As the year draws to a close, many travelers start planning their winter getaway, and India is a popular destination for many. With its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and vibrant festivals, India is a fascinating country to visit any time of the year. However, December is a special month, and many wonder if it’s the best time to visit India in December. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the details of what makes December an excellent time to explore India, and provide you with a comprehensive guide to help you plan your trip.
Weather in India in December
India is a vast country, and the weather varies greatly from north to south. Winters have just begun in December, and the temperatures are mild and pleasant in most parts of the country. The average temperature ranges from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), making it an ideal time to visit popular tourist destinations like Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, and Varanasi.
North India
In the northern states of India, such as Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, December is the start of winter. The temperatures can drop to as low as -2°C (28°F) in some areas, making it an excellent time for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding.
Snowfall in India
December is the best time to experience snowfall in India. Popular destinations like Shimla, Manali, and Mussoorie receive heavy snowfall during this month, making them perfect for a winter wonderland experience.
| Destination | Average Temperature (°C) | Snowfall (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| Shimla | 10°C | 20-30 cm |
| Manali | 8°C | 30-40 cm |
| Mussoorie | 12°C | 10-20 cm |
South India
In the southern states of India, such as Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka, the weather is warm and humid during December. The average temperature ranges from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), making it an ideal time to visit popular tourist destinations like Chennai, Kochi, and Bengaluru.
Beach Destinations
December is an excellent time to visit India’s beach destinations like Goa, Pondicherry, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The weather is warm, and the humidity is relatively low, making it perfect for a beach vacation.
Festivals and Events in India in December
December is a month of festivities in India, with many cultural and religious events taking place across the country. Here are some of the most popular festivals and events in India in December: (See Also: Best Time To Visit Ambergris Caye Belize – Island Paradise)
Hornbill Festival
The Hornbill Festival is a popular cultural event held in Nagaland, India. It’s a week-long festival that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region, with traditional music, dance, and food.
When and Where
The Hornbill Festival takes place from December 1 to 10, and it’s held at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama, about 10 km from Kohima, the capital city of Nagaland.
Christmas Celebrations
Christmas is celebrated with great fervor in India, especially in the Christian-dominated states of Goa, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. The festivities include midnight mass, decorating churches, and exchanging gifts.
Best Places to Celebrate Christmas in India
Here are some of the best places to celebrate Christmas in India:
- Goa: Known for its vibrant party scene, Goa is an excellent place to celebrate Christmas with friends and family.
- Kerala: With a large Christian population, Kerala celebrates Christmas with great enthusiasm, especially in cities like Kochi and Kottayam.
- Pondicherry: This former French colony has a unique charm during Christmas, with decorated streets and a festive atmosphere.
Best Places to Visit in India in December
December is an excellent time to visit India, with many popular tourist destinations offering a unique experience during this month. Here are some of the best places to visit in India in December:
Rajasthan
Rajasthan is a popular tourist destination in India, and December is an excellent time to visit this state. The weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and exploring the many forts, palaces, and cultural heritage sites.
Places to Visit in Rajasthan
Here are some of the best places to visit in Rajasthan: (See Also: Is July Best Time To Visit Singapore – Discover Now)
- Jaipur: Known as the Pink City, Jaipur is a must-visit destination in Rajasthan, with its stunning forts, palaces, and cultural heritage sites.
- Jodhpur: Jodhpur is a beautiful city in Rajasthan, known for its blue-painted houses, stunning forts, and vibrant markets.
- Udaipur: Udaipur is a romantic city, known for its lakes, palaces, and stunning natural beauty.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a popular beach destination in India, and December is an excellent time to visit these islands. The weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for water sports, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
Best Beaches in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Here are some of the best beaches in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands:
- Radhanagar Beach: Known for its stunning natural beauty, Radhanagar Beach is a must-visit destination in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
- Havelock Island: Havelock Island is a popular beach destination in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant coral reefs.
- Neil Island: Neil Island is a small island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, known for its stunning beaches, coral reefs, and vibrant marine life.
Summary and Recap
In this blog post, we’ve discussed the best time to visit India in December. We’ve covered the weather in India during December, the best places to visit, and the popular festivals and events that take place during this month. December is an excellent time to visit India, with many popular tourist destinations offering a unique experience during this month.
Key Takeaways
Here are the key takeaways from this blog post:
- December is an excellent time to visit India, with mild and pleasant weather in most parts of the country.
- The northern states of India, such as Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, experience snowfall during December, making it an ideal time for winter sports.
- The southern states of India, such as Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka, have a warm and humid climate during December, making it ideal for visiting beach destinations.
- December is a month of festivities in India, with many cultural and religious events taking place across the country.
- Rajasthan, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Goa are some of the best places to visit in December.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit India?
The best time to visit India depends on the region you plan to visit. Generally, the winter months from October to February are the best time to visit India, as the weather is mild and comfortable.
Is December a good time to visit India for honeymoon?
Yes, December is an excellent time to visit India for a honeymoon. The weather is pleasant, and there are many romantic destinations in India that are perfect for a honeymoon, such as Rajasthan, Goa, and Kerala. (See Also: Is September a Good Time to Visit St Lucia? Perfect Island Getaway)
What are the must-try foods in India during December?
During December, you must try some of the traditional Indian winter delicacies, such as gajar ka halwa, sarson ka saag, and makki di roti. These dishes are made with seasonal ingredients and are perfect for the winter season.
Are there any specific festivals or events that I should attend in India in December?
Yes, December is a month of festivities in India, and there are many cultural and religious events that take place during this month. Some of the popular festivals and events include the Hornbill Festival, Christmas celebrations, and the Goa Carnival.
What are the best places to visit in India during the winter season?
The best places to visit during the winter season in India include Rajasthan, Goa, Kerala, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. These destinations offer a unique experience during the winter months, with many cultural and outdoor activities to enjoy.