Lonely Planet India - October 2017

Winter is coming, and we've got an epic WINTER LIST in our October issue to help you make the most of the season – whether you're hankering for sun or snow.

Delve deeper into the world of Narcos in COLOMBIA; we've got a perfectly-curated itinerary that will take you across the South American nation. Or, get up-close and personal with the majestic Alps (and friendly St Bernards) on a snowy trek in SWITZERLAND. For a bit of sun, head to the Southern hemisphere in SOUTH AFRICA (where it's summer!) to explore historic Johannesburg and peaceful Pretoria. You could also criss-cross VIETNAM on the fantastic REUNIFICATION EXPRESS. If you'd rather cosy up, check into one of our EXTRAORDINARY WINTER STAYS across the world. In India, it's cultural festival season, but don't just travel for INDIA'S COOL FESTIVALS; sink your teeth into the place as well. Bonus: Explore NORTHERN IRELAND'S up-and-coming culinary landscape – it's delicious.

The national parks in India will open this month, post the monsoon. Head to NAGARHOLE NATIONAL PARK, KARNATAKA, for big-cat sightings and leisurely river cruises, or to MANAS NATIONAL PARK, ASSAM to see capped langur, elephant, rhino and, if you're very lucky, a clouded leopard. Or, skip the parks for PALAMPUR, HIMACHAL PRADESH, where the wi-fi is weak, but the restorative powers are strong. In the south, discover the other side of Kodai on long hikes in VAZHAIGIRI, TAMIL NADU. If you're feeling a city break, see a different side of NEW DELHI, NCR, when you deep dive into India's textile traditions on a day-long trail across the city.

PLUS: We've got easy-to-tear-fold-and-carry Mini Guides – tick off the Northern Lights on your bucket list when you spend a WINTER IN NORTH NORWAY, discover colonial culinary influences as you explore PUDUCHERRY's food scene, and make the most of CHICAGO, THE USA, on the cheap.

Download the latest issue of Lonely Planet Magazine India today!