Why December is the Best Month to Explore India
Key Facts
- Ideal weather: December marks the beginning of winter across India, offering pleasant temperatures and clear skies in most regions.
- Festive vibe: From Christmas and New Year celebrations to local fairs and cultural festivals, the country comes alive with color and joy.
- Perfect for travel: Whether it’s exploring deserts, beaches, mountains, or heritage cities, December provides the ideal climate for every kind of traveler.
- Peak tourist season: Many travelers choose this time to book India Tour Packages, making it the most popular month for sightseeing and adventure.
Overview
India in December is magical — a perfect blend of crisp winter air, cultural celebrations, and vibrant landscapes. It’s the month when travelers from across the world set out on an unforgettable India Tour, discovering how diverse and beautiful the country truly is.
From snow-covered mountains in the north to tropical beaches in the south, India offers a variety of experiences in December. You can enjoy camel safaris in Rajasthan, sip hot coffee in Coorg, or meditate along the peaceful ghats of Varanasi.
If you’re planning a trip, here are the 10 best places to visit in December in India, along with must-see attractions, top things to do, and how to get there.
10 Best Places to Visit in December in India
1. Pushkar, Rajasthan
Top Attractions:
- Pushkar Lake
- Brahma Temple (one of the few dedicated to Lord Brahma)
- Savitri Temple (for panoramic views of the city)
- Local bazaars selling handicrafts and jewelry
Things to Do:
- Take a camel ride through the desert.
- Attend evening aarti at Pushkar Lake.
- Enjoy local Rajasthani cuisine at rooftop cafes.
How to Reach:
Nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport (150 km). You can also take a train to Ajmer (11 km away) and then hire a cab or auto.
2. Udaipur, Rajasthan
Top Attractions:
- City Palace
- Lake Pichola and Jag Mandir
- Sajjangarh (Monsoon Palace)
- Bagore Ki Haveli
Things to Do:
- Take a romantic boat ride on Lake Pichola.
- Enjoy a sunset view from Ambrai Ghat.
- Experience a cultural dance performance at Bagore Ki Haveli.
How to Reach:
Udaipur has its own Maharana Pratap Airport, connected to major Indian cities. Trains and buses from Jaipur, Delhi, and Ahmedabad are also available.
3. Amritsar, Punjab
Top Attractions:
- Golden Temple
- Wagah Border Ceremony
- Jallianwala Bagh
- Partition Museum
Things to Do:
- Attend the peaceful early morning prayer at the Golden Temple.
- Try traditional Punjabi food at Langar.
- Witness the patriotic Wagah Border ceremony in the evening.
How to Reach:
Amritsar is well connected via Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport and by train from Delhi, Chandigarh, and Mumbai.
4. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Top Attractions:
- Dashashwamedh Ghat and Assi Ghat
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Sarnath (a major Buddhist site)
Things to Do:
- Take an early morning boat ride on the Ganges.
- Experience the mesmerizing evening Ganga Aarti.
- Explore narrow lanes filled with local sweets and handicrafts.
How to Reach:
Varanasi is accessible via Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport and frequent train services from major Indian cities.
5. North Sikkim
Top Attractions:
- Gurudongmar Lake
- Yumthang Valley (Valley of Flowers)
- Lachung and Lachen Villages
Things to Do:
- Witness snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes.
- Trek through scenic valleys.
- Interact with local Sikkimese people and taste momos and thukpa.
How to Reach:
Reach Gangtok (the capital) via Bagdogra Airport or NJP Railway Station, then drive to North Sikkim with a registered local tour operator.
6. Coorg, Karnataka
Top Attractions:
- Abbey Falls
- Raja’s Seat
- Dubare Elephant Camp
- Namdroling Monastery
Things to Do:
- Visit coffee plantations and taste freshly brewed coffee.
- Go trekking and birdwatching.
- Try river rafting in the Barapole River.
How to Reach:
The nearest airport is Mangalore Airport (160 km). Mysore (120 km) is the nearest railway station with good road connectivity.
7. Garo Hills, Meghalaya
Top Attractions:
- Nokrek National Park
- Siju Caves
- Pelga Falls
- Balpakram National Park
Things to Do:
- Explore hidden caves and waterfalls.
- Experience local tribal traditions and dance forms.
- Visit eco-villages and stay in homestays surrounded by nature.
How to Reach:
The nearest airport is Guwahati, around 200 km away. From there, you can hire a cab or take a bus to Tura, the main town in the Garo Hills.
8. Keoladeo National Park, Rajasthan
Top Attractions:
- Bird Sanctuary (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Bharatpur Palace and Museum
- Lohagarh Fort
Things to Do:
- Go birdwatching (spot migratory species like Siberian cranes).
- Take a bicycle or rickshaw tour through the sanctuary.
- Visit the nearby Deeg Palace.
How to Reach:
Located near Bharatpur, the park is 55 km from Agra and 180 km from Delhi. The nearest railway station is Bharatpur Junction.
9. Bodh Gaya, Bihar
Top Attractions:
- Mahabodhi Temple
- Great Buddha Statue
- Bodhi Tree (where Buddha attained enlightenment)
Things to Do:
- Attend meditation sessions at local monasteries.
- Visit international temples built by different Buddhist nations.
- Learn about Buddhist philosophy and history.
How to Reach:
The nearest airport is Gaya International Airport (10 km away). Trains to Gaya are available from Patna, Delhi, and Kolkata.
10. Varkala, Kerala
Top Attractions:
- Varkala Cliff Beach
- Janardhana Swamy Temple
- Kappil Lake
- Sivagiri Mutt
Things to Do:
- Relax on the beach and enjoy Ayurvedic massages.
- Try surfing or paragliding.
- Watch the sunset from the cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea.
How to Reach:
The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport (45 km). Varkala has its own railway station connected to Kerala’s mainline routes.
Why December is Ideal for an India Tour
- Perfect Weather: From the snowy Himalayas to the sunny beaches of Kerala, India offers ideal weather in December for every type of traveler.
- Festivals & Celebrations: You can enjoy Christmas festivities in Goa, cultural fairs in Rajasthan, and winter carnivals in hill stations.
- Better Accessibility: Clear roads and pleasant temperatures make traveling between destinations easy and enjoyable.
- Ideal for Families & Couples: Many India Tour Packages are specially curated for families and honeymooners during December, with added comfort and festive charm.
FAQs About Traveling in India in December
1. Is December a good time to visit India?
Yes, December is one of the best months to explore India. The weather is comfortable, and you can visit deserts, mountains, and beaches without extreme temperatures.
2. Which part of India is best to visit in December?
Rajasthan, Kerala, Sikkim, and North India are especially popular in December due to their pleasant climate and cultural events.
3. Are hotels and flights expensive in December?
Since it’s peak tourist season, it’s best to book your India Tour Packages in advance to get the best deals on hotels and transportation.
4. What kind of clothes should I pack for December?
Carry light woolens for most parts of India, but if you’re heading north (Himachal, Sikkim, Ladakh), pack heavier winter clothes.
5. Can I find budget-friendly tours in December?
Absolutely. Many operators offer affordable India Tour options covering key destinations, comfortable stays, and local experiences.
Final Thoughts
December paints India in its most beautiful shades — cool air, vibrant festivals, and landscapes brimming with life. Whether you’re chasing snow in Sikkim, serenity in Kerala, or royal elegance in Rajasthan, this month promises unforgettable memories.
If you’re ready to explore the best of India with comfort and care, plan your next journey with Turban Adventures — your trusted partner for authentic travel experiences across India.