Best Places to Visit in December in India in 2023

December is one of the best months of the year for picnics, holidays and trips. The clear skies and chilling cold weather in this month makes it an ideal time for family vacations as well as adventurous journeys. Considering the diverse landscapes of India, it can be hard to choose a destination among the best places to visit in December in India. 

In the following sections you can learn more about the much-recommended December getaways. Scroll down for detailed information!

20 Best Places to Visit in December in India 2023

Sorting out your favourite location from a vast list of places can be a bit confusing. Here you will find the 20 best places worth visiting during December. You can collect the required information and select a suitable place for your vacation as per your preference, budget and convenience. Check out the table below to know the crucial details about the top 20 sites in India for a sorted December vacation:

A Detailed Overview of the 20 Best Places to Visit in December

Here is a detailed rundown on top 20 locations to help you plan your December vacation itinerary: 

1. Kasol, Himachal Pradesh

This serene and quaint little village in Himachal welcomes tourists with its pleasant atmosphere and scenic beauty all year round. The enchanting meadows and mighty hills are ideal locations for trekking and other adventurous activities. However, if you want to add more excitement to your trip, plan it in December to attend Parvati Shangri-La and Himachal Hills Festival.

• Ideal Duration: 3-4 days
• Attractions: Parvati River, Kheer Ganga peak, Manikaran Sahib, Tosh village, etc.
• Things to Do: Kheer Ganga trekking, taking a shower at the Manikaran hot spring, relishing Israeli cuisine, etc.
• How to Reach: Take a flight to Kulu Manali Airport or train to Joginder Nagar Railway Station and hire local transport after that.
• Where to Stay: PerkUp Hostel, Nomads Hostel, etc.

2. Goa

An erstwhile Portuguese colony, Goa is heaven for most travel enthusiasts. It has abundant riches to fascinate you, ranging from white sand beaches to majestic waterfalls. Moreover, Goa is also famous for its nightlife and beach parties. If you visit in December, you can witness Christmas Eve. Besides, you can attend the Feast of St. Francis Xavier during your Goa visit in December.

• Ideal Duration: 5-6 days
• Attractions: Baga beach, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Palolem Beach, Dudhsagar Falls, etc.
• Things to Do: Exploring Se Cathedral, water activities, scuba diving, etc.
• How to Reach: Take a flight to Dabolim Airport or trains to Madgaon Railway Station. You can also take buses from Mumbai to Goa.
• Where to Stay: Andores Resort and Spa, Hilias Retreat, etc.

3. Kaziranga, Assam

Kaziranga National Park is famous for its fascinating wildlife and nature at its best. Best known for the one-horned rhinoceros, this wildlife park in Assam is home to several endangered species. Apart from the wildlife, you can explore the rich flora and serenity of the Brahmaputra River.

• Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
• Attractions: Kaziranga National Orchid Park, Kaziranga National Park, Kakochang Waterfall, etc.
• Things to Do: Jeep Safari, boat ride on Brahmaputra, elephant safari, bird watching, etc.
• How to Reach: You can take trains to Furkating Railway Station or flight to Guwahati Airport and board local transport.
• Where to Stay: Kaziranga Eco Village, Kodom Bari Retreat, etc.

4. Kovalam Beach, Kerala

The tranquil blue waters of the Arabian Sea and the bundle of water activities make Kovalam beach one of the best places to visit in December. Moreover, when planning your December trip, you can also attend the much-awaited Udaya Samudra Kovalam festival. 

• Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
• Attractions: Hawah Beach, Kovalam Art Gallery, Lighthouse Beach, etc.
• Things to Do: Explore water sports, go sightseeing, spend a night in the houseboat, etc.
• How to Reach: Take flights to Trivandrum International Airport or train to Trivandrum Central Railway Station.
• Where to Stay: Palm Tree Hotel, Padmini House, etc.

5. Mylapore, Chennai

The warmer climate of Mylapore offers a pleasant atmosphere for the tourists visiting in December. Besides exploring Mylapore’s ancient temples and scenic beauty, you can also relish the local delicacies and go shopping. 

• Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
• Attractions: Kapaleeshwar Temple, Mylapore Tank, etc.
• Things to Do: Satiate your taste buds with filter kaapi and ghee Pongal, go shopping at Mylapore Tank, etc.
• How to Reach: Reach Chennai via train or flight and hire local transport to Mylapore.
• Where to Stay: Savera Hotel, Clarion Hotel President, etc.

6. Jodhpur, Rajasthan

Jodhpur, also known as the blue city, is one of the best places to visit in December, considering its pleasant climate. The exotic blue houses of this city will soothe your eyes and mind. Moreover, the royal palaces, magnificent forts, temples, etc., of Jodhpur can be best explored when visited during December.

• Ideal Duration: 2 days
• Attractions: Mehrangarh Fort, Mandore Garden, Umid Bhawan Palace, etc.
• Things to Do: Camel Safari, temple hopping, shopping, relishing Pyaaj Kachori, Mawa Kachori, Mirchi Bada, etc.
• How to Reach: The city is well connected through rail, road and airways.
• Where to Stay: Ratan Villas, Kings Retreat, Jodhpur, etc. 

7. Thrissur, Kerala

Best known as the cultural capital of Kerala, Thrissur is the home to auspicious religious sites, Kerala classical performances and more. Wrapped in lush green foliage with abundant scenic beauty, this city is a perfect hideout from daily mundane life. Thrissur – a city with three temples of Lord Shiva, is an iconic city with historical and cultural importance. Plan your December trip to this holy land for a spiritual getaway from daily buzz.

• Ideal Duration: 3-4 days
• Attractions: Vadakkumnathan Kshetram Temple, Archaeology Museum, Heritage Garden, Athirpally Falls, etc.
• Things to Do: Temple hopping, sightseeing, photography, etc.
• How to Reach: Take a flight to Cochin International Airport or train to Kollam Railway Station.
• Where to Stay: Hotel Aswathy, Aura Residency, etc.

8. Gokarna, Karnataka

A town in Karnataka famous for being a popular spot for weekend getaways, Gokarna is home to ancient Indian temples, local handicrafts, serene palm-lined beaches and herbal products. 

• Ideal Duration: 2 days
• Attractions: Kudle Beach, Sri Mahabaleshwara Temple, etc.
• Things to Do: Shop herbal products, visit temples, enjoy beach walking, water sports, etc.
• How to Reach: Reach Dabolim Airport or Ankola Railway Station.
• Where to Stay: Hotel Gokarna International, Kahani Paradise, etc. 

9. Dawki, Shillong

Dawki is famous for the crystal-clear turquoise blue waters of Umgot Lake and its tranquil climate. The misty mornings, favourable temperature, rich greenery, waterfalls, etc., makes Dawki one of the best tourist places in India to visit in December.

• Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
• Attractions: Jaflong Zero Point, Mawlynnong Village, Shnongpdeng, Borhill Falls, etc.
• Things to Do: Boating on the Umgot River, visiting the India-Bangladesh border, walking on Jingmaham living root bridge, etc.
• How to Reach: Take a flight to Guwahati Airport and hire a cab to reach Dawki.
• Where to Stay: L House 101, Hotel Broadway, etc.

10. Andaman & Nicobar Islands

Located 1400 km away from the mainland of India, this archipelago of 572 islands is a pocket-sized paradise on earth. The pristine beaches, blue waters, and tranquil atmosphere makes Andaman and Nicobar one of the best places to travel in December. You can plan your December getaway to this exotic beach to witness a bashing Christmas party.

• Ideal Duration: 5-6 days
• Attractions: Cellular Jail, Baratang Island, Radhanagar Beach, etc.
• Things to Do: Go for a day trip to Ross Island, scuba diving, boating, kayaking, etc.
• How to Reach: Reach Port Blair via air or waterways.
• Where to Stay: Hotel De Pebbles, Havelock Farms Resort, etc.

11. Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu

This enchanting destination on the Coromandel Coast is home to rock-cut caves, spectacular temples, a beautiful coastline, etc. Its casuarina-lined white beaches and picturesque scenic beauty allure tourists from all over the country. Your December visit can be more exciting with the traditional Mamallapuram Dance Festival.

• Ideal Duration: 1 day
• Attractions: Alamparai Fort, Five Rathas, Shore Temple, Mahabalipuram Beach, etc.
• Things to Do: Explore the exquisite species of crocodiles in the Crocodile Bank, beach walking, temple hopping, etc.
• How to Reach: Reach Chennai Airport or Chennai Railway Station and hire local transport.
• Where to Stay: Marutham Village Resort, Thiru Pavilion Retreat, etc.

12. Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh

Dalhousie, nicknamed Mini Switzerland, is a perfect hideout in the lap of nature. This hill station in Himachal Pradesh is an abode of snow-covered Deodar Forest, cascading waterfalls, Victorian architecture, etc. Planning your trip in December can be full of adventure with exciting activities like trekking, skiing and much more.

• Ideal Duration: 3-4 days
• Attractions: St. Francis Catholic Church, Khajjiar, Kalatop Wildlife Reserve, etc.
• Things to Do: Paragliding, boating in Chamera Lake, taking a dip in Satdhara falls, hiking Dainkund peak, etc.
• How to Reach: Take a flight to Gaggal Airport or a train to Pathankot Railway Station and hire local transport.
• Where to Stay: J.K Clarks Exotic, Grand View Hotel, Indraprastha Resort, etc.

13. Alleppey, Kerala

Soothe your eyes with the lush green flora, backwaters and palm-lined canals of the Venice of the East. With its pristine landscapes and intricate architecture temples, Alleppey exhibits a surreal charm and elegance. Soak yourself in the realm of spirituality by attending the annual Temple Festival in Alleppey, which runs for 41 days till December.

• Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
• Attractions: Pathiramanal Island, Alappuzha Beach, Mallukkal Temple, etc.
• Things to Do: Temple hopping, sightseeing, beach walking, etc.
• How to Reach: Cochin Airport is the nearest connecting link and you can also reach via rail and roadways.
• Where to Stay: Marari PeterLand, Sunsets and Palm Trees, etc.

14. Udaipur, Rajasthan

Udaipur is also known as the city of lakes. Being the home to several pristine lakes, this city rightly justifies its nickname. Set on the foothills of the Aravalli Hills and surrounded by beautiful lakes, Udaipur enjoys a tranquil and pleasant climate in December. Moreover, you can enjoy the 10-day Shilpagram Utsav in December, which reflects the heritage of Rajasthan.

• Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
• Attractions: Hawa Mahal, Haldighati, Nakki Lake, etc.
• Things to Do: Boating, palace hopping, exploring the Rajasthani handicrafts, sightseeing, etc.
• How to Reach: Udaipur’s domestic airport and railway station connect the city to other parts of the country.
• Where to Stay: Hotel Sun Palace, Sunrise Villa & Pool, etc.

15. Konark, Odisha

Konark is best known for its famous Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The splendid architecture on the temple walls is a sight to behold and admire. The moderate temperature and picturesque landscape make Konark one of the ideal places to visit in India in December. Moreover, you can explore the 5-day long Annual Dance Festival during your December vacation in Konark.

• Ideal Duration: 3-4 days
• Attractions: Chandrabhaga Beach, Sun Temple, ASI Museum, etc.
• Things to Do: Sightseeing, exploring the classical performance at Konark Dance Festival, beach walking, shopping, etc.
• How to Reach: Reach Puri Railway Station or Bhubaneswar Airport and hire local transport to reach Konark.
• Where to Stay: Surya Inn, Pagoda Inn, etc. 

16. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Varanasi is an ancient city on the banks of the Ganges that holds immense religious importance for the Hindus. This holy land is home to several temples and ghats. If you want to experience spiritual bliss, don’t miss adding Varanasi to your December travel itineraries.

• Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
• Attractions: Dhamekh Stupa, Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Manikarnika Ghat, Dashwamedha Ghat, etc.
• Things to Do: Lighting diyas in the Ganges, watching Ganga Aarti, exploring the ghats, etc.
• How to Reach: Reach Varanasi Railway Junction or Kashi Railway Junction and hire local transport. 
• Where to Stay: Tattva Luxurious Apartment, Shiva Inn, etc.

17. Chopta, Uttarakhand

The panoramic view of the snow-capped mountain peaks in this quaint land captivates travel enthusiasts across the country. December is the ideal time to satiate your adventurous soul with activities like trekking, hiking, etc.

• Ideal Duration: 1 day
• Attractions: Rohini Bugyal, Tungnath, Omkar Ratneshwar Mahadev, Deoria Tal, etc.
• Things to Do: Trekking Tunganatha, Chandrashila, visiting Kanchula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary, sightseeing, etc.
• How to Reach: Take a flight to Jolly Grant Airport or a train to Haridwar Railway Station and hire public transport from there.
• Where to Stay: Himrab Chopta Homestay, Shivansh Café and Resto, etc.

18. Binsar, Uttarakhand

This quaint hill station in Uttarakhand is a perfect spot to spend your holidays in the serenity of nature. With the stunning view of snow-laden Nanda Devi, Himalayan peaks and lush green forests, Binsar can be a romantic December getaway. Moreover, the Kartick Poornima festival is another major attraction of Binsar in December. 

• Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
• Attractions: Kasar Devi Temple, Chitai Golu Devta Temple, Zero Point, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, etc.
• Things to Do: Skiing, paragliding, trekking, bird watching, etc.
• How to Reach: Reach Kathgodam Railway Station or Pantnagar Airport and hire local transport to reach Binsar.
• Where to Stay: The Kumaon, Binsar Forest Retreat, etc.

19. Nagoa Beach, Diu

If you are looking for a budget-friendly vacation amidst the lap of nature, Nagoa Beach can be your ideal holiday escape. The pleasant climate, colourful beach festivals, exciting water sports, etc., make this horse-shoe-shaped beach perfect for December trips.

• Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
• Attractions: Shell Museum, Nagua Beach, etc.
• Things to Do: Explore the beaches, enjoy water sports, and local dishes like Jetty Rolls, crabs, etc. 
• How to Reach: Reach Diu Airport or Veraval Railway Station and opt for public transport.
• Where to Stay: Diu Vision Guest House, Paramount Beach Resort, etc.

20. Neil Island, Andaman

This island is one of the 572 islands in the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago, with breathtaking beaches and coral reefs. The blue water and white sands make the perfect combination for a picturesque tourist spot. Explore Neil Islands in December for a serene ambience and blissful weather.

• Ideal Duration: 5-6 days
• Attractions: Laxmanpur Beach, Neil Island Jetty, Howrah Bridge, etc.
• Things to Do: Scuba diving, snorkelling, ocean spa, etc.
• How to Reach: Book a cruise to Neil Island from Chennai, Kolkata, etc., or take a boat ride from Port Blair after landing at the airport.
• Where to Stay: Hotel Shreesh, Coconhuts Beach Resort, etc.

Final Word

The above sections offer a complete guide to help you choose the best places to visit in India in December. You can sort out a perfect location from the list and plan your December holidays accordingly. 

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