18 Best Places to Visit in December in India

December in India offers a delightful mix of winter chill, festive cheer, and a myriad of travel opportunities. From snow-capped mountains to sunny beaches, here are 18 of the best places to visit in December across India:

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Leh-Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir

Nestled in the Himalayas, Leh-Ladakh offers a serene landscape dotted with Buddhist monasteries and stunning vistas. December transforms it into a winter wonderland with frozen lakes and clear blue skies. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in activities like ice trekking on the Chadar Trek or explore the ancient monasteries like Thiksey and Hemis. The Leh Palace and Shanti Stupa offer panoramic views of the snow-covered surroundings, making it a photographer's paradise.

Manali, Himachal Pradesh

A popular hill station, Manali is perfect for adventure enthusiasts and honeymooners alike. December blankets the town in snow, offering opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and exploring nearby Rohtang Pass. Visit the ancient Hadimba Temple, shop for local handicrafts at Mall Road, and unwind in the natural hot water springs of Vashisht. The Solang Valley is ideal for adventure sports like paragliding and zorbing amidst breathtaking snowy landscapes.

Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir

Known as the 'Meadow of Flowers', Gulmarg is a skier's paradise in December. The snow-covered slopes and the Gulmarg Gondola ride make it a must-visit destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Take a ride on one of the highest cable cars in the world to reach Apharwat Peak for stunning views of the Pir Panjal range. Enjoy snowboarding, skiing, and snowshoeing in the powdery snow or simply take a leisurely stroll amidst pine forests.

Auli, Uttarakhand

Famous for its pristine ski resorts and panoramic views of the Himalayas, Auli is a delight in December. The snow-clad landscape and the cable car ride over the snow-covered peaks are unforgettable experiences. Ski down the well-groomed slopes or embark on a trek to the artificial lake at Gurso Bugyal for mesmerizing views of Nanda Devi Peak. Auli also offers opportunities for camping under the starlit sky and witnessing breathtaking sunrises.

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

Shimla, the 'Queen of Hill Stations', dazzles in December with its colonial architecture and snowy landscapes. Mall Road, Ridge, and Jakhu Temple are must-visit spots during this time. Take a heritage walk to explore the Viceregal Lodge and Christ Church, and don't miss a ride on the century-old Shimla-Kalka toy train for stunning views of the Himalayas. Enjoy ice skating on Asia's oldest natural ice skating rink at Lakkar Bazaar and savor local delicacies like piping hot samosas and chole bhature.

Munnar, Kerala

For those seeking a warmer December getaway, Munnar in Kerala offers lush tea estates, cool weather, and misty mountains. Explore Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and indulge in a tea-tasting session at the Tata Tea Museum. Visit the picturesque Mattupetty Dam for boating amidst serene surroundings or trek to the Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India. The Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and offers opportunities for bird watching and spotting endangered species like the grizzled giant squirrel.

Goa

Known for its vibrant nightlife and sun-kissed beaches, Goa is a top destination in December. The weather is pleasant, and you can enjoy water sports, beach parties, and the lively Christmas and New Year celebrations. Visit popular beaches like Baga, Calangute, and Anjuna for sunbathing and water activities, and explore the historic churches of Old Goa. Cruise along the Mandovi River for a scenic sunset view and indulge in Goan cuisine at beach shacks offering fresh seafood and feni, a local liquor made from cashew fruits.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands

With December marking the start of the tourist season, the Andaman Islands beckon with their turquoise waters, coral reefs, and pristine beaches. Snorkeling, scuba diving, and exploring Havelock Island are highlights. Visit Radhanagar Beach, known for its white sands and clear waters, or take a boat ride to Neil Island to witness natural rock formations at Howrah Bridge. Explore the Cellular Jail in Port Blair to delve into the history of India's struggle for independence and attend the annual Island Tourism Festival for cultural performances and local cuisine.

Rann of Kutch, Gujarat

Home to the Rann Utsav, December is the best time to visit the Great Rann of Kutch. The white salt desert comes alive with cultural performances, camel safaris, and handicraft shopping. Visit the Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary for birdwatching and spotting rare species like the Indian Bustard or take a jeep safari to the nearby villages of Bhuj for a glimpse into the local Kutchi culture. Stay in luxury tents during the Rann Utsav and witness the region illuminated with colorful lights and traditional dance performances under the starlit sky.

Jaipur, Rajasthan

Explore the 'Pink City' of Jaipur in December when the weather is pleasant for visiting palaces, forts, and bazaars. Don't miss the vibrant Jaipur Literature Festival if you're visiting towards the end of the month, where authors, poets, and literature enthusiasts from around the world gather for literary discussions and cultural performances. Visit the iconic Hawa Mahal, Amer Fort, and City Palace to admire Rajput architecture and shop for handmade jewelry, textiles, and pottery at Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar.

Udaipur, Rajasthan

Udaipur's lakes and palaces exude charm in December. Enjoy boat rides on Lake Pichola to visit the Jag Mandir Palace and the Lake Palace, now luxury hotels, and witness the picturesque sunset views from the Monsoon Palace. Visit the City Palace Complex to explore its museums and galleries displaying royal artifacts and attend the annual Mewar Festival, celebrated with cultural performances, folk music, and a colorful procession. Don't miss a visit to the Saheliyon ki Bari, a historic garden adorned with fountains, kiosks, and marble elephants.

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Experience spirituality at its peak in Varanasi in December. Attend Ganga Aarti at the ghats, where priests perform rituals with oil lamps and incense sticks, creating a mesmerizing spectacle during sunset. Visit Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon, to explore ancient stupas and monasteries and shop for silk sarees and Banarasi textiles in the bustling lanes of Vishwanath Gali. Take a boat ride on the Ganges River to witness the daily life of pilgrims and experience the city's vibrant cultural heritage through classical music and dance performances.

Kolkata, West Bengal

December brings the joyous Kolkata Christmas Festival and the vibrancy of Kolkata's street food. Visit Victoria Memorial, an architectural marvel built in memory of Queen Victoria, and explore Dakshineswar Kali Temple, known for its stunning architecture and religious significance. Attend midnight mass at St. Paul's Cathedral during Christmas Eve and indulge in shopping for handicrafts and souvenirs at New Market and College Street. Don't miss sampling local Bengali delicacies like roshogolla, mishti doi, and fish curry at iconic eateries and street food stalls.

Ooty, Tamil Nadu

Known as the 'Queen of Hill Stations' in South India, Ooty charms visitors with its cool weather, tea gardens, and scenic Nilgiri Mountain Railway. Take a boat ride on Ooty Lake amidst serene surroundings or visit the Botanical Gardens to witness a diverse collection of exotic plants and flowers. Trek to Doddabetta Peak for panoramic views of the Nilgiri Hills and explore the tribal Toda settlements to learn about their unique customs and traditions. Don't miss a ride on the historic Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to enjoy breathtaking views of the valley.

Darjeeling, West Bengal

Darjeeling's tea gardens, toy train, and panoramic views of Mount Kanchenjunga make it a perfect December destination. Visit Tiger Hill at sunrise to witness the spectacular sight of the snow-capped peaks turning golden-orange with the first rays of the sun. Explore the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute to learn about mountaineering history and visit the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park to spot rare species like the red panda and snow leopard. Don't miss a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway toy train, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for a nostalgic journey through scenic landscapes and charming villages.

Pondicherry

For a mix of French colonial heritage and serene beaches, Pondicherry is ideal in December. Explore Auroville, an experimental township known for its futuristic architecture and community living, and relax at Paradise Beach for sunbathing and water sports. Visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram to meditate and attend yoga sessions or explore the French Quarter, known for its vibrant streets lined with colonial-era buildings and chic boutiques. Indulge in French cuisine at charming cafes and bistros offering delectable crepes, croissants, and seafood dishes influenced by local flavors.

Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu

Known for its UNESCO-listed monuments and beach temples, Mahabalipuram is pleasant to explore in December. Visit the Shore Temple, a 7th-century architectural marvel dedicated to Lord Shiva, and explore the Pancha Rathas, monolithic rock-cut temples representing the Pandava brothers from the Mahabharata epic. Relax at Mahabalipuram Beach for sunbathing and water activities or visit the Krishna's Butter Ball, a natural rock formation defying gravity. Don't miss visiting the nearby Kanchipuram, known for its silk sarees and ancient temples, to witness traditional silk weaving and shop for exquisite silk fabrics and garments.

Coorg, Karnataka

Surrounded by coffee plantations and misty hills, Coorg offers a tranquil retreat in December. Explore Abbey Falls, a picturesque waterfall cascading amidst lush greenery, and go for nature walks in the scenic coffee estates. Visit the Namdroling Monastery, also known as the Golden Temple, to witness Tibetan Buddhist architecture and attend prayers and chanting sessions. Indulge in Coorgi cuisine known for its distinctive flavors, including pandi curry (pork curry) and akki roti (rice pancakes), and visit local spice plantations to learn about coffee and spice cultivation. Enjoy a stay in traditional Kodava homestays to experience the warm hospitality and cultural traditions of the region.

Each of these destinations offers a unique experience in December, whether you seek adventure, cultural immersion, or simply a relaxing break. Plan your trip wisely to make the most of India's diverse offerings during this festive season.