India is a diverse and culturally rich country with a wide range of holiday destinations to explore. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, adventure, spirituality, or just relaxing on beautiful beaches, India has something to offer. Here are 7 popular holiday places to visit during December in India:
1. Gangtok, Sikkim:
Gangtok is the capital and the largest town of the Indian state of Sikkim, located in the eastern Himalayas. It is situated at an elevation of approximately 1,650 meters (5,410 feet) above sea level and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain ranges, including the Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world. Gangtok is a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty, pleasant weather, and rich cultural heritage.
Scenic Beauty: Gangtok is nestled amidst lush green valleys, rolling hills, and snow-capped peaks. The picturesque landscapes make it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
Buddhist Monasteries: Sikkim is predominantly a Buddhist state, and Gangtok is home to several beautiful monasteries. The Rumtek Monastery, Enchey Monastery, and Ranka Monastery are some of the must-visit places for those interested in Buddhism and Tibetan culture.
2. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh:
Shimla, the queen of hill stations, turns into a winter wonderland in December. A popular tourist destination known for its beautiful landscapes, pleasant climate, and colonial architecture. Here are some of the top tourist places to visit in Shimla:
Kufri: Located just a short drive from Shimla, Kufri is a small hill station known for its picturesque landscapes and adventure activities like trekking and horse riding.
The Ridge: This is a spacious open space in the heart of Shimla and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a great place for a leisurely walk and to take in the scenery.
Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary: If you’re interested in wildlife, this sanctuary offers opportunities for birdwatching and spotting various species of flora and fauna.
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3. Andaman and Nicobar Islands:
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, located in the Bay of Bengal, are known for their stunning natural beauty, pristine beaches, diverse marine life, and lush greenery. Here are some of the top places to visit in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands:
Cellular Jail: This historic jail, also known as Kala Pani, is a national memorial. It was used by the British to imprison freedom fighters. The light and sound show here offers a glimpse into India’s struggle for independence
Radhanagar Beach: Often considered one of the best beaches in Asia, Radhanagar Beach is famous for its white sands and turquoise waters. It’s an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing.
Natural Bridge: This unique geological formation, also known as the Howrah Bridge, is a popular attraction. It’s a great place for photography.
4. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh:
Varanasi, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, is a spiritual and cultural hub in India. It’s known for its ghats (steps leading down to the Ganges River), ancient temples, and vibrant street life. Here are some of the top places to visit in Varanasi.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple: This is one of the most famous and revered temples in Varanasi. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its stunning architecture and spiritual significance.
Ghats: Varanasi is famous for its numerous ghats along the Ganges River. Dashashwamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, and Assi Ghat are some of the most prominent ones. They are important for rituals, bathing, and watching the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti.
Sarnath: Just a short drive from Varanasi, Sarnath is where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The site has ancient stupas, monasteries, and a museum showcasing Buddhist artifacts.
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5. Auli, Uttarakhand:
Auli is known for its stunning ski slopes and breathtaking views of the Himalayas. It’s an ideal place for skiing and other winter sports.
6. Munnar, Kerala:
Munnar is a picturesque hill station located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, India. It’s known for its lush green tea plantations, mist-covered hills, and stunning natural beauty. Here are some of the top places to visit in Munnar.
Tea Gardens: Munnar is famous for its vast tea gardens, which offer breathtaking views of the rolling hills covered in tea bushes. You can visit tea plantations like Tata Tea Museum and learn about the tea-making process.
Anamudi Peak: This is the highest peak in South India, offering an excellent opportunity for trekking and hiking. The surrounding Eravikulam National Park is known for its Nilgiri Tahr population.
Eravikulam National Park: This park is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, a type of mountain goat. It’s a great place for nature enthusiasts and trekking.
7. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat:
The Rann of Kutch, located in the Indian state of Gujarat, is a unique and surreal desert region known for its vast salt flats, distinctive landscapes, and cultural diversity. Here are some of the top places to visit and things to do in the Rann of Kutch:
White Rann of Kutch: The salt desert is the primary attraction of the region and is best visited during the Rann Utsav, a cultural festival held from October to March. The pristine white salt flats stretch as far as the eye can see, creating a surreal landscape.
Kala Dungar (Black Hill): This is the highest point in Kutch and offers panoramic views of the Rann of Kutch. There is also a temple dedicated to Lord Dattatreya at the top.
Dholavira: Visit the archaeological site of Dholavira, an ancient Indus Valley Civilization settlement. Explore the excavated ruins, including a large water reservoir system.
Keep in mind that December is a peak tourist season in many of these destinations, so it’s advisable to book accommodations and transportation in advance. Each place offers a unique holiday experience, so choose based on your interests, whether it’s beaches, mountains, culture, or spirituality.
Yatindra Pandey is the Founder of Motivational Dreams and studying self-development, personal finance and investment for last 3 years. Yatindra’s mission is simply, to inspire others to live their dreams and be the person to whom they say, ” Because of you, I never gave up. “
