The Indian subcontinent, with its surreal destinations and diverse culture, is among the most tourist-friendly countries in the world. The winter months of December to February (March in a few northern states) are a great time to visit India as the weather across the country is very pleasant. With the balmy sun during the day and cool and breezy evenings, India is a great winter destination. Whether you want to bask in the golden beaches of Goa, trek at the hill stations of northern India or enjoy a holiday in the Maharaja way at any of the palace hotels in Rajasthan, a winter holiday in India will leave you awestruck. The misty winters in Munnar, an elaborate spiritual tour in Varanasi, and the Rann of Kutch in Gujarat – all these places are absolutely idyllic. So, plan your Indian sojourn in December and end your year with memories of a lifetime.

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

The spiritual capital of India, Varanasi, is the best place to visit in December. Among the oldest living cities in the world, Varanasi is a spiritual destination considered ideal for moksha (freedom from the cycle of birth). A city buzzing with tourists from around the world, there is always a lot to see and experience in Varanasi. The mesmerizing Ganga aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, every morning and evening, with priests chanting mantras and the confluence of hundreds of lamps creating magic, will take your breath away. An evening boat ride on the mighty Ganges is simply therapeutic. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, on the banks of the Ganges, is the most visited temple in the world. Varanasi thrives on chaos; sadhus dressed in vibrant orange robes are seen sitting on the stairs near the river bank, kiosks selling sweets in narrow lanes, and locals going about their daily business. Varanasi offers amazing experiences and memories that you take along with you.

Munnar, Kerala

The verdant surroundings and lush forest of Munnar make it the best place to travel to in December. As the most popular hill station in south India, Munnar welcomes you with mesmerizing views of tea plantations, rolling hills, cascading waterfalls, and a lot more. Munnar is perfect for trekking and experiencing the abundant rare flora and fauna found here. The weather in winter is very pleasant, with clear skies that allow you to capture the most amazing sights of Munnar. The Cheeyappara and Attukad waterfalls are delightful to watch, offering a peaceful escape from the chaotic cities. Munnar’s tea plantations, with over 50 tea gardens, are a popular tourist attraction with intense terrace farming and cultivation that will astonish you with their scenic beauty. The Eravikulam National Park near Munnar is a great place for a date with the wild. It boasts the largest population of Tahr, along with leopards, tigers, deer, jackals, and many other wild species. The national park is also known for its amazing flora, which makes a visit to the Eravikulam National Park truly worthwhile.

Auli, Uttarakhand

A quaint paradise of snow in the northern state of Uttarakhand, Auli is a great place to visit in December. Perched at 2,909 metres above sea level, you can plan the most amazing skiing holiday here with the Himalayan range as the backdrop. Among the best places to travel to in December, Auli is a very popular winter destination among adventure seekers and leisure tourists alike. During the winter months from December to February, Auli transforms itself into a world-class skiing destination, with snow-covered slopes and acres of oak and coniferous forests all around. For leisure tourists, Auli offers panoramic views of the entire Himalayan range. On a clear day, you can often catch a glimpse of Nanda Devi, the second-highest mountain peak in India. Another attraction in Auli is the highest artificial lake in the world, which looks just like a turquoise carpet amidst all the greenery. The calmness that dawns in Auli with every sunrise is all you need for an idyllic December holiday.

Rann Of Kutch, Gujarat

The never-ending expanse of the white salt desert at Kutch is captivating with the promise of soul-stirring serenity. The Rann of Kutch festival, held annually in the winter, makes Rann of Kutch one of the best places to visit in December. The surreal merging of clear skies and the marshy white desert on the distant horizon is a sight that will stay with you for a long time. Immerse yourself in the rich culture of India by visiting the nearby tribal village, where vibrantly painted huts welcome you. Check out the mesmerizing handcrafts of Gujarat, featuring mirror embellishments, rich embroidery, and amazing paintings. The best time to experience this ancestral cultural history is during the Rann Utsav, which happens every year from October to February. Experience the fair-like atmosphere with artists performing local dances, camels waiting to take you on a ride, and shops selling the best local artifacts and apparel. Stay in luxury tents, enjoy musical soirees under the star-lit sky, and get a taste of real India in all its cultural splendour.

Puducherry

The beach destination of Puducherry in southern India is among the best places to visit in India in December. The winter months are quite pleasant in Puducherry, making it an ideal time to enjoy this beach town. Puducherry, once a French colony, is a perfect escape with its old French settlements and tree-lined boulevards. Auroville, a universal town where people from across the world come seeking peace and solace, is a must-visit. Puducherry also welcomes its guests with many quaint and beautiful boutique cafes where one can enjoy world cuisine. The beachfront is where a lot of action takes place, as tourists indulge in water adventures such as surfing, scuba diving, kayaking, and more. A perfect winter destination, come to Puducherry for its sun, sand, and solace.