December in India brings a magical touch to various destinations across the country. Whether you’re seeking snowy landscapes or warm beach vibes, India has something for everyone during this festive season. In this article, we’ll explore the 10 best places to visit in December by providing detailed insights into each location.
Contents
Top 10 Best Places to Visit in December in India 2024
| Places | Best Time to Visit |
| Shimla | December offers a chance to witness snowfall making it an ideal time to visit. |
| Goa | December is perfect for beach parties and water sports. |
| Rishikesh | December offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city life. |
| Andaman and Nicobar Islands | December offers pleasant weather for water activities. |
| Jaipur | December offers pleasant days for sightseeing. |
| Manali | December is perfect for snow activities and enjoying the scenic beauty. |
| Kochi | December offers comfortable weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities. |
| Agra | December offers cool and comfortable weather for sightseeing. |
| Darjeeling | December offers clear views of the snow-capped mountains. |
| Varanasi | December offers a comfortable climate for exploring the city’s spiritual and historical sites. |
A Detailed Overview of the Top 10 Best Places to Visit in December in India 2024
We’ll explore the top 10 best places to visit in December in India by providing detailed insights into each Location, How to Reach, the Best Time to Visit, and activities to do.
Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, Shimla is a charming hill station known for its colonial architecture and scenic beauty. The town exudes a quaint charm that captivates every visitor.
- Location: Shimla is located in the state of Himachal Pradesh, northern India.
- How to Reach: The nearest airport is Jubbarhatti Airport and the Kalka-Shimla Railway is a famous scenic train route.
- Best Time to Visit: December offers a chance to witness snowfall making it an ideal time to visit.
- Activities to Do:
- Take a stroll on the mall Road and Ridge.
- Visit the historic Christ Church.
- Experience the toy train ride.
- Five Places to Visit:
- The Ridge
- Jakhoo Temple
- Kufri
- Christ Church
- Mall Road
Goa
Known for its vibrant nightlife and pristine beaches, Goa is a paradise for sun-seekers and party enthusiasts. December is an excellent time to enjoy the festivities and pleasant weather.
- Location: Goa is located on the western coast of India, along the Arabian Sea.
- How to Reach: Dabolim Airport is well-connected and there are train stations in Margao and Vasco da Gama.
- Best Time to Visit: December is perfect for beach parties and water sports.
- Activities to Do:
- Relax on Anjuna Beach.
- Explore Old Goa for its churches.
- Attend a beach party.
- Five Places to Visit: Baga Beach
- Fort Aguada
- Calangute Beach
- Basilica of Bom Jesus
- Dudhsagar Waterfalls
Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Situated on the banks of the Ganges River, Rishikesh is a spiritual haven and an adventure seeker’s paradise. The town offers a blend of tranquillity and adrenaline-pumping activities.
- Location: Rishikesh is in the northern state of Uttarakhand.
- How to Reach: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport and Rishikesh is well-connected by road.
- Best Time to Visit: December offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city life.
- Activities to Do:
- Attend an evening Ganga Aarti.
- Try river rafting in the Ganges.
- Visit the Beatles Ashram.
- Five Places to Visit:
- Triveni Ghat
- The Beatles Ashram
- Shivpuri River Rafting Point
- Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
- Parmarth Niketan
Andaman and Nicobar Islands
A tropical paradise in the Bay of Bengal, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands offers a variety of crystal-clear waters, lush greenery and diverse marine life. December provides an ideal climate for exploring the stunning archipelago.
- Location: Located in the southeastern part of the Bay of Bengal.
- How to Reach: Flights operate from major cities to Port Blair and ships are available from Chennai, Kolkata and Vizag.
- Best Time to Visit: December offers pleasant weather for water activities.
- Activities to Do:
- Snorkel at Havelock Island.
- Explore Cellular Jail in Port Blair.
- Relax on Radhanagar Beach.
- Five Places to Visit:
- Havelock Island
- Cellular Jail
- Neil Island
- Ross Island
- Radhanagar Beach
Jaipur, Rajasthan
Also known as the Pink City, Jaipur is a treasure trove of history, culture and architecture. December provides a comfortable climate for exploring the majestic forts and vibrant markets.
- Location: Jaipur is the capital city of the northwestern state of Rajasthan.
- How to Reach: Jaipur has an international airport and is well connected by rail and road.
- Best Time to Visit: December offers pleasant days for sightseeing.
- Activities to Do:
- Visit the Amber Fort.
- Explore the City Palace.
- Shop at the Johari Bazaar.
- Five Places to Visit:
- Amber Fort
- City Palace
- Jantar Mantar
- Hawa Mahal
- Nahargarh Fort
Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Located in the Pir Panjal range of Manali it is a picturesque hill station surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush green valleys. December transforms Manali into a winter wonderland, offering a serene escape.
- Location: Manali is situated in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh.
- How to Reach: The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport and Manali is well-connected by road.
- Best Time to Visit: December is perfect for snow activities and enjoying the scenic beauty.
- Activities to Do:
- Skiing at Solang Valley.
- Visit the Hadimba Devi Temple.
- Take a stroll at Mall Road.
- Five Places to Visit:
- Solang Valley
- Rohtang Pass
- Hadimba Devi Temple
- Old Manali
- Manu Temple
Kochi, Kerala
Kochi is a bustling port city in Kerala and it is a balanced blend of history, culture and modernity. In December, the weather is mild making it an excellent time to explore the city’s rich heritage.
- Location: Kochi is situated on the southwest coast of India.
- How to Reach: Kochi has an international airport and is well connected by rail and road.
- Best Time to Visit: December offers comfortable weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- Activities to Do:
- Explore Fort Kochi’s colonial architecture.
- Visit the Mattancherry Palace.
- Take a boat ride in the backwaters.
- Five Places to Visit:
- Fort Kochi
- Mattancherry Palace
- Marine Drive
- Cherai Beach
- Jewish Synagogue
Agra, Uttar Pradesh
Agra is home to the iconic Taj Mahal and it is also a city steeped in history and architectural marvels. December provides a pleasant climate for exploring the Mughal wonders and immersing oneself in the city’s cultural richness.
- Location: Agra is located in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh.
- How to Reach: Agra has a domestic airport and is well-connected by rail and road.
- Best Time to Visit: December offers cool and comfortable weather for sightseeing.
- Activities to Do:
- Visit the Taj Mahal.
- Explore Agra Fort.
- Admire the beauty of Fatehpur Sikri.
- Five Places to Visit:
- Taj Mahal
- Agra Fort
- Fatehpur Sikri
- Mehtab Bagh
- Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb
Darjeeling, West Bengal
Located in the Himalayan foothills also known as the queen of hills, Darjeeling is renowned for its tea plantations, panoramic views of the mountains & plains and colonial structures. December adds a touch of winter magic to this hill station making it an ideal destination for a peaceful retreat.
- Location: Darjeeling is located in the state of West Bengal.
- How to Reach: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport and Darjeeling is well-connected by road and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.
- Best Time to Visit: December offers clear views of the snow-capped mountains.
- Activities to Do:
- Take a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.
- Visit the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park.
- Explore the Peace Pagoda.
- Five Places to Visit:
- Tiger Hill
- Batasia Loop
- Peace Pagoda
- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
- Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Varanasi is the spiritual heart of India and is a city that embraces ancient traditions along the banks of the Ganges. In December, the weather is pleasant providing you an ideal setting for spiritual exploration and cultural immersion.
- Location: Varanasi is located in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh.
- How to Reach: Varanasi has an airport and it’s well-connected by rail and road.
- Best Time to Visit: December offers a comfortable climate for exploring the city’s spiritual and historical sites.
- Activities to Do:
- Witness the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
- Take a boat ride on the Ganges.
- Explore the narrow lanes of Varanasi.
- Five Places to Visit:
- Dashashwamedh Ghat
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Sarnath
- Manikarnika Ghat
- Assi Ghat
Conclusion
India offers a diverse array of destinations to explore in December, each with its unique charm and activities. Whether you’re drawn to the snowy landscapes of the north, the vibrant beaches in the south, or the cultural richness of historical cities, December provides an excellent opportunity to experience the best that India has to offer.
Read More: 15 Best Places For Honeymoon In India In December
