Have you ever felt the impulse to take a break to escape to some cold and magical place? If so, this list of the top places to visit in December in India will help you plan a perfect winter holiday. December is the time of year when India is transformed into a glorious, snow-covered mountain, breezy beaches, the glowing desert, and the festival of life. Whether you love adventure, nature, quiet time or a lively market, there's definitely something for everyone.
This blog will walk you through the tourist places in India in December, including what they are famous for, how much your travel budget will be, and what the best things to do there are. Get ready to see the winter beauty of India!
Best Places to Visit in December in India
From the all-time favourite Manali in Himachal Pradesh to the diverse landscape of Kutch in Gujarat, here are all the top places to visit in December in India.
1. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Manali is one of the most loved places to visit in December in India because it gets transformed into a dreamy winter wonderland. Snow covers the mountains, pine trees are white, and the cold wind is refreshing. Whether you want to enjoy peaceful moments by the riverside, have some adventure sports, walk around the cute local markets or even just want to have some hot Maggi in the snow, Manali is perfect for everyone. Its lovely beauty makes it one of the best places to go in December in India.
Things to Do: Play in snow at Solang Valley, enjoy Skiing, snowboarding & paragliding, visit Hidimba Devi temple, and old Manali cafes.
Famous For: Snowfall, Adventure sports, Mountain views, Romantic Stay in Winter.
Travel Budget: (Approx.) ₹8000-₹18000 per person for 3N/4D (not including travel).
2. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Shimla is a popular winter holiday destination and one of the top places to travel in December in India. The cool air, pine-scented breeze and snow-dusted roads make the entire hill town look magical. December introduces festive decorations, much fun at markets and a lot of other things to do in Shimla. The British-era buildings, toy train ride and the scenic viewpoints make Shimla one of the best places to go in India during December. Whether you're hitting the road with friends and family, embarking on a romantic getaway or enjoying a calm and cosy slow solo getaway, Shimla envelops you in its charm of warmth and beauty.
Things to Do: Take a walk on the Mall Road, enjoy the Shimla Toy Train, visit Jakhu temple, and try ice skating.
Famous For: Snowfall, Christmas vibes, colonial architecture, and scenic walks.
Travel Budget: ₹7000-₹15000 per head 3N/4D
3. Auli, Uttarakhand
Auli in winter is a bliss for snow lovers and obviously one of the best places to visit in December in India. The hill station becomes covered with a white, snowy blanket that is ideal for skiing and cable-car rides. The prolific views of Nanda Devi peak, clean roads and peaceful surroundings make Auli one of the dreamiest winter escapes. December is the best time when the whole town appears to be a fairyland.
Things to Do: Try Skiing and Snowboarding, take a cable car from Joshimath, visit Auli Lake and trek to Gorson Bugyal.
Famous For: Ski slopes, snow-covered meadows, and a view of the Himalayas.
Travel Budget: 9,000 - 20,000 per person - 3N/4D
4. Goa
Goa in December is full of fun, energy, beaches, festivals and nightlife. It is one of the most loved tourist places in India in December, specifically for individuals who want to have warm weather and parties, not cold mountains. Christmas and New Year bring the festive flavour, and hence Goa comes alive and colourful. From sunsets to seafood, everything is better in December.
Things to Do: Try water sports at Baga, cruise party at Mandovi, explore South Goa Beaches, and try Goan Seafood.
Famous For: Nightlife, Christmas celebrations, and beaches
Travel Budget: ₹10,000 - ₹25,000 per person for 3N/4D
5. Jaipur, Rajasthan
Jaipur is a perfect destination to visit during the winter season in the month of December due to the cool, pleasant, and ideal weather to tour around and explore the royal beauty of various places to visit in Jaipur. The Pink City is adorned with historical forts, colourful markets, grandiose palaces and yummy Rajasthani food. December is the best time to walk around freely without heat, enjoy cultural shows and get stunning shots. Jaipur is a cosy and enthusiastic option when you want to have a fun-filled but comfortable winter holiday.
Things to Do: Visit Amer Fort, explore City Palace, enjoy your shopping, taste Rajasthani food, and visit Hawa Mahal.
Famous For: Global architecture, traditional bazaars, and heritage culture.
Travel Budget: ₹8,000 - ₹18,000 per person/4D - 3N
6. Udaipur, Rajasthan
Udaipur, the City of Lakes, becomes a dreamy and romantic experience in the month of December. The cool winter breeze makes boat cruises pleasant, sunsets look magical, and the sights nice. The city is calm and elegant with lakes, palaces and charming old streets. It is one of the best places to visit in December in India for couples, families, and those who wish to take a relaxed and scenic holiday with beautiful water views all around.
Things to Do: Boat ride at Lake Pichola, visit to City Palace, Saheliyon Ki Bari, walking in the old town, and try rooftop dining.
Famous For: Beautiful lakes, Palaces, and sunset points.
Travel Budget: ₹9,000 - ₹20,000/ Person for 3N/4D
7. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat
December is the best time to visit the Rann of Kutch as the Rann Utsav happens at that time. The scene is magical under the moonlit night in the white salt desert. Colourful tents, folk dances, camel rides and local crafts are a colourful cultural twist. The chilly nights and open environment make the Kutch one of the unique places to visit in December in India.
Things to Do: Attend the Rann Utsav, do camel rides, enjoy a cultural show, and sunset views.
Famous For: White salt desert, Traditional art, and Night festivals.
Travel Budget: ₹12,000 - ₹25,000 per person (for 3N/4D)
8. Munnar, Kerala
Munnar is one of the great places to visit in December in South India since the weather is cool, fresh and very pleasant. The green tea plantations appear to be brighter, clouds are low, and hill views are calm and satisfying. In December, you can do sightseeing, long drives, nature walks, and pay a visit to the tea museums. The entire hill station is peaceful and soothing for people who are interested in a relaxing winter trip.
Things to Do: Walk through tea gardens, visit the Eravikulam Park, waterfalls, try local chocolates, and visit the viewpoints
Famous For: Tea estates, hilly mist, and flora.
Travel Budget: ₹10,000 - ₹22,000/person for 3N/4D
9. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Ooty gets quiet and refreshingly cool, hence it becomes one of the best tourist places in South India in December. Green hills, calm lakes, and scenic viewpoints are an extra beautiful sight in the wintertime. Families love the toy train ride; couples enjoy the aimless gardens. The weather is ideal for sightseeing and photography without the nasty sun. Ooty offers you a classical hill station right in the wintertime.
Things to Do: Visit the Ooty Toy Train, Botanic Garden, Tea factory, enjoy boating at Lake, and go to the Doddabetta peak.
Famous For: Lakes, tea gardens, and mountain views.
Travel Budget: ₹8000 - ₹18,000 per person for 3N/4D
10. Andaman & Nicobar Islands
December is the best time to visit the Andaman Islands, as the weather is sunny and pleasant, which is great for beaches. The water is clear and calm, with water sports such as scuba diving and snorkelling being more fun. Visitors love peaceful beaches, coral reefs and island hopping tours. The warm tropical climate is the reason why the Andaman is a great escape from the cold winters and a dream spot for nature and beach lovers.
Things to Do: Try Scuba diving, snorkelling, visit Radhanagar Beach, take a tour of Cellular Jail and do Island hopping.
Famous For: Blue beaches, marine life, and water sports.
Travel Budget: ₹18,000 - ₹40,000 per person for 4N/5D
11. Nainital, Uttarakhand
Nainital is transformed into a cosy winter resort during the month of December with cold weather, serene lakes, and tranquil views. Misty morning setting, Christmas decorations, warm cafes give all good holiday feelings. Boating on Naini Lake and walking on Mall Road is special after you feel the cool breeze. December is also a good time to enjoy snowfall in some places to visit in Nainiaital, which makes it one of the perfect places to visit in December in India for winter holidays for families and couples.
Things to Do: Boating at Naini Lake, Visit Snow View Point, Mall Road walk, ride on Ropeway, and do Shopping.
Famous For: Lakes, Snow Views, and Local Markets.
Travel Budget: ₹7000 - ₹15000 per person for 3N/4D
12. Gulmarg, Kashmir
Gulmarg becomes a snowy paradise in December. The town is completely covered with white snow, making it one of the best places to go in India during December. Adventure lovers enjoy skiing, snowboarding and riding on the famous Gulmarg Gondola. The views of tall snow-covered mountains are magical and peaceful. December is perfect for travellers seeking a proper winter experience, snow, along adventure.
Things to Do: Do the Gondola Ride, Skiing, Snow biking, photographing, and long walks.
Famous For: Snowfall, ski slopes, and skiing gondolas.
Travel Budget: ₹12,000 - ₹25,000/Person for 3N/4D
13. Pondicherry
In December, the temperature in Pondicherry is very pleasant as the weather is peaceful and the sun rays are soft. French-style streets, tranquil cafes and pristine beaches are even more relaxing in the winter. It is perfect for wandering travellers who want quiet time, walks on the coast, meditation, and good food. December makes the entire town warm, cosy, and welcoming, just right for those who are looking to avoid crowded hill stations and enjoy a peaceful break down on the coast!
Things to Do: Visit Auroville, walk along Rock Beach, stroll around White Town, visit cafes, and watch the sunset.
Famous for: French architecture, peaceful beaches, and cosy cafes.
Travel budget: ₹6000-₹26000 per person for 3N/4D
14. Darjeeling
Darjeeling turns out to be a calm and quaint place, making it one of the best places to visit in December in India. Fresh winter air, mountain views and quiet mornings make the atmosphere very peaceful. Tea gardens are beautiful to see, and the view of Kanchenjunga is breathtaking. The toy train ride and misty hill roads make it a nostalgic, magical winter experience.
Things to do: See Tiger Hill at sunrise, visit a monastery, ride a toy train, Shop on Mall Road, and visit a tea garden.
Famous for: Mountain views, the best tea estates, and the toy train.
Travel budget: ₹7,000 - ₹16,000 per head for 3N/4D.
15. Lakshadweep
Lakshadweep is ideal for those planning to spend a relaxed vacation in a tropical kind of storm in December. Beaches are quiet, the water is crystal clear, and there is a sort of calming mood in the atmosphere. This is one of the best places to visit in December in India for snorkelling, kayaking and relaxing by the sea. The islands are not as crowded, and December is an ideal time for couples and nature lovers who like to have privacy and beauty at the same time and explore the things to do in Lakshadweep.
Things to do: Snorkelling, kayaking, coral tours, beach walks, relaxation, etc.
Famous for: Clear lagoons and coral reefs, beautiful and peaceful beaches.
Travel budget: ₹22000 - ₹45000 per person for 4N/5D.
Conclusion
Travelling in December is magical, and India looks even more beautiful at this time of the year. Whether you are an avid snow-lover, a beach lover, a royal citygoer, or want to have a cultural experience or even a nature-loving person, these places to visit in December in India have something special to offer to every kind of traveller. The cool weather, the clear skies, festivals, markets, and scenery are perfect for exploring the country in December.
From the white desert of Kutch to the snowy peaks of Gulmarg to the warm beaches of Andaman, every place has its own charm. If you're looking for a holiday that will be refreshing, exciting and unforgettable, December is the perfect month for you. Plan the right winter trip with the required comfort, fun and beautiful memories.
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