Are you scrambling to use up your vacation days before the end of the year and looking up the best places to visit in November in India for inspiration? Tucked between fall getaways and winter vacations, November is the best time to bypass crowded airports and dinner-table family drama. You can simply relax, and watch the mist roll across the mountains while steam wafts up from your hot tea.
Whether you’re looking for relaxation, art, culture, or adventure, November offers you a variety of off-beat destinations that give you a great experience. And, we are not talking about the best places to visit in December in the world. Curious? Go on, winter is here…
Looking for a Long Winter Getaway?
November marks cooling temperatures, misted breath, and feet scrunching through leaves in the park. While everyone knows the best place to visit in November outside India, did you know that India offers some of the most beautiful offbeat spots that will have you reaching for your scarves?
With its rich diversity, religious festivals, culture, and more, there is an abundance of experiences for the discerning traveler. Below are some of the most beautiful places to travel in India in November for a memorable travel experience.
Best Places to Visit in India During November: Wild Karnataka
Among the best places to visit in India during November is Karnataka. The wild side of Karnataka is set with layers of green and blue misty hills, the calming sounds of rivers flowing through Malabar, and the spunky smooth-coated otters on the riverbank.
While Karnataka has so much to explore, here is a mini-guided tour to discover Karnataka that takes you through some of the most beautiful and captivating places that will leave you spellbound.
Let’s explore Karnataka’s lesser-seen wildlife and poplar offbeat paths that can easily be explored in seven nights and eight days.
Sirsi – Yana
One of the best places to visit in India during November, Sirsi in Karnataka is set with dense forests and waterfalls. You can even explore the Dharma Jalashay, where the backwaters of the dam and flying bird formations make for a picturesque spot.
The Yana village is well-known for its unique rock formations, beautiful treks, and Bhairaveshwara Shikhara peak. Being a Hindu pilgrimage site, you can explore the cave temple, the self-manifested Lings, and the Yana rocks.
Mundgod Tibetan Monastery
Tucked away among the hills and paddy fields is a tiny Tibetan town called Mundgod. This area offers monks clad in maroon robes, small shops selling clothing and china, traditional Tibetan food, and beautiful monasteries with ornate prayer halls.
You can even explore the sculpted mandala and the most famous Garden Monastic College, which is a replica of Tibet’s 500-year-old University.
Tip: Walk Where Possible
A lot of off-beat places are best explored on foot. While there is transport, walking is a less stressful option allowing you to better soak up the sights and sounds as you go.
Coastal Bliss and Ancient History in Karnataka
Another side of Karnataka features palm-fringed beaches, ancient temple ruins, and some of India’s most beautiful culture. With Goa to the North and Kerala to the South, a lot of travelers miss out on the beauty of Karnataka.
Coastal Karnataka tour packages for seven days are sufficient to enjoy Karnataka this winter.
Kumta and Murudeshwar
Kumta offers clean and washed roads, fresh air, and pure shades of green all around. This area is well-known for its fishing, local food, and culture. Murudeshwar is home to the Shiva temple, the world’s second-tallest idol of Shiva standing on the banks of the Arabian Sea.
Murudeshwar Temple is constructed on the slope of a hill and is vast and beautiful. Being here feels like stepping into another part of the world.
Sirsi
Sirsi is famous for the Utsav Rock Garden, known for its rock formations and stunning scenery. This park is the ideal spot for nature lovers and adventures who can experience a range of outdoor activities such as trekking, rock climbing, and picnicking.
Yana
Yana is the ideal destination for pilgrims, trekkers, and nature lovers. You must trek through the cool breezy hills to the foot of the mountain where the rock formations are. You will find gigantic crystalline-like rock formations and a cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Close to Yana one can also find Unchanlli Falls which is a magnificent waterfall that people can see from the viewing deck or hike down the steps to get a closer look. These falls were discovered in 1845 by a British officer.
Do: Plan Around Festivals
Karnataka is home to a lot of major festivals like Durga Puja, or Diwali. This can mean high prices for accommodations, crowded attractions, and transport skyrocketing upwards. So, make sure to plan your trip around these festivals.
Heritage Karnataka: Time Comes to Standstill
Nestled in the heart of South India, Karnataka offers a captivating blend of culture, heritage, and tradition along with a treasure trove of experiences. From the ancient ruins of the bygone eras to the echoing pulse of modern cities, here is a guide to explore Heritage Karnataka.
If you’re looking to explore the best natural and architectural wonders of Karnataka, then seven-night and eight-day Heritage Karnataka tours are the perfect choice.
Hampi
A beloved gem, Hampi in Karnataka enchants visitors with its magical allure. You can explore the Hindu Kingdom of Vijayanagara, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or even the 1,600 remaining ruins that cover this town. Some travelers even choose to explore the forts, temples, water tanks, and even Dasara Dibba, a grand stone platform.
There are detailed carvings of performers, soldiers, parades, and Hampi’s symmetrical stepped tank, an architectural marvel. You must also visit the Virupaksa Temple, which is located near the Hampi Bazaar.
Badami
Badami features a spectacular rock face, sandstone hills, and a water tank, the Agastya Tirtha. Here you can find the renowned Badami caves dedicated to Lord Shiva dating back to the 5th century. One can also find the reliefs of the Shakambari Temple which is constructed and renovated in the Dravidian and Nagara architectural styles.
Here travelers flock to explore the Haridra Tirtha, a pond in the temple complex with a lamp over three stories high.
Must-Eat
Rakti is made from chili, and coagulated blood and is reduced into a thick paste, eaten with jowar rotis.
Scenic Train Trip Through Karnataka
India is dotted with so many stunning destinations to explore. Karnataka’s hill escapes offer panoramic views of the Western Ghats, lush green valleys, coffee plantations, and even peaks topped with clouds.
For those who are looking to explore the regal palaces, forts, and quaint corners decked with gigantic slopes and sparkling waterfalls, the Hills of Karnataka by Train tour is the perfect choice.
This trip takes nine nights and ten days, starting from Mulki to Mangalore allowing you to explore the hills at your own pace.
Mulki
Here one can see the Annapoorneshwari Temple dedicated to Goddess Annapoorneshwari of food and nourishment. Since food is deemed to be sacred as per Hindu mythology, followers can be seen offering food through the temple kitchen.
You can also explore the Hosa Basadi or Thousand Pillar Temple which is the largest and most ornate Jain temple here built in 1430 AD. The statue of Bahubali is the second-largest statue of its kind and is said to be an architectural wonder.
Coorg
Along with Coorg’s lush tea estates and bird-watching, this city is well-known for its rich coffee plantations, white water rafting, and waterfalls. Among these is the Abbey Falls in Coorg, nestled between the spice gardens and the private coffee plantations.
One can even explore the Namdroling Monastery, also known as one of the largest Tibetan settlements in India. This monastery’s main entrance features a four-storey tower with a wheel showcasing symbols of Buddhism.
Close to this area, is the Barapole River perfect for adventure enthusiasts looking to white-water raft or even walk to the top of the Tadiandamol Peak for unparalleled views of the city and the mountains. Not to forget, the best part of Coorg, i.e. the coffee plantations in which travelers can witness every single step along with the processing of the beans.
Must-try Experiences in Coorg – Editor’s Edition
Savour Coorg’s signature pandi curry paired with kadambuttu, steamed rice balls. You can also try their mutton curry, bitter lime chutney, pumpkin curry, and more washed down with the perfect cup of coffee or wine. Coorg offers a lovely selection of wines from rice, orange, coffee, tea, banana, star fruit, and betel.
Discover Malabar and Kabini’s Natural Wonders
A safari during the winter months isn’t what one would normally think of for a vacation. However, these nature parks and wildlife reserves are open all year around and offer less crowd during the winters allowing you to explore better.
Apart from that, some parks even showcase certain rare species of plants and animals that come out mainly during the colder months. You can easily cover the Malabar Kabini Tour Packages within six nights and seven days starting from Mangalore and ending at Bangalore.
Kasargod
The Jungles of Kabini has over 90 tigers along with dholes, deer, and one of the largest populations of Asiatic elephants in the world. This park and forest flank the Kabini River and can easily be explored by adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts.
You can even explore Bekal Fort which is the best-preserved Fort in the whole of Kerala bordered by a pristine beach. From here, one can explore the old mosques, observation towers, and giant canons and even take a houseboat trip down the backwaters of Neeleshwar.
The Arakkal Museum and Lighthouse
The main building of the palace complex has been converted into a museum that exhibits artifacts and heirlooms of the royal family. You can even find maritime activities and the monopoly on the spice trade. The lighthouse is situated within the city of Kannur and is about 3 km away from the railway station.
Wayanad
The forests of Wayanad boats untouched green landscapes, coffee plantations, majestic mountains, and rice paddy fields. Here you can find the Tushargiri waterfall which is a collection of five waterfalls, out of which, three are open to tourists for a trek.
You can even explore the Nagar Hole National Park, which is a sprawling reservoir and home to wild elephants, birds, and other mammals.
Must-do
Travelers also like to buy pure honey collected by tribal people in the forests of Wayanad. This honey is also mixed with gooseberries which gives it a unique flavor.
Beyond Shimla-Manali in Beautiful Himachal
With Manali and Shimla packed to the rafters with honeymooners, your plans for a mountain escape may have been on the rocks. Thankfully, there’s so much more to Himachal Pradesh like the rich cities of Dalhousie and Dharamshala, all with views of the majestic mountains.
Most travelers will need the Dharamshala and Dalhousie tour packages of 10 nights and 11 days to properly cover each of these places.
Dharamshala
Imagine the soothing chants of the Tibetan monks and the views of the beautiful Dhauladhar range. Dharamshala offers scenic treks, outdoor explorations, cafes, and major monasteries. You can visit all the offbeat attractions like Kareri Lake and Namgyal Monastery, and also visit the neighboring McLeod Ganj.
Dalhousie
Dalhousie is nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas and is a serene hill station. No matter what you are looking for this city offers a range of activities. One can enjoy boating in Chamera Lake, trekking through the forests, paragliding, or leisurely strolls through the town’s colorful markets.
Don’t miss out on Mall Road which is lined with quaint shops, cafes, and hotels. You can even spot black bears, Himalayan black martens, and wild cats at Kalatop.
Tip: Cozy Winter Dressing in Himachal
A sweater can be expensive if you are fussy about materials. Instead, look for softer tones of ecru and caramel and avoid death greys and black. You can also pick pieces that are more up-to-date and match your other outfits.
Chettinad’s Old-world Charms: A Heritage Experience
With opulent mansions, fantastic temple art, and delicious local food, exploring Chettinad is a truly memorable feast for the senses. Look for the best Chettinad tour packages of four nights and five days from Madurai so that you can experience the best this city has to offer.
A Stroll Through the Chettiyar Mansions
A walking tour will take you through some of the best-preserved Chettinad mansions. Each of these mansions is set by ornate facades and handcrafted details along with vast courtyards embellished with Burmese teak furniture that tell stories of a bygone era. A true masterpiece of Chettinad architecture.
Explore the Unique Temples of Chettinad
Chettinad originally had 96 towns but over time they shrunk to only 75. These towns are home to a variety of temples built by the Cholas and Pandyas. The Vairavanpatti Temple is one such structure devoted to Lord Murugan, the Hindu god of triumph and combat. This sacred place dates to the 18th century. You can also explore the Sri Solai Andavar shrine, which is in a quiet, sacred grove.
Did you know?
Chettinad was voted #1 in India for the most peaceful destination in Tamil Nadu.
Make the Most of This White Desert: Mini Guide for Kutch
At the tip of western Gujarat lies the Rann of Kutch. This vast salt marsh in the Thar Desert lingers in the air. You can easily find yourself getting pleasantly lost in the mesmerizing landscape of sand and the sky. November is also a time for the Rann Utsav, a four-month cultural festival, that takes place every year
If you are planning a visit here, then Kutch tour packages of a five-night and six-day itinerary are ideal – that starts from Bhachau and ends at Bhuj.
Tale of Black Hills: Kalo Dungar
The Kalo Dungar is 462 meters above sea level and offers a panoramic view of the Rann of Kutch. You can spend your days taking camel rides, leisurely walks in the desert, or even open-air jeep safaris to spot animals like the endangered Indian wild ass, golden jackals, Indian wolves, white-footed desert foxes, and more.
Travelers stay at the Devpur Homestay, the only heritage homestay in Kutch.
Banni Biosphere Area
The Banni Grasslands Reserve forms a belt of ecosystem on the outer edge of the marshy flats. It’s known for its rich wildlife and biodiversity.
Do You Love Local Weaves?
Bhujodi is a famous textile hub native to the Vankar community, which is a group of weavers, block printers, and tie-die artists. They make pottery, mud murals, shawls, and woodwork, which are any handloom lover’s dream.
Madhya Pradesh, Journey into India’s Wild Heart
By now you must have explored the well-trodden hill forts of Rajasthan, the beaches of Goa, and the backwaters of Kerala. However, one state that will surprise you is the incredible state of Madhya Pradesh. Known for its wilderness, tiger reserve, and teak forests, this state is home to several of the country’s best wildlife sanctuaries.
There’s no better way to take a trip to this fascinating place than an Awadh Chambal Bundelkhand tour for nine days.
Lucknow
Here one can see the Imambaras and the Rumi Darwaza, a magnificent gateway that depicts the impact of Mughal architecture. You can even ride through the old town, see the mosques, or even walk along the Gomti River.
Bara Imambara
Bara Imambara is one of the most well-known buildings in the city and one of the most beautiful examples of Mughal architecture and an ode to engineering.
Tiger Safari in Jhansi
Here one can explore the Kanha National Park and the Banhaar Tola and river. This is the perfect spot for adventurers and nature lovers.
Tip: Let Animals Be Animals
Make sure to respect wildlife and their habitat. Avoid shouting, feeding, or throwing things at the animals. Keep your phones on silent and switch off your camera flash. Do spend this time getting to know the wonders of the forest.
A Getaway to Aravallis with Little Rann
A six-night and seven-day trip to Aravallis, starting from Ahmedabad to Udaipur, is ideal for the Rann of Kutch. You can spend your days visiting the local villages, exploring wildlife sanctuaries, or even enjoying, leisurely walks in the desert.
Little Rann of Kutch (LRK)
LRK offers beautiful wildlife sanctuaries with an array of birds and animals that will leave you spellbound.
Adalaj Stepwell
The Adalaj Stepwell once was one of the larger resting places in the region and a main attraction for tourists and history lovers. During ancient times, stepwells were built to preserve rainwater for hot summers and encourage traders.
Jawai Bandh
The tallest dam ever built, the Jawai Bandh spans the Jawai River against the landscape of scattered hills and calm beauty making it a popular spot to click pictures.
Looking for Some Adventure?
For those daring daredevils the Abandoned village of Kuldhara about 40 mins away from the city is shrouded in legend. Local lore says the villagers abandoned their homes overnight and cursed misfortune on anyone who tried to settle there.
The Innate Beauty of The Western Ghats
The Western Ghats offer a certain calm that ebbs over the years. In November, the crowd lessen and the local culture offers a more laid-back approach along with the sleepy hilltop towns. During this time the travelers spend night nights and ten days traveling from Bangalore Airport to this area.
One can expect quaint cafes, nature-centric activities, and an old-world charm.
Ooty
If your idea of a trip is relaxing with great books and fresh-off-the-stove chai, then this little town is the perfect option. You can take a ride on the Nigiri Mountain Toy Train, explore the Pykara Waterfall and lake, or even stroll through The Wax World Museum, set in a 130-year-old Colonial Mansion.
Neriamangalam
Here you can explore the Inchathotty Suspension Bridge, commissioned in 2012 to offer villagers a seamless alternative for travel. Travelers also visit the Windermere River House which serves as a vantage point for majestic views of hills and rivers.
Fun Fact
Kochi is featured as one of the best places to visit in Asia in 2024. From its local festivals to sustainable initiatives, lagoons, waterways, and verdant backwaters it has lured travelers from all over the globe.
A Journey Through Indore Malwa
Indore Malwa is a special city where one can experience a unique blend of past and present culture. This city takes four nights and five days to fully explore and is sprinkled with historical landmarks, bustling bazaars, and splendid temples.
Whether you are craving adventure or solace, the city has plenty of attractions to keep you occupied.
Maheshwar – Jhira Bagh Palace
Jhira Bagh Palace is a unique and special place that offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the city. This place is surrounded by lush greenery and has a peaceful atmosphere.
Ujjain Temple Corridor
The Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain includes a 900-meter-long corridor that runs around the old Rudrasagar Lake. This corridor is the longest of its kind in the country.
Must-visit Haunt
By 8 pm, Sarafa Bazaar, a food market, takes over the streets. One can see the live preparations, large vessels, and greasy goodness underneath. This bazaar offers every dish out there from sabudana vada and chhole tiki, to jalebi and ice cream.
Timeless Beauty of the Artisans of Kutch
Imagine the glistening sand, the pitter-patter of the camels’ hooves as they plod across the arid landscape, and the farmers working in the salt pans. This is the beauty of Kutch.
Exploring the best of Kutch can take around five nights and six days from Bhachau to Bhuj. Kutch is home to one of the country’s most popular weaver communities, potters, craftsmen, and the Artisans of Kutch working with Ajrakh over the past three decades.
Dholavira
Dholavira is an archaeological marvel in Gujarat that unveils the secrets of an ancient civilization. Once a thriving metropolis of the Indus Valley Civilization, this city is surrounded by stunning salt flats and houses local communities. You can learn about traditions, and culture, and even gain insights into their way of life.
Stories from Kutch
Did you know that Kutch is believed to be home to ten million weavers, embroiders, spinners, and dyers who come together to create a magical craft and tradition in every sense?
Ready to Enjoy India’s Swoon-worthy Winter Trips?
In India, winters just hit differently. If you’re looking to customize your winter tour, look no further than Anubhav Vacations. These professionals will not only customize your tour to suit your tastes but will also plan the best offbeat and underrated destinations. These are locations that you will love especially during winter.
