Wondering what to wear in India in winter? You are at the right spot.
Winter is about to set its wings and the cold is ready to make its presence felt. We crave snow and cold weather and yearn for a hot mulled cider and the crackling fire. Now is the time to style our wardrobe according to the season and it is important to dress appropriately for the season.
If you’re planning a hillside retreat to escape the hectic city life and relax amid the picturesque surroundings, here are some packing tips and a must-have list for your next hillside vacation to India.
India in Winter
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What to wear in India in winter – Preparation, and India Winter Packing List
There is no such thing as bad weather, just unsuitable clothing. Today many clothing options are light, very warm, and wind-resistant. Whether you live in Delhi or Jaipur, it’s time to put on your winter look!
Hoping that India will slip into cold weather soon in December, we have compiled a list of the most important things to pack for your comfortable trip and journey before heading out to India. In this list, you can make smart decisions when creating a packing list and also save your energy and time.
India Winter Temperatures and preparing for winter wear
The mountains of India may be colder than some famous winter destinations. There are certain places in India such as Leh Ladakh, Spiti Valley, Sonamarg, and Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir, where the temperature goes below 0 degrees centigrade and tends to remain cold almost throughout the year.
Ladakh in Snow
Dras is the world’s second coldest inhabited place located at Kargil town in Ladakh. It is located at an altitude of 3280 meters above sea level. Temperatures here drop to as low as -22 degrees C. India’s coldest inhabited place, Dras is often called the ‘Gateway to Ladakh’.
What to pack for India in winter – India Winter Packing List
It is coldest in the early morning and night hours with temperatures, dropping quite far below daytime temperatures making it very important to pack all the warm layers required efficiently.
So when thinking about what to wear in India during winter, the most important thing to remember during the cold season is to dress in layers.
Winter temps in India can range from a balmy 20 degrees, to a bone-chilling – 25 degrees in the mountains!
Packing List
Outerwear or Jacket
The weather at high altitudes can be extremely harsh. Outerwear or puffer jackets / heavier jackets like leather jackets, padded jackets, and wool coats are perfect if you are vacationing in the colder parts of India or planning a hike in the Himalayas.
Choose the one that can provide the most warmth in extreme conditions and is also comfortable.
If you are traveling to more temperate regions where it will be cooler for the first few hours with the possibility of rain and you are looking for a very versatile travel jacket that is wind and waterproof and keeps out all moisture and wind while still allowing your body to breathe we recommend the Kosha’s range like this one for men or for women.
A sweater, pullover, or a nice cardigan
When trekking, light wool is a good choice on the skin as it naturally regulates body temperature, keeps you warm in cold weather, absorbs moisture in hot weather, and does not retain odors even after long periods of wear. Kosha’s collection of pullovers, sweaters, and hoodies are a great way to keep you warm and are suited to the Indian environment.
Pullover Style
Kosha’s Pullovers are the perfect choice for the eco-conscious explorer. One can wear it on a staycation as it is or use it as a mid-layer for your next adventure. It looks effortlessly stylish and versatile.
Check pullovers for him and her here.
Sweater
Kosha offers a wide variety of sweaters designed especially for your convenience and requirements from soft, skin-friendly merino wool, with inbuilt moisture-wicking & odor-resistant properties. The regular fit allows it to be worn over a shirt or T-shirt & can level up as a mid-layer for extra warmth.
The rib-knit structure adds visual interest & accentuates your silhouette.
Check sweaters for him and her – women here
Hoodie
Kosha’s exclusively designed hoodies can be dressed up with your favorite shoes and accessories or kept sleek and simple for that effortless look, and are perfect outerwear for mildly cold destinations in India from a temperature
Click to view sweatshirts and hoodies.
Base layers
Warm thermal can help you reduce the number of layers you end up wearing. If the weather is not too cold, you can even do without wearing a sweater or pullover over your favorite shirt, as the warmth of the thermal will keep you warm enough.
Kosha offers a wide variety of innovatively designed temperature-regulating thermal with rich fabrics! It is not only softer & lighter than traditional thermals but it also doubles up as a stylish tee or legging. Its special anti-odor, quick-dry, eco-friendly properties level it up for the adventure.
They are made from bamboo and merino wool, which is softer on the skin & lightweight making it an ideal base layer to keep you warm & odor-free for your upcoming travel and adventure.
Accessories – gloves, caps or beanies, scarves
Accessories are paramount when you travel to the mountains. Make sure you choose enough wool accessories for the mountain station if you don’t want to freeze to death or carry too much weight. Be generous with carrying socks, but two pairs of gloves, two hats, and a muffler should be enough.
Gloves
It is a real agony when the cold wind or playing with snowballs causes frostbite. Keep your hands warm with a nice pair of gloves. In destinations with extremely cold climates, mittens are a better choice.
Kosha offers gloves made with a fine conductive yarn interwoven with merino wool. This will allow you to use your smartphones, cameras, or laptops with ease without having to remove your gloves & expose your fingers to the cold.
Click to view gloves from Kosha here.
Scarfs or Mufflers
A warm muffler around your neck will surely keep you nice and snug. Kosha has a range of Merino Wool Waffle Knit Mufflers collection made specially to offer protection from the cold with style for your next adventure. These are exclusively designed with a basket knit self-pattern that adds texture to your wardrobe.
Caps or beanies
Stay warm and stylish by flaunting a beanie that covers your ears. Pick a color that will synchronize with the winter clothing color palette, such as maroon, beige, and cream.
Kosha’s caps and beanies are designed for you to Stay warm in style with soft woolen beanies in a timeless knit & color. They are the perfect length to double fold the rim to keep your ears & head protected in deep winter, while breathable enough to not cause overheating.
Woolen Socks
Pack enough woolen socks to keep your feet warm and comfortable.
Kosha’s innovatively designed pair of socks are made of merino wool to keep your feet warm & cozy. The inherent moisture-wicking & breathable properties of the superior-quality wool help keep your feet odor-free for a longer time.
They work perfectly on winter hikes as an extra layer of warmth inside technical socks. Check out these merino wool socks here.
Indian ethnic wear for winter – traditional dress & party wear
You have to be warm to survive some ethnic Indian wear, but how do you look fabulous?
Indian winters and traditional Indian dresses like saris, lehengas, and salwar kameez don’t go well together, but if you can’t stand the separation anxiety of your beloved ethnic clothing collection, we’re here to help.
Ethnic Winter Wear Outfit – What to wear in India in winter
To maintain your style and flaunt your swagger in that attire that you bought from the latest designer lehenga collection, you must layer it up.
By using some fashion tips to design your ethnic clothing collection for the upcoming wedding, you can liven up your look and set some new trends.
The basic rules for staying warm at winter weddings are:
- The obvious: full sleeves, warm fabrics, jutties, and scarves
- Some lesser-known “secrets”: hidden thermals, the way you style your dupatta, and heavily embroidered scarves that double as dupattas.
Trench Coat over Sarees
We all brag about owning and wearing a trench coat in winter. So why not add style and warmth to your desirable ethnic clothing with trench coats in your saree? This look is classy and perfect for everyone who likes to make their statement.
Ethnic wear for winter
Pant style sarees & Salwar Kameez suits
Pants-style saris and salwar kameez suits are very popular with modern Indian women who cannot compromise on their comfort and are a great option for those looking to beat the cold of winter in style. They are elegant and fashionable and the newest addition to the saree styles.
Choose warm fabrics like velvet (great for parties as well)
One of the many ways to keep the cold at bay is to choose warm fabrics like velvet in the form of velvet shawls, velvet lehengas, and velvet blouses.
The fine touch and the shiny appearance of the fabric are stylish, and the warmth is enough to protect you from the cold. Velvet fabric looks beautiful when paired with ethnic handicrafts and embroideries like zardozi, sequins, appliqués, metal threads, and more.
Dressing for work in the winter in India
While lukewarm showers are good, getting dressed for the snow and cold wind becomes a pain every day.
Tips on what to wear in winter in India
Here are a few tips for you to dress for work in winter
A Classic Pant Suit
A well-fitting classic trouser suit with a button-down shirt and matching boots and coat is one of the most popular, stylish, and perfect outfits for the office. When paired with the right neutral tones, you’ll never wonder what to wear to work in winter.
Trousers with a Light Jacket
If you don’t know what to wear to work in winter, this is the easiest outfit to choose. Choose neutral dark pants and cover them with a light jacket of a lighter color. Wear formal jackets, opt for a turtleneck or a buttoned cardigan.
Turtleneck Sweater Dress
If you want to look trendy or edgy, choose a knee-length turtle sweater dress for work and pair it with a contrasting belt and boots. These are classic clothes for the office while maintaining style and fashion at the same time.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about what to wear in India during the winter months:
What is the weather like in India during the winter?
Winter in India varies by region. In the northern parts (e.g., Delhi, Agra), it can get quite cold, with temperatures dropping significantly. In southern regions (e.g., Mumbai, Bangalore), winters are milder and more comfortable.
What should I wear in northern India during the winter?
In northern India, especially in cities like Delhi and Agra, it’s advisable to wear warm clothing like sweaters, jackets, and thermal layers. Don’t forget to bring a good quality coat or overcoat for the coldest days.
Can I wear shorts and T-shirts in winter in southern India?
Yes, in southern India, especially coastal areas like Goa or Kerala, you can still wear shorts and T-shirts during the daytime as winters are relatively mild. However, it’s a good idea to carry some light layers for cooler evenings.
What type of footwear should I bring to India in winter?
Comfortable and warm footwear is essential, especially in northern India. Boots or closed-toe shoes with socks are recommended to keep your feet warm. In southern India, sandals or regular shoes are generally fine.
Are there any cultural considerations for clothing in India during the winter?
In India, it’s important to dress modestly, especially if you plan to visit religious places or rural areas. Avoid revealing clothing like short skirts and sleeveless tops. Layering with long-sleeved shirts and pants is a good idea to respect local customs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, what to wear in India during the winter months hinges on both the region you intend to explore and your planned activities. In the northern parts, such as Delhi and Agra, where temperatures can plummet, prioritize warm clothing like sweaters, jackets, and thermal layers, complemented by scarves, gloves, and hats for added insulation. Conversely, in southern regions like Mumbai and Bangalore, milder winters permit shorts and T-shirts during the day, with light layers for cooler evenings.
Regardless of your destination, it’s crucial to dress modestly, respecting local customs, and pack swimwear for potential poolside or coastal ventures. While winter in India typically remains dry, an umbrella may come in handy in case of occasional showers. Remember that you can find suitable clothing in local markets if necessary. If you need winter clothes, you can check out Kosha website or the store in Mumbai, India.
Lastly, if outdoor activities are on your agenda, equip yourself with moisture-wicking layers, insulated jackets, and sturdy footwear for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Finally, you have packed everything you needed for your safe adventure to Indian Hills! Wishing you a very happy and safe trip!
This post is written by Kosha Team Member: Vidushi Gupta
