To Escape or Embrace the Cold: Asia's Best Winter Destinations

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To learn more about tours and packages, please email beijing@countryholidays.com.cn
or call 8587 9263.
 

Every year, the Arctic chill comes with winter and travelers are left to embrace the cold weather, put on snow gear and head off to the slopes or make a break for warmer temperatures in the south. No matter how you choose to spend it, there are numerous destinations at your fingertips.

Winter is the best time of the year for those that prefer the adventures atop snow-capped mountains.  

In Asia, the standard for skiing is set in Japan. If you want to hit the slopes, have snow ball fights or simply sip hot chocolate in your ski lodge, Hokkaido, the Whistler of Japan, is for you. The snowy Japanese slopes are beset with avid skiers and snowboarders and its world-class skiing facilities are known throughout Asia.  

Since you are already in China, you may have heard of the Ice & Snow Festival in Harbin, an icy, magical world.  Be awed by the renowned exhibits of ice and snow held from January to early February. The colorfully glittering ice sculptures decorate this northern snowy city that is nick-named "China's Moscow" due to its historic Russian influence. Palaces, dragons and waterfalls carved from snow and ice give the city a wonderful atmosphere. 

For mountain lovers and adventure seekers, Nepal is the ultimate destination. This is where you get 8 of the world’s 10 tallest mountain including Everest. Contrary to most people’s impression, winter is the perfect time to trek in Nepal, unless you are going for major expedition. The clear skies offer stupendous mountain views and in the day, the temperature of about 10 degree Celsius is ideal. Hiking in Nepal is a walk amongst locals and experiencing their ancient way of life. And you get the majestic Himalayas as the backdrop. 

But not everyone supports the cold. Southeast Asia, Indochina and India see thousands of tourists looking to escape the dark nights of winter by flocking to sunny destinations.



Cambodia is a warm winter destination. And Angkor Wat is without doubt one of the greatest archaeological sites in Southeast Asia. The first view of the massive central temple, its grand cone-shaped towers etched against the sky, is a sight to behold. 

In neighboring Myanmar, images of gleaming stupas, majestic rivers, and ancient glory are thoughts that come to mind. Bagan, an archeological zone with over 2000 pagodas near the Irrawaddy River is the reason most people visit, to see all of its ancient glory. In addition to the temples, there’s breath-taking scenery at Inle Lake, known for its special fisherman leg-boat rowers.  

Another great destination to beat the cold weather is India. Wander from one colourful town to the next: Jaipur, the pink city, Jodhpur, Blue City, and the most beautiful of them, Udaipur the Lake City. Be awed by the outstanding architecture of the forts and palaces, mesmerized by the colours & sounds of the villages and bazaars. Culminate with a visit to the Taj Mahal!

Winter is great time to go away on holiday, especially with long Christmas and Chinese New Year holiday breaks. 

To learn more about tours and packages, please email beijing@countryholidays.com.cn or call 8587 9263 and log onto: www.countryholidays.com.cn.

Written By: Bonnie Chao
Photos: Courtesy of Country Holidays