December is one of the best months to visit India. With winter setting in northern India, the weather becomes pleasantly cool in the foothills of the Himalayas. Southern India still enjoys warm weather but without the extreme heat and humidity of the monsoon season. From snow adventures in the mountains to relaxing on tropical beaches, India offers a variety of top destinations and experiences for travelers in December. Here’s an overview of the best places to visit in India in December.
North India – Enjoy Snow Adventures in the Himalayas
The mighty Himalayas in the north transform into a winter wonderland in December. Crisp mountain air, snow-covered trails, and charming hill towns make it an ideal time to visit. Some top picks:
Shimla
The “Queen of Hill Stations” is at its charming best in December. Take a walk down Mall Road, admiring colonial architecture. Go ice skating or take a ride on the Himalayan Queen toy train for stunning mountain views. Don’t miss local Himachali delicacies like siddu and chha gosht.
Manali
Head to Manali for snow adventures like skiing in Solang Valley or trekking to snow-covered villages like Goshal. Stop by ancient temples, soak in hot springs, or go café hopping in Old Manali. December is peak season, so book hotels in advance.
Ladakh
For a truly epic winter experience, head to Ladakh. The Chadar Trek across the frozen Zanskar River is an adventure of a lifetime. Visit monasteries like Thiksey and Shey on day hikes from Leh. Sip yak butter tea with locals and take in stunning views of the Zanskar range blanketed in snow.
Auli
Auli transforms into India’s premier ski destination in winter. Beginner and intermediate ski slopes, cable car rides, and panoramic views of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and other Himalayan peaks await. The slopes are ideal for learning skiing before heading to Manali for more challenges.
West India – Festivals & Forts in Rajasthan
Rajasthan’s forts and palaces look even more magical with the nip in the air. December is peak tourist season, and hotels get booked out early.
Jaisalmer
The remote desert city sparkles golden in the winter sun. Explore the maze-like lanes and elaborate havelis inside the living fort. Camel rides in the dunes and bonfire nights make it perfect for a winter getaway.
Udaipur
The City of Lakes dazzles in December. Take in the sunset views from Lake Pichola, visit the City Palace and heritage hotels, and experience Rajasthani culture at the Shilpgram Festival. Day trips to Kumbhalgarh Fort, Ranakpur, and Mount Abu are worthwhile.
Jodhpur
Jodhpur’s regal Mehrangarh Fort soars 400 feet above the Blue City. Visit grand palaces, gardens, museums, and bazaars brimming with handicrafts and try delicacies like mirchi vada and makhani lassi. Day trips to medieval Karni Mata Temple and Osian desert town can be added.
Ranthambore
One of the best places for tiger spotting, Ranthambore National Park offers open-top jeep safaris into the jungle. Wake up early to spot tigers, deer, monkeys, exotic birds, and other wildlife while enjoying crisp winter air. The majestic Ranthambore Fort is also worth a visit.
Central India – Serene Vibes & Wildlife
Bhopal
Blankets Bhopal’s lakes and greenery are perfect for boating and nature walks. Visit local mosques, temples, museums, and markets in the charming Old City. Day trips to UNESCO sites Sanchi Stupa and Bhimbetka Caves can be added.
Kanha National Park
Kanha is one of Asia’s best wildlife sanctuaries, especially famous for spotting Royal Bengal tigers in their natural habitat. Jeep safaris start early in the morning to spot tigers, barasingha, swamp deer, monkeys, sloth bears, and over 200 bird species. Magical forests inspired Rudyard Kipling’s Jungle Book.
East India – Land of Temples & Tea Plantations
Darjeeling
Watch the sunrise over Kanchenjunga, take a joyride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, visit tea estates, and soak in the old-world charm of the hill town. Local dishes like momos, thukpa, and Tibetan bread with Darjeeling tea are must-tries.
Kaziranga
Kaziranga National Park is home to 2/3rd of the world’s one-horned rhinos. Jeep safaris run daily to spot rhinos, elephants, tigers, and birds. Visit tea estates around Jorhat and temples in nearby Majuli River Island for a complete Assam experience.
Shillong
Called ‘Scotland of the East’ for its scenic beauty, Shillong comes alive with festivals and events in December. Admire mesmerizing waterfalls, crystal clear lakes, and lush forests. Visit the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Arts museums and try out local Khasi cuisine.
South India – Backwaters & Beaches
Pleasant weather and minimal rain make December a great time to explore South Indian destinations.
Alleppey
Cruise the palm-fringed backwaters on a traditional houseboat, enjoy Ayurvedic spas and feast on fresh seafood. Witness snake boat races if visiting in late December. Nearby Marari Beach is perfect for relaxing Ayurvedic getaways.
Kochi
Explore Portuguese-Dutch heritage in Fort Kochi, see traditional fishing Chinese nets, watch Kathakali shows, and shop for spices, tea, and antiques. Day trips to scenic Munnar tea estates and Vagamon hills can be added.
Goa
With the monsoon crowds gone, December is perfect in Goa. Relax on pristine beaches, explore Portuguese churches and architecture, try seafood feasts, and enjoy the buzzing nightlife. Parties around Christmas and New Year go on for days.
Gokarna
This low-key beach paradise near Goa offers a peaceful escape with palm-fringed beaches and quaint temples. Try watersports or just relax, feast on seafood, and enjoy stunning sunsets. December is ideal for outdoor activities before the summer heat.
Pondicherry
Stroll along French quarters lined with bougainvillea, visit Sri Aurobindo Ashram, and absorb the vibe of this former French colony. Nearby Auroville, Mahabalipuram temples, and Chettinad mansions make for great day trips.
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