6 Best Places to Visit in December in India

Looking for a quick holiday getaway in December but not sure where to go? Don’t worry! India has countless options when it comes to travel, and December is one of the best months to experience the country’s natural beauty. From the majestic Himalayas to the lush deciduous forests of Central India, winter reveals the best of India’s diverse landscapes, wildlife, and charm. Whether you’re an adventure seeker craving bungee jumping, a nature lover keen on birdwatching, or someone simply looking for peace and relaxation, there’s something for everyone. To make your travel planning easier, we’ve handpicked the top 6 best destinations for a December holiday — all affordable, exciting, and packed with unforgettable experiences that will make your vacation truly memorable.

Here are 5 top places to visit in India in December; all of which are different from the other.

Bandhavgarh National Park
Gulmarg in Kashmir
Manali in Himachal Pradesh
Nainital in Uttarakhand
Ranthambore National Park
Munnar, Kerala

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Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Bandhavgarh National Park- Best Destinations for December

Large stretches of Marshy grasslands spread over the Vindhya hill ranges of central India bestows Bandhavgarh National Park, a wildlife hotspot and one of the best places in India to visit in December.

The erstwhile region of Bandhavgarh National Park was less of a wildlife centre until the capital was moved from Bandhavgarh to Rewa in the 17th century. Gradually the forest overran the long-deserted region of Bandhavgarh and came out to be one of the finest Tiger Reserve in the heart of India. The Park has a high concentration of wild-life in a relatively smaller area making it a wondrous biome for wildlife lovers. This animal density also makes Bandhavgarh National Park one of the most promising reserves when it comes to sighting a tiger in the wild.

Apart from the star attraction, the mighty tigers, Bandhavgarh is also home to a wealth of other impressive animal species like the Sambar Deers, Spotted Deers, Chausingha, Nilgai, Barking deers, leopards, Jackals, striped hyenas, and even wolves.

Also Read: Best Places to Visit Near Bandhavgarh

Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir

Gulmarg Jammu and Kashmir

Gulmarg, a small village in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, turns into a winter wonderland ideal for a dreamy holiday in December. Located at an elevation of 8,690 feet in the Pir Panjal range of the western Himalayas, Gulmarg is bestowed with the unmatched beauty of Himalayas and snowfall. It has been a paradise for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers for centuries. The town is well known for its ski resorts and one of the highest Gondola (cable car) rides in the world with stunning views and beautiful winter scenery.

The ski slopes over the green meadows of Gulmarg resemble the Swiss Alps, enticing the appraisers of European destinations to this fairytale-like tourist place in India. In fact, in its long history, Gulmarg was the favourite place of many notables like Emperor Jahangir who ruled during the British administration over India.

Providing beautiful sceneries and spots for various snow activities makes Gulmarg a one-stop holiday destination for both adventurous souls and those who want to spend some time in solitude. Though an all-season destination, December is particularly an enchanting time to visit Gulmarg, as the whole territory is covered with a white layer of snow.

Also Read: Best Places to Visit in Jammu and Kashmir

Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Manali Himachal

Manali is one of the most famous winter vacation spots in India, famous for its snow-clad mountains, frozen river, and calmness. The town receives thousands of visitors every year, especially in December when the town is covered with snow. Among many options, skiing, snowboarding, snowmobile, sledging, snow treks, and horse riding are some of the winter activities that serve the best of Manali.

The beauty of the town increases during winter because the Beas River turns partially icy, and the valleys that were green earlier become white. The trees and rivers are covered with snow and the whole atmosphere turns somewhat dreamlike, perfect for taking pictures.

Snow activities like snow tubing, snow scooter rides, skiing and zorbing are popular in Manali at snow points near Gulaba and Marhi. The Old Manali with its small lanes, wooden houses and relaxed tempo is quite different from the noisy summer settlement. Places like Vashisht and Manikaran hot water springs are ideal for a warm water bath during winter.

Also Read: Best Places to Visit in Himachal Pradesh

Nainital, Uttarakhand

Nainital Uttarakhand

The name, Nainital, describes the presence of a crescent-shaped Tal (lake) named Naini located in the centre of a forested valley about 2,000 metres (6,500 ft) in the Himalayas. The word Naini comes from the name of a major deity, named Naina Devi, worshipped in a temple beside the Naini lake in Nainital.

Nainital is one of the most popular hill destinations in northern India known for its natural beauty accompanied by tranquil lakes and a lot of fun activities to do.

Nainital sums up as a year-round pleaser, but it becomes the best holiday destination in the time of December. Apart from soaking up the bewitching landscape into your soul, one can try things like boating on the misty Naini Lake, ropeway rides to Snow View Point, short hikes and picnicking at the top of hike points.

The year’s end bestows this surreal hill town with an exclusive charm. From its first snowfall to the vibrant festive charm, the month of December brings the beauty of Nainital to its apex.

Also Read: Best Places to Visit in Uttarakhand

Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan

Ranthambore National Park Rajasthan

If you are a nature lover and can’t decide Where to go on holiday this December; choose the National Parks, particularly the Ranthambore National Park, as your escapade in nature this winter. The gem of Wildlife Oasis and one of the most prestigious forest reserves in India, Ranthambore National Park is known for its thriving population of Bengal Tigers. This tiger reserve attracts every nature lover with its wilderness charm.

Located at the junction of the Aravali and Vindhya hill ranges, the vast and lush forest of Ranthambore is where a diverse range of animal species (other than the tigers) like leopards, sloth bears, hyenas, multiple types of deer, many other mammals, reptiles, and over 300 bird species exist.

Ranthambore is known for its lineage of many well-known tigers, like T 39 (Mela), T-28 (Sitara), and T-16 (Machli) who have established their territories or made a name for themselves.

As the winter starts, animals come out in the sun in open grassland areas of the park even in the daytime. Tourists get a decent chance of spotting multiple fauna species during the Jungle safari, making the national park one of the best places to visit in December.

Also Read: How to Plan A Ranthambore Jungle Safari Trip?

Munnar, Kerala

Munnar Kerala

Munnar in Kerala is one of the top 10 destinations to visit in December, offering a refreshing mix of cool weather, scenic beauty, and outdoor adventure. During this month, the hill town comes alive with misty mornings, tea-scented breezes, and vibrant greenery. The temperature remains pleasantly cool, making it ideal for sightseeing, nature walks, and photography. Visitors can explore attractions such as Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, and the Tea Museum, or enjoy panoramic views from Top Station.

December is also a great time to experience local culture and taste freshly brewed tea from the plantations. For travelers seeking peace, romance, or adventure, Munnar offers a complete experience. Its tranquil atmosphere, rolling hills, and natural charm make it one of the top getaways for December and among the most popular destinations in Kerala for a rejuvenating winter holiday.

Also Read: Best Places to Visit in Kerala

Though this list of the best places to visit in December in India doesn’t end here — the options are truly countless — these are my top recommended destinations that you shouldn’t miss.

What do you think? Share your valuable thoughts and suggestions in the comments below!

Happy Winter Vacation!

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