Explore India this December! From snowy peaks to sunny beaches, uncover the top 10 places to travel in India for breathtaking views and unforgettable adventures.
December marks the grand finale of the year—a season of celebration, reflection, and, let’s face it, the ultimate excuse to pack your bags. If you’re looking to make the most of the year’s last chapter, India offers a dazzling array of destinations, including Ranikhet. From snowy peaks to sun-drenched beaches, you’ll find no shortage of adventure or relaxation.
Here’s your ultimate guide to the top 10 places to travel in India, specifically curated for those seeking the best places to visit in India in December.
1. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Shimla transforms into a snowy paradise in December, making it one of the best places to visit in India in December. With snow-covered streets, hot momos at roadside stalls, and a festive air, this hill station ticks all the boxes for a perfect winter retreat.
Personal Tip: Mall Road is gorgeous but slippery after snow. I discovered this the hard way when my “graceful” fall turned into an impromptu public performance.
Don’t Miss:
- Ice skating at the Shimla Ice Skating Rink.
- Kufri for skiing and horse riding.
- Jakhoo Temple, where the views (and monkeys) are unforgettable.
2. Goa
If beaches and parties are calling your name, Goa is among the top 10 places to travel in India during December. The vibe here is electric, with Christmas festivities, beach shacks buzzing with energy, and Sunburn Festival drawing music lovers from across the globe.
Personal Tip: Take a detour from the party scene and explore Old Goa’s churches. The serene vibe adds a beautiful balance to the holiday chaos.
Don’t Miss:
- Night markets for quirky souvenirs.
- Dolphin-spotting cruises along the Mandovi River.
- Watersports like parasailing at Baga Beach.
3. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Manali is a winter wonderland that stands out as one of the best places to visit in India in December. It’s an adventure enthusiast’s playground with snow sports, trekking, and paragliding.
Personal Tip: If you visit Solang Valley, rent proper snow boots! We didn’t, and my husband’s trek shoes turned into mini icebergs—cue endless grumbling.
Don’t Miss:
- Trekking to Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass.
- Hot chocolate breaks in Old Manali cafes.
- Shopping for woolens at Mall Road.
4. Udaipur, Rajasthan
December is the ideal time to visit Rajasthan, and Udaipur tops the list with its serene lakes, royal palaces, and mild winter weather. If you’re seeking the best places to visit in India in December, the City of Lakes will leave you mesmerized.
Personal Tip: Don’t miss boating on Lake Pichola at sunset. My husband and I turned into amateur photographers, and trust me, those golden hour clicks were worth every bit of effort.
Don’t Miss:
- Exploring the opulent City Palace.
- Visiting the Saheliyon-ki-Bari gardens.
- Enjoying Rajasthani thali at traditional eateries.
5. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat
For a unique winter experience, the Rann of Kutch offers a surreal landscape that looks like it belongs in a dream. The Rann Utsav in December makes it one of the top 10 places to travel in India, blending cultural vibrancy with natural beauty.
Personal Tip: The full moon here is breathtaking. Book a night stay in the luxury tents for an unforgettable experience under the stars.
Don’t Miss:
- Camel rides across the salt desert.
- Shopping for handcrafted Kutchi textiles.
- Local delicacies like Dabeli and Kutchi beer (non-alcoholic).
6. Kerala (Alleppey, Munnar, Kochi)
Kerala is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in India in December. Whether you’re cruising through Alleppey’s serene backwaters or sipping tea in Munnar, the state’s lush beauty feels tailor-made for winter travel.
Personal Tip: Spend a night on a houseboat in Alleppey. It’s romantic until you forget mosquito repellent—lesson learned.
Don’t Miss:
- Kathakali performances in Kochi.
- Wildlife spotting at Periyar National Park.
- Tea tasting tours in Munnar.
7. Auli, Uttarakhand
If skiing is on your winter bucket list, Auli should be your go-to destination. Its snow-covered slopes and panoramic views make it one of the top 10 places to travel in India during December.
Personal Tip: Beginners like us should opt for a ski instructor—unless, of course, you enjoy being a human snowball.
Don’t Miss:
- Chairlift rides with breathtaking Himalayan views.
- Trekking to Gurso Bugyal.
- Visiting the nearby Nanda Devi Temple.
8. Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Dreaming of turquoise waters and sun-drenched beaches? The Andaman Islands are among the best places to visit in India in December, offering perfect weather for water sports and island-hopping. To book cheap flights, click here.
Personal Tip: Snorkeling at Elephant Beach was mind-blowing, except for the time I gasped for air after forgetting about all the instructions from the instructor.
Don’t Miss:
- Scuba diving at Havelock Island.
- Cellular Jail’s light and sound show.
- Radhanagar Beach’s golden sunsets.
9. Darjeeling, West Bengal
Known for its tea estates and stunning mountain views, Darjeeling is one of the best places to visit in India in December if you crave misty mornings and cozy evenings.
Personal Tip: Watch the sunrise at Tiger Hill. It’s an early start, but trust me, the sight of the first light hitting Kanchenjunga is worth every yawn.
Don’t Miss:
- The toy train ride, a UNESCO World Heritage experience.
- Exploring Glenburn Tea Estate.
- Strolling along Chowrasta for local treats.
10. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
For a spiritual retreat, Varanasi shines in December. The chilly mornings and mist-covered Ganges add an ethereal charm, making it one of the top 10 places to travel in India for seekers of serenity.
Personal Tip: Witness the Ganga Aarti from a boat for an unforgettable experience. Just brace yourself for the enthusiastic vendors pitching everything from candles to “magic” trinkets.
Don’t Miss:
- Exploring Sarnath, an important Buddhist site.
- Strolling through the ghats at dawn.
- Tasting hot kachori sabzi at a local stall.
Final Words
From snowy getaways to sunny escapes, these top 10 places to travel in India are perfect for ending the year on a high note. Whether you’re a beach bum, a mountain lover, or a culture enthusiast, you’ll find some of the best places to visit in India in December right here on this list.
Pack your bags, set your playlist, and let December’s magic lead the way. Got a favourite travel story or a hilarious vacation mishap? Share it in the comments—we’d love to laugh along!