and more, all while immersing yourself in the aroma of the authenticity of Gujarat. Kutch is one of the Best Places To Visit In India during the festive month of November.
Places to Visit: Aina Mahal, Mandvi Beach, White Desert, Prag Mahal
Things to Do: Birdwatching, cultural performances, star gazing and camping, camel rides
How to reach:
Nearest Airport: Bhuj Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kutch Railway Station
2. Bharatpur, Rajasthan
Another of the best places to visit in November is the incredible city of Bharatpur in Rajasthan. Not your commercial tourist spot like Jaipur and Udaipur, Bharatpur is an off-beat destination that will douse you in the state’s resplendent royal history and authentic hospitality. Home to an 18th-century castle known as the Lohagarh Fort, the fortress is an architectural spectacle to witness. You can also visit the Keoladeo National Park and sanctuary, and the revered temples in the area while you tantalise your tastebuds with traditional Rajasthani cuisine. It is the best place to travel to in November.
Places to Visit: Government Museum, Lohagarh Fort, Ganga and Laxman Mandir
Things to Do: Birdwatching, enjoy authentic food
How to reach:
Nearest Airport: Agra Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Bharatpur Railway Junction
3. Amritsar, Punjab
The best place to visit in India is the flourishing city of Amritsar in Punjab. Come November, the city gleams a shade of golden under the warm sun that reflects off the stunning Golden Temple which stands gloriously in the city. As the most important Sikh shrine, it exerts a magnetic pull over tourists who visit the city to witness and pay regard. The Golden Temple is as beautiful as the name suggests. Each year the temple celebrates the occasion of Gurupurab in November — the birth anniversary of the first Sikh guru, Guru Nanak Dev. Gurupurab is a magical and soul-stirring celebration to experience in the city of Amritsar. From listening to the calming Gurbani to eating langar at the gurdwara, Amritsar is one the best places to visit in November.
Places to Visit: The Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, Palace of Maharaja Ranjit Singh
Things to Do: Meditate at the Gurudwara, volunteer during Langar and shop at local markets
How to reach:
Nearest Airport: Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport Amritsar
Nearest Railway Station: Amritsar Railway Junction
4. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Among the best places to travel in November is the oldest and most sacred city in the world, Varanasi. A revered Hindu city, Varanasi or Banaras is a treasure trove of experiences. Attend the five-day-long Ganga Mahotsav in November and witness a colourful celebration of Hindu culture and craftsmanship. Walk along the ghats and titillate your taste buds with a bite of local delicacies for a culinary treat. And if you’re feeling adventurous, take a dip in the holy waters of Ganga, fly a kite with the local children, and watch the evening aarti from your private boat on the river. It is one of the best Budget Travel Destinations in India.
Places to Visit: Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Assi Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Sarnath Museum
Things to Do: Ganga aarti, take a dip in the Ganges, enjoy local food
How to reach:
Nearest Airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport Varanasi
Nearest Railway Station: Varanasi Railway Junction
5. Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir
If there is a heaven on earth, it would be in Gulmarg. One of the places in India to visit during November, Gulmarg is steeped in incredible natural beauty, blooming valleys, dense pine forests, gushing river streams and more. A power-packed destination for both nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, Gulmarg is not the coldest place in India but a close second. Soak in the picturesque landscapes of Apharwat Peak, where you can enjoy skiing during January and February. It is also one of the Top Adventure Places In India. Enjoy a bird’s eye view of the Kashmir valley on a Gondola ride from Gulmarg to Kongdori and Kongdori to Apharwat. Or hike up to the Maharani Temple and 500-year-old Baba Reshi Temple for a spiritual retreat in the wilderness.
Places to Visit: Khilanmarg, Gulmarg Bioreserve
Things to Do: Pony ride, bird watching, trekking
How to reach:
Nearest Airport: Srinagar Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Railway Station
Our curated list of the five best places to visit in November is specially picked to cater to the needs of every kind of vacationer. From the sultry deserts of Gujarat to the cold peaks of Kashmir, these are the best places in India to visit during the end of the year.
Photo: Shutterstock