Winter is a perfect time to visit magical destinations that turn into snowy wonderlands or tropical holiday retreats.

For Indian travelers, the options are abundant when it comes to winter experiences outside India, with unique cultures, stunning landscapes, and exciting activities.

Did you know that December 2023 saw a rise in outbound tourism from India, with more than 2.5 million Indians traveling abroad during the festive season?

Whether you’re dreaming of the Northern Lights or Christmas markets, here’s your guide to the top 15 international winter destinations.

Best 15 Winter Destinations

1. Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, is a gateway to extraordinary winter experiences outside India.

From chasing the Northern Lights to soaking in geothermal spas like the Blue Lagoon, the city offers a mix of adventure and relaxation.

Its charming streets adorned with festive lights add to the magical vibe.

Why Visit: Witness the surreal Northern Lights, trek across ice caves, and relax in geothermal spas like the Blue Lagoon.
Travel Costs: Round-trip flights from India start at ₹60,000.
Daily Expenses: ₹6,000-₹10,000.
Visa Tips: To visit Iceland, one needs a Schengen Visa that would grant them access to several European countries on one piece of paper. Also, the passport has to be valid for at least six months and be applied in due time to avoid inconveniences.

2. Zermatt, Switzerland

It is a skier's paradise nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps. The scenic Glacier Express train ride, offering breathtaking vistas of snow-white landscapes, is a must-have for all the travelers.

Why Visit: Those who love skiing and a panoramic train ride like the Glacier Express.
Travel Cost: Flights around ₹85,000.
Daily Expenses: ₹12,000-₹15,000.
Visa Tips: A Schengen Visa is an important travel document to the Swiss country or any European country. This permit allows travelers to visit different places within one travel permit, as long as they qualify for the visa and their application has complete requirements.

3. Banff, Canada

Banff is known for its unspoilt natural beauty and adventure in winters.

Be it the frozen lakes, the mighty Rockies, or its snowboarding trails, the town beckons adventure lovers.

Why Visit: Experience snowboarding and the glaciers, serene frozen lakes, and the snowy Rockies.
Travel Costs: Flights start from ₹80,000.
Daily Expenses: ₹7,000-₹10,000.
Visa Tips: Visitor visas for Canada are required for anyone visiting the country. This paper will allow entry to the country for tourism and normally allows for a stay of up to six months on each visit. Ensure you have all the supporting documents with you when applying, such as proof of funds and an invitation letter (if applicable).

4. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo blends modernity with tradition, especially in the winter. There's bright illumination and seasonal food like oden, bringing life to the city.

Several ski resorts are just nearby, making it one of the top destinations for winter experiences outside India.

Why Visit: Winter illuminations, ski resorts, and seasonal delights to enjoy, such as hot springs.
Travel Costs: The flight starts from ₹55,000.
Daily Expenses: ₹5,000-₹8,000.
Visa Tips: A visitor visa is required to visit Japan for the Indian traveler. The document allows entry for tourism purposes and has a usual duration of stay for 90 days. Essential documents to be prepared include a confirmed itinerary, proof of accommodation, and financial statements for smooth application procedure.

5. Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki is a good base from which to explore the mystical region of Lapland, home to Santa Claus Village and husky sledding.

The city itself has breathtaking architecture and warm cafes.

Why Visit: Visit Santa Claus Village in Lapland and husky sled across the snowy wilderness.
Travel Costs: Flights from India begin at ₹75,000.
Daily Expenses: ₹6,500-₹9,000.
Visa Tips: A Schengen Visa is required for travel to Finland. This visa grants access to several European countries, so plan accordingly for seamless travel across the region.

6. Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown is an adventure lover’s paradise, offering activities like bungee jumping and scenic fjord cruises.

The surrounding vineyards and local cuisine complete the experience.

Why Visit: Famous for adventure sports, scenic fjords, and wine tours.
Travel Costs: Flights are ₹1,10,000.
Daily Expenses: ₹8,000-₹12,000.
Tip for Visa: A visitor visa may be required for entry into New Zealand. Ensure your itinerary includes all supporting documents for a smooth application process.

7. Prague, Czech Republic

The old-world charm of Prague is wonderful during winters. Christmas markets, cobblestone avenues, and Gothic architecture make it one of the best destinations for a snug winter holiday.

Why Visit: Christmas markets are very famous, fairy-tale buildings, and mulled wine.
Travel Costs: Round-trip flights from India cost around ₹65,000.
Daily Expenses: ₹4,500-₹6,000.
Visa Tips: A Schengen Visa is essential for travel to the Czech Republic, enabling access to other European countries within the Schengen zone.

8. Dubai, UAE

Dubai turns into a shoppers' paradise in winter when it hosts its annual Shopping Festival.

For those adrenaline junkies, indoor skiing and desert safaris bring a twist to the season. Dubai offers something for everyone—ensuring unique winter experiences outside India.

Why Visit: Dubai Shopping Festival. Desert safaris. Indoor skiing at Ski Dubai.
Travel Costs: Flights of return are starting from ₹24,000.
Daily Expenses: ₹6,000 - ₹8,000.
Visa Tips: Most visitors require a UAE tourist visa for Dubai. Select short-stay or long-stay options based on your stay.

9. Patagonia, Argentina

Patagonia can offer trekkers and nature lovers stunning glacier and mountain landscapes. It is a less obvious but more rewarding winter getaway.

Why Visit: It is great for hiking between glaciers and across national parks.
Travel Costs: Flights cost around ₹1,10,000.
Daily Expenses: ₹7,000-₹10,000.
Visa Tips: An Argentina tourist visa is required for travel to Argentina. Be sure to apply well in advance with necessary documents such as flight itinerary, accommodation bookings, and proof of sufficient funds.

10. Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg is synonymous with Alpine beauty and musical heritage.

Christmas markets and festivity offer Salzburg the quintessential winter experiences outside India.

Why Visit: Famous for its photogenic alpine landscape and festive Christmas markets.
Traveling Costs: Flights start from ₹70,000.
Daily Expenses: The rest is around ₹6,000-₹8,000 per day.
Visa Tips: A Schengen Visa is required to visit Austria, which gives you access to all the other destinations in the region.

11. Tromsø, Norway

Tromsø, located within the Arctic Circle, is ideal for Northern Lights enthusiasts.

Arctic wildlife safaris and snowshoeing are additional highlights.

Why Visit: Witness the Northern Lights and enjoy Arctic wildlife safaris.
Travel Costs: Flights cost around ₹95,000.
Daily Expenses: ₹6,000-₹8,000.
Visa Tips: One needs to apply for a Schengen Visa when visiting Norway. You can use this visa to travel to other Nordic countries.

12. Siem Reap, Cambodia

The winter season brings mild weather to Siem Reap, which justifies a visit to the famous Angkor Wat along with its temples.

Why Visit: Pleasant winter weather to enjoy Angkor Wat.
Travel Costs: Flights begin from ₹35,000 per person.
Daily Expenses: ₹3,500-₹5,000.
Visa Tips: Apply for a Cambodian tourist visa. You can opt for an eVisa that saves you much time and hassle.

13. Seoul, South Korea

Seoul's winters are a mix of traditions and modern festivities, giving it a must-visit destination for winter experiences outside India.

From vibrant festivals that show off Korean culture to relaxing hot springs providing warmth amidst the cold, Seoul promises a unique, enriching seasonal getaway.

Why Visit: Experience winter festivals, ski resorts, and traditional Korean hot pots.
Travel Costs: Flights cost around ₹ 60,000.
Daily Expenses: Will cost between ₹ 5,500-₹8,000.
Visa Tips: Check which type of visa you will need when visiting South Korea depending on your nationality. E-visas are issued to Indians, allowing them a stay of up to 90 days for leisure, sightseeing, or visiting friends and family .

14. Cape Town, South Africa

Escape to the Southern Hemisphere summers in Cape Town – with great beaches, vineyards, and wildlife safaris.

Why Visit: Summer in the Southern Hemisphere beaches and vineyards, on one hand, and safaris.
Travel Costs: Flights start at ₹75,000
Daily Expenses: ₹5,000-₹8,000.
Visa Tips: A South African tourist visa is required, which grants a stay of up to 90 days for Indian passport holders. Apply early to avoid delays.

15. Moscow, Russia

Moscow is transformed into a winter wonderland with ice sculptures and snow-covered landmarks. Cultural richness adds a depth of meaning to the seasonal charm.

Why Visit: Moscow is a magical winter destination with ice sculptures and snow-covered landmarks.
Travel Costs: Flight tickets can be as low as ₹60,000.
Daily Expenses: ₹4,000-₹6,000.
Visa Tips: Russian visas are necessary for Indian passport holders. The process might take several weeks, so apply early in advance to ensure smooth experience.

Conclusion

Exploring winter experiences outside India gives one a chance to delve into different cultures, breathtaking scenery, and exhilarating activities.

Be it chasing the Northern Lights in Iceland or enjoying a sunny getaway in South Africa, every destination gives a memorable winter holiday, depending on how well planned it is and your visa documents in order.

Visa2Fly allows the user to easily and hassle-free manage all their visa applications and get stress-free travel experiences.

Top 15 Destinations for Winter Experiences Outside India