Places to Travel in December in India for a Perfect Winter Vacation

December is amongst the best months to travel to India. The weather turns cool. The skies become clear. And the holidays give it a really nice spirit. Families look for road trips. Couples plan romantic getaways. Solo travelers want peaceful escapes. And, everyone wants a break before the new year starts.

So, if you are one of those who is looking for the top places to travel in December in India, this guide will definitely assist you in planning a perfect vacation, without any confusion!

So here are some of the beautiful places you should visit in India- hill stations, beaches, deserts, islands and spiritual towns. I’ve written it all down in layman’s terms so that even a small student can get the gist of it.

Time to kick off your December travels.

Why December is the best time or perfect month to travel in India

But before we dive into the list, let me give you some reasons why December is the best month to travel.

• The temperatures remain mild in the majority of states
• Snowfall begins in northern mountains
• That Christmas and New Years festivities put you in the holiday spirit
• It's the high tourist season with festivals and fairs abound.
• Wildlife parks remain open and buzzing
• Beaches seem cool because heat remains close to the ground.

Now, let’s dive into the best places to travel in December in India.

Best Places to Travel in December in India

1. Manali – Snow, Mountains and Hot Momos

Manali is among the most favorite winter destinations. In December, you’ll be able to see fresh snow on the mountains. The air is crisp and refreshing. Tourists love to ski, play in the snow, eat hot momos or just chill by the Beas River.

Why visit in December?

• Beginning of snowfall
• Fun adventure sports
• Beautiful winter landscapes

Top things to do:

• Rohtang Pass (if open)
• Solang Valley skiing
• Mall Road shopping
• Jogini Waterfall

Ideal for: Couples, families and thrill-seekers.

2. Shimla – Mind still, hill station shine

Shimla turns magical in December. Between the cold and the Christmas decorations the town looks like a winter postcard. Stroll along the Mall Road, sip hot coffee or experience adventure sports in Kufri. It is one of the best places to travel in December in india

Why visit in December?

• Charming colonial views
• Cool weather
• Snow in Kufri

Best experiences:

• Ridge Road
• Jakhoo Temple
• Ice skating
• Kufri Fun World

3. Auli – India’s Skiing Paradise

If skiing thrills you then Auli is the way to go. It is one of the leading places to visit in December in India as you can get a taste of powdery snow, extended slopes and magnificent views of the Himalayas.

Why visit in December?

• Ideal skiing conditions
• Snow-covered apple orchards
• Stunning sunset points

Things to do:

• Skiing
• Ropeway ride
• Visit Joshimath

4. Kashmir – Snow Heaven

December wears Kashmir in white. Dal Lake freezes slightly. Gulmarg turns into a heaven for skiers. Every corner looks dreamy. The cold can be fierce but the splendor is so worth it.

Why December?

• Magical snow experience
• Gulmarg Gondola ride
• Christmas markets in Srinagar

Things to do:

• Shikara ride
• Snowboarding
• Sonmarg, Gulmarg trips

5. Goa – Beach, Parties and Sunsets

For tourists seeking heat instead of chill, Goa is perfect. December in Goa feels lively. The weather stays perfect. Beaches look clean. And nightlife gets crazy around Christmas and New Year.

Why visit in December?

• Best beach weather
• Christmas and New Year festivals
• Water sports

Things to do:

• Baga and Calangute beaches
• Water sports in Candolim
• Chapora Fort sunset
• Club parties

6. Udaipur – Royal Palaces and Winter Magic

Udaipur feels pleasant in December. You’ll love the tranquil lakes, regal palaces and peaceful evenings, without a drop of sweat. The city lights glisten over lake pichola beautifully in winter

Why December?

• Perfect weather
• Great for photography
• Romantic boat rides

Things to do:

• City Palace
• Lake Pichola boat ride
• Saheliyon Ki Bari
• Monsoon Palace

7. Jaisalmer – The Golden Desert Winter

Jaisalmer’s desert heat is cozy in December. You can have camel safaris, desert camps, folk music and starry nights. Chilly winds make sleeping in the desert very snuggly.

Why visit in December?

• Pleasant desert weather
• Clear skies
• Perfect for camping

Things to do:

• Sam Sand Dunes
• Jaisalmer Fort
• Desert safari
• Rajasthani cultural show

8. Jaipur – Royalty & Celebrations!

Jaipur gets COOL in December! The city provides majestic palaces, vibrant bazaars and tasty cuisine. It’s a perfect time to adventure without the looming summer sun.

Why December?

• Comfortable climate
• Great for sightseeing
• Many fairs and events

Top sights:

• Hawa Mahal
• Amer Fort
• Nahargarh Fort
• Johari Bazaar

Read More:

Safety Tips For Single Moms Traveling With Kids

Travelling Vibes on Largest Airports in Middle East

Solo Travel: What Changes It Bring in Your Life?

9. Rann of Kutch – White Desert Festival

The Rann of Kutch looks magical in winter. The well-known Rann Utsav takes place during November – February. December, the white salt desert glows in moonlight.

Why visit in December?

• Rann Utsav cultural fair
• Full moon nights
• Camel rides and local food

10. Andaman and Nicobar Islands – Crystal seas and coral reefs

If you’re in the mood for a tropical vacation, Andaman is one of the best places to visit in December in India. Sunshine, fresh air, clean water and calm beaches will have you kicking back in no time.

Why December?

• Clear water
• Water sports
• Great visibility for scuba diving

Things to do:

• Radhanagar Beach
• Cellular Jail
• Scuba diving at Havelock
• Snorkeling

11. Lakshadweep – Hidden Island Beauty

Lakshadweep is peaceful and stunning. December provides perfect weather to enjoy the beaches and water sports. It’s a more peaceful option than Andaman.

Why December?

• Ideal sea conditions
• Perfect for honeymooners
• Well-preserved coral reefs

12. Ooty – Misty Tea Gardens

Ooty is refreshing and relaxing in December. The misty mornings, tea gardens and silent lakes form a scenic winter ambience. Ooty is the beautiful place and best places to travel in december in india

Best things to do:

• Botanical Garden
• Ooty Lake boat ride
• Doddabetta Peak

13. Coorg – The Winter Coffee Terrain

Coorg is still green and misty in December. The temperature gets nice for treks and coffee tours.

Why December?

• Fresh winter breeze
• Waterfalls look beautiful
• Great for nature lovers

14. Munnar – Green Hills and Refreshing Breeze

Munnar serves up lush tea gardens and mountain panoramas. December weather makes sightseeing easy. It’s tranquil and ideal for taking a nap.

Best experiences:

• Eravikulam National Park
• Tea museum
• Echo Point

15. Alleppey – Serene Backwaters of Kerala

If you seek peace and slow travel, Alleppey is soothing in December. Houseboat stays, coconut trees and still water. It is the best places to travel in december in india

Why December?

• Perfect backwater temperature
• Beautiful sunsets
• Houseboat season peak

16. Pondicherry – French Vibes and Clean Beaches

Pondicherry is a combination of Indian and French influences. The weather remains agreeable through December. You should check out cafes, beaches and spiritual spots such as Auroville.

Best things to do:

• Paradise Beach
• White Town walk
• Aurobindo Ashram
• French cafes

17. Varkala – cliff beach

And I’m going to be honest, Varkala is famous for its cliffside views. Blue sea, golden sands and laid back vibe beach is one of the best beach destinations of South India.

Why December?

• Great for swimming
• Clean beaches
• Yoga retreats

18. Calcutta – Christmas Lights and Winter Cuisine

Kolkata is renowned for its Christmas festivals, particularly in Park Street. December makes the city lively. Street food is more delicious in winter.

Best experiences:

• Christmas carnival
• Victoria Memorial
• Howrah Bridge
• Bengali sweets

19. Meghalaya – Cumulonimbus, Hills and Caverns

December in Meghalaya feels dreamy. The weather remains crisp but brilliant. Waterfalls shine under the winter sun.

Things to do:

• Living root bridges
• Cherrapunji trip
• Dawki crystal-clear river

20. Varanasi – Spiritual Winter Escape

Varanasi in December feels peaceful. The ghats are less congested and the Ganga aarti appears gorgeous in cool weather.

Why visit?

• Calm spiritual energy
• Winter festivals
• Easy boat rides

Read More:

Top 5 Ways of Saving Money While Travelling

Best Hostels in India for Traveller

Travel Hacks for December Vacations in India

Here are some quick travel tips.

• Bring warm clothing for mountaintop locations
• Hotels book early, December is peak season
• Pack a quality pair of shoes
• Have your camera poised for stunning vistas
• Plan your budget in advance
• Check road and weather updates

Conclusion on Places to Travel in December in India

Places to travel in December in India: One of the best months to travel in India is definitely December. You can have your snow up north, your beaches down south, your deserts out west and your forests out east. This diversity of terrain and experience is what makes December unique.

If you crave adventure, calm, nature or festivals, there are too many wonderful places to travel in India in December. All you require is a wise head and a glad heart.

Select your vacation and prepare for an unforgettable winter getaway!

FAQS

1. Which part of India is best to visit in December?

North India and West India are tops. Destinations such as Manali, Shimla, Auli, Kashmir, Jaipur, Jaisalmer and Rann of Kutch provide wonderful winter weather and beautiful travel experiences.

2. What is the best place to visit in December out of India?

Dubai is the top overseas choice. It’s great weather, you can do beaches, shopping, desert safari and NYE parties as well.

3. Which place is best for a 3 day trip in India?

Goa, Jaipur, Rishikesh, Udaipur, Coorg and Pondicherry make for awesome options for a quick and easy 3-day getaway.

4. Which state is best to visit in December?

Himachal Pradesh, Goa, Rajasthan and Kerala are the most ideal states to visit for cool weather and effortless sightseeing.

5. Which place is like Japan in India?

Sikkim and Shillong remind of Japan with its clean surroundings, peaceful environment and cherry blossom trees.

6. What is the cheapest trip in India? 

Rishikesh, Jaipur, Varanasi, Kasol and McLeodganj are few cheapest travel options with budget stays and low travel costs.