Countdown to 2025: Top New Year Holidays You’ll Brag About

Countdown and Cocktails: Top New Year’s Holidays You’ll Brag About

Reni Pani Jungle Lodge, Satpura Tiger Reserve
For families looking to experience the wilderness in a more relaxed manner, Rainy Pani Jungle Lodge offers exciting wildlife safaris, hikes and adventures in the Satpura National Park. Unlike the crowded parks, this lodge offers peaceful, private tours where you can see tigers and elephants in their natural habitat. Skip the noisy jeeps and tour the park on a fun, family-friendly adventure – hike through the forest, paddle down a river, or cycle on scenic trails. Children will love anthropological walks or thrilling horse safaris to learn about local communities.

rest fall
Located on the outskirts of Gir National Park, Aramnes Gir is a luxury property featuring 18 eco-village-inspired cottages with private plunge pools that offer breathtaking views of the forest. You can spend a long weekend exploring Gir National Park under the guidance of expert naturalists, who will deepen your understanding of the conservation efforts affecting the forest’s inhabitants, especially the iconic Asiatic lions.

voco jim corbett
This outpost in Corbett is not your average resort – it is India’s first Voco Hotel, and it is absolutely stunning! Spread over 13.5 acres right on the banks of the Kosi River in Dhikuli, this serene retreat is situated in the foothills of the Mailani Range, surrounded by lush greenery and buzzing wildlife. The 70 rooms are extremely comfortable and stylish, with gorgeous views that will make you want to relax and unwind throughout the day. Sure, you can go for a jungle safari or check out places like Garija Temple and Corbett Waterfall, but there’s a lot to do at the hotel itself. Think morning yoga, splashing in the pool, badminton on the green lawn, or cooling off with snacks under the mango trees.

Ayatana Coorg
Coorg is enchanting in winter, and a stay at Ayatana makes the experience even better by providing you with a private waterfall! They have an extensive ziplining course where you can fly through the air with the wind in your hair and the roar of the waterfall as your soundtrack. Additionally, an outdoor ropes course will also keep your kids entertained. Enjoy misty mornings at their infinity pool overlooking the waterfalls or keep the afternoons to yourself for a short trek through the breathtaking Western Ghats.

Mary Budden Estate, Binsar
Nestled in breathtaking untouched surroundings, Mary Budden Estate is one of the last untouched expanses of wilderness in the Himalayas. From logwood fireplaces, stone patios and hand-picked antique furniture to panoramic mountain views, private dining rooms and drawing rooms, every experience at Mary Budden takes you deeper into Kumaoni culture. Let their on-site naturalist take you on a tour of the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, or teach you more about astronomy with a Milky Way dinner under the stars.

Amaya, Kasauli
This newly opened resort has been built keeping in mind eco-friendly practices, blending traditional village architecture with modern amenities. Amaya is an ideal destination for those who want to relax while being connected to the natural beauty of the area. The resort’s minimalist design allows you to fully appreciate the surrounding landscape, while its luxurious amenities like heated outdoor pools and saunas let you soak in the winter experience without freezing your bones.

Amanbagh, Alwar
If you want to celebrate the New Year in style and budget is not a constraint, then there is no more luxurious resort in Rajasthan than this. Nestled amidst the stunning Aravali Hills, this property has all the charm of a Rajasthani holiday; Think about special events like camel polo, traditional music performances and workshops where you can try your hand at making lacquer bangles or applying henna. On New Year’s Eve you can attend Amanbagh’s annual Indian Fair, where fortune tellers, fire dancers and Manganiyar singers celebrate with traditional North Indian flair.

Wildflower Hall, Shimla
This is why Shimla is a quintessential winter destination. At a driveable distance from Delhi, it offers all the charm of a hill holiday – think trekking, mountain biking and heritage walks. And snowfall also occurs here. The best place to enjoy the many attractions of this hill station is Wildflower Hall, a 5-star resort and the former residence of Lord Kitchener, which exudes the charm of a grand stately home. With a welcoming lounge, lavish accommodation, a snooker and billiards room and a well-stocked library, Wildflower Hall will keep you busy throughout the day. Snowy scenes of Himachal can be seen on New Year.

Khyber Himalaya Resort & Spa, Gulmarg
If you want to visit the snowy mountains, then Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa in Gulmarg is an ideal choice. As Kashmir’s only luxury ski resort, situated at an altitude of 8,825 feet, it offers the quintessential experience: postcard views of the snow-clad Afarwat Range. After a day spent on the slopes or exploring the stunning surroundings, cozy wooden interiors, a world-class spa and delicious dining options (or a simple cup of tea in the Chaikash lounge) complete the experience.