There’s something about winter that makes every Indian traveller itch for an escape. Some run to the mountains for that cosy-bonfire feeling. Others crave beaches where the only thing that freezes is your iced cocktail. Last December, I found myself doing both—starting amidst the pine-scented chill of the Himalayas and ending in the warm turquoise waters of the Maldives. And honestly? If you’re planning a winter break, take this as your sign.

Chapter 1: Waking Up in the Mountains

My winter began in Himachal. I still remember stepping out of the car just as the sun dipped behind the Dhauladhar range. The air was so crisp it felt like nature had hit refresh. At the homestay, the owner handed us steaming cups of ginger chai, and we spent the first evening huddled around a crackling bonfire with travellers from all over India.

The next morning, we trekked to a viewpoint that locals kept secret. As I stood at the top, watching the snowflakes settle over the valley, I actually caught myself thinking, “Can winter just stay forever?”

But my journey wasn’t meant to end here. Because deep down, I knew my winter story needed a beach chapter. So, two days later, I swapped hand-warmers for sunglasses and boarded a flight for my next adventure—the Maldives with Catch A Trip.

Chapter 2: Trading Snowflakes for Sea Waves

Landing in Malé in December is a joy I wish I could bottle. The first thing that hits you is the colour of the water—a shade of blue I still can’t describe. I had booked a Maldives holiday package, mostly because every friend who had been there insisted it’s the smartest way to do it. And they were right. A speedboat was already waiting for us at the airport jetty, making me feel like the main character in my own travel movie.

When we reached our Maldives luxury resort, I paused for a moment before stepping onto the wooden walkway that stretched over the lagoon. The water villa booked by Catch A Trip, looked straight out of a postcard. Glass-bottom floors, an infinity plunge pool, and a ladder that dipped directly into the ocean—this wasn’t a stay, it was an emotion.

Chapter 3: My Days in Paradise

My winter activities went from “slipping on snow” to “snorkelling with manta rays” in 48 hours.

One morning, I signed up for a guided snorkelling session. As soon as I put my head underwater, it felt like another universe. Neon-coloured fish darting around coral gardens, sun rays slicing through the water—it was hypnotic. Later, we tried stand-up paddle boarding, which looked easy on Instagram until I actually stepped on the board. Let’s just say the Indian Ocean and I became very close friends that day.

Evenings in the Maldives were slower—beach dinners, sunset kayaking, stargazing from the deck of my villa. At one point, as the sky turned a cotton-candy pink, I realised why so many couples choose a Maldives honeymoon trip. There’s romance in the air even if you’re single.

Catch A Trip also arranged a traditional Maldivian fishing excursion. I wasn’t expecting to enjoy it, but there was something magical about sitting on a boat under the night sky, waiting for little tugs on the line. I caught a red snapper, and the chef grilled it fresh for dinner. Winter comfort food, but beach-style.

Chapter 4: Why This Winter Escape Stays with Me

While checking out, the staff handed me a small seashell as a keepsake. I still keep it on my desk. It reminds me of how perfectly opposite destinations—snowy mountains and tropical islands—fit into one unforgettable winter story.

And if you’re wondering whether it’s worth booking a Maldives travel package for your next winter break, let me put it simply: you don’t “visit” the Maldives; you feel it. You float in it, breathe in it, and carry it home long after the tan fades.

Your Turn to Escape

If winter always makes you restless, if you’ve been craving a mix of adventure, calm, and something beautifully cinematic—this is your sign. Do the mountains for the thrill. Do the Maldives for the magic. Do both if you can, because the contrast makes the journey unforgettable.

And when you’re sipping coconut water on a hammock or watching fresh snow fall on cedar trees, you’ll remember this line:

You didn’t just read about a winter getaway—you lived it in your head. Now go live it for real.