Places To Visit in December in India

Known For : Dal Lake Pampore (Saffron Town) Doodhpathri

Popularly referred to as the "Paradise on Earth," Kashmir is a breathtaking region in northwestern India. Historically part of the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir, Jammu & Kashmir was declared a Union Territory in 2019. The major cities in the Kashmir Valley include Srinagar, Gulmarg, Anantnag, and Baramulla. Nestled in the Himalayan, Pir Panjal and Karakoram mountain ranges, it is known for its scenic splendor, snow-capped mountains, plentiful wildlife, exquisite monuments, hospitable people, and local people handicrafts.

Best Time: September - November; March - May

34 Kashmir Attractions

Known For : Cellular Jail Scuba Diving In Andaman Radhanagar Beach

A group of about 600 islands in the Bay of Bengal, Andaman and Nicobar Islands are known for their scenic beaches, dense forests and adventurous water sports. December is one of the best times to go to the humid sultry island state of Andamans and Nicobar Islands. The pleasant winter climate allows travellers to fully explore the crystal clear waters and stunning coral reefs. With a range of activities to choose from such as snorkelling, scuba diving and visiting the beautiful national parks, these tiny islands are a must visit in December!

Best Time: October to Jun

81 Andaman Attractions

In December, Sikkim dons a pristine white cloak, with its mountains and valleys blanketed in snow, offering breathtaking vistas and a chance for snow sports. The state radiates a serene ambiance, ideal for visiting monasteries like Rumtek and enjoying the warmth of traditional Sikkimese hospitality. Tourists can partake in the local festivals, relish traditional cuisine, and experience the enchantment of the Northeastern winter.

8 Attractions

Known For : Houseboats in Alleppey Alleppey Backwaters Kuttanad

Alleppey, often dubbed the 'Venice of the East,' comes alive with its serene backwaters reflecting the azure skies, and traditional houseboats gracefully gliding on the shimmering waters. The cooler and pleasant weather of December perfectly complements the town's vibrant festivities and boat races. As tourists immerse themselves in the local culture, the delightful experience of savoring fresh seafood by the waterside and witnessing the sunset over the palm-fringed horizon becomes an unforgettable spectacle.

Best Time: June to March

37 Alleppey Attractions

Known For : Hidimba Temple Solang Valley Manu Temple

Nestled in the Kullu Valley, the Himalayan town of Manali is a hill station with attractions such as the spectacular Rohtang pass. Visit Manali in December and watch the landscape turn into a slice of snowy heaven. Bring in Christmas and New Years with exciting winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding at Gulaba, Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley. Cosying up to the chilly nights of Manali with bonfires & with views of the gigantic ice-capped Himalayan mountains makes this place one of the best places to visit in India in December.

Best Time: October to June

51 Manali Attractions

Known For : Mehrangarh Fort Umaid Bhawan Palace Camel Safari

Famously known as the Blue City, Jodhpur is one of the most popular tourist places to visit in India in December. Located in Rajasthan and having a rich and vivid culture and history, one can find numerous forts, palaces and temples here. They're very appealing aesthetically and are popular among the locals and tourists. In December, the weather becomes considerably cooler and much more pleasant than the usual aridity, thus making it a perfect winter destination.

Best Time: November to February

43 Jodhpur Attractions

Known For : Dzukou Valley and Japfu Peak Kohima Museum Touphema Village

Break the trend of going to conventional places and plan a trip to the North East. Nagaland is one of the best places to visit in December in India, especially in the North East. The very famous Hornbill festival occurs during this timeThey'reand hence it would be really wise for you to visit this amazing place at the same time. Traditional dances, folk songs and theatrical performances are held, which will make you fall in love with the local culture. Also, bands from all over the country perform at the Hornbill Rock Festival, which happens at the same time. Wouldn't want to miss that, would you?

Best Time: October to June

11 Kohima Attractions

Known For : Thajiwas Glacier Baltal Valley Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

Sonamarg in December is a town with snow-covered flower-laden fields, surrounded by majestic glaciers and serene lakes. Bound by natural beauty on all sides, breathtaking glaciers and serene lakes Sonamark is a popular tourist attraction in that state of Jammu & Kashmir. Visit the beautiful Nilagrad, a colony of the Baltics and the various mountain lakes such as Gangabal, Vishansar and Krishnasar situated in and around Sonamarg. Discover the stunning Himalayan glaciers and romantic picturesque views in the chilly winter months of December in Sonamarg.

Best Time: May to October

17 Sonamarg Attractions

Known For : Banasura Sagar Dam Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary Chembra Peak

Replete with enchanting waterfalls, historical caves, comfortable resorts and homestays, this popular town is famous for its spice plantations and wildlife. The minimum temperature that the hill station experiences in December is around 10°C while the maximum is 24°C. The weather stays misty, breezy during the day and chilly in the night time. The climate is perfect for exploring the nature reserves, go sightseeing, bird watching or to explore the wildlife. Christmas and New Year are some of the festivals celebrated in the district with great enthusiasm during winters.

Best Time: Throughout the year

38 Wayanad Attractions

Known For : Umiam Lake Elephant Falls Laitlum Canyons

Born in the laps of nature, Shillong is the capital of Meghalaya and offers every one of its bequeathed element for exploration to the wanderlust. The light drizzles and the cooling gentle wind in December in Shillong add to the joy of visiting this hill station. Shillong is also known as the ‘Scotland of the East’ due to its exciting mountain peaks, crystal clear lakes, breathtakingly beautiful golf courses, and museums. Visiting Shillong in December is an experience of a lifetime and it is also famous as the music capital of India. Many prominent musicians have hailed from this place and music events keep happening throughout the year, making it a very youthful and lively place.

Best Time: September to May

33 Shillong Attractions

Known For : Jaisalmer Fort Desert Safari in Jaisalmer Gadisar Lake

In December, Jaisalmer transforms into a winter wonderland, with its golden fort and sand dunes bathed in the soft sunlight, offering a stark yet beautiful contrast to the clear blue skies. The cooler temperatures make it ideal for exploring the city's historic sites, indulging in desert safaris, and experiencing the vibrant cultural performances under starlit nights. Festivals and local events during this month add to the city's allure, making it a perfect blend of heritage, adventure, and traditional Rajasthani hospitality.

Best Time: October to March

39 Jaisalmer Attractions

Known For : Sela Pass Tawang Monastery Madhuri Lake

Tawang is the place to go for monasteries, with the Tawang Monastery being the most popular one and extremely sacred for the Buddhists. The natural beauty of Tawang in December is breathtaking. With heavy snowfall in December in Tawang the place transformed into a magical spiritual wonderland. Tourists can enjoy skiing in December. If you do end up visiting Tawang during winter, make sure to catch the Hornbill Festival. This festival is held in December and is an excellent way of learning about the culture of Tawang. The festival also hosts several activities including dance, sports, food, art forms and many more.

Best Time: March - June; September - October

12 Tawang Attractions

Known For : City Palace, Udaipur Lake Pichola Sajjangarh Palace

Located in a valley and surrounded by 4 lakes, it is at times referred to as the 'Venice of the East'. Udaipur has an abundance of natural beauty, mesmerising temples and breathtaking architecture which makes it a must-visit destination in India. A boat ride through the serene waters of Lake Pichola will be enough to prove to you why Udaipur is the pride of Rajasthan. Explore the stunning Ranakpur Jain Temple, the historic Udaipur City Palace and catch the winter season of cultural events at the Bagore Ki Haveli in December in Udaipur.

Best Time: October to March

43 Udaipur Attractions

Known For : Kovalam Beach Vizhinjam Lighthouse Aazhimala Shiva Temple

An idyllic village along the coastlines of the Arabian Sea, Kovalam is most famous for its three pristine beaches with shallow waters and low tidal waves where one can go surfing, wooden and motorboat riding. The beach town of Kovalam has three famous beaches - Lighthouse beach, Samudra beach and Hawah beach, which together form its majestic rocky crescent. Kovalam essentially means a grove of coconut trees and the little town is filled with these palms. December in Kovalam is relatively dry and warm as well. It's going to be a perfect winter vacation if you want to escape the cold.

Best Time: September to March

33 Kovalam Attractions

Known For : Rann of Kutch Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary Dholavira

An expanse of white sands for most parts of the year, Kutch transforms into a centre of the celebration, festivity, countless tints, arts and culture in December as it hosts its grand Rann Mahotsav. While the summers at Rann are extremely hot and unbearable, winters are quite cool with temperatures sometimes falling as low as 0 degrees! Visit this moon-like desert of India in December for an extraordinary experience that will continue to charm you for much longer. The Rann Utsav will only add to the mesmerizing feel and experience while there making it one of the best places to visit in India in December.

Best Time: July to March

20 Kutch Attractions

Known For : Calangute Beach Fort Aguada Cruise in Goa

Situated on the Western Coast, Goa is the place associated most with touristy beaches, happening nightlife and historic Portuguese architecture. This list of places to visit in India in December would be incomplete without adding Goa to it. Goa is easily one of the best places in India to wrap up the year. Explore its hippie culture, warm winter beaches, the most delicious seafood and of course, it's alcohol. Goa has an excellent selection of the New Year and Christmas parties in December making is the perfect destination to bring on the New Year with a bang!

Best Time: October to March

197 Goa Attractions

Known For : Ranthambore Tiger Reserve Jeep Safari Ranthambore Ranthambhore Fort

One of the best tiger reserves of India, Ranthambore finds itself all the more welcoming in December with the pleasant drop in the temperature. The region is known for being the richest centres of flora and fauna, a dreamy terrain amidst the Vindhya and Aravalli, this one also houses the Ranthambore Fort in the reserve. Apart from being the home of the endangered tiger, several other animal species are found here such as the wild cats, leopards, sloth bears, hyenas, Indian foxes, crocodiles and jackals. Compared to other tiger reserves, chances of tiger spotting in the month of December are relatively higher at Ranthambore.

Best Time: October to Apr

20 Ranthambore Attractions

Known For : Om Beach Mahabaleshwara Temple Paradise Beach, Gokarna

With its pristine beaches and breathtaking landscapes, Gokarna is a famous Hindu pilgrimage town. However, in the month of December, Gokarna transforms into a hippie, party town with crowds gathering on the serene tropical beaches for Christmas and New Years celebrations. Palm clad beaches are dotted with foreign tourists in December in Gokarna with very few Indians. A one-of-a-kind hidden gem on the Arabian Sea, Gokarna is a great destination to escape the crowds for a slow, relaxed holiday.

Best Time: Throughout the year

20 Gokarna Attractions

Known For : Paradise Beach, Pondicherry Aurobindo Ashram Auroville

Puducherry was the largest French colony in India and the French influence on the city can be seen till today. Pondicherry is a beautiful beach town with pleasant weather in the month of December making it the ideal time for sightseeing, water sports and laid-back beach vacations. Make sure you visit the famous Aurobindo Ashram and the serene meditative town of Auroville. Discover Pondicherry's glittering beaches, endless shorelines, off-beat nightlife and find your spiritual energy this December.

Best Time: October to March

48 Pondicherry Attractions

Known For : Amer Fort Jantar Mantar Jaipur Hawa Mahal

Jaipur is a vibrant amalgamation of the old and the new. Also called the Pink City, The capital of the royal state of Rajasthan, Jaipur has been ruled by Rajput kingdoms for many centuries and developed as a planned city in the 17th century AD. Winters in Jaipur have warm sunny days and colder nights making the place perfect for sightseeing in December. Enjoy the delicacies of Rajasthan with dollops of ghee in the colder winter nights to satisfy your cravings.

Best Time: November to March

67 Jaipur Attractions

Known For : Shore Temple Mahabalipuram Beach Five Rathas

Earlier known as Mamallapuram, Mahabalipuram is one of the most popular and beautiful destinations located in the Southern part of India. Famous for its elaborately carved, intricate temples and rocky caves, Mahabalipuram is a real treat to visit in India in December. The local made handicrafts and artefacts also add to its splendour. With its wide and pristine white sandy beaches, the cool casuarina trees, along with the pleasant and cool temperature that the state acquires by this time of the year, Mahabalipuram is definitely one of the places to visit in India in December.

Best Time: November to February

23 Mahabalipuram Attractions

Kaziranga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in India and a well known, protected animal reserve. It is known for housing more than half of the world's one-horned rhinoceros and that's not even it. It is also an important tiger reserve, with a large density of tigers present within the national park. Set along the mighty river the Brahmaputra, Kaziranga comes alive in the winter month of December with warm days and cool nights, opening up the perfect conditions to spot wildlife. You can also spot leopards, foxes, deer, flying squirrels, pelicans, hornbill and plenty of other floral and faunal species, which makes it an exciting trip for family vacations and photography enthusiasts alike.

Best Time: October to June

Known For : Sun Temple, Konark Chandrabhaga Beach ASI Museum

While Konark is identified by the Sun temple located here, December in Konark is better known as the host to an annual dance festival by the name of Konark Dance Festival. The temple, each and every structure and element that it finds itself adorned by, together with a celebration of the classical dances, leaves few better specimens of classical Indian arts and culture. Definitely, a must visit place in India in December. While in Konark, don't miss a stroll on a pristine stretch of golden sands, the Konark beach.

Best Time: September to March

5 Konark Attractions

Known For : Sitla Chauli ki Jaali Mukteshwar Dham Temple

Mukteshwar is a small hill town mostly known for it's amazing views of Himalayan ranges you get from there. Another one of Uttaranchal's beautiful hill stations, Mukteshwar deriving its name from Lord Shiva is complete with fruit orchards, coniferous forests and rolling meadows at a height of 7500 ft. December is a great time to visit Mukteshwar to watch the picturesque snow capped Himalayan peaks and explore the quaint little cottages and homes in Mukteshwar built in old Colonial style. In December, Mukteshwar allows a breath-taking view of the mighty Nanda Devi Peak.

Best Time: October to June

12 Mukteshwar Attractions

Known For : Athirapally Falls Vadakummnathan temple Thrissur Pooram 2024

Located in South India and also known to be the official cultural capital of Kerala, Thrissur has countless festivals on its calenders and countless temples on its maps. Spend a December, under its pleasant weather, in a hub of classical Keralan arts and culture. Several efforts have been made by the people living here to promote the dying Keralan performing arts and cultural activities. One can learn a lot about the ancient practice of Ayurveda over here as well. Also on its itineraries are falls, a zoo, a dam, gardens and a river.

Best Time: October - February; April, May

40 Thrissur Attractions

Known For : Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple Dashashwamedh Ghat Ganga Aarti, Varanasi

Also known as Banaras or Kashi, the holy city of Varanasi is located on the banks of sacred river Ganga and is considered one of the holiest cities in India owing to its location and the numerous temples in it. Varanasi is one of the oldest cities in the world and is famous for stunning river ghats known for cremating the dead. Visiting Varanasi in December gives tourists the advantage of the cosy climate to freely explore its rich cultural heritage. In this eccentric city of Varanasi, get an experience of a lifetime by watching the morbid and stark contrast of life and death on the river and along the narrow zig-zag alleys of this ancient city.

Best Time: October to March

42 Varanasi Attractions

Known For : Naida Caves Nagoa Beach Gangeshwar Mahadev Temple

Daman and Diu, with their unique blend of Portuguese heritage and Indian charm, bask in pleasant weather, making it an ideal time for beach hopping and exploration during the month of December. The pristine beaches, like Nagoa and Jampore, become idyllic spots for relaxation, with the soft winter sun enriching the experience. The month also witnesses vibrant local festivities and events, reflecting the regions' rich cultural mosaic.

Best Time: July to March

21 Diu Attractions

Now known as the Keoladeo National Park, Bharatpur National Park is a famous bird watching paradise and is among one of the World Heritage sites. Its diverse habitat is home to 366 bird species, 379 floral species, 50 species of fish, 13 species of snakes, 5 species of lizards, 7 amphibian species,7 turtle species, and a variety of other invertebrates. Every December in Bharatpur National Park, thousands of migratory waterfowl visit the park for winter breeding making in a photographers paradise. The sanctuary is one of the richest bird areas in the world and has activities such as Elephant Back Safari and Jeep Rides.

Known For : Murudeshwar Temple Netrani Island Murudeshwar Beach

A small temple town located on the western coast of India in the state of Karnataka, Murudeshwar is marked by the second highest Shiva statue in the world. This structure watches over the sea and all that's around and is worth the sprain in the neck. Murudeshwar in December is also a superb venue for scuba diving. With its scuba diving facilities active only during a few months, head to the city in December, for its pristine clear waters. It's golden history, scenic beauty and calm, serene environment, makes it one of the places to visit in India in December.

Best Time: October to May

8 Murudeshwar Attractions

Known For : Jehangir Mahal, Orchha Fort Ram Raja Temple Raja Mahal, Orchha Fort

Known for its grand palaces and intricately carved temples and striking forts, Orchha is a city with a lot of historical significance and a photographers' delight. Visit Orchha in December to get the best climate for a trip filled with history and heritage. Orchha was the capital of one of the most powerful dynasties to ever rule in India- the Bundelas. The sheer magnificence and grandeur of the havelis and temples are absolutely breathtaking. Winter season in December is the most advisable time for a visit to Orchha when the climate is pleasant and the ambience lovely. This is also the peak season for travellers.

Best Time: July to March

16 Orchha Attractions

Known For : India Gate Qutub Minar Akshardham Temple Delhi

The capital of India, Delhi is a cosmopolitan city with a historic old Delhi and the modern New Delhi. From historical monuments to crowded shopping malls, from an extensive network of the modern metro system to Delhi University campus, Dilli has multiple personalities and is considered to be the city with a heart. December is one of the best times to explore this historic city if you want to skip the excessively hot summer months. Don't forget to binge on amazing Delhi street-food!

Best Time: October to March

118 New Delhi Attractions

Known For : Bara Imambara Chota Imambara British Residency

One of the oldest cities in India, historically significant and well known for it's heritage, arts and culture, Lucknow is one of the most popular tourist cities in North India. Food, Architecture, Heritage, a Nawabi old world charm or your shopping spree- there are one too many reasons to spend your winters in Lucknow. One of the most pleasant months to visit the city, the weather in December lets you enjoy the most of hopping from one market to another, Mughlai Cuisine or a heritage walk through its monuments.

Best Time: October to March

47 Lucknow Attractions

Dudhwa National Park is all about wildlife, nature and diversity and is a perfect getaway for nature buffs and wildlife lovers. The place inhabits plethora of rare and endangered species including Tiger, Hispid hare, Swamp deer, Bengal Florican and Leopard and over 400 species of birds. Head to Dudhwa in December for exciting safaris and tiger spotting. The winters are the best time to explore the forests and experience the natural beauty of the region. It is also a photographers paradise in December as it is easier to spot animals and get great photographs in the winter forests.

Best Time: December to Apr

Known For : Naini Lake Snow View Point Mall Road Nainital

Nainital transforms into a winter wonderland in December, often draped in a blanket of snow, offering picturesque views of the tranquil Naini Lake against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks. The chill in the air is perfect for cozying up by a bonfire, sipping on hot beverages, or taking a serene boat ride on the lake. The festive atmosphere, with twinkling lights and local events, enhances the charm of this hill station during the holiday season.

Best Time: Throughout the year

33 Nainital Attractions

Known For : Skiing in Auli Trishul Peak Auli Ropeway

Auli transforms into a winter wonderland, blanketed in thick layers of snow, making it a haven for skiing enthusiasts and snow sports lovers in December. The panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks, glistening under the winter sun, provide a breathtaking backdrop for visitors. Riding the Auli Ropeway gives travelers an unmatched aerial perspective of the snow-covered landscapes and valleys below.

Best Time: December - February

12 Auli Attractions

Known For : Light and Sound Show, Khajuraho Dulhadev Temple Kandariya Mahadev Temple

In December, Khajuraho's renowned temples, adorned with intricate erotic carvings, take on a serene ambiance in the cooler weather, offering a peaceful exploration experience. The annual Khajuraho Dance Festival, although usually held in February, sees preparations in full swing by December, giving a hint of the cultural extravaganza. The pleasant temperatures of the month make it an ideal time to discover the architectural marvels and surrounding natural beauty of the region.

Best Time: July to March

25 Khajuraho Attractions