Thinking about where to travel next in 2020? Bored with beaches and camping in the desert! If travelling in peak winter season then be ready for skyrocketing ticket prices and crowded places. Such factors often lead to an unpleasant vacation. But if you are a mountain lover then we have got a list of alluring yet pocket-friendly places for you. Read this blog further and visit any of the Himalayan villages to have an exhilarating experience.
-
khirsu
Around 10 km away from Pauri in Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, khirsu is a perfect place for adventure enthusiasts. This place offers a scenic backdrop of Himalayan mountains. Enjoy lovely mountain views while chit-chatting with the localites and timeless beauty that is breathtaking in winters.What to do
For an ultimate experience, stay in cottages and indulge yourself in the adventure activities like Hiking and enjoying the lovely natural view in Khirsu.How to reach
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun that is around 145 km away from Khirsu. From there you can hire a cab that will take you directly to Khirsu. If you want to travel by train then, Kotdwar (KTW) railway station is the nearest for Khirsu (approx 115 km). You can reach Kotdwar by taking a train that runs from Delhi to Kotdwara. After that, you can reach Khirsu via taxi. -
Kotkhai
Bored with Shimla? Looking for a peaceful hill station nearby Shimla then, Kotkhai is a village that is situated 58 km away from Shimla. Popularly known for its Kotkhai Fort and apple orchards, this village is a perfect example of alluring natural beauty for a great holidaying experience.What to do
The best time to visit Kotkhai is in winter, when the village is covered with pristine white snow blankets. Do not forget to visit apple orchards and Kotkhai Fort which is the hallmark of Kotkhai. You can also explore the nearby towns like Cheog, Fagu, and Theog.How to reach
The nearest airport is Shimla, which is approximately 78 km away from Kotkhai. Train travellers can board any train that runs on the Kalka Shimla route. After reaching Shimla, you can take a cab or travel by bus in order to reach Kotkhai that is approximately 58 km from Shimla. You can also find direct state-run and private bus services from Delhi and Chandigarh to Shimla. Hire a taxi from Shimla that can take you straight to Kotkhai. -
Ravangla
Ravangla also known as Rawangla is a heavenly place between Tedong and Maenam hills, located at an altitude of 8,000 feet. It is a small hill station that lies in the southern region of one of the northeastern states (Sikkim). This is a popular destination in north Sikkim. It offers a stunning view of the Himalayas. If you are willing to spend a few days in the lap of Himalayas then, this is an apt place.What to do
When in Ravangla you can visit Ralong Monastery, hot springs, Buddha park. Don’t forget to stuff your bags with local handicrafts that are available at Kheunpheling Carpet Centre. If you have more time then visit the nearby hill towns such as Peling, Kaluk and Namchi as well.How to reach
The closest airport is Bagdogra which is located at a distance of 135 km from Ravangla. After that, hire a taxi or cab that can take you to Ravangla. For train enthusiasts, the nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) that is 120 km from Ravangla. There are a number of trains that run from New Delhi to New Jalpaiguri. You can take a taxi from the station to reach this place directly. Direct buses are not easily available so it advised that you hire a cab from the nearby cities like New Jalpaiguri, Gangtok. -
Harsil
Love to go for adventures even in the cold weather then, head onto Harsil this winter. Situated 72 km from Uttarkashi town on the banks of river Bhagirathi, Harsil is one of the lesser-known Himalayan villages that offer a picturesque view of the snow-capped Himalayas in the backdrop. Located at an altitude of 2,600 metres Harsil receives snowfall every winter. If you are not faint-hearted and can bear cold then, the view from this place is no less than straight out of a fairytale.What to do
If you are planning to visit Harsil then go hiking and trekking. Bird watching is also one of the popular activities out there. You can also go to a nearby place Sattal which is known for its seven lakes.How to reach
Nearest located railway station and airport- Dehradun (DDN) are at a distance of 220 km and 245 km respectively from Harsil. There are a countless number of trains between New Delhi to Dehradun. After reaching Dehradun you can take a bus to Uttarkashi that is 145 km away from Dehradun. From Uttarkashi, you can reach Harsil (79 km from Uttarkashi) in a private or shared cab. -
Chaukori
Chaukori, a beautiful place in Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand at an altitude of 2,000 metres above sea level is a hidden gem. Reconnect yourself with nature in the vast expanse of tea and fruit gardens along with densely covered forests with clear azure blue sky.What to do
The place is abuzz with several places to visit like Arjuneshawar Shiva Temple, Ghunsera Devi Temple, and Kapileshwar Mahadev Temple. You can do almost everything here - be it hiking or simply relax in the lap of nature.How to reach
One of the most convenient ways to go Chaukori is either by rail or bus. The nearest railway station and bus stand is Haldwani which is approximately 195 km away from Chaukori. There are several trains that run from New Delhi to Haldwani. After reaching Haldwani, take a shared cab or personal cab from Haldwani that’ll take you to Chaukori. -
Karsog
Karsog, a remarkable place at an altitude of 1,404 metres is nestled in Pir Panjal range. It is a beautiful town that is also described in Hindu folk tales. The name of the village is derived from two words ‘kar’ and ‘shok’ meaning ‘daily mourning’. One of the ancient stories associated with the town is that the village was terrorized by a rakshasa who ate a villager every day resulting in daily mourning. During the exile of the Pandavas, Bhima saved the village by killing the rakshasa.What to do
One of the best things to do in Karsog valley is to go hiking and witness the lush green valleys, eat lip-smacking local food, apple picking and photography. With a mere crowd, this place is perfect if you want to spend some quality time in peace. Do not miss the temple hopping as Karsog has some spectacular ancient temples.How to reach
Shimla Airport is the closest to Karsog. From the airport, you can take a cab directly to Karsog which is 107 km away from Shimla. The nearest railways station for Karsog is Shimla (SML) railway station. There are a number of trains that run on the Kalka Shimla route. You can hire a personal or shared taxi that can take you straight to Karsog which is located 107 away from Shimla. The convenient way to reach Karsog is by road. You can easily find buses and cabs from Delhi, Chandigarh and Shimla to Karsog.
Know more about such villages that are nestled in the lap of Himalayas India? Tell us in the comments below. Book your train tickets easily through Trainman app. Download Trainman App and check PNR Status of the booked ticket, Seat Availability, Train between Stations and many such features.