With a gentle chill in the air, accompanied by warm sunshine and a wealth of festive spirit, December is considered one of the most popular months for vacations in India. This month sees the highest number of tourists in many desirable cities throughout the subcontinent, as it signifies an optimal time to discover various tourist attractions in India. Whether you wish to ski in the mountains, visit royal palaces in Rajasthan, or relax at the serene backwaters in Kerala, there is something available for everyone. Furthermore, this month is festive in India, as people celebrate Christmas and New Year’s Eve, along with local cultural events such as the Sunburn Music Festival in Goa, Rann Utsav in Gujarat, and numerous winter fairs. Below is a list of destinations to consider for an unforgettable year-end journey as part of India tour packages.
Goa
Situated on the Western Coast, Goa ranks among the most desirable destinations to visit in December in India. As one of the top places to visit near Mumbai, Goa pounds with vibrant energy throughout December, making it an excellent time to partake in beach parties, music festivals, culinary experiences, a variety of beverages, water sports, sightseeing, and numerous other adventures. The area features an impressive selection of New Year and Christmas festivities in December, solidifying its status as the ideal place to welcome the New Year with enthusiasm! Moreover, this time of year includes the highly awaited Sunburn Festival as part of the Goa tour packages. The casinos in Goa become increasingly animated during this month, which is why it has been dubbed the ‘Las Vegas of India.’ Additionally, December in Goa encourages visitors to engage in spirituality as it honors the Feast of St. Francis Xavier. However, it is recommended to book accommodations in advance, as the state tends to be bustling with tourists during this period.
Book Here: Goa Packages from Mumbai
Shimla
Often referred to as Queen of Hill Stations, Shimla is one of the most beautiful hill stations near Delhi to visit in December in India. During winter, this place is covered with layers of snow which will make every tourist fall in love with it, especially honeymooners. Travel in Shimla – Kalka toy train, shopping in the Mall Road, a leisure walk at the Ridge, a visit to Christ Church, partaking in adventure activities, and going for an excursion to Kufri, Naldehra, and Tattapani are some highlights of Shimla Tour Packages. Skiing, snowball fights, and snowman creations are extremely fun.
Must Read: Prominent Places to visit near Delhi
Ooty
Cradled in the beautiful Nilgiri Hills, Ooty, fondly called as ‘Queen of hill stations’, is one of the most scenic hill stations in India. Among the top places to visit near Bangalore, the charm of this colonial hill town lies in its laid-back luxurious grace, awe-inspiring Nilgiri hills, lush tea gardens, serene waterfalls, dense forests, beautiful lakes, splendid green deep valleys, and the misty landscapes. Although Ooty is a summer destination, January is just the perfect time to visit this honeymoon capital as the cool, and misty weather of this tinsel town allows you to spend hours simply walking on the winding country lanes and the charm of colonial architecture infuses fresh air into the souls of travelers. Ooty Lake, Botanical Garden, Rose Garden, Wenlock Downs, Doddabetta Peak, Toy Train, Pykara Dam & Falls, and Avalanche Lake are the must include places in Ooty Tour Packages. There are many astounding resorts in Ooty that will make your stay even more worthwhile in this magical land of Ooty.
Book Here: Ooty Packages from Bangalore
Mahabalipuram
Stretching between the Bay of Bengal and the Great Salt Lake, Mahabalipuram, also referred to as Mamallapuram, is an ancient city acknowledged as a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated in the Kanchipuram district of Tamil Nadu. Renowned for its historical monuments, intricate sculptures, picturesque landscapes, and rich culture, it is ranked among the prominent heritage sites in India and Tamil Nadu. Additionally, it stands out as one of the premier destinations to visit near Chennai in December, as this historic city prepares to host the Mamallapuram Dance Festival, an outdoor dance event set against the breathtaking backdrop of rock temples. Organized by Tamilnadu Tourism, this festival is scheduled to occur from December 2nd to January 19th, 2026. Attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of dance performances from various regions of the country, including Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Kuchipudi, Odissi, and Manipuri, all showcased by esteemed artists as part of the Mahabalipuram tour packages.
Book Here: Mahabalipuram Packages from Chennai
Mahabaleshwar
Often referred as Queen of hill stations in Maharashtra, Mahabaleshwar is one of the top monsoon destinations in India, and among the best places to visit near Pune. If you want to enjoy the cool, foggy, lush green environment, then head over to Mahabaleshwar in December to enhance the beauty of this pretty hill station. Visit Arthur’s Seat, Wilson Point, Kate’s Point & Elephant Head Point, Connaught Peak, and Bombay Point for stunning views of surrounding hills, gushing waterfalls, and meandering rivers through the valleys during your Mahabaleshwar Tour. Besides, one can also visit Panchgani, the Strawberry County of Maharashtra, as part of the Mahabaleshwar Tour Packages.
Book Here: Mahabaleshwar Packages from Mumbai
Rann of Kutch
Our December list is incomplete without Rann of Kutch, one of the most beautiful places to see in India, and among the top places to visit near Ahmedabad. The unique white salt marsh of Rann is extremely amazing to explore in the winter month of December. The vast white desert against the backdrop of the mesmerizing sunset will make your day quite special. Particularly, the spectacular sight of the boundless white desert under the moonlight offers the stunning creation of nature, unique to this world. Kutch becomes alive during December with loads of celebrations— the Rann Utsav. Escape to the amazing surreal landscape that glows an eerie white in the moonlight during this 2 months long festival as part of Gujarat Tour Packages.
Book Here: Rann of Kutch Tour Packages
Andamans
Located far away from mainland India, the Andaman & Nicobar Islands are a tropical island paradise escapade in December in India. With its azure waters, exotic beaches, secluded islands, evergreen tropical rain forests, vibrant flora, and fauna, Andamans is among the most trending honeymoon destinations in India. Winter is considered to be one of the best times to visit Andamans, as the weather is favorable and it allows travelers to fully explore the crystal clear waters and stunning coral reefs. Havelock Island, Radhanagar Beach, Cellular Jail, Ross Island, Neil Island, and Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park are the top places to visit in Andamans. Besides sightseeing, scuba diving, snorkeling, sea walk, wind-surfing, and water scooters are the top things to do in Andamans as part of the Andaman Tour Packages.
Book Here: Andaman Honeymoon Packages
Manali
Often called as the Valley of Gods, Manali should be on your list when you are looking for places to visit near Chandigarh in December. Though Manali is a year-round destination, winter is so special when the entire landscape is carpeted by a blanket of snow. Cozying up to the chilly nights of Manali with bonfires & views of the gigantic ice-capped Himalayan mountains makes your trip more memorable. Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Hidimba Temple, Manu Temple, Vashist Hot Springs, Naggar Castle, and Manikaran are the must-include places in Manali Tour Packages. Besides, one can also enjoy exciting winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding at Gulaba, Lamadugh Meadows, and Solang Valley in December.
Book Here: Manali Packages from Chandigarh
Hampi
Hampi, acknowledged as one of India’s most treasured heritage locations, functions as an open-air museum that displays architecture, religion, and history, embellished with numerous stone carvings, primarily from the Vijayanagara Empire period. Due to its profound historical importance and extraordinary architectural remains, Hampi is distinguished as one of the top heritage sites near Bangalore in December, particularly for adventure enthusiasts, as this is the season for the Hot Air Balloon Festival. This festival, taking place throughout December, is organized by Karnataka Tourism in a magnificent manner. The event includes demonstrations, competitions, and various activities such as paragliding, flying fox, bungee jumping, and more. Additionally, the region appears more lively and visually attractive with its clean and lush surroundings during this time. Among the prominent tourist places in Hampi are the Vittala Temple, Krishna Temple complex, Narasimha, Ganesha, Hemakuta Hill Temples, Achyutaraya Temple, Pattabhirama Temple, Royal Enclosure, and Zenana Enclosure.
Book Here: Hampi Tour Packages
Mount Abu
Situated in the Aravalli range, Mount Abu, the sole hill station in Rajasthan, serves as an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil and refreshing getaway during the winter season, particularly in December. This is the best time to witness the rich cultural heritage of the region during the Mount Abu Winter Festival. Organised by Rajasthan Tourism & Municipal Board, this colourful festival takes place from 29th December to 31st December 2025 in Mount Abu, among the most famous places to visit near Udaipur. Engaging in boating at Nakki Lake, visiting the Dilwara Jain Temples, or making your way to Guru Shikar are among the top activities included in Mount Abu Tour Packages. If you are planning to visit the popular fairs and festivals of Rajasthan, this would go perfectly with your Christmas and New Year holiday.
Book Here: Mount Abu packages from Udaipur
Pondicherry
Pristine beaches, narrow cobblestoned streets, and the festive ambiance make Pondicherry one among the most popular places to visit near Chennai in winter, especially in December. Located along the Coromandel Coast of Bay of Bengal, Pondicherry is a former French colony and is often referred to as the French Riviera of the East. Pondicherry attracts both domestic and international tourists in large numbers due to various tourist attractions and highly reasonable hospitality. Pondicherry Beach, Paradise Beach, Pondicherry Museum, Auroville, Botanical Garden and Manakula Vinayagar Temple are some of the top places to visit in this former French town as part of Pondicherry Tour Packages.
Book Here: Pondicherry packages from Chennai
Alleppey
Known for its scenic beaches, stunning backwaters, serene temples, and traditional houseboats, Alleppey is one of the most famous backwater destinations in Kerala. With the beginning of December, the weather will be pleasingly warm which is suitable to explore the various waterways in a leisurely way and enjoy the scenic beauty in and around Alleppey, among the top tourist places near Kochi. A houseboat cruise in the backwaters of Alappuzha is a delightful experience as part of Kerala Holiday Packages. If you are looking for Ayurveda treatments, then December is the right time when medicinal herbs will be rich after the heavy rains and the massages are very special during this season. Also, December is the time when Alappuzha celebrates a 10-day festival called Mullackal Chirap.
Book Here: Alleppey Tour Packages
Auli
If you love adventure and luxury vacations with snow throughout your vacation, Auli, among the best hill stations in Uttarakhand, is the perfect destination for you. December is the best time to witness the incredible amount of snowfall and partake in some skiing adventures in Auli. With 2500 to 3000 m high tantalizing slopes dotted with skiing resorts, Auli is a popular destination for skiing in India and has been the venue for Skiing Festivals since 1986. If you are not the person who likes daredevil acts, Auli also serves as a silent retreat for those looking for time away from their busy lives. Gurso Bugyal, Auli Lake, Chattrakund, Bhavishya Badri Temple, Tapovan, and Joshimath are some of the interesting places to visit as part of the Auli tour packages.
Book Here: Uttarakhand Tour Packages
Wayanad
Perched atop the Western Ghats in northern Kerala, Wayanad is one of the picturesque places to visit near Kozhikode in December. The place will be enveloped in mist during this time and the weather will be pleasant and suitable for sightseeing. Walking through the sprawling spice plantations, take a jeep safari to spot wild elephants, trek to the Chembra Peak, visit the pre-historic Edakkal Caves, scaling the gorgeous waterfalls and experiencing a resort holiday are one of the many things you can do here as part of Wayanad Tour Packages. Apart from its tourist image, the place is also known for its spice plantations like cardamom, pepper, and vanilla along with tea and coffee. Wayanad is also famous for Tea and Coffee plantations. It has a pleasant weather throughout the year and is one of the best 2 day trips from Bangalore. If you are looking to escape from the noisy city life to the lap of nature to revitalise your senses and nourish your souls, then the resorts in Wayanad amidst the mist laden mountains and lush paddy fields stretching to the horizon are the ideal places to spend few relaxed days.
Book Here: Wayanad Honeymoon Packages
North Sikkim
There is no better place in India than North Sikkim to witness snow in December. Though it is not as popular as north Indian states for witnessing snowfall, the winter experience in North Sikkim is unparalleled with its snow-covered Himalayan peaks, frozen lakes and picture-postcard worthy winter landscapes. Lachung, Yumthung, Nathula Pass, Tsomgo Lake, and Gurudongmar Lake are some popular places to experience snowfall in North Sikkim as part of Gangtok Tour Packages. Yumthang Valley is known for experiencing snow almost all year round but sometimes shut down due to heavy snow so, it’s advisable to check and confirm before you plan a trip to this place.
Book Here: Sikkim Tour Packages
Kohima
Snuggled amid the picturesque landscape of lush forests, hills, valleys, and jungles of rhododendron, Kohima is the capital city of India’s northeastern state of Nagaland. December is one of the best months to visit Kohima as the very famous Hornbill festival, among the most popular festivals of India, occurs during this time. The local tribes of the region come together to celebrate and showcase their culture and people from all over India travel to Nagaland to see this festival. Traditional dances, folk songs, and theatrical performances are held, which will make you fall in love with the local culture. Also, December is the time to celebrate the Hornbill Rock festival where bands from all over the country would perform.
Konark
Visit Odisha this December to appreciate the architectural splendor of the historic Sun Temple of Konark, and to experience the Konark Dance Festival. This remarkable event showcases Indian classical dance and sand art, taking place from December 1st to 5th, 2025, within the grounds of the Konark Sun Temple and Chandrabhaga Beach in Odisha. Constructed during the reign of Narasimhadeva-I, the Konark Temple is among the most frequented tourist attractions in Odisha and is recognized as one of the premier UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India. Dedicated to the Sun God, the temple is also referred to as the Black Pagoda due to its construction with black granite, designed in the form of a chariot drawn by seven horses on 24 wheels, symbolically transporting the sun god to the heavens. Notable sites to explore in Konark include Konark Beach, Ramachandi Temple, Astranga Beach, Varahi Devi Temple at Chaurasi, and Maa Mangala Devi Temple at Kakatapur. Additionally, the Konark Dance Festival is celebrated in February, enhancing its reputation as one of the most enchanting and romantic destinations during that month. Typically, Konark can be visited as a day trip as part of Puri tour packages.
Book Here: Konark Tour Packages
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