December, the last month of the Georgian Calendar, is one of the easiest months to fall in love with India. Summer heat has gone a long, monsoon has faded away, and winter is completely set in December in most parts of the country. From snowy to warm experiences, the country offers something to every traveller. If you are planning to enjoy your winter vacation, celebrate varied festivals like Christmas, and welcome New Year in a different way, this post on the best places to visit in India in December can help you.
While planning your holiday, a query where to go in December in India may strike into your mind. To help you with it, we have briefly mentioned the best places to visit in December in India with key information like weather, vibe, key attractions, things to do, local food to taste, how to get there, and a suggested trip plan. So, keep reading it till the end to find the most suitable place for your winter vacation.
A Synopsis Of The Best Places To Visit In India In December
| Places To Visit In December in India | Weather | Best For | Ideal Trip Duration | Estimated Budget Per Person |
| Goa | Pleasantly warm days and cool nights with 21°C to 32°C temperatures | Coastal charm, festive energy, and cultural holiday | 4 to 5 days | ₹15,000 to ₹35,000+ |
| Gokarna | Warm days and cool nights with 21°C to 32°C temperatures | Laid-back beach and adventure holiday | 3 to 4 days | ₹10,500 to ₹49,000+ |
| Andaman & Nicobar Island | Warm and dry weather with 22°C to 30°C temperatures | Adventure, beach relaxation, and festive holiday | 5 to 7 days | ₹20,000 to ₹70,000 |
| Kovalam | Pleasantly warm and sunny weather with 23°C to 29°C temperatures | Classic beach holiday and Ayurvedic wellness retreats | 2 to 5 days | ₹7,600 to ₹12,000 for two-night trip and ₹20,000 to ₹45,000 for a 5-day trip |
| Pondicherry | Warm days and cool evenings/nights with 22°C to 29°C temperatures | Festive cultural, heritage, and beach holiday | 3 to 5 days | ₹5,000 to ₹15,000+ |
| Shimla | Cold days and chilly nights with 0°C to 14°C temperatures | Winter snow adventure, festive holiday, cafe hoping | 3 to 5 days | ₹15,000 to ₹25,000+ |
| Gulmarg | Chilly to freezing with temperatures ranging from -8°C to 5°C | Adventure-centric winter sports holiday to scenic romantic trip | 2 to 3 days | ₹12,000 to ₹37,000+ |
| Manali | Cold days and freezing nights with -5°C to 10°C temperatures | Winter wonderland, snow-based mountain holiday | 4 to 5 days | ₹8,000 to ₹40,000+ |
| Darjeeling | Pleasant sunny days and biting cold evenings or nights with 2°C to 16°C temperatures | A peaceful nature retreat, romantic holiday, and photography trip | 3 to 4 days | ₹ 8,000 to ₹ 30,000+ |
| Auli | Cold days and extremely chilly nights with temperatures ranging from -4°C to 10°C | A snow adventure trip, or winter wonderland holiday | 3 to 4 days | ₹18,000 to ₹25,000+ |
| Jaisalmer | Pleasant days and cold desert nights with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 26°C | A cultural, heritage, and desert adventure holiday | 3 to 5 days | ₹10,000 to ₹20,000+ |
| Jaipur | Pleasantly cool days and chilly nights with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 25°C | A heritage sightseeing and cultural winter holiday | 3 to 5 days | ₹5,000 to ₹35,000+ |
| Delhi | Pleasant days and chilly nights with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 22°C/24°C | A heritage, cultural, and festive holiday | 4 to 7 days | ₹15,000 to ₹35,000 |
| Kutch | Pleasantly warm & sunny days and cold nights with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 29°C | A cultural, festive, and desert-landscape holiday | 3 to 5 days | ₹8,000 to ₹45,000+ |
| Hampi | Warm, sunny days and cool nights with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 28°C/31°C | A heritage and cultural holiday | 3 to 4 days | ₹7,000 to ₹25,000+ |
The 15 Best Places To Visit In December In India
Here are the briefly explained 15 places to visit in India in December:
1. Goa

Nicknamed the Beach Capital of India and Pearl of the Orient, Goa is the best tourist place in India in December. It is located on the Western Konkan Coast and serves as the primary coastal tourism hub in India. Goa is popular for its sandy beaches, nightlife, seafood, and Portuguese heritage. You must visit it at the end of December if a party or New Year celebration is in your mind.
- Weather: Pleasantly warm days and cool nights with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 32°C.
- Best for: Coastal charm, festive energy, and cultural holiday.
- Ideal Duration for a Trip to Goa: 4 to 5 days.
- Estimated Trip Budget Per Person: ₹15,000 to ₹35,000+.
- Key Attractions in Goa: Beaches (Baga, Anjuna, Palolem, Agondoa, Calangute, and Candolim), Fort Aguada, Chapora Fort, Cabo de Rama Fort, Dudhsagar Falls, Fontainhas, and Basilica of Bom Jesus.
- Things to Do in Goa: Visit Baga Beach or Calangute Beach for water sports like parasailing and jet skiing, explore historic Portuguese architecture at Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral, head to Anjuna or Arambol Beach for a relaxed vibe and nightlife enjoyment, relax on scenic sands on Palolem Beach or Agonda Beach, etc.
- Best Local Food to Eat in Goa: Goan Fish Curry, Pork Vindaloo, Prawn Balchão, Bebinca, and Crab Xec Xec.
- How to Reach: Fly either to Goa International Airport (Dabolim, GOI) or Manohar International Airport (Mopa, GOX). To reach Goa by rail, board a direct/connecting train to Madgaon Junction (MAO). Alternate railway stations are Thivim (THVM), Karmali (KRMI), and Vasco da Gama (VSG). Use public transport or a private taxi to reach your hotel and get around in Goa.
- Suggested Trip Plan: Goa Tour Packages.
2. Gokarna, Karnataka

Gokarna is among the best places to go in December in India, especially when you want to have a coastal holiday experience. Located in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, India, Gokarna is an alternative beach destination to highly commercialised Goa. It offers a unique combination of spiritual and coastal experiences.
- Weather: Pleasantly warm days and cool nights with 21°C to 32°C temperatures.
- Best for: A laid-back beach and adventure holiday.
- Ideal Duration for a Trip to Gokarna: 3 to 4 days.
- Estimated Trip Budget Per Person: ₹10,500 to ₹49,000+.
- Key Attractions in Gokarna: Om Beach, Kudle Beach, Paradise Beach, Mahabaleshwara Temple, Mirjan Fort, Maha Ganapati Temple, Yana Caves, and Kotiteertha.
- Things to Do in Gokarna: Enjoy water sports like jet skiing and banana boat rides, visit ancient temples like Mahabaleshwara Temple, relax on beaches like Paradise and Half Moon, take a hike from from Belekan to Kudle Beach, walk through Yana Caves to witness massive limestone rock formations, etc.
- Best Local Food to Taste in Gokarna: Crab & Prawn Tawa Fry, Rava Fry, Ghee Podi Idli, Bisi Bele Bath, and Karam & Podi Dosas.
- How to Reach Gokarna: Take a flight to Goa International Airport (Dabolim, GOI) or Hubballi Airport (HBX) or board a train to Gokarna Road Station (GOK) from major hubs like Bangalore, Mumbai, or Mangalore. You can use a car rental in Hubballi to reach Gokarna and extend it to get around Gokarna during the trip if you plan to land at Hubballi Airport.
3. Andaman & Nicobar Islands

The Andaman & Nicobar Islands are among the most sought after tourist places in India in December. This group of islands is nicknamed the Emerald Islands and Pearl of the Bay. The Andaman & Nicobar Islands are a stunning group of about 572 islands located in the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea. The islands feature a good combination of a dark colonial past, dense rainforests, clear white sand beaches, and marine eco-systems.
- Weather: Pleasantly warm and dry weather with 22°C to 30°C temperatures.
- Best for: Adventure, beach relaxation, and festive holiday.
- Ideal Duration for a Trip to Andaman & Nicobar Islands: 5 to 7 days.
- Estimated Trip Budget Per Person: ₹20,000 to ₹70,000+.
- Key Attractions in Andaman & Nicobar Islands: Radhanagar Beach, Cellular Jail, Samudrika Marine Museum, Bharatpur Beach, Elephant Beach, Limestone Cave, and Ross & Smith Islands.
- Things to Do in Andaman & Nicobar Islands: Explore and relax on white-sand beaches like Radhanagar Beach, watch Sound & Light Show at Cellular Jail, enjoy scuba diving at Elephant Beach, hop to Havelock Island, etc.
- Best Local Food to Eat in Andaman & Nicobar Islands: Coconut Prawn Curry, Grilled Lobster, Squid Fry, Andaman Fish Curry, Amritsari Kulcha, Machher Jhol, and Coconut Rice.
- How to Reach Andaman & Nicobar Islands: Land at Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ) in Port Blair. From the airport, use a boat or ferry ride to visit varied islands. There is no rail or road connection to Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
- Suggested Trip Plan: Andaman Tour Packages.
4. Kovalam, Kerala

Kovalam is an ideal option if you are looking for the best places to visit in India in December for a coastal experience and water sports enjoyment. Located in the Arabian Sea in Kerala, Kovalam is the Paradise of the South. It is famous for its trio of crescent-shaped beaches, lush palm groves, and wellness retreats.
- Weather: Pleasantly warm and sunny weather with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 29°C/31°C.
- Best for: Classic beach holiday and Ayurvedic wellness retreats.
- Ideal Duration for a Trip to Kovalam: 2 to 5 days.
- Estimated Trip Budget Per Person: ₹7,600 to ₹12,000 for two-night trip and ₹20,000 to ₹45,000 for a 5-day trip.
- Key Attractions in Kovalam: Lighthouse Beach, Vizhinjam Light House, Eve’s Beach (also Hawa Beach), Kerala Arts & Crafts Village, Grove Beach, and Rock-Cut Cave Shiva Temple.
- Things to Do in Kovalam: Enjoy water sports like surfing and scuba diving at Lighthouse Beach, take a morning/evening walk at Hawa Beach (Eve’s Beach), climb up at Vizhinjam Lighthouse for a stunning coastline view, rejuvenate your body with Ayurvedic massage or yoga sessions at a local sea resort, take a serene boat ride or enjoy bird watching at Vellayani Lake, etc.
- Best Local Food to Eat in Kovalam: Meen Pollichathu, Squid (Koonthal), Clams (Kakka) Roast, Porotta & Appam, and Traditional Sadya.
- How to Reach Kovalam: Either fly to Trivandrum International Airport (TRV) or take a train to Thiruvananthapuram Central (TVC). Upon arrival, you can use a Trivandrum to Kovalam car rental to reach your hotel and get around in the city during your winter vacation.
- Suggested Trip Plan: Kovalam Tour Packages.
5. Pondicherry

If you are willing to have a dual experience of French colonial heritage and South Indian culture, Pondicherry must be on your list of the best places to visit in December in India. Pondicherry is officially called Puducherry and is famed as the French Riviera of the East or India’s Little France. In Puducherry, you will get a cultural shock while moving between the Tamil Quarter and the French Quarter.
- Weather: Warm days and pleasant evenings/nights with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 29°C or 31°C.
- Best for: A festive cultural, heritage, and beach holiday.
- Ideal Duration for a Trip to Pondicherry: 3 to 5 days.
- Estimated Trip Budget Per Person: ₹5,000 to ₹15,000+ for a 3-day trip.
- Key Attractions in Puducherry: Rock Beach (Promenade Beach), Mahatma Gandhi Statue, Serenity Beach, Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Devasthanam, Pondicherry White Town (French Quarter), Sacred Heart Basilica, Bharathi Park & Aayi Mandapam, Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Cathedral, and Puducherry Museum.
- Things to Do in Pondicherry: Walk inside the French Quarter to admire colonial architecture, visit Rock Beach to watch stunning sunset views, enjoy a boat to Paradise Beach, try your hand at surfing or scuba diving, explore Auroville, find peace at Sri Aurobindo Ashram, etc.
- Best Local Food to Eat in Puducherry: Pondicherry White Chicken Curry, Duck Vadavoum, Rasam Aux Crevettes, and Seeraga Samba Rice.
- How to Reach Pondicherry: Take a flight to Puducherry Airport (PNY) or board a train to Puducherry Railway Station (PDY). After arriving at Puducherry’s airport or railway station, you can use a car rental in Pondicherry for a smooth transfer to your hotel, sightseeing, and local transfers around the city.
- Suggested Trip Plan: Pondicherry Tour Packages.
6. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

Once the Summer Capital of British India, Shimla is among the best places to go in December in India to experience snowfall. It is highly popular for its stunning Himalayan landscapes, vibrant pedestrian avenues, and rich historical charm. From nature lovers to honeymooners and history enthusiasts, it attracts almost every type of traveller.
- Weather: Cold days and chilly nights with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 14°C.
- Best for: Winter snow adventure, festive holiday, cafe hoping, and heritage walks.
- Ideal Duration for a Trip to Shimla: 3 to 5 days.
- Estimated Trip Budget Per Person: ₹15,000 to ₹25,000+ for a 3-day trip.
- Key Attractions in Shimla: The Ridge, Mall Road, Christ Church, Viceregal Lodge, Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex, Jakhu Temple, Hawa Ghar, Kali Bari Temple, Chadwick Falls, and Himachal State Museum.
- Things to Do in Shimla: Walk down to Mall Road, enjoy a toy train ride on the Kalka Shimla Railway, visit the Ridge and Christ Church to enjoy wide mountain views, pray at Jakhu Temple, explore the 1888 British-era Viceregal Lodge (Rashtrapati Niwas), shop for wooden walking sticks and toys at Lakkar Bazaar, take a day trip to Kufri for winter snow play, etc.
- Best Local Food to Eat in Shimla: Siddu, Himachali Dhaam, Chha Gosht, and Babroo.
- How to Reach Shimla: Land at Chandigarh Airport (IXC) or deboard from a train at Kalka Railway Station (KLK). From the airport, you can use a Chandigarh to Shimla car rental to reach your destination and get around it. You can ride a Kalka-Shimla Toy Train from the Kalka Railway Station. From nearby places like Delhi and Chandigarh, you can use your own or a rented car to research Shimla by road.
- Suggested Trip Plan: Shimla Tour Packages.
7. Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir

Located in the Pir Panjal Range of the Western Himalayas and just about 60 kilometres away from Srinagar, Gulmarg is the best tourist place in India in December to experience snowfall and enjoy snow sports. It is nicknamed as the Meadow of Flowers, Ultimate Winter Wanderland, and India’s Snow Paradise.
- Weather: Chilly to freezing days with temperatures ranging from -8°C to 5°C.
- Best for: Adventure-centric winter sports holiday to scenic romantic trip.
- Ideal Duration for a Trip to Gulmarg: 2 to 3 days.
- Estimated Trip Budget Per Person: ₹12,000 to ₹37,000+.
- Key Attractions in Gulmarg: Gulmarg Gondola, Alpather Lake, Gulmarg Golf Course, Apharwat Peak, Strawberry Valley, Maharani Temple, Drung Waterfall, and St. Mary’s Church.
- Things to Do in Gulmarg: Enjoy a ride on Gulmarg Gondola, try your hand at skiing and snowboarding, enjoy a traditional wooden sledge ride or ice skating, visit the Victorian-era St Mary’s Church, take an outer circle walk, and drive to Tangmarg to witness the striking partially or fully frozen waterfall cascades at Drung Waterfall.
- Best Local Food to Eat in Gulmarg: Kashmiri Kahwa, Noon Chai (Sheer Chai), Rogan Josh, Gushtaba, Rista, Kashmiri Dum Aloo, Haak Saag, and Modur Pulao.
- How to Reach Gulmarg: Either fly to Srinagar International Airport (Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport) or board a train to Jammu Tawi Railway Station. From the airport or railway station, you can use a private taxi or car to reach Gulmarg.
- Suggested Trip Plan: Jammu & Kashmir Tour Packages.
8. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Famed as the Abode of Manu and Adventure Capital of Himachal Pradesh, Manali is among the places to visit in December in India if you wish to have a snow-based mountain winter holiday. It offers the perfect mix of ancient history, vibrant Himalayan culture, and high-octane adventure to travellers.
- Weather: Cold days and freezing nights with temperatures ranging from -5°C to 10°C.
- Best for: Winter wonderland, snow-based mountain holiday.
- Ideal Duration for a Trip to Manali: 4 to 5 days.
- Estimated Trip Budget Per Person: ₹8,000 to ₹40,000.
- Key Attractions in Manali: Hadimba Devi Temple, Van Vihar National Park, Jogini Falls, Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Beas River, Mall Road, and Old Manali.
- Things to Do in Manali: Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or ropeway ride at Solang Valley, take a drive through Atal Tunnel, walk through the peaceful deodar-rich cedar forest around Hadimba Temple, experience a white-water rafting on the Beas River, relax in the natural warm sulfur springs at Vashisht Hot Spring, etc.
- Best Local Food to Eat in Manali: Siddu, Thukpa & Thentuk (Warm Tibetan Soups), Fresh Himalayan Trout, Himachali Dham & Madra, and Hot Steamed Momos.
- How to Reach Manali: Take a flight to Kullu-Manali Airport (Bhuntar Airport, KUU). This airport operation highly depends on weather conditions. The best way to reach Shimla is to ride a Volvo bus or rent a car from nearby major hubs like Delhi and Chandigarh. You can use a Chandigarh to Manali car rental if you plan to land at Chandigarh’s airport or railway station to reach Manali.
- Suggested Trip Plan: Blissful Shimla Manali Escape Tour.
9. Darjeeling, West Bengal

December marks the onset of peak winter in Darjeeling. Located in West Bengal’s Eastern Himalayas, it is among the places to visit in India in December to experience biting cold. It is famous for its dreamy landscapes, colonial charm, and world-class tea culture.
- Weather: Pleasant sunny days and biting cold evenings/nights with temperatures ranging from 2°C to 16°C.
- Best for: A peaceful nature retreat, romantic holiday, and photography trip.
- Ideal Duration for a Trip to Darjeeling: 3 to 4 days.
- Estimated Trip Budget Per Person: ₹ 8,000 to ₹ 30,000+.
- Key Attractions in Darjeeling: Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Japanese Peace Pagoda, Yiga Choeling Monastery (Ghoom), Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Happy Valley Tea Estate, and Shrubbery Nightingale Park.
- Things to Do in Darjeeling: Climb up Tiger Hill to witness the sunrise over Mount Kanchenjunga, enjoy a toy train ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, take a chilly walk throughHappy Valley Tea Estate, walk through Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park to see endangered species like the red panda and snow leopards, etc.
- Best Local Food to Eat in Darjeeling: Thukpa & Thenthuk (a traditional warm Tibetan noodle soup), Himalayan Momos, Sha Phaley (Deep-Fried Meat Bread), Chhurpi, etc.
- How to Reach Darjeeling: Land at Bagdogra Airport (IXB) from your nearest airport or take a train to New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP). From the airport or railway station, use public transport or a private car/taxi to reach Darjeeling.
- Suggested Trip Plan: Discover Darjeeling Train Tour.
10. Auli, Uttarakhand

Nicknamed as the Skiing Capital of India, Auli is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. It is among the most sought after tourist places in India in December. Auli attracts winter sports enthusiasts, nature lovers, and honeymooners alike. From adventure to sightseeing, it offers something to each traveller.
- Weather: Cold days and extremely chilly nights with temperatures ranging from -4°C to 10°C.
- Best for: A snow adventure trip, or winter wonderland holiday.
- Ideal Duration for a Trip to Auli: 3 to 4 days.
- Estimated Trip Budget Per Person: ₹18,000 to ₹25,000+.
- Key Attractions in Auli: Gorson Bugyal, Auli Artificial Lake, Auli Ski Slopes & School, Nanda Devi National Park, and Auli Chair Car & Ropeway.
- Things to Do in Auli: Enjoy skiing/snowboarding, ride the Auli Ropeway, take a scenic winter snow trek to Gorson Bugyal, visit the frozen Auli Artificial Lake, explore Joshimath, etc.
- Best Local Food to Eat in Auli: Aloo Ke Gutke, Kafuli, Mandua Ki Roti, Chainsoo & Phaanu, and Jhangore Ki Kheer.
- How to Reach Auli: Either fly to Jolly Grant Airport (DED) in Dehradun or take a train to Rishikesh Railway Station or Haridwar Junction. You can use a bus or private taxi/car to reach Auli in 8 to 10 hours from the airport or railway station.
- Suggested Trip Plan: The Mesmerising Auli Affair Tour.
11. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Jaisalmer is located on the western frontier of India. It is among the best places to visit in India in December for people willing to experience the architecture, romance, and adventure of the Thar Desert. December brings the desert temperatures down and makes it explorable without any discomfort.
- Weather: Pleasant days and cold desert nights with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 26°C.
- Best for: A cultural, heritage, and desert adventure holiday.
- Ideal Duration for a Trip to Jaisalmer: 3 to 5 days.
- Estimated Trip Budget Per Person: ₹10,000 to ₹20,000+.
- Key Attractions in Jaisalmer: Jaisalmer Fort, Jain Temples, Patwon Ki Haveli (also called Patwa Haveli), Bada Bagh, Salam Singh Ki Haveli (Moti Mahal), Gadiser Lake, Nathmal Ki Haveli, Jaisalmer War Museum, Vyas Chhatri, The Thar Heritage Museum, and Sam Sand Dunes.
- Things to Do in Jaisalmer: Walk through the living Jaisalmer Fort (also known as Sonar Qila, take a stroll along Gadisar Lake in the morning to watch migratory birds, head to Bada Bagh for capturing stunning sunset views, enjoy a camel ride in the evening to experience the Thar Desert, take a day trip to Kuldhara Ghost Village, visit Patwon Ki Haveli to witness the five interconnected ornate mansions, etc.
- Best Local Food to Eat in Jaisalmer: Dal Baati Churma, Ker Sangri, Ghotua Ladoo, Gatte ki Sabzi, Laal Maas, and Makhania Lassi.
- How to Reach Jaisalmer: Take a direct/connecting flight to Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, or Jairpur Airport. For a rail journey, you can board a direct or connecting train to Jaisalmer Railway Station. Use public transport or a private vehicle to reach your hotel and get around the city from the airport or railway station.
12. Jaipur, Rajasthan

Do you want a heritage and royal feeling on your winter holiday? If yes, Jaipur is among the best places to visit in December in India. Jaipur is nicknamed as Pink City, Heritage City, and Rajwaron ka Shahar. As the capital city of Rajasthan, it is a premier tourist destination and a key place for a classic Golden Triangle Circuit Tour along with Delhi and Agra.
- Weather: Pleasantly cool days and chilly nights with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 25°C.
- Best for: A heritage sightseeing and cultural winter holiday.
- Ideal Duration for a Trip to Jaipur: 3 to 5 days.
- Estimated Trip Budget Per Person: ₹5,000 to ₹35,000+.
- Key Attractions in Jaipur: Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds), City Palace, Jal Mahal, Ambar Palace (Amer Fort), Nahargarh Fort, Jantar Mantar, Albert Hall Museum, Jaigarh Fort, Birla Temple, Gaitore, Sisodia Rani Palace and Garden, Central Park, Govind Devji Temple, and Digamber Jain Temple.
- Things to Do in Jaipur: Explore the Sheesh Mahal and massive courtyards at Ambar Fort, walk through the street along the Hawa Mahal to experience Pink City, enjoy a morning view of the Jal Mahal floating on Man Sagar Lake, head up to Aravali Hills to view panoramic sunset views, visit the City Palace to see the 19 ancient astronomical instruments in the UNESCO observatory, etc.
- Best Local Food to Eat in Jaipur: Laal Maas, Gajar ka Halwa, Gud ki Gajak, Dal Baati Churma, Gatte ki Sabzi, and Pyaaz Kachori.
- How to Reach Jaipur: Take a flight to Jaipur International Airport (JAI) from Delhi Airport or the one close to you. Otherwise, you can board a direct/connecting train to Jaipur Junction to reach the city by rail. For a road journey from nearby places like Delhi, you can use public transport or taxi services like a Delhi to Jaipur car rental. To get around the city and explore tourist places, you can use a car rental in Jaipur.
- Suggested Trip Plan: Choose the suitable one from our well-curated Jaipur Tour Packages.
13. Delhi

Delhi, the national capital city, is the primary entry point for almost all international tourists willing to explore India. It acts as the starting point of the classic Golden Triangle Circuit and is among the best places to go in December in India. Delhi has several nicknames like Dilwalon Ki Dilli (The City of the Big-Hearted), the Food Capital of India and Mini India.
- Weather: Pleasant days and chilly nights with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 22°C/24°C.
- Best for: A heritage, cultural, and festive holiday.
- Ideal Duration for a Trip to Delhi: 4 to 7 days.
- Estimated Trip Budget Per Person: ₹15,000 to ₹35,000+.
- Key Attractions in Delhi: Red Fort (Lal Qila), India Gate, Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar, Jama Masjid, Lotus Temple, Akshardham Temple, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, Chandni Chowk, etc.
- Things to Do in Delhi: Enjoy a walk inside Sunder Nursery, take a stroll through Lodhi Garden to see ancient Lodi-era tombs, taste regional food at Dilli Haat, shop for cosy woolen clothes at Janpath Market, visit Chandni Chowk, and explore historic sites and monuments like Red Fort, India Gate, and Humayun’s Tomb, etc.
- Best Local Food to Eat in Delhi: Daulat ki Chaat, Nalli Nihari, Gajar ka Halwa, Shakarkand ki Chaat, Kanji Vada, Sarson ka Saag and Makki di Roti, Butter Chicken, and Moong Dal Halwa.
- How to Reach Delhi: Land at Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi International Airport, IGI) or board a train to New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS), Old Delhi Railway Station, Hazrat Nizamuddin (NZM), Anand Vihar Terminal (ANVT), Delhi Cantt, and Sarai Rohilla (DEE). Upon arrival, use a car rental in Delhi for a smooth drive to your hotel and sightseeing during the trip.
- Suggested Trip Plan: Select the right one from well-curated Delhi Tour Packages.
14. Kutch, Gujarat

Are you captivated by Gujarat Tourism tagline “Kutch nahi dekha toh kuch nahi dekha” (If you haven’t seen Kutch, you haven’t seen anything)? If yes, Kutch is the best tourist place in India in December. Your December trip to Kutch can be highly memorable by witnessing Rann Utsav (a winter festival), which usually starts in November every year. It will be a cultural holiday.
- Weather: Pleasantly warm & sunny days and cold nights with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 29°C.
- Best for: A cultural, festive, and desert-landscape holiday.
- Ideal Duration for a Trip to Kutch: 3 to 5 days.
- Estimated Trip Budget Per Person: ₹8,000 to ₹45,000+.
- Key Attractions in Kutch: Great Rann of Kutch, Kalo Dungar (Black Hill), Kadiya Dhro, Little Rann of Kutch, Dholavira, Aina Mahal, Prag Mahal, Smritivan Earthquake Museum, Mandavi Beach, Vijay Vilas Palace, and craft villages Bhujodi and Nirona.
- Things to Do in Kutch: Walk all over the white salt desert, enjoy a camel ride at sunset, view the landscape glowing under a December full moon, enjoy nightly Kutchi folk music, watch traditional dance performances, shop for local handicrafts, visit the highest point in Kutch for stunning views of the Great Rann and sunset, explore the ancient Dattatreya Temple, etc.
- Best Local Food to Eat in Kutch: Bajra no Rotlo with Ringan no Olo, Undhiyu, Sev Tameta nu Shaak, Khichdi Kadhi, Kutchi Dabeli, Kutchi Pakwan, Nylon Papdi & Soft Gathiya, Banni Buffalo Mawa, and Masala Chaas.
- How to Reach Kutch: Take a flight to Bhuj Airport (BHJ) from major air hubs like Ahmedabad, Delhi, Mumbai, and Surat. For a rail journey, you can board a direct/connecting train to Bhuj Railway Station or Gandhidham Junction. Use public transport or a private taxi for your onward journey and sightseeing.
- Suggested Trip Plan: The Vivid Rann Utsav Tour.
15. Hampi, Karnataka

Hampi is an ideal option if you are looking for the places to visit in December in India for a heritage and cultural holiday. Famed as the Lost City, Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Karnataka and an open air architectural museum. It contains over 1,600 ruins associated with the medieval Vijayanagara Empire.
- Weather: Warm, sunny days and cool nights with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 28°C/31°C.
- Best for: A heritage and cultural holiday combined with light outdoor adventure.
- Ideal Duration for a Trip to Hampi: 3 to 4 days.
- Estimated Trip Budget Per Person: ₹7,000 to ₹25,000+.
- Key Attractions in Hampi: Vijaya Vittala Temple, Stone Chariot, Virupaksha Temple, Lotus Mahal, Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, Matanga Hill, and Coracle Ride.
- Things to Do in Hampi: Witness the traditional Phalapuja Festival at the Virupaksha Temple, have a shocking experience of the acoustic musical pillars (that ring when tapped) and Stone Chariot at Vijaya Vittala Temple, visit the 7th-century Virupaksha Temple, explore the Indo-Islamic architecture at the Lotus Mahal, climb up the Matanga Hill to see panoramic sunrise views, etc.
- Best Local Food to Eat in Hampi: Paddu (Appe), Ghee Podi Idli & Crispy Masala Dosa, Israeli Shakshuka, Banoffee Pie and Hello to the Queen.
- How to Reach Hampi: Land at Jindal Vijaynagar Airport (VDY, limited air connectivity), Hubli Airport or Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru. For a rail journey, board a direct/connecting train to Hosapete Junction (HPT / Hospet) from major hubs like Bangalore, Hyderabad, Goa, and Mumbai. From the Hubballi Airport, you can use a Hubballi to Hampi car rental to reach your hotel and explore ancient ruins in Hampi. Booking a Bangalore to Hampi car rental will be beneficial if you plan to land in Bangalore and visit Hampi from there.
Plan And Execute Your Winter Vacation With Cholan Tours
Have you shortlisted the places to visit in India in December and are you looking for professional help to plan and execute your winter vacation? If yes, we at Cholan Tours can help you have a long-lasting holiday experience this winter with an exclusively curated trip plan. It will include the destinations (places), accommodation, sightseeing, activities, local transfers, flight/train tickets, and even meals of your choice. Contact us now.
FAQs
What are the best places to visit in India in December?
Goa, Kovalam, Gokrna, Kutch, Shimla, Manali, Auli, Jaisalmer, and Darjeeling are the best places to visit in India in December.
What are the places to visit in India in December for snowfall?
Gulmarg, Auli, Manali, Kufri, Sonmarg, etc. are the best places to visit in India in December for snowfall experiences.
What are the best places to visit in December in India for a coastal and festive experience?
Goa, Kovalam, Pondicherry, Kovalam, and Katch are the best places to visit in December in India for a coastal and festive experience.
What are the best places to go in December in India for a heritage, historic, and cultural holiday?
Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Delhi, Hampi, etc. are the best places to go in December in India for a heritage and cultural holiday.