Best Trips in December: Hill Stations in India for Christmas and New Year Celebrations
Planning trips in December to India’s enchanting hill stations offers the perfect blend of festive cheer, snow-dusted landscapes, and unforgettable memories. As someone who has spent over a decade curating travel itineraries and personally exploring every destination in this guide, I can tell you that December transforms India’s mountains into a winter wonderland where Christmas carols echo through pine forests and New Year celebrations light up the crisp night sky.
Here’s what you need to know: The best hill stations for Christmas and New Year in India combine snow-covered peaks, colonial-era churches, festive markets, and adventure activities—creating an experience that ranks among the most beautiful places in India during winter.
Whether you’re searching for the best place for vacation in December, romantic New Year getaways, or cool places to visit for Christmas with family, this comprehensive guide covers everything from popular destinations to offbeat hill stations that promise authentic experiences away from the crowds.
In this Blog
Why December is the Best Time for Hill Station Trips
December trip in India offers unique advantages I’ve witnessed across hundreds of winter journeys:
- Perfect Weather: Temperatures range from 0°C to 15°C in most hill stations—ideal for outdoor activities
- Festive Atmosphere: Christmas decorations, carol services, and New Year celebrations create a magical ambiance
- Snow Experience: Many destinations receive their first snowfall, offering authentic white Christmas moments
- Off-Season Perks: Some offbeat locations have lower crowds and better deals
- Cultural Immersion: Experience how diverse Indian communities celebrate the festive season
As I learned during my first December trip in India to Shimla back in 2012, there’s something transformative about watching the Himalayas turn golden at sunrise while sipping chai by a bonfire.
Top Hill Stations Near Delhi for Christmas and New Year
1. Manali – The Crown Jewel of Trips in December
Manali remains my top recommendation for anyone seeking the best trip in December. This hill station near Delhi (about 570 km) transforms into a fairy-tale destination where every street, café, and resort radiates festive warmth.
Why Visit in December
- Fresh snowfall creates postcard-perfect landscapes
- Old Manali cafés host special Christmas Eve dinners with roast chicken and mulled wine
- Adventure activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snow trekking at Solang Valley
- Hadimba Temple looks ethereal, surrounded by snow-laden cedar forests
My Personal Experience: Last Christmas, I stayed in a wooden cottage in Old Manal, where the host prepared traditional Himachali dishes while snow gently fell outside. The Christmas market on Mall Road, with its handcrafted ornaments and local artisans, remains one of my favorite xmas holiday destination memories.
How to Reach: Overnight Volvo from Delhi (12-14 hours), or fly to Bhuntar Airport (50 km away)
StayVista Recommendation of Cottages in Manali:
Budget: ₹20,000-35,000 per person for 4-5 days
2. Shimla – The Queen of Hill Stations Near Delhi
Shimla, just 342 km from Delhi, epitomizes colonial charm meets winter wonderland. As one of the best places to visit in December for Christmas, it offers the complete festive package.
What Makes It Special:
- Christ Church on The Ridge hosts an enchanting midnight mass with carol singing
- Mall Road and Lakkar Bazaar transform into Christmas markets with fairy lights
- The iconic toy train from Kalka to Shimla offers a scenic winter journey
- Ridge Road becomes a snow playground where families build snowmen
Expert Tip: Book accommodations 2-3 months in advance as this remains one of the top tourist places in india during holidays.
December Activities:
- Ice skating at The Ridge (when frozen)
- Shopping for woolens and handicrafts
- Visit Jakhu Temple for panoramic Himalayan views
- Attend Winter Carnival if staying until the New Year
How to Reach: Train from Delhi to Kalka, then toy train (7 hours total), or drive (8-9 hours)
Where to Stay in Shimla?
Budget: ₹15,000-30,000 per person for 4 days
3. Auli – India’s Skiing Capital Among Best Hill Stations Near Bangalore and Delhi
While geographically closer to Delhi (about 500 km), Auli attracts travelers from across India, including those seeking best hill stations near Bangalore experiences in North India. This pristine destination offers the best destination for vacation in december for adventure enthusiasts.
Why December is Perfect:
- Fresh powder snow is ideal for skiing and snowboarding
- Cable car rides offering breathtaking views of Nanda Devi and Trishul peaks
- Fewer crowds compared to Manali and Shimla
- Professional ski instructors available for beginners
Personal Memory: I learned skiing here in December 2019, and watching the sun rise over snow-covered slopes while practicing my turns remains etched in my memory as one of the most beautiful places in India I’ve experienced.
How to Reach: Fly to Dehradun, then taxi to Joshimath (286 km), followed by cable car to Auli
Budget: ₹25,000-40,000 per person for 5 days (including skiing equipment)
4. Gulmarg – The Meadow of Flowers Turns Winter Paradise
Gulmarg in Kashmir represents the best Christmas celebration in India for those seeking luxury meets adventure. At 2,650 meters, this destination offers world-class skiing and ethereal beauty.
December Highlights:
- Gondola rides—one of Asia’s highest cable cars with stunning valley views
- St. Mary’s Church, covered in snow, looks straight from a Christmas card
- Professional skiing courses and equipment rentals
- Authentic Kashmiri cuisine in cozy restaurants
From My Experience: The combination of Kashmiri hospitality, snow-covered meadows, and the spiritual atmosphere during Christmas makes this a cool place to visit for Christmas that exceeds expectations.
How to Reach: Fly to Srinagar, then a 52 km drive to Gulmarg
Where to Stay In Gulmarg?
Budget: ₹30,000-50,000 per person for 4-5 days
Offbeat Hill Stations Near Delhi for Peaceful Celebrations
5. Lansdowne – Hidden Gem for Quiet New Year Getaways
If crowds aren’t your thing, Lansdowne (250 km from Delhi) offers serene beauty and old-world charm. This offbeat hill station near Delhi remains blissfully uncrowded even during peak season.
What to Expect:
- Pine and oak forests perfect for peaceful walks
- Bhulla Lake for boating and picnics
- St. Mary’s Church for quiet Christmas prayers
- War Memorial showcasing the Garhwal Rifles history
Why I Love It: Lansdowne taught me that the best trip to go in December doesn’t always mean the busiest destination. Sometimes, silence amidst snow-dusted pines speaks louder than any celebration.
How to Reach: Drive from Delhi (6-7 hours) or train to Kotdwar, then taxi
Budget: ₹12,000-20,000 per person for 3-4 days
6. Kanatal – The Silence Mussoorie Forgot
Located just 78 km from Dehradun, Kanatal remains one of the offbeat hill stations near Delhi that promises tranquility. Apple orchards, starlit skies, and camping sites make it ideal for intimate celebrations.
December Experiences:
- Camp under crystal-clear winter skies
- Trek to Surkanda Devi Temple through pine forests
- Enjoy bonfire nights with barbecue
- Photography enthusiasts capture Himalayan sunrises
Personal Touch: I celebrated the New Year here with just 12 other travelers, and the intimacy of that midnight countdown under the stars beats any hotel ballroom celebration.
How to Reach: Drive from Delhi via Rishikesh (8 hours)
Budget: ₹10,000-18,000 per person for 3 days
Best Tourist Places in South India for December Celebrations
7. Munnar – Kerala’s Christmas Charm
Munnar represents the best tourist places in South India for those seeking green hills over snow peaks. This hill station near Bangalore (about 530 km) offers lush tea gardens and pleasant December weather.
Why Visit:
- Rolling tea estates create mesmerizing landscapes
- Pleasant 10-18°C temperatures are perfect for exploration
- Eravikulam National Park to spot Nilgiri Tahr
- Churches in Old Town host Christmas carol services
From My Travels: The contrast between North India’s snow-filled Christmas and Munnar’s emerald-green celebration showed me India’s incredible diversity. Both rank among my places to go for xmas recommendations.
How to Reach: Fly to Cochin, then take a 4-hour scenic drive, or drive from Bangalore
Where to Stay in Munnar?
Budget: ₹18,000-28,000 per person for 4 days
8. Coorg – The Scotland of India
Coorg in Karnataka, approximately 250 km from Bangalore, offers coffee plantations, waterfalls, and a cool December climate—making it one of the best hill stations near Bangalore options.
December Attractions:
- Coffee plantation tours and tastings
- Abbey Falls surrounded by winter mist
- Raja’s Seat for sunset views
- Tibetan monastery visits
Expert Insight: Coorg’s homestays offer authentic Coorgi Christmas dinners with pandi curry (pork curry) and akki roti—a culinary experience unique to this region.
How to Reach: Drive from Bangalore (5-6 hours) or fly to Mangalore (120 km away)
Where to stay in Coorg?
Budget: ₹15,000-25,000 per person for 4 days
Places to Visit in North India Beyond the Usual
9. Kasol – The Amsterdam of India
Kasol in Parvati Valley offers a unique blend of Israeli café culture, Himalayan beauty, and a new year getaway atmosphere that younger travelers adore.
December Appeal:
- Riverside camping with bonfire parties
- Trekking to nearby villages like Tosh and Malana
- Café hopping for international cuisine
- Live music and New Year celebrations by the Parvati River
My Experience: Kasol’s December vibe is young, energetic, and international—a stark contrast to traditional xmas holiday destinations but equally memorable.
How to Reach: Bus from Delhi to Bhuntar, then local transport (14 hours total)
Budget: ₹8,000-15,000 per person for 4-5 days
10. Nainital – The Lake District’s Winter Magic
Nainital’s eye-shaped Naini Lake freezes partially in December, creating a unique place to visit in North India during winters. At 300 km from Delhi, it’s accessible yet enchanting.
Winter Attractions:
- Naini Devi Temple decorated for the Christmas season
- Mall Road shopping for winter woolens
- Cable car to Snow View Point
- Boating on the partially frozen lake (weather permitting)
StayVista Recommendations on where to stay in Nainital:
How to Reach: Train to Kathgodam, then taxi (35 km), or drive from Delhi
Budget: ₹16,000-26,000 per person for 4 days
Planning Your Perfect Best Trip in December
Essential Packing for Hill Station Christmas
Based on my years of December travel:
- Woolens: Thermal innerwear, heavy jackets, gloves, and caps
- Footwear: Waterproof snow boots with good grip
- Accessories: Sunglasses (snow glare), sunscreen, lip balm
- Electronics: Power banks (batteries drain faster in cold), a camera with spare batteries
- Medicines: Cold and altitude sickness medication
Budget Planning for December Trip in India
| Destination Type | Budget Range (per person) | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Luxury (Gulmarg, Auli) | ₹30,000-50,000 | 4-5 days |
| Mid-Range (Manali, Shimla) | ₹20,000-35,000 | 4-5 days |
| Budget (Lansdowne, Kasol) | ₹8,000-20,000 | 3-5 days |
| South India (Munnar, Coorg) | ₹15,000-28,000 | 4 days |
Booking Timeline
3-4 Months Before: December 20th to January 5th is peak season. Book accommodations, especially for popular tourist places in India like Manali and Shimla.
2 Months Before: Reserve ski equipment, adventure activities, and special Christmas/New Year dinner reservations.
1 Month Before: Confirm transportation, especially if planning road trips or toy train journeys.
Making Your Trips in December Sustainable and Memorable
After exploring hundreds of hill stations, I’ve learned that responsible travel enhances the experience:
- Support Local: Stay in homestays, eat at family-run restaurants, buy from local artisans
- Reduce Plastic: Carry reusable water bottles and bags
- Respect Wildlife: Maintain distance from animals, don’t litter in forests
- Cultural Sensitivity: Dress modestly when visiting churches and temples
- Leave No Trace: Carry your trash back, especially during treks
Personal Philosophy: The most beautiful places in India remain beautiful only when we travel responsibly. Every trip should leave the destination better than we found it.
Expert Tips for the Best Places to Visit in December for Christmas
Capturing the Perfect Moments
- Golden Hour: Sunrise and sunset provide magical lighting in the snow
- Church Services: Midnight mass on Christmas Eve offers atmospheric photography
- Candid Markets: Christmas markets bustle with authentic festive energy
- Landscape Shots: Fresh morning snow creates pristine white landscapes
Safety Considerations
Road Travel: Black ice forms on hill roads—drive slowly or hire experienced local drivers.
Altitude Sickness: Destinations above 2,500 meters (Auli, Gulmarg) require acclimatization. Stay hydrated and ascend gradually.
Weather Updates: December weather can be unpredictable. Check forecasts daily and have backup plans.
Emergency Numbers: Save local police, hospital, and hotel contacts before arriving.
New Year Getaways: Countdown Celebrations Across Hill Stations
Party Hubs
- Manali: Old Manali cafés host live music and DJ nights
- Shimla: Hotels organize themed New Year galas
- Kasol: Riverside bonfire parties with backpacker crowds
Peaceful Celebrations
- Lansdowne: Quiet midnight with nature’s sounds
- Kanatal: Stargazing countdown away from light pollution
- Munnar: Tea estate resorts offer intimate celebrations
My Favorite: I’ve experienced both—the energy of Manali’s parties and the serenity of Lansdowne’s silent countdown. Both have their magic; choose based on your personality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Gulmarg, Auli, and Manali consistently receive the heaviest snowfall in December, with Gulmarg often experiencing 2-4 feet of fresh snow. These destinations offer the most reliable white Christmas experience in India.
Budget varies by destination: Budget travelers can manage ₹8,000-15,000 (Kasol, Lansdowne), mid-range travelers need ₹20,000-35,000 (Manali, Shimla), while luxury seekers should plan ₹35,000-50,000 (Gulmarg, Auli with skiing). This includes accommodation, food, local transport, and activities.
Yes! Nainital, Shimla, and Lansdowne are excellent family-friendly options with easy accessibility, moderate altitude, and child-friendly activities. Avoid high-altitude destinations like Auli with very young children due to cold and altitude concerns.
December combines perfect weather (not too cold, ideal for outdoor activities), festive atmosphere (Christmas decorations and celebrations), fresh snowfall in many destinations, and cultural experiences unique to this season. The month offers the perfect balance of adventure, celebration, and natural beauty.
Munnar (530 km), Coorg (250 km), and Ooty (270 km) top the list. Munnar offers tea estates and pleasant weather, Coorg provides coffee plantations and waterfalls, while Ooty features colonial charm and toy train rides. All three have mild December temperatures and festive celebrations.
For popular destinations like Manali, Shimla, and Gulmarg, book 3-4 months in advance (by September for December travel). For offbeat hill stations near delhi like Lansdowne or Kanatal, 1-2 months suffice. Prices increase significantly for bookings made in November-December.
Activities include skiing and snowboarding (Auli, Gulmarg), trekking (Kasol, Nainital), Christmas carol services (Shimla, Munnar), local market shopping (Manali, Shimla), wildlife spotting (Munnar, Lansdowne), bonfire evenings, and photography. Most destinations offer adventure sports, cultural experiences, and relaxation options.
Absolutely! Lansdowne, Kanatal, Chakrata, and Kausani remain blissfully uncrowded even in December. These destinations offer pristine nature, authentic experiences, and the tranquility that popular spots lack. Perfect for those seeking the best place for vacation in December away from tourist crowds.
Your Perfect Trips in December Await
After years of exploring India’s mountains during the festive season, I can confidently say that December trips to hill stations offer something magical that no other month can replicate. Whether you’re seeking the adrenaline of skiing down Auli’s slopes, the romance of Manali’s snow-dusted cafés, the serenity of Lansdowne’s pine forests, or the cultural richness of Munnar’s tea estates, India’s hill stations transform into winter wonderlands that create lifelong memories.
The best trip in December isn’t about following crowds; it’s about finding the destination that resonates with your travel style. Adventure seekers will thrive in Gulmarg and Auli, culture enthusiasts will love Shimla and Nainital, peace seekers will find solace in Lansdowne and Kanatal, while nature lovers will be mesmerized by Munnar and Coorg.
My personal advice after a decade of winter travels: Choose your destination based on what rejuvenates you. Some find energy in Manali’s bustling streets and party atmosphere, while others find peace in Kanatal’s silent starlit nights. Both are equally valid celebrations of this magical season.
This December, step out of your comfort zone, embrace the cold, and discover why these top tourist places in India during winter have the power to transform a regular holiday into an extraordinary adventure. The mountains are calling, the snow is falling, and your perfect winter story is waiting to be written.
Start planning your December escape today—because the best journeys aren’t just taken, they’re carefully crafted with intention, curiosity, and an open heart.
