Best Winter Destinations for Indian Passport Holders!

Here’s Udaan India’s curated list of winter travel destinations for Indian travelers! Includes why you should, key places to visit and some fun facts.

Switzerland

Fun Fact: Switzerland is home to over 1500 lakes!

Switzerland Schengen Visa Processing Time: 10 Working Days

Why Go: Snow-covered mountains, frozen lakes, and charming villages make Switzerland a postcard worthy destination. It is perfect for skiing, snowboarding, or simply soaking in stunning views.

What to See:

Matterhorn in Zermatt - Epic mountain views and breathtaking views for skiing

Lake Geneva - Get ready to be stunned by Lake Geneva’s stunning views and visit the cosy nearby towns like Lausanne

Jungfraujoch is known as the “Top of Europe”! Panoramic alpine views will leave you mesmerized

Finland

Fun Fact: Finland has a “Right to Roam” law which lets people explore nature freely

Finland Visa Processing Time: 15 Working Days

Why Go: Lapland in Finland is one of the best places to catch Northern Lights! Cozy Saunas and unique ice hotels

What to See:

Rovaniemi - home of Santa Claus, lots of winter festivities and reindeer farms

Northern Lights Village in Saariselkä - an amazing spot to catch auroras from glass igloos

Helsinki Winter Market - immerse yourself in the beautiful culture of Helsinki with local crafts and foods

Japan

Fun Fact: Japan is home to 500 ski resorts!

Japan Visa Processing Time: 7 Working Days

Why Go: Japan winter is truly unique offering everything from snowy temples to natural hot springs

What to See:

Sapporo - Famous for Sapporo Snow Festival with amazing snow sculptures and ice bar

Hakuba Valley - A true paradise for ski lovers with world class ski resorts

Jigokudani Monkey Park - Watch snow monkeys bathing in hot springs!

Iceland

Fun Fact: There are more than 30 active volcanic regions scattered across the island

Iceland Visa Processing Time: 20 Working Days

Why Go: Unique icy glaciers and fiery volcanoes - make Iceland a great winter destination! Northern Lights are a plus

What to See:

Blue Lagoon - This Geothermal spa is surrounded by black lava fields and is perfect for a dip during winters

Golden Circle - Explore some great natural sites like Geysir and Gullfoss Waterfall

Reykjavik - Iceland’s Capital which is home to beautiful churches, street art and festive winter markets

France

Fun Fact: France’s oldest Christmas Market in Strasbourg dates back to 1570

France Schengen Visa Processing Time: 7 Working Days

Why Go: Christmas markets, delicious seasonal foods, ski in the Alps, or relax in cozy French villages

What to See:

Paris - The City of Lights transforms into a holiday paradise with ice rinks and shopping! Make sure you visit Champs-Élysées and Montmartre markets!

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc - is a Skiing Paradise perfect for winter sports and incredible views

Strasbourg - One of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets which turns into a magical place

Netherlands

Fun Fact: Sinterklaas, the Dutch version of Santa Claus, arrives on a steamboat from Spain in mid-November, and his arrival is celebrated with parades and festivities across the Netherlands!

Netherlands Schengen Visa Processing Time: 15 Working Days

Why Go: Cosy canal scenes, light festivals, cute Christmas markets, festive lights and food. Enjoy the welcoming spirit of the Dutch people this winter season

What to See:

Amsterdam - Enjoy spectacular light installations from global artists from November to Mid-January

Ice Skating - A classic and fun activity to enjoy in the Netherlands

Maastricht’s Christmas Market - Maastricht’s historic squares transforms into a Christmas market with an ice rink, Ferris wheel, and traditional holiday treats!

United Kingdom

Fun Fact: Edinburgh’s Hogmanay is one of the biggest New Year celebrations in the world, with traditions dating back to the Vikings!

UK Visa Processing Time: 20 Working Days

Why Go: Festive cities, countryside pubs, and beautiful winter landscapes

What to See:

London - Christmas time in London is truly magical, enjoy ice-skating at Somerset house, shopping and festival lights

Edinburgh - New Year’s Festival, Hogmanay, features fireworks, concerts, and torchlight processions

Lake District - Serene landscapes, winter hikes, cozy pubs and scenic lakes

United States

Fun Fact: The iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree tradition in New York City started in 1931 and has since become a symbol of the holiday season worldwide.

US Visa Processing Time: 7 Working Days

Why Go: Snow in New York or warm beaches of Florida - choose between varied weathers during the festive season

What to See:

New York - Ice Skating & Rockefeller

Aspen - A skier’s paradise with luxury resorts and scenic slopes

Lake Tahoe & Yellowstone National Park - Perfect to explore during winter

Get your visa by Udaan India, pack your warmest gear, and prepare for a magical winter adventure!