Mystical Places to Visit in February in North India

Popularly known as the "Paradise on Earth", Jammu and Kashmir is world famous for its scenic splendour, snow-capped mountains, plentiful wildlife, exquisite monuments, hospitable people and local handicrafts. Your trip to Jammu and Kashmir will be a memorable one as the state will not only appeal to you with its scenic beauty and snow-covered mountain ranges, but the adventure sports will take you to a different world.

26 Jammu and Kashmir Attractions

Known For : Solang Valley Hadimba Devi Temple Manali Mall Road

Nestled in between the snow-capped slopes of the Pir Panjal and the Dhauladhar ranges, Manali is one of the most popular hill stations in the country. With jaw-dropping views, lush green forests, sprawling meadows carpeted with flowers, gushing blue streams, a perpetual fairy-tale like mist lingering in the air, and a persistent fragrance of pines and freshness -  Manali has been blessed with extraordinary scenic beauty.

Best Time: October to June

53 Manali Attractions

Known For : Jaisalmer Fort Desert Safari in Jaisalmer Gadisar Lake

Best Time: October to March

39 Jaisalmer Attractions

Known For : Amer Fort Hawa Mahal City Palace, Jaipur

Jaipur is a vibrant amalgamation of the old and the new. Also called the Pink City, The capital of the royal state of Rajasthan, Jaipur has been ruled by Rajput kingdoms for many centuries and developed as a planned city in the 17th century AD. Along with Delhi and Agra, Jaipur forms the Golden Triangle, one of the most famous tourist circuits of the country.

Best Time: November to March

75 Jaipur Attractions

Known For : Jakhu Temple Mall Road, Shimla Rashtrapati Niwas (Viceregal Lodge)

Situated at a height of 2200m, Shimla is the capital and the largest city of Himachal Pradesh in India. Set amidst beautiful hills and mystical woods, Shimla has been a very popular hill-station among Indian families and honeymooners since the last 50 years. British loved this city so much that they made Shimla their summer capital in 1864 and used to rule the sub-continent from here whenever the temperature rose in the nearby plains.

Best Time: October to June

65 Shimla Attractions

Known For : Ranthambore Tiger Reserve Jeep Safari Ranthambore Ranthambhore Fort

This is one of the best tiger reserves of the country, known to have "friendly" tigers and chances of sighting one here is reasonably better than many other tiger reserves of India. Along with this Ranthambore has one of the richest flora and fauna making it an absolutely must visit area. Nestled in the foothills of Vindhya and Aravali Hills, Ranthambore is famous for its tiger reserves and the variety of flora and fauna found. The Ranthambore National Park, along with the Ranthambore Fort and the surrounding hills and valleys, altogether make Ranthambore a traveller's delight.

Best Time: October to Apr

20 Ranthambore Attractions

Known For : India Gate Red Fort Qutub Minar

The capital of India, Delhi is a cosmopolitan city with a historic old Delhi and the modern New Delhi. From historical monuments to crowded shopping malls, from an extensive network of the modern metro system to Delhi University campus, Dilli has multiple personalities and is considered to be the city with a heart. The narrow, winding lanes and bylanes of old Delhi are a testament to the former Mughal rule. Old Delhi houses one of the country's oldest and busiest market – Chandni Chowk.

Best Time: October to March

120 New Delhi Attractions

Known For : Taj Mahal Agra Fort Taj Mahotsav

Home to one of the 7 wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal, Agra is a sneak peek into the architectural history with other UNESCO World Heritage Sites as Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri. History, architecture, romance all together create the magic of Agra and hence makes for a must-visit for anyone living in or visiting India. Located on the banks of river Yamuna, History fanatics, as well as architecture buffs, can have a ball here with the sheer expanse of the Mughal art and culture on display.

Best Time: October to March

20 Agra Attractions

Known For : Manikaran Sahib Nature Park Kasol Tosh

A small village in Himachal situated along the banks of the river Parvati, Kasol is a tourist attraction that is rapidly gaining fame as a very popular hub for trekkers, backpackers, and nature lovers. Commonly known as the Amsterdam of India, this quaint little village is resplendent in natural scenic beauty, and is one of the few places in the country that is yet to be ruined by urbanization and commercialization. Situated between the towns of Bhuntar and Manikaran, Kasol might seem like a plain, nondescript village from the outside, but it is one of the best places in the country to just sit back and chill in the lap of nature.

Best Time: October to June

30 Kasol Attractions

Known For : Skiing in Auli Trishul Peak Auli Ropeway

Dotted with the apple orchards, old oaks and pine trees there is no dearth of natural beauty in Auli. Apart from skiing you can also go for numerous treks in the hills of Garhwal Himalayas and enjoy the spellbinding views of the snow-draped mountains. Auli is a popular hill resort in the Himalayan range dating back to 8th Century AD. Auli is a popular skiing destination in India because of its glittering slopes and clean environment.

Best Time: December - February

12 Auli Attractions

Known For : Umiam Lake Elephant Falls Shillong Peak

A beautiful city encircled by pine trees, Shillong is the capital of Meghalaya. It derives its name from Lei Shyllong, an idol worshipped at the Shillong Peak. Standing as tall as 1496 meters, Shillong provides a relief from the heat across the country. This hill station is known for its picturesque sights and traditions. The soothing climate makes Shillong suitable to visit in all seasons. The light drizzles and the cooling gentle wind adds to the joy of visiting this hill station. This place is also known as the ‘Scotland of the East’. One can find descendants of the Khyrim, Mylliem, Maharam, Mallaisohmat, Bhowal and Langrim tribes.

Best Time: September to May

33 Shillong Attractions

Known For : Paragliding in Bir Billing Chokling Monastery Gunehar Waterfall

Bir is a small town located in the state of Himachal Pradesh in northern India. Bir Billing is a popular destination located in Joginder Nagar valley known for adventures sports such as paragliding, treks and also as the town for meditation. There is an influence of Tibetan culture due to Tibetan community settlement in this town. Bir is considered as one of the best spots in the world for paragliding. The take-off site is called Billing and the landing site is Bir and the overall altitude change is around 800m.

Best Time: March - May; September - November

29 Bir Attractions

Known For : Mehrangarh Fort Umaid Bhawan Palace Mahamandir Temple

Also known as the "The Blue City", "Sun City" and "Gateway to Thar", Jodhpur is famous for its Mehrangarh fort, blue houses, temples, sweets and snacks. Apart from the fort, there are multiple temples, lakes, shopping streets that are like a mirage from a bygone era. The former capital of Marwar, Jodhpur is one of the most enchanting cities of Rajasthan, with its mighty Mehrangarh fort overlooking the city. The city is called the Blue City as it looks completely blue in colour from an aerial view because of its blue walls and blue houses.

Best Time: November to February

43 Jodhpur Attractions

Known For : Mussoorie Mall Road Lal Tibba Kempty Falls

If your idea of the perfect holiday involves tranquil hills, untouched nature and a holiday experience that is unadulterated in the truest sense of the term, Mussoorie is the place you should be heading to. Nestled amidst the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayan ranges, Mussoorie, also known as Queen of The Hills, stands at an altitude of 7000 feet above sea level, and has a cool, pleasant climate throughout the year. The pristine, natural beauty of Mussoorie makes it a very popular choice of holiday for honeymooners. If you want to enjoy the beautiful sight of the rolling green slopes juxtaposed with the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, Mussoorie is the place for you to be.

Best Time: September to June

36 Mussoorie Attractions

Known For : Jungle Safari in Corbett National Park Corbett Waterfall River Rafting in Corbett National Park

Corbett National Park, set amidst the foothills of Himalayas, houses a variety of flora and fauna including rare ones such as tigers and is a treat for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. The first national park in India, Jim Corbett National Park was established in 1936 as Hailey National Park and is home to the critically endangered species of the Royal Bengal Tiger. It was the first place where Project Tiger was launched in 1973.

Best Time: Mid October to Mid June

19 Jim Corbett Attractions

Known For : Birthi falls Maheshwari Kund Panchachuli Peak

Often referred to as "Little Kashmir", Munsiyari is a cosy hamlet located in the Pithoragarh District of Uttarakhand. Situated at an altitude of 2298 metres, the pretty little hill town is known for its panorama of snow-capped Himalayan Range and some adventurous trekking trails. Perched between the borders of India, Tibet and Nepal, Munsiyari is a base for three glaciers namely Namik, Milam and Ralam Glaciers.

Best Time: April to June, October to November

16 Munsiyari Attractions

Known For : Monkey Point Toy Train Ride Timber Trail

Located on the way from Chandigarh to Shimla, Kasauli is a hilly cantonment town which makes for an ideal peaceful holiday location, away from the rush. Kasauli is a small town in the south-west part of Himachal and is on the relatively lower edges of Himalayas. Nestled amidst beautiful woody forests of pine and cedar trees, Kasauli owes its mystical and serene ambience to the lavish Victorian buildings built by the Britishers who resided here years back.

Best Time: March - June; September - November

12 Kasauli Attractions

Known For : Chaubatia Orchards Majhkhali Golf Course

Ranikhet meaning Queen's farm, is a hill station developed by the Britishers around ancient temples, undulating Himalayan hills and forests. Ranikhet with its cool climate and simple natural beauty can freshen up your senses to the very core. It is also popular as the Headquarters of the Kumaon Regiment of the Indian Army and has the Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum. The museum has a splendid display of weapons, photo etc.

Best Time: Throughout the year

22 Ranikhet Attractions

Known For : Pushkar Lake Brahma Temple Savitri Temple

Pushkar, a small temple town, is located around 15 km from Ajmer in Rajasthan. Every November, Pushkar is host to the Pushkar Mela, one of the biggest camel fairs in the country. Perfect choice for a weekend getaway from Jaipur, Pushkar is located amid Aravali ranges. Known for the world's only dedicated Brahma temple, Pushkar is primarily a pilgrimage site for Hindus.

Best Time: October to March

27 Pushkar Attractions

Known For : Dalai Lama Temple St. John in the Wilderness Church Dharamshala Cricket Stadium

Dharamsala is famed as the holy residence of the Dalai Lama and houses the Tibetan monk in exile. Dharamsala is located in Kangra district at a distance of 18km from Kangra City. The city is distinctively separated as upper and lower divisions with different altitudes. The lower division is the Dharamsala town itself whereas the upper division is popularly known as Mcleodganj.

Best Time: October to June

40 Dharamsala Attractions

Known For : Robber's Cave Sahastradhara Tapkeshwar Temple

Nestled amidst the Doon Valley in the state of Uttarakhand, Dehradun is a very popular hill station that beckons solo travellers, families and couples alike. Proudly boasting of a scenic backdrop of the Garhwal Himalayas, Dehradun is located at an altitude of 1400 feet above sea level and has a pleasant climate all year round. Regardless of whether you want to explore family-friendly tourist spots, try thrilling adventure activities with your friends, or watch a mesmerizing sunset with your partner amidst the mountains, Dehradun is the answer.

Best Time: Throughout the year

37 Dehradun Attractions

Known For : Skiing in Kufri Horse Ride to the Mahasu Peak Mahasu Peak

Kufri in Shimla district, Himachal Pradesh is one of the most sought after holiday destinations, and more so for couples, because of its proximity to Shimla and relatively higher altitude which makes it a place with snow all through the winters. Kufri is just about 10 km from Shimla and is quite a retreat if you're in Shimla and snow is something which excites you. While there's not much to see in Kufri as such, but the panoramic views and temples after a bit of trekking are worth the time.

Best Time: November to March

13 Kufri Attractions

Known For : Dhanaulti Adventure Park Eco Park, Dhanaulti Apple Orchard Resort

With minimal human intrusion, without overloading or overwhelming your senses or expectations, Dhanaulti slowly seeps into your conscience like a long lost pleasant dream, bringing with it comfort and quiet, and giving you the much-needed break from your humdrum routine life.

Best Time: September to June

10 Dhanaulti Attractions

Known For : Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary Bineshwar Temple Zero Point

Located at a distance of 33 km from Almora, Binsar is a small town in Uttarakhand known for the surreal beauty of the snow-laden Himalayan peaks. Set amid forests covered with oak, pine, rhododendrons and deodar trees, Binsar is home to beautiful green meadows, temples and the famous Binsar wildlife sanctuary. A trekker's paradise, Binsar has a Zero point that provides the 360-degree view of the Himalayan ranges, which includes Nanda Devi, Kedarnath, Shivling, and Trishul.

Best Time: Throughout the year

4 Binsar Attractions

Known For : Rudradhari Falls and Caves Gwaldam Trek to Pinnath

Kausani is a hill station located in Bageshwar district of Uttarakhand, 51km from Almora. The panoramic snow-clad view of Himalayas in Kausani is dominated by Trisul, Nanda Devi and Panchuli peaks. Situated at an altitude of 1890m with Pine tree forests, meandering creek, Kausani is ideal for honeymooners, nature lovers and travellers. Kausani receives snowfall during the winter months. Previously known as Valna, this place is blessed with many attractions and sight of sunset so captivating, that it is sure to leave you completely enchanted.

Best Time: April to June, September to December

11 Kausani Attractions

Known For : Triveni Ghat Rafting in Rishikesh Lakshman Jhula

Located in the foothills of the Himalayas along the convergence of Ganga and Chandrabhaga River, Rishikesh (also called as Hrishikesh) is known for its adventure activities, ancient temples, popular cafes and as the "Yoga Capital of the World". With whitewater rafting industry growing and varied camping and cafe spots springing up, Rishikesh has grown immensely as a favourite, catering to people with different needs.

Best Time: Throughout the year

54 Rishikesh Attractions

Known For : Har Ki Pauri Maa Mansa Devi Temple Ganga Aarti Sthal

Haridwar, considered to be among the seven holiest cities in India, is an ancient city located on the banks of River Ganga in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. Dotted with temples, ashrams and narrow lanes across the city, Haridwar is a famous Hindu temple town where millions of devotees come to take a dip in the holy Ganges. It's believed that taking a dip in the holy Har Ki Pauri relieves you of all your sins.

Best Time: Throughout the year

36 Haridwar Attractions