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December is around the corner!
And if the travel bug has bitten you, what’s better than this month to explore India’s tourist landscape?
December weather in India is as diverse and kaleidoscopic as the country itself. The month offers a pleasant escape for everyone, irrespective of their preferences. Hence, it is better to build a list of the best places to visit in December in India.
The month of October and November promises all things idyllic to travelers. With a real nip in the air—and a fresh, fragrant breeze pervading the troposphere—it sets the vibe to check out the best places to visit in October in India.
So, what’s holding you back?
Drop everything, let’s discover the best places to visit in India during December in our listicle, plan an itinerary, and book those tickets you’ve been putting off booking for so long.
Our recommendations = Your bucket list!
Ready? Set, go!
Let’s embark on the journey of discovering India through ‘Best places to visit in December in India. Buckle up; your dream itinerary is about to unfold, one destination at a time!
Shillong experiences heavenly December weather in Dawki, with temperatures ranging from 12 to 20 degrees. Shillong stands as the sole hill station in India accessible from all sides.
The Umngot River in Dawki boasts crystal-clear water that makes a boat appear as though it’s floating in mid-air. Don’t forget to add Shillong to your list of the best tourist places in India in December. Not only December, but you can also visit this place in September because of the pleasant weather.
Dalhousie, a picturesque town, ranks among the top places to visit in India during December. What sets it apart as one of the best December destinations in India?
The sight of snowflake-covered Deodar forests is simply enchanting. This stunning winter getaway welcomes the crisp breeze with panoramic views of snow-capped mountains. This is indeed one of the places in India to visit in December.
The snow-clad peaks of Neelkant, Mana Parbat, and Nanda Devi offer panoramic views of the hills, creating a frozen wonderland, especially during Christmas.
If you’re eager to learn skiing in one of the best destinations, Auli should top your list of December explorations.
Chopta is the beginning point of one of the treks to do in Uttarakhand for youngsters. It treats you to scenic vistas of snow-clad Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba.
The air in Chopta is imbued with freshness and romance, making it not just a destination for mesmerizing snowfall but also a haven for adventure-loving trekkers.
Perched at an elevation of 2,285 meters above sea level, Mukteshwar stands among India’s most spectacular winter destinations.
The bird’s-eye view of the mighty Himalayan peaks and the dense forests surrounding this hill station are a source of fascination for young couples and nature enthusiasts alike.
Remember that iconic scene from Mission Kashmir where Preity Zinta and Hrithik Roshan are romanced amidst the serene backdrop of ‘Socho Ke Jheelon Ka Ek Shehar Ho’?
You can recreate that magical moment with your loved one at this romantic hideaway in India. What’s more, the temperature hovers around freezing in December, making it one of the best places to go in December in India for a honeymoon.
Kohima is the capital of Nagaland and works as the perfect leisure place for travelers seeking peace. Standing tall at an elevation of 1500 meters, Kohima has been one of the best places to visit in India during December since its independence.
You get to explore the serene beauty of this town and enjoy the culture of simple and innocent Naga tribes. Moreover, Kohima is a heaven for non-veg lovers as most of the popular dishes are for non vegetarian people.
Diu’s pristine beaches in December are nothing short of a revelation, and you need to witness their breathtaking beauty to truly comprehend it. The temperature during this time hovers between 16 to 23 degrees Celsius, creating the perfect backdrop for beachside bonfires.
Diu stands as an extraordinary honeymoon destination in India during December. This unexplored union territory boasts a unique festival in December, adding an exciting dimension to your trip.
Goa reigns supreme among the top places to visit in India regardless of the month you choose. However, the Goa casinos take on an electrifying aura in December, earning the moniker ‘Las Vegas of India.’
Picture this: fireworks illuminating the night sky, trance music serenading your senses, and the soft sand beneath your feet—truly an unforgettable experience as you ring in the New Year!
Chennai may sizzle in other months, but come December, it transforms into one of the most sought-after destinations in India. Picture yourself sipping fresh coconut water while taking leisurely strolls along India’s longest beach, feeling the gentle breeze ruffle your hair.
And speaking of quenching your thirst, just a two-hour drive from Chennai lies Pondicherry, where you can find affordable drinks! So, indulge in your love for music as you explore Chennai.
Also Read: 13 Must Visit Temples in Tamil Nadu
One of India’s most coveted holiday destinations during December is Havelock Island in the Andaman archipelago, home to the stunning Radhanagar Beach. Beaches are also the finest places to visit in March month in India because this is the best time to enjoy beaches before December.
Located approximately 12 km from Havelock’s ferry pier, this beach has earned accolades such as “Asia’s best beach” and “the world’s 7th best beach” from Time Magazine.
With its picturesque waters, Kovalam Beach offers an excellent opportunity for swimming and indulging in adventure sports. Situated approximately 16 km from Kovalam, this beach is perfect for sunbathing and witnessing breathtaking sunsets.
The pleasant month of December provides an ideal climate for exploring these splendid shores and relishing the warm waters of the Arabian Sea.
It’s undoubtedly one of the top places to visit in South India during December, offering stunning views and delectable cuisine.
Another breathtaking adventure you can consider before the year ends is visiting the Thajiwas Glacier, Jammu & Kashmir. It could be one of the best places to visit in December in India as you get to see the beginning of snowfall in Kashmir, which itself is a paradise on Earth.
Located in Sonamarg, this glacier is just 7km away and provides you with all kinds of adventure to enjoy your trip.
Known as the cultural capital of Kerela, Thrissur could be one of the best places to visit in December. From exploring various beautiful religious sites to classic Keralian performing arts, it has everything that will make your trip memorable.
During December, the weather remains pretty pleasing, and you’ll love to discover various iconic landmarks here. So, grab a camera and take a break from the hustle and bustle of your life.
Being the smallest state in the Northeast region of India, Sikkim never fails to impress tourists. With its panoramic views and snow-covered mountains, you can surely consider it one of the best places to visit in December in India.
The place is full of centuries-old monuments, beautiful lakes, and monasteries. You can visit any lake during the Guru Purnima festival to have a unique experience.
Whenever it comes to the best hill stations in India, Manali always gets a mention. It surely is one of the best places to visit in India during December and is mostly preferred by newlyweds and snow lovers.
Manali is great for adventure sports and offers paragliding, ice skating, and rock climbing. So, you can plan your trip here and enjoy the meadows surrounded by mountains and try winter sports.
Jodhpur is one magnificent and the second-largest city in Rajasthan, which is also known as the Blue City. With the presence of several forts, temples, and palaces, Jodhpur will give you more than one reason to visit in December.
The main highlight of this city is Mehrangarh Fort, which is one of the famous historical places in India. During December, the temperature gets a bit lower, and the weather is pleasant. So, you can definitely consider Jodhpur as the next stop.
Situated in the Thar Desert of Gujarat, the Great Rann of Kutch is a salt marsh that must be explored during the winter. The salt will turn blue under the moonlight and is enough to give you a surreal experience.
Moreover, if you choose to visit here in December, you’ll get to enjoy the Kutch Festival which lasts for two months. So, a trip here will let you explore the state’s music, dance, and art for sure.
If you’re a fan of adventure sports or need a perfect place for Hindu pilgrimage, Rishikesh is the best. Also known as the ‘Abode of the Gods’ and the ‘Yoga capital of the world,’ this city in Uttarakhand is a must-visit in December.
If you’re a music lover, you must know that the legendary English rock band ‘The Beatles’ recorded most of the songs of their album – ‘The White Album’ in Rishikesh only. December seems to be a great month to explore this place as the weather grows hazy, and the surroundings become more appealing.
Wayanad is heaven for nature lovers and has everything you need for a memorable trip. The green paradise is surrounded by gorgeous mountains of the Western Ghats and could be the perfect destination for a wanderlust.
During December, the weather stays misty throughout the day and gets chilly at night. You can explore several nature reserves, go sightseeing, and explore this beautiful district in Kerela.
Tawang can surely be one of the best places to visit in December in India but is pretty difficult to reach. Situated at an altitude of 10,000 ft above sea level, Tawang seems like a dreamland for adventure lovers and explorers.
With the snow-covered Himalayas, mesmerizing natural surroundings, waterfalls, and ancient monasteries, Tawang has a lot to offer to its visitors. Coming to the weather in December, you can surely expect the temperature to go below zero and enjoy the delicacy of the Hornbill Festival.
Known as the gateway of Northeastern India, Guwahati is among the best tourist attractions. Located on the banks of the Brahmaputra river, the city offers almost everything a tourist seeks in a place. If you’re a nature lover and would like to explore some wilderness, this place is a must-visit.
In Guwahati, you can enjoy recreational centers, places of religious significance, waterfalls, and more. In addition, you can also explore the Kaziranga National Park and witness the Great Indian one-horned Rhinoceros.
Rich in culture and giving you a taste of royalty, Udaipur has it all. With numerous lakes and palaces to fall in love with the city of lakes must get a mention in your places to visit in December.
It is located at the base of Aravali Hills, which explains the reason behind the cold environment in the last months of the year. Moreover, if you’re an art lover, a trip to the Shilpgram Arts and Crafts Festival is a must.
Another entry from Andaman is the Shaheed Dweep (known as Neil Island earlier). It is one of the smallest islands in India and is known for its wide Pristine Sandy Beaches. You can visit here any time of the year, but if you want to enjoy the calmness and pleasant temperature, it is better to book tickets in December.
The island is not that huge, so you can easily plan a short trip here in winter. Moreover, exploring the beaches here is something you cannot miss at all. The sea water is very clear, and taking long walks here is surely heavenly.
Cherrapunjee was once known as the ‘wettest place on Earth’ by the Guinness Book of World Records. Moreover, this city has the most unique and iconic living root bridges. Even though you’ll find raining cats and dogs here, the place is worth visiting for sure.
So, if you’re someone who loves to wander in the lush greenery and enjoy breathtaking views of majestic waterfalls, Cherrapunjee should be your next destination.
According to many tourists, Jaisalmer is among the top favorite places to visit in December in India. It is known as the Golden City of India because most of the construction work done in the city is with the use of yellow sandstone.
This city in Rajasthan is full of medieval forts and havelis. In that case, the Jaisalmer fort is the most popular one as it is surrounded by narrow alleys. Apart from that, you can visit some villages and explore the lakes for peace of mind.
If you’re planning a Hindu pilgrimage this December, you must plan a trip to Gokarna. It is a town in Northern Karnataka famous for its beautiful beaches and breathtaking landscapes. You can call it a version of Goa but with less crowd and clean beaches.
The weather in December is pleasant with adequate sunshine and the beach water is as clean as glass. Moreover, you can enjoy top-quality seafood here while enjoying a winter vacation.
Mahabalipuram is a sure spot for travel enthusiasts as the place expresses the purest form of cultural heritage and is free of all kinds of commercialization. If you’re planning a trip here, the famous Shore Temple is highly recommended.
December is one of the best months to visit here due to the tourist-friendly weather. The days are warm, and the nights are cold so that you can enjoy your pilgrimage without feeling exhausted.
Konark is a historical town in Odisha which is popular globally for its Sun Temple. With a huge number of tourists visiting here every year, the place is a must-visit for the religious ones.
Winter season is considered the best to visit Konark due to the pleasant weather that allows you to explore religious places and other outdoor activities.
Varanasi is a major pilgrimage destination for people following Hindu religion and Buddhism. It is one of the oldest cities in the world and is located on the banks of the Ganga River.
December is pretty cold and if you like to explore places in chilly weather, you can visit Varanasi. You can also witness the colorful flower blooms and greenery during this season that enhance the beauty of Varanasi.
Orchha is a town situated in the Niwari district of Madhya Pradesh. From iconic landmarks to adventure sports, it has a lot to offer to tourists. Apart from that, you can explore several historical places during your vacation here.
If you’re a nature lover and admire peaceful places, you must visit Orchha. The weather in December is cold, but not too cold to stop you from enjoying various tourist spots here.
Searching for a place where you can enjoy beaches, explore different cultures, and be amazed by architecture? Book tickets to Pondicherry. It could be one of the best places to visit in December in India as it suits all types of travelers.
Pondicherry is also called the ‘French Capital of India’ and it has been colonized by the Dutch, the Portuguese, the English, and the French. The place is full of Temples and Churches but also offers pristine beaches, cafes, and water sports to its tourists.
Known as the city of Nawabs, Lucknow is famous worldwide for its cuisine, architecture, culture, art, and poetry. Being one of the oldest cities in India, it has a lot to offer to its tourists in the most well-mannered way possible.
Visiting Lucknow in December may delay flights and trains due to the foggy atmosphere, but once you reach there, there’s nothing stopping you from exploring the place. And of course, trying the variety of mouth-watering food, heaven for every foodie!
Famous for its beauty and landscape, Binsar is a delight for every nature lover out there. The whole town is covered by majestic mountains, some of them would be Nanda Devi, Pachachuli, and Trishul. Moreover, you can also explore the wildlife in the dense forests of the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary.
One of the major tourist attractions in Binsar is the Bineshwar Mahadev Temple. Apart from that, you can enjoy trekking and long nature walks to forget your monotonous lifestyle for a few days.
Last but not least, you can visit Delhi if you haven’t been before. From the cultural places to sparkling nightlife and from the best fine dining to delicious street food, Delhi is a treat for travelers around the world.
The capital of India has several historical places and the diversity here will surely amaze you. In short, this city has something to offer to every tourist regardless of their choice. December could be a very cold month as the temperature drops pretty low, but if you love street food and want to roam around the places whether it’s day or night, Delhi is for you.
There are surely more places to visit in India in December that are paradise for travelers. The month offers a balance of sunny daytime temperatures and cool, breezy evenings for every wanderlust heart.
The destinations we named are PURE BLISS to experience and topped with festive cheer; the energy enveloping these is totally INFECTIOUS.
Don’t wait. The time is ripe and almost here.
Plan and set off on a travel journey you’ll dearly love for life, whether in the company of friends, family, a loved one, or as a solo explorer.
You’ll thank us later!