December is one of the best months to travel across India. From snow-covered mountains in the north to sunny beaches in the south, there is something for every traveler. This guide highlights the best places to visit in December in India, helping you plan family trips with WanderTrust for adventure or leisure while enjoying the country’s diverse culture and natural beauty.
1. Goa
Goa is one of the top destinations to visit in December in India. According to the Department of Tourism, Goa witnessed record-breaking tourism in the first half of 2025, with 54.55 lakh visitors between January and June. Of these, 51.84 lakh were domestic and 2.71 lakh international.
How to Reach
- Dabolim Airport links Goa to major Indian cities and select international destinations.
- Konkan Railway offers scenic routes from Mumbai, Delhi, and Kerala.
- NH4A and NH17 connect Goa by road.
- Frequent bus services from Mumbai, Pune, and Bangalore.
Temperature
In December, Goa enjoys pleasant weather with an average temperature of 27°C and minimal rainfall.
Famous Places to Visit
North Goa
- Lively beaches: Calangute and Baga
- Historic landmarks: Basilica of Bom Jesus and Fort Aguada
South Goa
- Peaceful beaches: Palolem, Agonda, and Colva
- Natural attraction: Dudhsagar Falls
Other must-visit spots
- Chapora Fort
- Butterfly Beach
- Chorao Island
2. Kutch
Kachchh in Gujarat is one of the best places to visit in December in India, famous for its white desert, vibrant culture, and traditional crafts. The region’s name comes from its tortoise-shaped geography and marshy lowlands mentioned in ancient literature.
It is known for folk and Sufi-inspired music played on instruments such as the Bhorrindo, Manjira, and Morchay. The local language spoken here is Kachchhi.
Kachchh is also celebrated for its handicrafts, including embroidery, jewelry, wood carving, and wall paintings. The district is home to diverse communities, each adding to its rich cultural identity.
How to Reach
- Bhuj Railway Station connects Kutch with Mumbai, Delhi, and Ahmedabad via regular trains.
- Bhuj and Kandla Airports offer flights to Mumbai and other major cities.
Temperature
December weather in Kutch is pleasant, with daytime highs around 29°C and nighttime lows near 12°C.
Famous Places to Visit
Great Rann of Kutch, Kalo Dungar (Black Hill), Mandvi Beach & Vijay Vilas Palace, Wild Ass Sanctuary (Little Rann), Bhuj, etc.
3. Jaipur
Jaipur is among the best places to visit in December in India. Known as the Pink City, it was the first planned city in India, designed in 1727 by the architect Vidyadhar Bhattacharya during the reign of Jai Singh II. Its pink walls, painted to welcome the Prince of Wales in 1876, still symbolize hospitality.
How to Reach
- Jaipur International Airport connects to major Indian cities and select international routes.
- Shatabdi and Rajdhani trains link Jaipur with Delhi and Mumbai.
- Accessible by NH48 and NH21, with frequent buses and taxis from Delhi and Agra
Temperature
In December, Jaipur enjoys pleasant weather with daytime highs around 24°C (76°F) and cool nights at 9°C (48°F). To explore more about the top tourist destinations in Rajasthan during the winter season, check out our detailed guide on Tourist Places in Rajasthan in Winter.
Famous Places to Visit
Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Nahargarh & Jaigarh Forts, Local Bazaars, etc.
4. Pondicherry
Pondicherry, one of the best places to visit in December in South India, is a Union Territory comprising the former French colonies of Puducherry, Karaikal, Mahe, and Yanam. Founded in 1673 by the French East India Company, it developed from a small fishing village into a flourishing port-town under Governor François Martin.
How to Reach
- Nearest airport: Chennai (150 km) with frequent flights from major Indian cities.
- Regular buses and taxis from Chennai and nearby towns via the East Coast Road.
- Pondicherry Railway Station connects to Chennai, Villupuram, and other southern cities.
Temperature
December is one of the best months to visit, with daytime highs around 29°C (84°F) and nighttime lows around 22°C (71°F). Rainfall is minimal, with only about 8 rainy days.
Famous Places to Visit
Promenade Beach, Auroville, French Quarter, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Paradise Beach & Serenity Beach, and Chunnambar Boat House.
5. Sikkim
Sikkim, a northeastern Himalayan state, borders Tibet, Bhutan, Nepal, and West Bengal. Gangtok is the capital and largest city, and the state is rich in Buddhist monasteries and multiethnic traditions. Sikkim is a top choice among the best places to visit in India for snowfall in December.
How to Reach
- Air: Pakyong Airport (35 km from Gangtok) and Bagdogra Airport (124 km) with regular flights from major cities. Helicopter service connects Bagdogra and Gangtok.
- Rail: New Jalpaiguri (125 km) and Siliguri (114 km) stations link Sikkim to major cities.
- Road: NH31A connects Gangtok with Siliguri. Regular buses, taxis, and jeeps are available to all key destinations.
Temperature
December sees 0–15°C, sunny days, and cold nights, ideal for snowfall.
Famous Places to Visit
Rumtek Monastery, Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, Gangtok MG Road, Pelling, and Yuksom.
6. Tawang
Tawang, in western Arunachal Pradesh, is a high-altitude town at 3,500 m, bordering China and Bhutan. Famous for its Tawang Monastery, scenic mountains, and Monpa culture, it offers a mix of history, spirituality, and natural beauty.
How to Reach
- Air: Nearest airports are Guwahati (480 km), Itanagar (440 km), and Tezpur (330 km). Helicopter service is available from Guwahati.
- Rail: Nearest stations are Rangapara North and Tezpur; Guwahati is a major junction.
- Road: Common route: Guwahati → Bhalukpong → Bomdila → Dirang → Tawang (14–16 hrs). Roads are scenic but hilly.
Permits: Indians require ILP; foreigners need PAP.
Temperature
December temperatures range from -1°C to 11°C.
Famous Places to Visit
Tawang Monastery, Sela Pass & Tunnel, Jaswant Garh, Nuranang (Jang) Falls, Tawang War Memorial, Pankang Teng Tso (Madhuri) Lake, Bumla Pass, Chakzam Bridge.
7. Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer, the ‘Golden City’ of Rajasthan, lies near the Thar Desert and close to the Pakistan border. Famous for Jaisalmer Fort, historic havelis, and the Wood Fossil Park, it blends desert landscapes with centuries-old architecture. Founded in 1156 by Rawal Jaisal, the city has remained a vibrant cultural hub.
How to Reach
- Air: Jaisalmer Airport connects to Jaipur, Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Surat. Other nearby airports include Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur.
- Rail: Well-connected via Jaipur, Kota, Bikaner, and Jodhpur stations.
- Road: Accessible via NH-8 and state highways; buses and private vehicles available from major cities.
Temperature
December sees 15–26°C (59–79°F).
Famous Places to Visit
Jaisalmer Fort, Gadisar Lake, Patwon Ki Haveli, Bada Bagh, and Wood Fossil Park.
8. Manali
Manali, a hill station in Himachal Pradesh, sits in the Kullu Valley along the Beas River. Known for snow-capped mountains, adventure sports, and scenic landscapes, it attracts travelers seeking both thrill and tranquility.
How to Reach
- Air: Kullu–Manali Airport (Bhuntar, 50 km) connects to Delhi.
- Rail: Nearest stations are Joginder Nagar and Pathankot; major rail connectivity via Chandigarh.
- Road: Well-connected by NH3; regular buses, taxis, and shared cabs from Delhi, Chandigarh, and Shimla.
Temperature
December temperatures range from -1°C to 15°C.
Famous Places to Visit
Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Vashisht Hot Springs.
9. Udaipur
Udaipur, the “City of Lakes” in Rajasthan, is famous for its royal palaces, serene lakes, and rich heritage. Its architecture and scenic beauty make it a top destination for history and photography lovers.
How to Reach
- Air: Maharana Pratap Airport connects to Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad.
- Rail: Udaipur City Railway Station links major cities across India.
- Road: Well-connected via NH48; buses and taxis available from Jaipur, Ahmedabad, and Mumbai.
Temperature
December temperatures range from 10°C to 26°C.
Famous Places to Visit
City Palace, Lake Pichola, Jag Mandir, Saheliyon Ki Bari, Jagdish Temple.
10. Mount Abu
Mount Abu, the only hill station in Rajasthan, is located in the Aravalli Hills. Known for cool climate, lush greenery, and ancient temples, it offers a tranquil escape from the desert plains.
How to Reach
- Air: Dabok Airport (Udaipur, 165 km) is the nearest.
- Rail: Abu Road Railway Station connects Mount Abu to major cities.
- Road: Accessible via NH27; regular buses and taxis from Udaipur, Ahmedabad, and Jaipur.
Temperature
December temperatures range from 10°C to 25°C.
Famous Places to Visit
Nakki Lake, Dilwara Temples, Sunset Point, Guru Shikhar, Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary.
Christmas and New Year Holiday Destinations
Shimla
Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, turns magical in December. The snowy hills, colonial charm, and festive lights make it a winter wonderland.
How to Reach
- Air: Jubbarhatti Airport (22 km) is the nearest.
- Rail: The Kalka-Shimla Toy Train offers a scenic journey.
- Road: NH5 connects Shimla to Delhi and Chandigarh.
Temperature
December temperatures range from 1°C to 12°C.
Famous Places to Visit
Mall Road, Christ Church, Kufri, Jakhoo Temple, The Ridge.
Ooty
Ooty, in Tamil Nadu, is known for its rolling tea gardens, lakes, and misty hills. It offers a peaceful retreat for the Christmas and New Year holidays.
How to Reach
- Air: Coimbatore Airport (88 km) is the nearest.
- Rail: Mettupalayam connects Ooty by the Nilgiri Mountain Railway.
- Road: Well connected by NH181; buses from Coimbatore, Mysuru, and Bengaluru.
Temperature
In December, temperatures range from 8°C to 20°C.
Famous Places to Visit
Ooty Lake, Botanical Garden, Doddabetta Peak, Tea Museum, Rose Garden.
Darjeeling
Darjeeling is known for its tea gardens and views of Kanchenjunga. The cool weather and colonial charm make it perfect for winter holidays.
How to Reach
- Air: Bagdogra Airport (70 km) is the nearest.
- Rail: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station connects to major cities.
- Road: Regular taxis and buses from Siliguri and Gangtok.
Temperature
In December, temperatures range from 2°C to 10°C.
Famous Places to Visit
Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Peace Pagoda, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Tea Estates.
Shillong
Shillong, known as the “Scotland of the East,” is the capital of Meghalaya. Surrounded by rolling hills and pine forests, it offers a calm and scenic winter escape.
How to Reach
- Air: Shillong Airport (30 km) or Guwahati Airport (120 km) are the nearest.
- Rail: Guwahati Railway Station is the closest major railhead.
- Road: Well connected by NH6; regular buses and taxis from Guwahati.
Temperature
December temperatures range from 6°C to 18°C.
Famous Places to Visit
Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, Ward’s Lake, and Don Bosco Museum.
Make the Best out of Your December Trip With WanderTrust
WanderTrust is a travel company that makes exploring the world exciting and effortless. We specialize in surprise trips and pre-planned customized journeys, helping travelers discover the best places to visit in India during December.
For travelers who prefer planning, WanderTrust curates customized trips tailored to your interests. From food and activities to accommodations, every detail is personalized. This makes it perfect for those seeking the best places to visit in India in December with family.
Conclusion
December is the perfect time to explore India, offering pleasant weather, vibrant festivals, and breathtaking landscapes. From the snowy peaks of the north to the serene beaches of the south, the country has something for every traveler. Whether you are seeking adventure, culture, or family-friendly experiences, these destinations showcase India’s diversity and charm. Plan your trip to experience the best places to visit in December in India and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions
December is ideal for exploring destinations like Goa, Jaipur, Kutch, and Pondicherry. These locations offer pleasant weather, cultural experiences, and family-friendly activities.
Pondicherry, Coorg, Ooty, and Kodaikanal are popular choices in South India.
For snow lovers, destinations like Manali, Shimla, Gulmarg, and Auli are ideal. These areas are among the best places to visit in December in India for snowfall and offer skiing, snow trekking, and winter festivities.