Home Destinations Asia 19 Best Places to Visit in December in India 2025

19 Best Places to Visit in December in India 2025

November 26, 2024

December is just around the corner, making it the perfect time to plan a vacation to recharge before the New Year. The weather across much of India in December is pleasant, creating ideal conditions for a winter getaway. Below is a list of the best places to visit in India during December, offering a mix of snowy landscapes, rich history, cultural festivals, and stunning natural beauty.

Best Places to Visit in December in India

1. Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh

Dalhousie, located in Himachal Pradesh’s Chamba district, is a premier destination for December travel in North India. At an elevation of 1970 meters, the area experiences frequent snowfall from November to February, making it a winter wonderland.

The lush meadows, combined with towering pine, oak, and deodar trees, create a serene environment, perfect for those seeking peace from urban life. This idyllic hill station is suitable for families, friends, and honeymooners alike.

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, 107 KM from Dalhousie.
Nearest Railway Station – Pathankot Railway Station, 83 KM away.

2. Kutch, Gujarat

In December, Kutch transforms into a dazzling spectacle with its white salt deserts. The highlight of this month is the grand Rann Festival, which runs from October 26, 2022, to February 20, 2023. Visitors can engage in activities like camel safaris, hot air balloon rides, desert safaris, shopping, and savoring delicious Gujarati cuisine.

With pleasant temperatures, December offers an optimal time to explore and admire Kutch’s beauty, especially under the luminous full moon that bathes the sandy landscape in an ethereal glow.

Temperature – 12 to 24 degrees 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, 80 KM away.
Nearest Railway Station – Bhuj Railway Station, 98 KM away.

3. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Known as the Golden City, Jaisalmer is surrounded by mesmerizing golden dunes. December is an excellent time to visit as the weather is mild, making it enjoyable to explore the historical forts and temples.

The golden sandstone structures and the spectacular dunes create a unique ambiance. The iconic Jaisalmer Fort, home to various shops, hotels, and ancient Havelis, is a major attraction, making Jaisalmer a favorite December destination.

Temperature – 10 to 25 degrees Celsius.
Major tourist attractions of Jaisalmer in December – Desert safari, camel rides, Jaisalmer Fort, Gadisar Lake, Nathmal Ji Ki Haveli, Salim Singh Ki Haveli, Mandir Palace, Jain Temples, Baba Bagh, Desert National Park, Kuldhara, and Jaisalmer War Museum.

How to reach

Nearest Airport – Jaisalmer Airport.
Nearest Railway Station – Jaisalmer Railway Station.

4. Sissu, Himachal Pradesh

Sissu, a beautiful hamlet in the Lahaul Valley, lies 40 KM from Manali, alongside the Chandara River. For snow enthusiasts, Sissu in December is akin to paradise, featuring stunning waterfalls, pristine lakes, and snow-capped peaks surrounded by vibrant willows and poplar trees.

Temperature – 8 to 18 degrees Celsius.
Top tourist attractions in Sissu in December – Trekking to Sissu Waterfall, snowfall experiences at the helipad, and tranquil walks through the willows and poplar forests.

How to reach

The most convenient way to reach Sissu is by hiring a private cab from Manali, taking approximately 1.5 hours via the Atal Tunnel.

5. Kufri, Himachal Pradesh

Located just 15 KM from Shimla, Kufri is another scenic hill station famed for its breathtaking landscapes and winter sports. With perfect snow conditions in December, Kufri becomes a winter sports hub, ideal for those seeking adventure.

The surrounding villages like Fagu and Mashobra offer peaceful retreats, ensuring a balanced vacation experience.

Temperature – 0 to 10 degrees 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

Kufri is best accessed by bus or private taxi from Shimla, which takes around 30 minutes.

6. Auli, Uttarakhand

December Travel Destinations in India

Auli transforms into a winter wonderland in December, making it a prime location for winter sports fans. With heavy snowfall, visitors can indulge in skiing, snowboarding, sledge riding, and snow trekking. A trip to Auli in December feels like stepping into a fairytale, enveloped in a thick, white blanket of snow.

How to Reach

Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is 278 km away.
Nearest Railway Station: Haridwar railway station is 290 km away.

Chakrata, nestled among mighty oaks and lush conifers, is a hidden gem in Uttarakhand. It features stunning landscapes, thrilling winter sports, skiing slopes, waterfalls, and ancient temples, making it an ideal offbeat destination for December travel in India.

During winter, Chakrata experiences significant snowfall at Kharamba peak, located 10,000 meters above sea level. This peak provides an excellent opportunity for skiing.

This charming hillside area attracts nature lovers, wildlife photographers, and adventurous backpackers eager to explore hidden trails.

Temperature: 3 to 12 degrees Celsius
Top Attractions: Tiger Falls, Ram Tall Horticulture Garden, Lakhamandal Temple, camping, caving, trekking, skiing, and photography.

How to Reach

Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is 114 km away.
Nearest Railway Station: Dehradun railway station is 81 km away.

The Andaman Islands is India’s tropical paradise, featuring pristine white sands, blue lagoons, and rich marine life. December offers pleasant temperatures perfect for sightseeing. This season is ideal for water sports, as the water temperature and sea conditions are favorable for exploring the Indian Ocean’s underwater beauty.

Temperature: 24 to 29 degrees Celsius.
Places to visit in Andaman: Neil Island, Havelock Island, Radhanagar Beach, Elephant Beach, Baratang Island, Cellular Jail National Memorial, and more.
Things to do in Andaman: Scuba diving, snorkeling, sea walking, banana boat rides, and parasailing.

How to Reach

Accessing the Andaman Islands is possible by flight or ship. Flights are quicker, with the only airport located in Port Blair.

Goa, India’s beach capital, is a perfect December getaway with its outstanding climate and an array of water sports activities. The month is marked by vibrant parties, Christmas celebrations, and New Year’s Eve festivities, making Goa the “Las Vegas of India.”

Beyond nightlife, Goa offers serene south beaches, flea markets, turtle nesting, historic churches, and extensive water sports, ensuring a lively and exciting vacation.

Temperature: 20 to 30 degrees Celsius.
Top Attractions: Anjuna Beach for New Year celebrations, Christmas festivities in Old Goa, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, casinos, and beach parties.

How to Reach

Nearest Airport: Goa International Airport in Dabolim.
Nearest Railway Stations: Multiple options, including Margao, Vasco da Gama, and Thivim.

Gokarna is a laid-back alternative to Goa, located in Karnataka’s Uttara Kannada district. It offers a delightful mix of tranquil beaches and ancient temples. While its beaches are less commercialized, they provide an ideal setting for a refreshing vacation.

The renowned Mahabaleshwar Temple, housing Atma Linga, attracts many devotees. Nearby, the Murudeshwar Temple boasts the second-tallest statue of Lord Shiva.

Major Attractions: Om Beach, Kudle Beach, Nirvana Beach, and adventurous water sports.

How to Reach

Nearest Airport: Goa Airport, 140 km away.
Nearest Railway Station: Ankola Railway Station, 20 km away.

11. Chikmagalur, Karnataka

Nestled in the Western Ghats, Chikmagalur is a charming hill station in Karnataka, renowned for its extensive coffee plantations—earning it the title of the Coffee Land of Karnataka. The pleasant weather throughout the year makes it an attractive destination, but December stands out as the ideal month for sightseeing, thanks to its comfortable temperatures.

With close proximity to Kuderemukh National Park and Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Chikmagalur offers a multitude of attractions.

Temperature: 15 to 27°C.
Best places to visit in Chikmagalur: Explore 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: Engage in trekking, hiking, jungle safaris, 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

Munnar is the perfect December getaway for those seeking warmth amid lush greenery. Its picturesque coffee plantations and rolling landscapes make it one of the top honeymoon destinations in India.

13. Coorg, Karnataka

Known as the Scotland of India, Coorg boasts lush coffee plantations, misty mountains, and cascading waterfalls. The weather remains inviting throughout the year, particularly in December when temperatures drop slightly. The region’s rich culture and history can be explored through its temples and monasteries. Adventure enthusiasts can also enjoy treks such as Galibeedu Subramanya, Iruppu Falls, Subramanya Kumara Parvatha, Pushpagiri, and Kotebetta.

Temperature: 14 to 24°C.
Top tourist attractions in Coorg: Experience quality time at Dubare Elephant Camp, Abbey Falls, river rafting in Barapole, witness breathtaking sunsets from Raja Seat, explore Chiklihole Reservoir, visit Honnamana Kere Lake, and check out 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

Pondicherry, often referred to as the French Capital of India, is a coastal gem in Tamil Nadu. Its secluded beaches, vibrant nightlife, and spiritual ambiance at Auroville make it a sought-after destination.

In December, Pondicherry comes alive with elaborately decorated Christmas trees, beautiful lantern displays, and countless candles. The festive week features various music concerts on the beach, enhancing the celebratory spirit, making it an ideal spot to ring in Christmas and the New Year.

Temperature: 20 to 27°C.
Top tourist attractions in Pondicherry in December: Visit the Christmas market, attend midnight mass, savor pristine beaches, capture moments in the French Quarter, explore Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the Pondicherry Botanical Garden, the 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

Udaipur, situated in the Aravalli hill range, is celebrated for its stunning lakes, palaces, and rich cultural heritage. A stay at the Taj Lake Palace and a boat ride on Lake Pichola provide an enchanting experience.

The winter months offer a pleasant climate, making December the perfect time to explore Udaipur. The warm days allow visitors to wander freely and enjoy the city’s beauty.

Temperature: 10 to 25°C.
Places to visit in Udaipur: Discover the 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: Enjoy sunset views from Karni Mata Temple, visit Bahubali Hills for stunning panoramas, take a boat ride on Lake Pichola, utilize the ropeway for city views, and enjoy horse riding adventures.

How to reach:

Nearest Airport: Maharana Pratap Airport, Udaipur.
Nearest Railway Station: Udaipur Railway Station.

16. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Known as the Yoga Capital of India, Rishikesh is a spiritual town in Uttarakhand. It is a major pilgrimage site where visitors from around the globe come to find inner peace and engage in yoga practices.

Rishikesh offers not only yoga and meditation but also an array of adventure sports, including white water rafting, bungee jumping, rock climbing, and trekking. The combination of spiritual pursuits and thrilling activities makes it a prime destination to explore in December.

Temperature – 5 to 20 degrees 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, kayaking, cliff jumping, yoga, meditation, experiencing Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat, and camping.

How to Reach:

Nearest Airport – Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, approximately 20 KM away.
Nearest Railway Station – Rishikesh Railway Station.

17. Gangtok, Sikkim

Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, sits at an altitude of 1650 meters. Surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, this town is an ideal winter getaway. Unlike more popular hill stations, Gangtok offers a serene escape perfect for relaxation.

In December, Gangtok transforms into a winter wonderland with snow blanketing its hills. The town hosts various festivals, including the Sikkim Red Panda Winter Carnival, along with Christmas celebrations.

Temperature – 2 to 10 degrees 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 – Ride the cable car, trek, hike, shop on MG Road, and enjoy sweeping views of Kanchenjunga Peak.

How to Reach:

Nearest Airport – Pakyong Airport is 35 KM away; Bagdogra Airport is 123 KM away.
Nearest Railway Station – New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, located 117 KM away.

18. Cherrapunji, Meghalaya

Cherrapunji, historically recognized as the wettest place on Earth, is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscape. Visitors are greeted by lush greenery, magnificent waterfalls, and friendly locals with rich traditions.

It houses the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Double Decker Living Root Bridge, and India’s tallest waterfall, Nohkalikai Falls. December is an excellent time to visit, as the weather is drier, making exploration enjoyable.

Temperature – 6 to 18 degrees 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, caving, camping, and exploring hidden gems.

How to Reach:

Nearest Airport – Guwahati Airport, about 164 KM away.
Nearest Railway Station – Guwahati Railway Station, approximately 145 KM away.

19. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

Tawang is a prominent Buddhist town located at an altitude of 3048 meters. Its stunning Himalayan landscape makes it a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

Home to the famed Tawang Monastery, it attracts Buddhist pilgrims year-round. In December, Tawang becomes a surreal snow-covered landscape, ideal for skiing and trekking.

Temperature – -2 to 8 degrees Celsius.
Places to visit in Tawang – Tawang Monastery, Gorichen Peak, Tawang War Memorial, Sela Pass, Madhuri Lake, and Nuranang Falls.
Things to do in Tawang – Skiing, trekking, camping, and snow-related activities.

How to Reach:

Nearest Airport – Salonibari Airport, 324 KM away.
Nearest Railway Station – Tezpur Railway Station, approximately 336 KM away.

Conclusion

Pack your bags for a memorable Christmas and New Year celebration at your chosen destination. Our list of top places to visit in December in India will help you find the perfect spot tailored to your preferences. If you have further questions, feel free to reach out in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What are the best places to celebrate Christmas in India?

Some of the top destinations to celebrate Christmas in India include Goa, Pondicherry, Shillong, Mumbai, Kolkata, Sikkim, Manali, Kasol, and Chennai.

Q2: Where are the popular places for New Year celebrations in India?

The top locations to ring in the New Year in India are Goa, Kufri, Manali, Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Kutch, Kerala, Pondicherry, Mumbai, Pune, and Cherrapunji.

Q3: What are the most romantic places to visit in December in India?

For couples looking for a romantic getaway in December, the best places to visit include Manali, Shimla, Jaipur (Pink City), South Goa, Kohima, Munnar, Mussoorie, Darjeeling, Sikkim, Srinagar, Dalhousie, and Pondicherry.

Q4: What are the top attractions to visit in December with family in India?

Family-friendly destinations to explore in December include Coimbatore (Tamil Nadu), Andaman, Ooty, Nainital, Udaipur, Kutch, Kerala, Meghalaya, Gangtok, Jaipur, Ajmer, Rishikesh, Ranthambore, and Jim Corbett National Park.

Q5: What are the best budget-friendly places to visit in December in India?

Affordably priced destinations to visit in December are Pondicherry, Coimbatore, Chikmagalur, Kasauli, Kasol, Hampi, Pushkar, Varanasi, Rishikesh, Amritsar, Gangtok, Shillong, Jaipur, and Digha (West Bengal).

Q6: What are the best offbeat destinations to explore in December in India?

Top offbeat attractions to discover in December include Jibhi (Himachal), Sissu (Himachal), Kufri (Himachal), Binsar (Uttarakhand), Pushkar (Rajasthan), Gokarna (Karnataka), Kodaikanal (Tamil Nadu), Kumarakom (Kerala), Chopta (Uttarakhand), and Jabalpur (Madhya Pradesh).