Winter Wanderlust

Embrace the best of the season with these standout winter experiences.

- Arundhati Ail

THE TAMARA COORG

There's nothing like a cup of steaming coffee on the rolling misty hills of Coorg. Here, coffee is harvested in winter and you can try a freshly brewed cup at The Verandah, Tamara's coffee lounge. In-house brewers also help you make your own blend, which you can carry home as a souvenir. thetamara.com

W MALDIVES

The onset of the Maldives' dry season features cool breezes and great visibility, perfect for diving and snorkeling. Unwind with a full-body wrap or a relaxing back massage at any of AWAY Spa's four private overwater treatment rooms.marrioti.com

SKYVIEW BY EMPYREAN, PATNITOP

Winter transforms this 22-acre property into a snowy wonderland and the Skyview Gondola is the star attraction. It is especially scenic around this time as you glide in the air from Sanget to Patnitop with forests bathed in white and snow-capped mountains all around you, It doesn't hurt that it turns an hour's drive into a prompt 12-minute ride. skyviewbyempyrean.com

THE KHYBER HIMALAYAN RESORT & SPA, GULMARG

Enjoy the thick blanket of Gulmarg's snow from the vantage of one of India's most luxurious ski resorts. If you're an expert, challenge yourself with the slopes of the Affarwat mountain. For novices, there are meadows and bunny slopes. Once done, enjoy a well-earned massage at The Khyber Spa by L'Occitane, or swim in the heated indoor pool. khyberhotels.com

ARAMNESS GIR

One of Sasan Gir National Park's lionesses gave birth this summer, which means this winter, you're likely to spot her cute cubs exploring the wilderness. Safari experiences wrap up with sunset bonfires and tales of animal encounters from your guide.aramness.com

HYATT REGENCY DHARAMSHALA RESORT