Best Places to Visit in December in India

December is a magical time to explore India as the country offers an array of destinations perfect for the winter season. Whether you are looking to escape or embrace the cold, there is something for every traveller. The best tourist places to visit in India in December include snow-covered hill stations, sun-kissed beaches and vibrant cultural cities, each offering a unique experience. For those who love the chilly weather, the mountains of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand attract with their snow-capped peaks and adventure activities. Shimla Manali and Auli are other good places to visit in India in December if you want to enjoy snow sports or cosy up in a cottage with a view of the Himalayas.

On the other hand, if you prefer warmth, head to Goa, one of the best places to go in December in India. The weather is perfect, with cool breezes and sunny days. December also means Christmas and New Year celebrations are in full swing with beach parties, music festivals, and lively markets. If you are a cultural enthusiast, Rajasthan is one of the best places with its majestic forts, palaces, and vibrant festivals. Cities like Jaipur, Jaisalmer, and Udaipur are alive with cultural events and fairs, making it an ideal time to visit. For nature lovers, Kerala is a good place to visit in December India, with its serene backwaters, tea plantations and pleasant weather. A houseboat ride in Alleppey or a wildlife safari in Periyar is a great way to relax and soak in the beauty of the region.

If you are looking for something offbeat, Meghalaya in the northeast is another best place to visit in December in India. Its misty hills, waterfalls, and caves make it a paradise for nature and adventure lovers. From the beaches of Andaman and Nicobar Islands to the desert dunes of Jaisalmer, there are plenty of places to satisfy your wanderlust. Whether you are seeking adventure relaxation or cultural immersion, India in December is full of surprises. So, pack your bags and explore the beauty of this month.

List of 20 most beautiful places to visit in India in December:

S. No	Destinations	Places to Visit
1	Guwahati, Assam	Umananda Island, Dighali Pukhuri Lake, Nehru Park,
2	Thajiwas Glacier, Jammu and Kashmir	Thajiwas Glacier has many great tourist spots like, Kolahoi Himani, Tarsar Lake, Vishansar Lake & Zoji la hills.
3	Dawki, Shillong in Meghalaya	Umngot river, Wah Umngot river, Jaflong Zero Point, Dawki river, Byrdaw Falls & Pomshutia.
4	Manali, Himachal Pradesh	Hadimba Temple, Old Manali, Chandrakhani Pass, and Rohtang Pass
5	Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh	Khajjiar Peak, Kalatop Wildlife Reserve, and St. Francis Catholic Church
6	Shimla, Himachal Pradesh	Summer Hills, the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies, Annandale, and Jakhoo Hill
7	Auli, Uttarakhand	Gurso Bugyal, Trishul Peak, Chenab Lake, and Nand Prayag
8	Chopta, Uttarakhand	Visit Tungnath, Deoria Tal, Rohini Bugyal, and Omkar Ratneshwar Mahadev,
9	Binsar, Uttarakhand	Zero Point, Kasar Devi Temple, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, and Chitai Golu Devta Temple
10	Mukteshwar, Uttarakhand	The Beauty of Sitla, Chauli ki Jali, Bhalu Gaad Waterfalls, Mukteshwar Temple, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Nanda Devi peak, Ramgarh, Nathuakhan, Peora,
11	Leh, Ladakh	Zanskar Valley, Pangong Tso Lake, Magnetic Hill, Shanti Stupa, Royal Leh Palace, and Stakna Monastery
12	Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir	Nigeen Lake, Aru Valley, the Mughal Gardens, Dachigam National Park, and the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden
13	Goa	Anjuna Flea Market, Mapusa Market, Panjim Market, Calangute Market Square, Mackie’s Night Bazaar
14	Mylapore, Chennai	Chingari, Sakyaa, Rasi Silks, Trishla Planet, Mylapore Tank, Sukra Silver, Giri Trading, Palam Silks.
15	Kovalam, Kerala	Lighthouse Beach, Hawah Beach, Vellayani Lake, and the Kovalam Art Gallery
16	Rann of Kutch, Gujarat	Kandla Port, Dholavira, Bhadreshwar Jain Temple, Kutch Museum, and Kalo Dungar.
17	Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh	Sela Pass, Thingbu Hot Spring, Gorsam Chorten, Shonga-Tser Lake, and Pankang Teng Tso Lake
18	Udaipur, Rajasthan	City palace, Lake Pichola, Jag mandir, The vintage car museum, Saheliyon ki Bar
19	Jaisalmer, Rajasthan	Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon ki Haveli, Gadsisar Lake, Sam Sand Dunes
20	Coorg, Karnataka	Abbey Falls, breathtaking sunsets, Dubare Elephant Camp

1- Guwahati, Assam:

Northeast India may be accessible through Guwahati, located along the Brahmaputra River’s banks, for a relaxing vacation. With so many tourist attractions, recreation places, malls, religious sites, and other attractions, a trip to Guwahati has a lot to offer. Given the abundance of flora, wildlife, and biodiversity in the area, it is a superb travel destination for all nature lovers.

Temperature: If we talk about the atmosphere around the state it lies between 25° C to 12° C with probability of no rainfall but the state is a humid state but has a quite nice weather at this time of year, still weather can take it’s own turns too.

Places to visit: Umananda Island, Dighali Pukhuri Lake, Nehru Park, and Ferry Ghat are among the attractions in Guwahati.

Activities to do: Sualkuchi, Shrimanta Shankardeva Kalakshetra, Assam State Museum, and Saraighat Bridge are a few things to do in Guwahati.

2- Thajiwas Glacier, Jammu and Kashmir:

Winters see Sonamarg covered with snow. As you explore this winter wonderland searching for glaciers, observe the first snowfall in Kashmir in December. During this month, Sonamarg, the meadow of gold, experiences subzero temperatures. Within 7 kilometers is the new Thajiwas glacier. The best winter activities around here are sledding, snowboarding, and skiing. One of the most excellent locations to go in December in India is to dress as Santa Claus, get on a sled, and sing “Jingle Bells” with beautiful hills in the background.

Temperature:  The average temperature at Thajiwas Glacier is -7°C.

Places to visit: Thajiwas Glacier has many great tourist spots like, Kolahoi Himani, Tarsar Lake, Vishansar Lake & Zoji la hills. You can explore much more jn this serene environment.

Activities to do: One of the best things to do in Kashmir Valley is to see the Mughal gardens, which several Mughal rulers and courtiers developed in the charbagh architectural style.

3- Dawki, Shillong in Meghalaya:

Very clear water in the Dawki River. The location is most idyllic in December when temperatures range from 12 to 20. Shillong is the only hill station in the country that can be visited from every angle. The water in Dwaki’s Unmgot River is so clear that a boat floating on it gives the impression that it is hovering in midair. Without a doubt, Shillong belongs on your list of the top winter travel spots in India. You can also taste fresh, delicious oranges in the border town by the river. Shillong is among the safest cities to visit during Covid in December.

Temperature: Dawki has a great weather during this time, it lies around 27°C to 15°C.

Places to visit: Umngot river, Wah Umngot river, Jaflong Zero Point, Dawki river, Byrdaw Falls & Pomshutia.

Activities to do: Boating in Umngot river, visiting living roots bridge around Riwai village, Shnongpdeng has amazing Camping spots, embracing beauty of Burhill Waterfall, go to Jaflong Zero point and make presence in both India & Bangladesh at the same time.

4- Manali, Himachal Pradesh:

Manali’s snow-covered peak is one of the best places to travel in India in December because of its towering deodar trees, high mountains, winding roads, and abundant snow. This hill region is a haven for newlyweds and snow fans and is a superb place for adventure activities in Manali, including paragliding, ice skating, rappelling, and rock climbing. Lamplugh Meadows, Solang Valley, and the Khosla-Treeline hike might be finished in December.

Temperature: As for Manali the temperature around December is around 20° C to 7° C but it can go a bit lower than average as its a hill station and snowfalls and winds can turn the tables well.

Places to visit In Manali: Hadimba Temple, Old Manali, Chandrakhani Pass, and Rohtang Pass

Activities to do In Manali :Waterfalls: Enjoy The Music, Adventure Sports: Take Part In Exciting Activities, Arjun Gufa: Unwind And Meditate, And Beas Kund: Climb To The Top

5- Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh:

Dalhousie, a lovely town in India, is among the best destinations to visit in December. But why is it one of India’s most popular vacation spots in December? With its snow-covered Deodar woodlands, the vista is truly spectacular. This magnificent winter getaway turns into a ramp when the ramp is opened to the chilly outdoors and a glimpse of the snow-capped mountains. Additionally, all trekkers must visit Dalhousie in December to participate in the National Himalayan Winter Trekking Expedition.

Temperature: Dalhousie has a chilly weather during this time of year, lying between 11°C to 4°C.

Places to visit: Khajjiar Peak, Kalatop Wildlife Reserve, and St. Francis Catholic Church are among the attractions of Dalhousie.

Activities to do:

Experience the magic of the whispering woods in Panch Pulla.
Try paragliding in Khajjiar, boating in Chamera Lake, and swimming in Satdhara Falls.
Take a scenic hike up Dainkund Peak.

6- Shimla, Himachal Pradesh:

Shimla, the Queen of Hill Stations, is the most breathtaking place to visit in December, so how could we miss it? Let’s take a trip around the most romantic retreat in imperial India. Wearing long boots will help you manage the snowy landscape when you visit the Chail settlement. There is a lot of calm outside of Shimla’s hustle and bustle. One of the magical places to visit over the holidays in India is this.

Visit the best honeymoon destinations in India in December to get the perfect selfie with your lover. Profit from Shimla’s pleasant December weather by taking a joyride at the Shimla Winter Sports Festival and taking in the hanging balloons and natural ice skiing.

Temperature: The temperature in Shimla around December stays around 4°C having mesmerizing snow around.

Places to visit: Summer Hills, the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies, Annandale, and Jakhoo Hill are among the places to see in Shimla.

Activities to do: Ride the Toy Train across the Green Hills, Camping: Stay Among the Woods, Jakhu Temple: Climb to the Top, and Asia’s Only Open-Air Ice Skating Rink

7- Auli, Uttarakhand:

The best snow conditions for ice skiing are in Uttarakhand. The snow-covered summits of the Neelkant, Mana Parbat, and Nanda Devi offer breathtaking panoramic views of the highlands, particularly during the vacation season. Want to take a ski lesson in December at a major ski resort? Therefore, Auli must be on your list of places to visit in December.

Now is the time to start studying this thrilling adventure sport. And if skiing is your thing, you must attend the February National Skiing Championship in Auli.

Temperature: The average temperature in Auli during December stays around 3°C to 9°C, these extreme cold weather makes this place more special.

Places to visit: Gurso Bugyal, Trishul Peak, Chenab Lake, and Nand Prayag are among the attractions of Auli.

Activities to do: Auli include skiing, hiking Auli Gorson, camping, and taking a cable car.

8- Chopta, Uttarakhand:

Enormous snow-covered summit. One of the nicest places to visit in India during the winter is Chopta, which offers a panoramic view of the snow-covered Chaukhamba, Trishul, and Nanda Devi. The atmosphere in Chopta is romantic and rejuvenating. It’s an excellent site for thrill-seekers to go hiking and view the beautiful snowfall.

Temperature: Around this time of year Chopta has temperature around 18°C to 4°C.

Places to visit: Visit Tungnath, Deoria Tal, Rohini Bugyal, and Omkar Ratneshwar Mahadev, among the attractions in Chopta.

Activities:  The Tungnath Trek, Baniyakund, The Chandrashila Trek, and Kanchula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary are among the things to do in Chopta.

9- Binsar, Uttarakhand:

A mountain covered with snow is visible through the fog. Binsar is undoubtedly one of the most magnificent places to visit in India during the winter. The serene hillside community is nestled beneath the magnificent peaks of Nanda Devi, Pachachuli, and Trishul. Binsar is most known for its serene and beautiful forests, which make up its animal sanctuary. One may enjoy the broad view of the Himalayan peaks like Kedarnath and Nanda Devi from Zero Point in Binsar.

Temperature: Binsar offers amazing weather during December with temperature between 21°C to 2°C.

Places to visit: Zero Point, Kasar Devi Temple, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, and Chitai Golu Devta Temple are among the attractions of Binsar.

Activities: Trekking, paragliding, bird watching, wildlife viewing, forest walks, and skiing are among the things to do at Binsar.

10- Mukteshwar, Uttarakhand:

Mukteshwar, which is 2,285 meters above sea level and one of India’s most attractive winter resorts, offers stunning vistas of the snow-capped mountains. The hill station’s breathtaking views of the mighty Himalayan peaks and its thick woods fascinate young couples and nature lovers. Due to its snow-covered slopes and beautiful meadows blanketed in thick yet gentle snow, Mukteshwar is one of the most romantic locations in India to visit in the winter.

Temperature: Mukteshwar’s temperature stays around 17°C to 3°C in December.

Places to visit: The most affordable hotel is Mukteshwar Himalayan Resort.

Activities to do Trekking, paragliding, viewing the sunrise atop Nanda Devi Peak, and sitla

11- Leh, Ladakh:

The Chadar Trek in Ladakh is the name of the ice walk. The pure blue ice and the hills in the distance will amaze you. The only trip on ice in India is fantastic! The Chadar Trek is renowned for its grueling adventures and – 14°C temperatures. The Sham trip, Liker to Khaltse walk, and Samboo to Khalsar treks are additional options to the Chadar expedition.

Temperature: Leh in December has a temperature around 1°C to -11°C.

Places to visit: Zanskar Valley, Pangong Tso Lake, Magnetic Hill, Shanti Stupa, Royal Leh Palace, and Stakna Monastery are among the attractions in Leh.

Activities to do: Tibetan Handicraft Community Showroom, Tibetan Handicraft Emporium, and Main Bazaar

12- Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir:

Jhelum in Srinagar is one of the most breathtaking places to visit in India in December. It has a beautiful and magnificent scenery around it which will steal all the thoughts and emotions inside you the very first moment you take a look to it. The best aspect is that December temperatures are typically just above freezing, making the experience more thrilling and chilly for sure.

Visit the Gulmarg tourist sites and take advantage of the new snow skiing. Gulmarg is among the best destinations to visit in December. It is only 56 kilometers from Srinagar and is one of the most beautiful places to visit in North India in December.

Temperature: The average temperature in Kashmir & Srinagar lies between 2.4°C to 11.5°C.

Places to visit: Nigeen Lake, Aru Valley, the Mughal Gardens, Dachigam National Park, and the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden are among the Srinagar tourist attractions.

Activities to do:

Visit the Shankaracharya Temple for blessings.
Go local shopping.
Be amazed by the Hazratbal Mosque.
Stay on a gorgeous houseboat.

13- Goa:

The best place to visit in India in December gets scorched by the sun. Goa is one of the most popular vacation spots in India in December. Goa’s casinos are at their wildest this month, which is how the city got the moniker “Las Vegas of India.” The best feeling you can get on New Year’s Eve is the sand tickling your toes, trance music, and fireworks!

Free entry to the Sunburn Music Festival, St. Francis Xavier’s Day, and the loudest EDM party are included in the list’s following items. Everything you might need for a nice Christmas and New Year’s is available at this place.

Temperature: It’s tropical location makes Goa’s weather lie around 33°C to 22°C even in December.

Places to visit Anjuna Flea Market, Mapusa Market, Panjim Market, Calangute Market Square, Mackie’s Night Bazaar

Activities to do: visiting dudhsagar falls, Aguada Fort, Palolem Beach, Calangute Beach or try out different hippy clubs or amazing Casinos in the state.

14- Mylapore, Chennai

Beautiful beach in Chennai Picture Source. Despite other months of the year being hotter, Chennai is one of the most visited cities in India in December. Sip coconut water as you stroll along India’s longest beach and take in the refreshing breeze that caresses your hair. In addition to cheap booze to satisfy your thirst, Pondicherry, around two hours drive from Chennai, also provides coconut water. While you’re traveling to Chennai, spend a little money on music. The Madras Music Festival and 89th Annual Conferences and Concerts are among the best places to visit in December in India with a baby.

Temperature: Myalpore’s temperature during December stays around 29°C to 21°C usually.

Places to visit: Chingari, Sakyaa, Rasi Silks, Trishla Planet, Mylapore Tank, Sukra Silver, Giri Trading, Palam Silks.

Activities to do: Try out Mylapore Fine Arts Club, Visit Chennai citi center, Luz Anjaneyar Temple, Ram Krishna Temple or San Thome Church.

15- Kovalam, Kerala:

The beautiful waters at Kovalam Beach are ideal for swimming and risky sports. The beach, which is around 16 kilometers away from Kovalam, is well-situated for sunbathing and taking in beautiful sunsets. Take advantage of the warm Arabian Sea during the winter months of December by visiting lovely beaches. It’s one of the best places in South India to visit in December for the scenery and the cuisine!

Temperature: Temperature at Kovalam around December stays between 31°C to 24°C.

Places to visit: Lighthouse Beach, Hawah Beach, Vellayani Lake, and the Kovalam Art Gallery are among the attractions in Kovalam.

Activities to do in Kovalam: Embark on a sightseeing expedition to learn more about the area. Spend a night on a houseboat—it’s a memorable experience. Try out some adventure sports. Get in on that water sport you’ve always wanted to try.

16- Rann of Kutch, Gujarat:

The Rann of Kutch in Gujarat is home to India’s sole salt desert. The greatest time to visit the white desert is in December to observe the salt become blue beneath a full moon. The adventure is a tent camp on the outskirts of Dhordo hamlet. Kutch comes to life during the Kutch Festival in December.

The only holiday that lasts for two long months is celebrated in this salty area. If you’re trying to decide where to go in India in December, think about going to the Rann Utsav for a once-in-a-lifetime event. If you didn’t know, Gujarat is one of the most enjoyable places to travel.

Temperature: Temperature at Rann of Kutch during December lie between 25°C to 12°C.

Places to visit In Kutch: Kandla Port, Dholavira, Bhadreshwar Jain Temple, Kutch Museum, and Kalo Dungar.

Activities to do: visit the salty white desert of Kutch, tryout local delicacies, explore the wholesome Gujarati culture.

17- Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh:

Prayer flags near Tawang gate in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, covered in snow. Tawang is a vacationer’s dream and one of December’s most beautiful and difficult destinations. This region offers breathtaking vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, ancient monasteries, and valleys covered in prayer flags. The breathtaking Gudpi and Chong-Chugmi mountain ranges, Tawang Chu River, Tawang Valley, and more.

Visit Tawang in February to participate in the Losar Tibetan new year festival or in October to participate in the Georgia festival celebrations. It is one of the best places to travel to in North East India in December.

Temperature: The average temperature in Tawang lies 8°C during December.

Places to visit: Sela Pass, Thingbu Hot Spring, Gorsam Chorten, Shonga-Tser Lake, and Pankang Teng Tso Lake are among the Tawang tourist attractions.

Activities to do: Taktsang Gompa, Gorichen Peak, Sela Pass – Travel Through This Beauty, and Madhuri Lake – Take a Walk Around are a Few Things to Do in Tawang.

18. Udaipur, Rajasthan

Planning a winter getaway? Udaipur, the city of lakes, is undoubtedly one of the best places to travel in December in India. This romantic city should be on your bucket list with its pleasant weather, scenic landscapes, and majestic palaces. Udaipur truly shines in December, making it a top choice for a winter holiday in India.

Temperature: In December, Udaipur boasts perfect winter temperatures ranging between 10°C to 25°C. This makes it ideal for sightseeing without the heat of the summer sun.

Places to Visit: Don’t miss iconic attractions like the stunning City palace, serene Lake Pichola, and the charming Jag mandir. The vintage car museum and Saheliyon ki Bar are also worth exploring.

Activities To Do: December in Udaipur is all about soaking in the royal vibes. Take a boat ride on Lake Pichola, visit the Monsoon Palace for a breathtaking sunset and attend a cultural show at Bagore ki Haveli. If you love shopping, the vibrant markets offer everything from traditional jewellery to handicrafts.

19. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Jaisalmer, known as the “Golden City,” shines with its stunning yellow sandstone architecture, towering fort, and vast desert landscapes. The golden hues of its forts and havelis against the backdrop of the Thar Desert create a magical charm, making Jaisalmer a true gem in Rajasthan’s crown. Jaisalmer is undoubtedly a tourist place to visit in December in India, offering a perfect blend of history, adventure, and scenic beauty.

Temperature: December is one of the best times to visit Jaisalmer, with the weather being pleasant and cool. Daytime temperatures hover around 24°C, making it perfect for exploring the golden sands of this desert gem, while nights dip to a chilly 5°C, adding a crispness to the air.

Places To Visit: Known as the “Golden City,” Jaisalmer’s charm lies in its breathtaking architecture. Explore the Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and get lost in the maze-like lanes of the old town. Don’t miss the Patwon ki Haveli, Gadsisar Lake, and the Sam Sand Dunes for a full desert experience.

Activities To Do: A trip to Jaisalmer isn’t complete without a camel safari through the Thar Desert. You can also enjoy jeep safaris, camping under the stars, and soaking in cultural performances. The sunset at the dunes is simply magical!

20. Coorg, Karnataka

Coorg, often called the “Scotland of India,” is a mesmerising destination perfect for a December getaway. With its lush greenery, rolling hills, and coffee plantations, it feels like a dream! Coorg should top your list if you’re looking for the best tourist destinations in India in December! It’s a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and relaxation that promises an unforgettable experience.

Temperature: In December, Coorg experiences a delightful chill, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. It’s the ideal weather for cosying up with a cup of hot coffee while soaking in the stunning views.

Places To Visit: Don’t miss the stunning Abbey Falls, where water cascades down in a glorious display. The serene Raja’s Seat offers breathtaking sunsets, while the Dubare Elephant Camp allows you to interact with these gentle giants.

Activities To Do: Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in trekking, river rafting, or simply exploring the sprawling coffee estates. You can also enjoy a leisurely walk through the spice plantations and try authentic Coorgi cuisine.