Best Places to Visit in December in India: 12 Magical
Winter Getaways
India has a magical winter charm on December and this makes it a wonderful time to get away on a holiday. India in December promises to be a destination that will impress a traveler seeking to explore snow-capped mountains, a quiet beach, colorful best holiday destinations in India in December are available within this month, and you are offered to experience winter sports, beautiful nature, and holidays spirit. Through snow-capped mountains of Himachal to the sun-kissed beaches of Goa here is the best places to go in India during December.
End the Year Right: 12 Best Destinations in December in India to Explore
1. Auli, Uttarakhand – India's Skiing Paradise
Auli is one of the best places to visit in December in India, and if you want to have snow covered fun and winter activities, then there is no better place than Auli to visit. When the snow falls on the hill and the slopes with pine forests on it, this hill station in Himalayas turns into a picture-perfect location. One of the best holiday destinations in India in December is Auli, which offers skiing, snowboarding and mountain air in abundance.
Auli December weather - -4°C to 10°C
Things to do in Auli :
- Try skiing at the Auli Ski Resort
- Take breathtaking views of Nanda Devi and Trishul mountains
- Have a ride in a cable car to Auli starting at Joshimath
- Go on a trek to Gurso Bugyal to experience snow-filled grounds
2. Goa – Sun, Sand, and Christmas Cheer
Goa is definitely one of the best places to go in India during December when you are a beach person, nightlife seeker, or lover of culture. Christmas carols, festive lights, as well as New Year parties on the beach, make the atmosphere electric here. Goa is regarded as not only one of the best places to visit in December in India but also where one cannot miss golden beaches, historic churches, and a floating nightlife. Booking a Goa holiday package in December is a hassle-free experience that lets you enjoy the best that the season offers, the beach shacks, the midnight celebrations, and all without even a hitch.
Weather in December: 20°C to 32°C
Things to do in Goa :
- Party during Christmas and New Year at the beach
- Visit Portuguese Churches and forts
- Take a ferry ride along the Mandovi river
- Water sports in the Baga and Calangute beaches
3. Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir – Winter Wonderland
The snowy getaway with top ski slopes and alpine views are those dreamy people who want to visit Gulmarg, which is on the top of the best places to visit in December in India. It transforms into a haven of snow sports in the winter season which attracts adventurists and honeymooners. Being one of the most popular Kashmir tourist attractions, Gulmarg offers memorable experience within powder-white settings that is why it cannot be ignored by any person who is interested in experiencing winter magic in the Himalayas included in the Kashmir travel package.
Temperature in Gulmarg in December: -4°C to 6°C
Things to do in Gulmarg :
- Take a Gulmarg Gondola ride (one of the world’s highest)
- ski/snowboard comfy slopes
- Visit St Mary Church and Maharani temple
- Photography and snow trekking
4. Manali, Himachal Pradesh – Snowy Adventures Await
When you want a snow-capped mountain, a warm cabin, and adrenaline-pumping thrill sports, Manali is one of the best places to visit in December in India for a vacation. This winter retreat is located in the lap of Himachal Pradesh and turns out to be a honeymooner and an adventurer’s paradise. Manali is a favorite tourist destination of most of couples in India, and as they say it is one of the best places to visit for couples in India. Manali has everything to offer to its visitors; there are beautiful scenery, romantic snowfall and beautiful winters, making Manali one of the favorite places of couples to visit and enjoy.
Manali Temperature in December : -2°C to 10°C
Things to Do in Manali :
- Snowboarding and skiing in Solang Valley
- Visit the ancient Hidimba Devi Temple
- Soak yourself in Vashisht hot water springs
- Have a picturesque drive (after it reopens) on Rohtang Pass
5. Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh – Tranquil Hills and Tibetan Culture
Dharamshala is quiet and thus it is one of the best places to visit in December in India, both in terms of spirituality and reconnection with nature. The peaceful atmosphere and the Tibet influence makes a cultural and spiritual experience unique. It is a heart-warming place in terms of meditation and mountain beauty and scenic nature, as you find it one of the best places to go in India during December. To make your stay an unforgettable experience, it is worth booking Dharamshala holiday packages as it implies a variety of guided tours, visiting monasteries and staying in comfy houses which will help to unveil the greatest of this Himalayan pearl.
Dharamshala Temperature in December : 4°C to 14°C
Things to Do in Dharamshala :
- Take a trip to the Dalai Lama Temple and Namgyal Monastery
- Go trekking to Triund and enjoy the scenery
- Get acquainted with the cafes and markets of McLeod Ganj
- Visit the Tibetan Museum
6. Udaipur, Rajasthan – A Royal Winter Escape
Udaipur, the city of Lakes is even more wonderful in winter and one of the best destinations in December in India to have a royal experience. The pleasant winter sun makes the palaces, lakes and havelis of the city all the more charismatic. Udaipur is surely among the best places to visit in December in India for holidays with cultural wealth and royal chic.
Udaipur Temperature in December : 8°C to 28°C
Things to Do in Udaipur :
- Lake pichola boat ride
- Go to City Palace and Jag Mandir
- Explore vintage car museum
- Dine in the most rooftop restaurant with Aravalli hill views
7. Kasol, Himachal Pradesh – A Backpacker's Winter Hideout
A small Himalayan village, Kasol is a best-kept secret in the list of top places to visit in India in December, and is the definition of serenity and nature at its most beautiful. The fresh mountainous air, quiet riverbanks and lack of crowds make it a dream destination of a solo traveler and a backpacker. It is among the best places to go in India during December in pursuit of the solitude and mountain serenity of the Himalayas.
Temperature in Kasol in December : 2°C to 10°C
Things to Do in Kasol :
- Have fun with bonfires and walks along riversides
- Trek to Kheerganga (if weather permits)
- Visit the Israeli cafes and local markets
- Take a trip to nearby villages such as Tosh and Malana
8. Kohima, Nagaland – Culture and Colors of the Hornbill Festival
The exciting and auspicious Hornbill Festival makes the city of Kohima glitter in the map of best destinations in December in India. This city is the capital of Nagaland and attracts visitors, both those who are interested in culture and those who want to have a look. Kohima is one of the best places to visit in December in India because it has everything a person might want, including that of tribal history, music, dance, and a very warm welcome.
Temperature in Nagaland in December : 4°C to 18°C
Things to Do in Kohima :
- Attend the Hornbill Festival (Dec 1–10)
- Explore World War II Memorial
- Go to Naga Heritage Village
- Taste the Naga traditional food
9. Chikmagalur, Karnataka – Coffee and Misty Hills
Chikmagalur, one of the best places to go in India during December, where you can savor misty mornings, coffee plantations and beautiful hills. Located in the Western ghats, it presents a nice break to the colder north. The town is one of the best holiday destinations in India in December, and therefore it is an ideal place to spend a relaxing winter holiday down south.
Chikmagalur weather in December : 14°C to 28°C
Things to Do in Chikmagalur :
- Take a tour to the coffee plantations and taste new beverages
- Take a trek to Mullayanagiri, the tallest mountain of Karnataka
- Visit Hebbe and Jhari falls
- Relax by Hirekolale Lake
10. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat – The Great White Desert Festival
In December, Rann of Kutch turns surreal especially when the Rann Utsav begins and this makes it one of the best places for holiday in December in India. The moonlight white salt desert makes a memorable scene. It is one of the best destinations in December in India as it provides cultural experience in terms of folk dances, music, arts, and food.
Temperature in Rann of Kutch in December : 10°C to 25°C
Things to Do in Runn of Kutch :
- Watch Rann Utsav cultural shows
- Enjoy full moon nights on the salt desert
- Buy crafts and local cloths
- Visit India Bridge and Kala Dungar
11. Wayanad, Kerala – Green Bliss in God’s Own Country
Wayanad is definitely one of the best places to visit in December in India, and nature lovers who want a green image with a lot of silence would love it. It has beautiful forests, waterfalls, spice estates, and is blessed with the cool and pleasant weather. Wayanad is typically ranked as one of the best places to visit in December in South India that provides an ideal way to escape the tourist hustle in a unique way, that is, enjoying the scenic nature of Kerala.
Temperature in Wayanad in December : 15°C to 29°C
Things to Do in Wayanad :
- Go to Edakkal Caves and Soochipara waterfalls
- Go on a stroll around tea and spice gardens
- Wayanad Sanctuary wildlife safari
- Live in eco-resorts between the hills
12. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh – A Hidden Gem in the Northeast
One of the most underrated and spectacular places on the list of the best places to visit in December in India, Tawang is the destination that is perfect both to the snow enthusiasts and culture hunters. It is covered with this thick layer of snow and presents the unbroken harmony of Tibetan Buddhist culture and the amazing beauty of the Himalayas. This northeast jewel picks out as one of the best destinations in December in India to explore off the beaten track.
Temperature in Tawang in December : -5°C to 10°C
Things to Do in Tawang :
- Pay a visit to the Tawang Monastery which is the largest one in India
- Visit Sela Pass and Pankang Teng Tso Lake
- Experience snow and scenic treks
- Know about the local Monpa Culture
Conclusion :
Be it an adventurous, cultural or a mere relaxing experience with nature, these best places to visit in December in India have something to offer each type of traveler. With snow-covered hill slopes of Gulmarg to warm beaches of Goa, the month of December brings within access some of the best places for holiday in December in India.
By having European Travel as a companion you can easily plan your dream year-end holidays without any fuss and hassles. So pack your bags, make your travel plans, and explore the best destinations in December in India to end the year on a high note!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places to visit in December in India for snowfall and winter sports?
The few best places to visit in December in India that have snowfall and winter activities are Auli, Manali, Gulmarg, and Tawang. These places provide snow boarding, skiing, snow treks as well as stunning Himalayan sceneries which are ideal to the new adventurers and honeymooners.
Which destinations are ideal for a romantic getaway in December in India?
Manali, Udaipur, and Gulmarg are regarded as the best places for holiday in December in India by couples. They provide pleasant climate, beautiful sceneries to enjoy romance either in nature or in a palace atmosphere.
Which are the best beach destinations in India during December?
The best places to visit in December in India are Goa, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, and Gokarna as beach holiday spots. There is cool weather and the month of December also possesses the beach parties and the vibes of celebration, particularly in Goa.
Is it worth traveling to India in December?
Yes, it is worth visiting India in December due to the fact that winter is cold and pleasant to everyone. India surprises you with a seamless environment wherever you are.
Are there any festivals or events in India during December?
Yes! December has a number of colorful festivities such as Hornbill Festival at Nagaland, Sunburn Festival in Goa, and Christmas all over the nation. All these events make December one of the most thrilling travel periods.
