The last month of the year is around the corner and it’s the perfect time to plan a vacation to rejuvenate yourself before this New Year. The weather in December stays pleasant in most parts of India which makes it the best time to enjoy a winter vacation. So, here is the list of best places to visit in December in India that includes places where you can enjoy the snow, where you can enjoy history and festivals and places where you can enjoy raw natural beauty –
Best Places To Visit In December In India
1. Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh
Situated in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh, Dalhousie is the best place to visit in December in North India. Set at an altitude of 1970 meters, the main highlight of Dalhousie during December is snowfall. Due to its higher altitude and suitable climate Dalhousie get frequent snowfall between November to February.
The abundance of verdant meadows with blend of pine, oak & deodar trees and the surroundings of snow-covered mountains would help to attain the peace that everyone craves in the modern world.
This picture-perfect hill station is the perfect getaway for family, friends and honeymoon couples.
- Temperature – 1 to 12 degrees Celsius.
- Best places to visit in Dalhousie – Khajjiar, Chamera Lake, Panchpulla, Ganji Pahari, Garam Sadak, St. John’s church, Subhash Baoli, Chamba town, Dainkund peak and Bakrota Hills.
How to reach
- Nearest Airport – Gaggal airport of Kangra is 107 KM away from the town.
- Nearest Railway Station – Pathankot railway station is 83 KM away.
2. Kutch, Gujarat
With sparkling white salt desserts, Kutch becomes the prime attraction in December as it celebrates the 2 month long grand Rann festival. In 2022 Rann festival will be held between October 26 2022 to February 20th 2023. At this festival, you can enjoy various kinds of events like camel safari, hot air balloon ride, desert safari, shopping and delicious Gujarati food.
The weather of Kutch in December is pleasant enough to enjoy the charming beauty of this place. Moreover, December is the best time to visit Kutch.
Watching the white sand desert under the full moon night would make you believe that heaven descended on Earth.
- Temperature – 12 to 24 degree Celsius
- Top tourist attractions in Kutch in December – Great Rann Mahotsav, Mandvi, Bhuj, Dholavira, Kandla port, Kalo Dungar, Topansar lake, and Narayan sarovar.
How to reach
- Nearest Airport – Bhuj Airport is 80 KM away.
- Nearest Railway Station – Bhuj Railway Station is 98 KM away.
3. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
Surrounded by the golden dunes, Jaisalmer is often regarded as the Golden City Of India. Jaisalmer in December allows you to have great fun around the historical forts and temple when the temperature remains pleasant and makes sightseeing easy.
Surrounding golden dunes and buildings made with golden sandstone gives an amazing look that you can only see in Jaisalmer.
Jaisalmer fort is the prime attraction of the town which houses shops, hotels and ancient Havelis. The proximity to the Thar desert and the Pakistan border makes it a crowd-favorite destination to visit in December in India.
- Temperature – 10 to 25 degree Celsius.
- Major tourist attractions of Jaisalmer in December – Dessert safari, Camel ride, Jaisalmer fort, Gadisar lake, Nathmal Ji Ki Haveli, Salim Singh Ki Haveli, Mandir Palace, Jain Temples, Baba Bagh, Dessert National Park, Kuldhara and Jaisalmer war museum.
How to reach
- Nearest Airport – Jaisalmer airport.
- Nearest Railway Station – Jaisalmer railway station.
4. Sissu, Himachal
Located 40 KM away from Manali on the banks of the Chandara river, Sissu is a beautiful hamlet in the Lahaul valley of Himachal. It is the perfect place to visit in December in India for snow lovers.
Sissu in December is nothing less than heaven with gushing Sissu waterfall, pristine lake, helipad with white layer of snow, surrounding snow-capped mountains, dense population of willows & poplars trees and free-flowing Chandra river.
- Temperature – 8 to 18 degree Celsius
- Top tourist attractions in Sissu in December – Trek to Sissu waterfall, enjoy snowfall at helipad, take a peaceful walk in forest of willows & poplar trees, and enjoy scenic views of Chandra river.
How to reach
The best way to reach Sissu is by taking a private cab from Manali which takes around 1 and half hour via Atal Tunnel to reach the destination. Sissu is the first village after crossing the Atal Tunnel at a distance of 6 KM.
5. Kufri, Himachal
Just 15 KM away from Shimla, Kufri is another scenic hill station of Himachal that is famous for its unparalleled landscapes and adventurous snow activities. Kufri enjoys pleasant temperatures throughout the year but December is the perfect time to visit when the landscape gets covered in a thick white layer of snow.
For winter lovers Kufri is the best place to visit near Delhi. Along with snow activities, you can also enjoy trekking in Kufri.
Proximity to villages like Fagu, Mashobra and Narkanda make sure you won’t get bored on the vacation. Fagu and Mashobra are perfect to seek peaceful vibes away from the crowd.
- Temperature – 0 to 10 degree Celsius.
- Places to visit in Kufri – Kufri fun world, Mahasu peak, white valley, Fagu, Indira tourist park, Jakhu temple and Himalayan Nature Park.
How to reach
The best way to reach Kufri is by taking a bus or private taxi from Shimla which takes around 30 minutes to reach the destination.
6. Auli, Uttarakhand
Auli in December becomes heaven for winter sports enthusiasts as it gets heavy snowfall which makes it an ideal place to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, sledge riding, and snow trekking. A visit to Auli in December gives the feeling like you’re teleported into a new fantasy world where everything seems pure white due to a thick layer of snow.
The view from the second longest and highest cable car in Asia feels magical like a child’s fantasy. The 4.5 KM journey offers you some of the best views of the Himalayas.
- Temperature – 1 to 9 degree Celsius
- Places to visit in Auli – Garson Bugyal, Auli artificial lake, Chattarkund, Joshimath, Nanda Devi National Park, Trishul peak, Chenab lake and Kwani Bugyal.
How to reach
- Nearest Airport – Jolly Grant Airport of Dehradun is 278 KM away.
- Nearest Railway Station – Haridwar railway station is 290 KM away.
7. Chakrata, Uttarakhand
Situated amidst dense population of the mighty oak, & lush conifers trees and surrounding Himalayan mountain peaks, Chakrata is a hidden treasure of Uttarakhand. Boasting unparalleled landscape, snowy adventure, skiing slopes, gushing waterfalls, colossal caves, camping in woods and ancient temples, Chakrata is surely the best offbeat destination to visit in December in India.
During winter Chakrata gets heavy snowfall at the Kharamba peak which is situated at the height of 10,000 meters above sea level. This peak offers a golden opportunity to experience skiing in winter.
This quint hilly region is a paradise for nature lovers, wildlife photographers and backpackers who love to explore the hidden trails.
- Temperature – 3 to 12 degree Celsius
- Top tourist attractions in Chakrata – Tiger falls, Ram Tall Horticulture garden, Lakhamandal temple, camping, caving, trekking, skiing, and photography.
How to reach
- Nearest Airport – Jolly Grant airport of Dehradun is situated 114 KM away.
- Nearest Railway Station – Dehradun train station is 81 KM away.
8. Andaman and Nicobar Island
The tropical paradise of India, Andaman boasts untouched stretches of white sand, blue lagoons, clear crystal water, magical marine life, adventurous water sports, and palm-fringed beaches.
December is the best time to visit Andaman when the temperature stays pleasant to enjoy sightseeing. For water sports enthusiasts winter is the perfect season when the water temperature and sea waves are perfect to explore the underwater world of the Indian ocean.
- Temperature – 24 to 29 degree Celsius.
- Places to visit in Andaman – Neil Island, Havelock island, Radhanagar beach, Elephant beach, Baratang island, Cellar Jail National memorial, Diglipur, Chidya tapu, Mayabndar, Ram Nagar beach, Ross & Smith Island, Amkunj beach and many more.
- Things to do in Andaman – Scuba diving, snorkeling, sea walking, Banana boat ride, glass boat ride, parasailing, surfing, speed boating, mangrove kayaking, night kayaking and many more
How to reach
Flight and Ship are the only way to reach Andaman. Flight is the best way to reach as its takes less time. For flight travelers, Andaman has only a single airport that is situated at Port Blair.
9. Goa
The beach capital of India, Goa is the best place to visit in December in India due to the pleasant climate and availability of all kinds of water sports. Goa in December is full of late-night parties, Christmas & New Year’s eve theme parties, and loud EDM music.
When it comes to the celebration of Christmas and New year, Goa beats all other destinations in India and that’s why it is called the Las Vegas of India.
Apart from the late-night parties, pubs & bar, Goa has plenty to enjoy in December including secluded beaches of South Goa, flea markets, turtle nesting, churches of old Goa, water sports and more. So this New year visits Goa to enjoy the craziest parties of your life.
- Temperature – 20 to 30 degree Celsius.
- Top tourist attractions of Goa in December – Anjuna beach for new year parties, Christmas celebration of old Goa, midnight shopping, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Casinos, late night parties, beach party, Dona Paula bay, headphone party, Candolim beach and many more.
How to reach
- Nearest Airport – Goa International Airport in Dabolim.
- Nearest Railway – Goa has many railway stations – Margao, Vasco da gama, Thivim, Karmali, Majorda junction and 14 more.
10. Gokarna
The mini and laid-back version of Goa, Gokarna is another beach destination to visit in December in India. Situated in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, Gokarna is the perfect blend of beaches and ancient temples. The beaches here are not too fancy but perfect for a relaxing yet vibrant vacation.
The famous Mahabaleshwar Temple which is home to Atma Linga attracts devotees from over the country. And the nearby Murudeshwar temple is home to the second-tallest statue of Lord Shiva.
Major tourist attractions in Gokarna – Om beach, Gokarna beach trek, Kudle beach, Koti Tirtha, Sri Mahabaleshwar temple, Murudeshwar temple, Nirvana beach, Gokarna main beach, Yana caves, adventurous water sports and Maha Ganapati temple.
How to reach
- Nearest Airport – Goa airport is 140 KM away.
- Nearest Railway Station – Ankola railway station is 20 KM away.
11. Chikmagalur, Karnataka
Situated amidst the western ghats, Chikmagalur is a quaint hill station in Karnataka. Boasting a rich coffee plantation, Chikmagalur is famous as the Coffee Land of Karnataka. Being a hill station Chikmagalur enjoys pleasant weather throughout the year but December is the perfect time to go when the temperature becomes perfect for sightseeing.
Due to the proximity to Kuderemukh National Park, and Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Chikmagalur has no dearth of places to visit.
- Temperature – 15 to 27 Degree Celsius.
- Best places to visit in Chikmagalur – Baba Budangiri peak, Mullayanagiri peak, Z point, Hebbe Falls, Kudremukh National Park, Seethalayanagiri peak, Kalhatti falls, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Jhari falls, Hanumanagundi falls and Hirekolale lake.
- Things to do in Chikmagalur – Trekking, hiking, Jungle Safari, camping, wildlife watching, photography, river rafting and visiting coffee plantations.
How to reach
- Nearest Airport – Mangalore airport is 149 KM away.
- Nearest Railway Station – Kadur Junction is 40 KM away.
12. Munnar, Kerala
If you’re looking for a warm holiday amidst the green carpet of nature then Munnar is the best place to go in December in India. The surreal lush green landscape of the coffee plantation make it one of the best honeymoon place in India.
Roaming around the verdant rolling meadows, scenic lakes, stunning viewpoints and vast tea plantation feel like a fairytale. And the exotic flora and fauna of Eravikulam National park and Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary would be the perfect getaway for any nature lovers.
- Temperature – 13 to 22 degree Celsius
- Top tourist attractions of Munnar – Tea Estates, Echo Point, Eravikulam National Park, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Chinnakanal waterfall, Anamudi Peak, Kundala Dam, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Mattupetty, and Tea museum.
How to reach
- Nearest Airport – Cochin International Airport is 109 KM away.
- Nearest Railway Station – Alwaye railway station is 120 KM away.
13. Coorg, Karnataka
Often referred to as the Scotland of India, Coorg has lush green coffee plantations, misty mountains and gushing waterfalls. The best thing about Coorg is it weather which stays pleasant most of the year especially in December when the temperature becomes little colder. There are many temples and monasteries which signify the rich culture and history of this place. Also, there are many trekking points for adventure junkies like Galibeedu Subramanya trek, Iruppu falls trek, Subramanya Kumara Parvatha trek, Pushpagiri trek and Kotebetta trek.
- Temperature – 14 to 24 degree Celsius.
- Top tourist attractions of Coorg – Enjoy good time with elephants in Dubare Elephant camp, Abbey falls, river rafting in Barapole river, witness scenic sunset from Raja seat, Chiklihole reservoir, Honnamana Kere Lake, and Madikeri fort.
How to reach
- Nearest Airport – Mysore Airport is 112 KM away.
- Nearest Railway Station – Mysore railway station is 117 KM away.
14. Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu
The French Capital of India, Pondicherry is a coastal city in Tamil Nadu. The secluded beaches, offbeat nightlife, spiritual town Auroville and adventurous water activities make Pondicherry the most sought destination in the country.
Pondicherry in December lighten up with brightly decorated colossal Christmas trees, charming lantern displays and thousands of candles. During Christmas week lots of music concerts take place on the beach which lightens up with candles. So, visit Pondicherry to celebrate this Christmas and New Year.
- Temperature – 20 to 27 degree Celsius
- Top tourist attractions in Pondicherry in December – Visit the Christmas market, attend midnight mass, enjoy pristine beaches, click pictures at French Quarter, visit Basilica of the sacred heart of Jesus, Pondicherry botanical garden, French War memorial and seek spirituality at Auroville.
How to reach
- Nearest Airport – Pondicherry Airport
- Nearest Railway Station – Villupuram Railway station is 37 KM away.
15. Udaipur, Rajasthan
Set amidst the Aravalli hill range, Udaipur is famous for its abundance of lakes, palaces, natural beauty, ancient temples, rich culture and heritage. One night’s stay in Taj Lake Palace and a boat ride in Lake Pichola are enough to describe the beauty of this place.
Being a Rajasthani city Udaipur suffers from heat during summer and monsoon. Therefore, winter is the perfect time to enjoy the beauty of Udaipur, especially in December when the temperature stays pleasant that you can freely roam around the town even during the day as well.
- Temperature – 10 to 25 degree Celsius
- Place to visit in Udaipur – Taj Lake Palace, Lake Pichola, Bahubali Hills, Monsoon Palace, Fateh Sagar Lake, Karni Mata Temple, Jagdish temple, Jagmandir, and Bagore Ki Haveli.
- Things to do in Udaipur – Watching amazing sunset from Karni Mata Temple, visit Bahublai Hills to capture amazing scenery, boat ride in Lake Pichola, ride ropeway to get bird’s eye view of the city, and horse riding.
How to reach
- Nearest Airport – Maharana Pratap Airport, Udaipur.
- Nearest Railway Station – Udaipur railway station.
16. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
The Yoga Capital of India, The land of Sagas, Rishikesh is a spiritual town situated in the state of Uttarakhand. It is one of the major pilgrimage hubs in India where people from over the world visit to seek mental peace and learn yoga.
Along with yoga and meditation, Rishikesh has no dearth of adventure including white water rafting, bungee jumping, flying fox, rock climbing, waterfall repelling, camping and trekking. The abundance of sightseeing opportunities and adventurous activities makes it one of the best places to visit in December in India.
- Temperature – 5 to 20 degree Celsius.
- Places to visit in Rishikesh – Lakshman Jhula, Ram Jhula, Janki Setu, Neergarh Waterfall, Parmarth Niketan, Triveni Ghat, Tera Manzil Temple, Shivpuri, Beatles Ashram and Swarg Ashram.
- Things to do in Rishikesh – River rafting, bungee jumping, kayaking, cliff jumping, flying fox, cafe hopping, yoga, meditation, experience Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat and camping.
How to reach
- Nearest Airport – Jolly Grant Airport of Dehradun is 20 KM away.
- Nearest Railway Station – Rishikesh railway station.
17. Gangtok, Sikkim
Situated at an altitude of 1650 meters, Gangtok is the capital of the Northeastern Indian State Sikkim. Surrounded by the mighty Himalayan peaks, Gangtok is the perfect place to enjoy winters in India. Unlike other famous hill stations, Gangtok is a very secluded place perfectly meant for a rejuvenating vacation.
Gangtok has a different charm in December when the white layer of snow covered the rugged landscape. Along with Christmas Gangtok host many festivals in December including Sikkim Red Panda Winter Carnival, Namsoong festival, and Losing festival.
- Temperature – 2 to 10 degree Celsius.
- Places to visit in Gangtok – Ban Jhakri waterfall, Ranka Monastery, Rumtek Monastery, Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, Lachen, Lachung, Gurudongmar lake and Himalayan Zoological park.
- Things to do in Gangtok – Get the bird’s eye of the city by riding the cable car, enjoy stunning views of Kanchenjunga peak, trekking, hiking, camping, and shopping at MG Road.
How to reach
- Nearest Airport – Pakyong Airport is located 35 KM away and Bagdogra Airport is located 123 KM away.
- Nearest Railway Station – New Jalpaiguri railway station of Siliguri is 117 KM away.
18. Cherrapunji, Meghalaya
The second wettest place on the earth, Cherrapunji was once listed as the wettest place on Earth in the Guinness Book of World Records. Once you enter in Cherrapunji you’ll be awestruck by its mystical natural beauty. Evergreen waterfalls, lush green vegetation, adventurous trekking trails, helpful locals, rich culture and warming hospitality of this place leave you astonished.
Boasting a UNESCO world heritage site, Double Decker Living Root Bridge and the tallest plunge waterfall in India, Nohkalikai falls Cherrapunji has various places to visit. And December is the time when the weather becomes little dry to enjoy the natural beauty of this place.
- Temperature – 6 to 18 degree Celsius
- Places to visit in Cherrapunji– Nohkalikai falls, Nongriat double decker living root bridge, rainbow falls, Wei Sawdong falls, Mawkdok view point, Arwah caves, Wah Kaba Falls, and Mawsmai caves.
- Things to do in Cherrapunji – Trekking, camping, exploring offbeat places, caving and trek to rainbow falls.
How to reach
- Nearest Airport – Guwahati Airport is 164 KM away.
- Nearest Railway Station – Guwahati railway station is 145 KM away.
19. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Situated at an altitude of 3048 meters, Tawang is a famous Buddhist destination. Being a Himalayan town Tawang is heaven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The surrounding Himalayan mountain range creates many opportunities for trekking and camping.
Tawang is home to one of the biggest Buddhist monasteries, Tawang Monastery which attracts Buddhists from all over the world.
With low temperatures and heavy snowfall, Tawang in December looks like a magical wonderland. During winter you can enjoy activities like Skiing, trekking snowboarding and various other snow activities.
- Temperature – -2 to 8 degree Celsius
- Places to visit in Tawang – Tawang monastery, Gorichen peak, Tawang war memorial, Sungester lake, Madhuri lake Sela Pass, and Nuranang falls.
- Things to do in Tawang – Skiing, camping, trekking, Bumla pass, trekking and hiking.
How to reach
- Nearest Airport – Salonibari Aport (324 KM)
- Nearest Railway Sation – Tezpur Railway Station is 336 KM away
Conclusion
Now pack your bags and celebrate this Christmas & New year with your loved ones at your favorite destination. Our best places to visit in December in India will help you to choose the best destination according to your taste and comfort. If you still have any questions do let us know in the below comment section!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Which are the best places to celebrate Christmas in India?
Goa, Pondicherry, Shillong, Mumbai, Kolkata, Sikkim, Manali, Kasol and Chennai are some of the best places to celebrate Christmas in India.
Q2: Which are the popular places to celebrate New Year in India?
Goa, Kufri, Manali, Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Kutch, Kerala, Pondicherry, Mumbai, Pune, and Cherrapunji are the top place to celebrate this new year’s eve in India.
Q3: Which are the most romantic places to visit in December in India?
Manali, Shimla, Pink City Jaipur, South Goa, Kohima, Munnar, Mussoorie, Darjeeling, Sikkim, Srinagar, Dalhousie and Pondicherry are the best places to visit in December in India for couples.
Q4: Which are the top attractions to visit in India in December with Family?
Coimbatore – Tamil Nadu, Andaman, Ooty, Nainital, Udaipur, Kutch, Kerala, Meghalaya, Gangtok, Jaipur, Ajmer, Rishikesh, Ranthambore and Jim Corbett National park are the famous destinations to visit in December in India.
Q5: Which are the top budget places to visit in December in India?
Pondicherry, Coimbatore, Chikmagalur, Kasauli, Kasol, Hampi, Pushkar, Varanasi, Rishikesh, Amritsar, Gangtok, Shillong, Jaipur and Digha – West Bengal are the popular places to visit in December in India on budget.
Q6: Which are the best offbeat destinations to visit in December in India?
Jibhi – Himachal, Sissu – Himachal, Kufri – Himachal, Binsar – Uttarakhand, Pushkar – Rajasthan, Gokarna – Karnataka, Kodaikanal – Tamil Nadu, Kumarakom – Kerala, Chopta – Uttarakhand and Jabalpur – Madhya Pradesh are the popular offbeat attractions to visit in December in India.