Rajasthan or the hills for a winter holiday?

When families plan a holiday for the Christmas and New Year break, the question is often Rajasthan or the hills. Both are lovely in winter, but they are very different trips.

Rajasthan in December and January is at its best: days of 20 to 25°C, sunny and dry, with cold nights in the desert. Our eight-night heritage circuit covers Jaipur, Jodhpur and Udaipur, with forts, palaces, old bazaars and lakes. The days are full of walking and history, and the drives between cities are four to six hours on good roads. It suits families with older children who enjoy stories and sights, and parents who can manage stairs in the forts. Our circuit costs ₹38,900 per person.

The hills in winter are quieter and colder. Darjeeling and Gangtok see days of 8 to 12°C and nights close to freezing, with the clearest views of Kanchenjunga of the whole year. North Sikkim, above Lachung, often has snow, and roads to Zero Point may close. The pace is slower: mornings for views, afternoons by the fire, short drives. It suits younger children who love snow and couples who want rest. Our six-night Darjeeling and Gangtok package costs ₹21,500.

Practical differences matter too. Rajasthan needs a long train or a flight; the hills are an overnight train away. The hills need heavy woollens; Rajasthan needs light layers and sunscreen. For older parents with breathing or heart concerns, Rajasthan at its lower altitude is often easier. If you cannot decide, tell us who is travelling and we will send both plans with costs.