26 Best Places In India To Visit This December To End The Year With A Bang!

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Let's end 2023 with a touch of wanderlust and a bag full of souvenirs. Whether you are a beach person or a mountain person, this list will satisfy the whims of all kinds of travellers who have not yet planned their holiday in December. This list has the best destinations to visit in India this December!

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Photo of Munroe Island, Kerala, India by Pritha Puri

This winter, travel to the Munroe Island, which is at the confluence of two rivers and has the most serene backwaters. The island still preserves its age-old heritage and culture; they even have the tools used during Stone Age. Munroe Island is named after its first resident, Colonel John Munroe. The island has some of the oldest architecture in the country, and buildings that once upon a time belonged to the Dutch. However, Munroe Island faces a threat of submerging, so for us travellers the clock is ticking.

Ideal for: Travellers looking to go off the beaten path on their next visit to Kerala

Things to do on Munroe Island: Take a canal cruise through the remote islands and spot rare water birds on the shores of the island.

How to reach Munroe Island: Munroe Island has its own railway station, and is well connected by both road and rail. The best way to reach Munroe Island is by taking a flight to Trivandrum and from there hiring a vehicle to the island, which is about 80km away.

Tip: There are limited ferries to Munroe Island. Make sure you read up well on the timings and plan your visit to the remote island accordingly. For more such travel tips on visiting Munroe Island, click here and connect with your personal travel guide right away!

Check out the Best Places to Visit in January in India

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Photo of Srinagar by Pritha Puri

Srinagar is nothing short of paradise and the people who have visited this extraordinary valley will agree. The colours of the valley change every season. In the summers, the valley is a fresh green, in autumn you will see it painted in shades of mandarin and in winters, which start in December, you will see the valley wrapping itself in hues of grey, blue and white. Crisp-cold winds blow in the valley indicating that winters are finally here. The temperature drops down to minus degrees and all you will need is a cup of warm kahwa and firans to keep you cozy at times like these. From Kashmir, you can go further to explore places nearby, such as Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Gurez Valley. Srinagar is one of the best holiday destinations in India. Book your dream vacation to Srinagar seamlessly by clicking here and connecting with our Srinagar travel guide.

Ideal for: Travellers looking for a serene, out of the world experience on their next mountain holiday

Things to do in Srinagar: Learn all about Kashmiri culture at Sri Pratap Singh Museum; shop for local produce at Polo View Market and watch the sunset by the pristine Dal Lake.

How to reach Srinagar:The easiest way to reach Srinagar is through air. Srinagar is well connected by road and rail, the nearest railway station is in Jammu. Regular buses ply for Srinagar as well.

Tip: Owing to security reasons in the valley, local shops in Srinagar shut down quite early. Make sure you stock up on the essentials beforehand.

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Photo of Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh, India by Pritha Puri

Another mountain town that needs to be explored in December is Dharamsala. For people who like winters, but are not very fond of being snowed in, Dharamsala is a great option. Snowfall here happens in the months of January and February, and the weather stays cool most of December. This is a good time to go because you will not be bothered about sweating it out in the sun, and it will be fun to explore the places around with more enthusiasm. Dharamsala is very close to McLeodganj where you can see various Buddhist monasteries, including the Namgyal Palace, which is home to the 14th Dalai Lama.

Ideal for: Solo travellers, backpackers and couples travelling to the hills on a budget

Things to do in Dharamsala: Take the famed Triund trek; explore the ruins of Kangra Fort; offer your respects at Dharamsala War Memorial and visit the surreal cricket stadium in Dharamsala. For more interesting things to do in Dharamsala, click here to connect with your personal travel guide.

How to reach Dharamsala: Take an overnight volvo bus to Dharamsala and you will be there around 8 in the morning. Dharamsala also has its own airport.

Tip: Asthma patients should consult their doctors before planning a trip to the hills in winters since it can get really cold which might aggravate their situation.

Check out the Best Places to Visit in February in India

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Photo of Auli, Himachal Pradesh, India by Pritha Puri

Auli is famous for going on skiing expeditions and mountaineering courses. During the month of December, you will find many people there to experience adventurous activities as you are. If you are not the person who likes daredevil acts, Auli also serves as a silent retreat for those looking for time away from their busy lives. You can also go for a day excursion to the Chenab lake.

Ideal for: Adventure lovers looking for an exhilarating skiing experience in India

Things to do in Auli: Witness high altitude flora and fauna in all their glory at Nanda Devi National Park, ski down the challenging slopes of Auli and spend some time by the Chenab Lake. For more interesting things to do in Auli, click here and connect with our Auli travel guide.

How to reach Auli: You can reach Rishikesh by train and from there hire a taxi to go to Auli. Regular buses ply to Auli.

Tip: Before you get down to skiing in Auli, make sure you're under the safe hands of a proper instructor with up to date equipment.

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Photo of Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, India by Pritha Puri

Rishikesh has a plethora of things to do and see, for all kinds of travellers. If you are looking for some peace and quiet, head out to yoga and meditation ashrams that are picturesquely located on the banks of Ganga. If you are a sporty person, then rafting in the river is something you should definitely try. Everything said and done, Rishikesh is without a doubt an exciting destination to visit in India.

Ideal for: Backpackers looking for a budget adventure destination

Things to do in Rishikesh: Spend a night in a riverside camp; push your limits by rafting through the white rapids and treat yourself to an Ayurvedic massage.

How to reach Rishikesh: Rishikesh is well connected by road and rail. The best option is to take a bus straight to Rishikesh, or drive down there yourself.

Tip: Make sure you look out for monkeys who create quite a ruckus in Rishikesh, particularly on the bridges. For more such travel tips on visiting Rishikesh, click here and connect with our Rishikesh travel guide.

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Photo of Udaipur, Rajasthan, India by Pritha Puri

Head to the city of lakes this December to relax, replenish and rejuvenate. Udaipur has a number of palaces and forts that you can see, and with the weather outside being so fabulous, you will easily explore everything without stressing to cover your to-see list. Taste the local Rajasthani cuisine and enjoy shopping at the bazaars inside the interiors of Udaipur. This beautiful city will not fail in charming you and keeps up its mark of one of the best places to visit in India.

Ideal for: Luxury travellers looking to pamper themselves with royalty

Things to do in Udaipur: Take a boating ride at Lake Pichola, go cafe hopping in Hathi Pol Bazaar; stay in a haveli and visit the Monsoon Palace for scintillating views of Udaipur. For more things to do in Udaipur, click here and connect with our Udaipur travel guide.

How to reach Udaipur:You can reach Udaipur by air, rail and road very easily. Udaipur is well connected by road, rail and air.

Tip: While boating is a day-round activity in the lakes of Udaipur, the best time to do the same is around sunset as it offers unmatched views of the city.

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Photo of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, India by Pritha Puri

If you have never tasted the best 'mirchi pakodas' in your life, then I think it is time you explore Jaisalmer. However, Jaisalmer is not just about lip-smacking local food. It is home to some of the most beautiful architecture in our country. For all photography enthusiasts, Jaisalmer is a must go destination. The lakes, sand dunes and forts will fulfil all your dreams of capturing culture on lens, and when you see the starry sky at night amongst the dunes, you will never want to leave. The Jaisalmer Fort still stands proud in the centre of the city, enduring the wrath of tourists. This December, explore a prettier side of the Thar Desert.

Ideal for: Travellers looking to experience the warm hospitality and the rustic side of Rajasthan

Things to do in Jaisalmer: Ride an SUV on the sand dunes of the mighty Thar Desert; visit the India-Pakistan border and shop for Rajasthani textiles in Jaisalmer's colourful bazaars.

How to reach Jaisalmer: The best way to reach Jaisalmer is by taking the overnight train. You can also reach Jaisalmer by road, however the journey becomes too long and tiring.

Tip: Jaisalmer is infamous for its bhang (cannabis) lassis. Being a tourist, locals will always force you to have a glass or two but remember, indulge in the heady drink only if you have an appetite for it and make sure you are in a safe place. For more such helpful tips on visiting Jaisalmer, click here and connect with our Jaisalmer travel guide.

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Photo of Goa, India by Pritha Puri

Goa is famously called the party capital of winters because the number of music festivals and parties that are hosted in its territory increase every year. If you too are a party animal, who would rather dance away the night than cosy up in a quilt in front of the fireplace, then Goa is the place you should be. Goa has a lot of attractions, but in December, it would be best to spend your time indulging in beach sports or chilling at a beach shack. A tip for all those going to Goa in December; go with your gang of friends and have the best time of your life! Goa is the most famous holiday destination to visit in India.

Ideal for: Travellers looking to go all out and party like there's no tomorrow this festive season

Things to do in Goa: Shop in one of Goa's famed flea markets, go cafe hopping on the streets of Goa and attend a full on party. For more insane experiences in Goa, click here to connect with our Goa travel guide and plan your next vacation under expert guidance.

How to reach Goa: Goa can easily be reached through air. If you like road trips, then the Mumbai-Goa highway is a must do. You can also reach there by rail, taking a ride on the Konkan rail route.

Tip: Being peak season, all hotels and resorts often run full. Make sure you book your accommodation well in advance to avoid a sold out show.

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Photo of Rann of Kutch, Kutch, Gujarat, India by Pritha Puri

West of our country lies a land, sprinkled with magic dust that creates a mystical environment and we like to call this land; Kutch. Rann Of Kutch is an exquisite destination and if you still have not visited it, then it is high time that you do. You can explore the near by regions such as Dholavira, Bhuj and Kandla that are historically very important. In December, the weather will be just perfect for you to travel to this western heaven.

Ideal for: Travellers looking for complete solace and a surreal travel experience

Things to do in Rann of Kutch: Take a jeep tour to Kalo Dungar, the highest point in Kutch; put your binoculars to work and spot Siberian flamingos and take a camel safari the pristine white sand desert.

How to reach Rann Of Kutch: The nearest airport is in Bhuj. You can reach the Rann Of Kutch by road and rail as well.

Tip: Do not wander off far from your group. Always remember that since Rann is close to the border, security measures are very stringent. For more helpful tips on visiting Rann of Kutch, click here and connect with your personal travel guide for unmatched assistance.

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Photo of Dudhwa National Park, Lakhimpur Kheri, Uttar Pradesh, India by Pritha Puri

Time to go deep into the rich wildlife of the Dudhwa National Park, which is home to several endangered species. Dudhwa's charm is inexplicable and all you need to do here, is let yourself be a part of nature and surrender to the many enriching experiences that will follow. At the edge of the Indo-Nepal border, you will see many tiny villages that are nestled in the jungle. Meet the local folks of the Tharu Tribe and learn about their culture. December is the best time to spot wildlife in the national park as most animals bask in the sun and go to the river for water. Click here to connect with your personal travel guide and get expert assistance in planning your next getaway to Dudhwa National Park.

Ideal for: Travellers looking to experience the wilderness at its best

Things to do in Dudhwa National Park: Take an early morning jungle safari and spend a night in the forest lodge for a hands on tryst with the wild.

How to reach Dudhwa National Park: Dudhwa has its own railway station. You can also drive down to the national park. You can reach Lucknow and hire a vehicle from there to Dudhwa.

Tip: The park has several restricted areas entering which is not only a punishable offence by law but also means putting your life at risk.

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Photo of Sarnath, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India by Pritha Puri

Enrich yourself at the temples and monasteries, which were once visited by Gautam Buddha himself, long long ago. Sarnath is a holy place 13km east of Varanasi, and the religion of this holy place is kindness. Sarnath is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhist and Jain monks, and you will encounter many of them when you explore the interiors. While in Sarnath, you can visit many temples, stupas and the iconic Ashokan Pillar. Sarnath is a great place for people who love photography.

Ideal for: Travellers looking for a less crowded alternate to Varanasi

Things to do in Sarnath: Marvel at the beauty of Thai architectural style at Thai Temple; visit the famous Chaukhandi Stupa and offer your prayers at the famed Tibetan Temple. For more interesting things to do in Sarnath, click here and connect with our Sarnath travel guide and get expert help.

How to reach Sarnath: Sarnath is well connected through trains. However the best way to reach Sarnath is to take a flight to Varanasi and then take a taxi there towards to Sarnath.

Tip: Since Sarnath is a holy city, it is very important to maintain a certain decorum and not hurt any religious sentiments. Make sure you read up well before you visit these sights of religious importance.

Check out the Best Places to Visit in June in India

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Photo of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India by Pritha Puri

Another holy site in our country, famous for its ghats and temples is Varanasi. Tourists from all over the world come here to take a dip in the holy waters of the river Ganga. Varanasi is really offbeat, and unlike most places that have changed throughout the years, the traditions and ways of Varanasi still remain pretty much the same. You will be able to spot local sadhus sitting in deep meditation, or priests performing religious duties in various temples and on the banks of the river. December is a good time to go to Varanasi, because the heat vanishes and the weather becomes cooler. Click here to connect with our Varanasi travel guide and get expert guidance in booking your next trip to Varanasi.

Ideal for: Backpackers looking to add a touch of spirituality to their next budget holiday

Things to do in Varanasi: Take an early morning boat ride in the Ganges; visit the expansive Ramnagar Fort and watch the evening aarti on Varanasi's ghats.

How to reach Varanasi: Varanasi has its own airport and is well connected by rail.

Tip: While photography in Varanasi is an experience unlike any other, make sure you ask people before you click them. You never know when you end up disturbing someone in between a ritual!

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Photo of Gokarna, Karnataka, India by Pritha Puri

If you think Goa is too crowded for your taste, then let Gokarna come to the rescue. Gokarna is a relaxed and laid-back little coastal town that attracts Hindu devotees from all around the country. However it has, in the recent years, become a much preferred destination because of its unexplored, clean beaches. Besides exploring the many beaches in this town, you can take a surf lesson or two on your holiday at the Cocopelli Surf School. December will be a pleasant time to visit Gokarna.

Ideal for: Beach bums looking for a quite, secluded holiday this December

Things to do in Gokarna: Trek through the rocky beaches of Gokarna; seek Lord Shiva’s blessings at Mahabaleshwar Temple and put your photography skills to test by going on a photo walk. For more interesting things to do in Gokarna, click here and contact our Gokarna travel guide for unmatched expert guidance.

How to reach Gokarna: The nearest railway station is in Ankola, and the nearest airport is in Goa. Gokarna is well connected by roads.

Tip: Refrain from venturing out into deep waters. Swimming at the beaches can also be dangerous as some areas have extremely strong currents.

Check out the Best Places to Visit in July in India

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Photo of Kohima, Nagaland, India by Pritha Puri

Visit Kohima, just in time for the Hornbill festival. In December, the local tribes of the region come together to celebrate and showcase their culture, and people from all over India travel to Nagaland to see this festival. Though a major chunk of your holiday should revolve around the Hornbill Festival, which begins on the 1st of December, Kohima has a lot of other beautiful places to see, such as the natural caves and the Dzuko Valley. Make sure to chart out a well-planned itinerary because you would not want to miss out on anything. After your holiday, you will agree that Kohima is one of the best holiday destinations in India to visit in December. Click here to connect with our Kohima travel guide and get down to booking a memorable vacation right away!

Ideal for: December makes for a great time to visit Kohima, especially for travellers wanting to learn about the cultural practices of tribes in Nagaland

Things to do in Kohima: Attend the famous Hornbill Festival; visit the Kohima Museum to learn about Kohima's several tribes and spend some time with your loved ones by the Shilloi Lake.

How to reach Kohima: The nearest airport is in Dimapur, and you can hire a taxi from there to Kohima. It is a 5-hour journey from Dimapur to Kohima by road.

Tip: Though there are several hotels and resorts in Kohima, it is advisable to book a homestay for a completely authentic experience of Nagaland.

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Photo of Dawki, Meghalaya, India by Pritha Puri

We can only dream of visiting a place, where the water is so clean that the boat seems to float on air. Well, it is time to turn those dreams into reality and for that, Dawki is the place you need to go. Dawki is one of the best holiday destinations to visit in India in December. With mountains surrounding the crystal clear river, twisting around the corners, Dawki is truly magnificent and you will not believe what your eyes see; it is that beautiful. One of the many border-crossing villages between India and Bangladesh, this remote little village is a spectacle in itself. Explore this remote village and say goodbye to your city life for a few days to enjoy the hospitality of the local people.

Ideal for: Travellers looking for a quiet vacation by disconnecting from the bustle of city life

Things to do in Dawki: Take a boat ride on Umngot River; visit the India-Bangladesh border at Jaflong Zero Point and spend a night camping by Umngot River. For more such interesting things to do in Dawki, click here and get expert help from your personal travel guide.

How to reach Dawki: You will have to reach Guwahati by either air or rail and from there hire a vehicle till Dawki.

Tip: Since Dawki is an extremely remote town with very limited tourism, make sure you have your bookings in place before you set off.

Check out the Best Places to Visit in August in India

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Photo of Yuksom, Sikkim, India by Pritha Puri

Yuksom has a rich history to its name, and to unravel its mysteries you will have to go there yourself. Yuksom was home to the first Chogyal (monarch) of Sikkim. This December, take on an adventurous journey to an unexplored, rugged yet beautiful town that has been preserved from the outburst of tourists. While in Yuksom, explore the local monasteries and get to know more about Buddhism. To have a good time, get to know the different kinds of cultures and people that call Yuksom home. Yuksom tops the chart for being an adventurous place to visit in India in December.

Ideal for: Trekkers looking for an offbeat destination and travellers wanting to learn more about Buddhist culture

Things to do in Yuksom: Meditate at the famous Tashiding Monastery; experience the region's flora and fauna at Khangchendzonga National Park and visit the sacred Khecheopalri Lake.

How to reach Yuksom: The nearest railway station is in New Jalpaiguri and from there you can hire a vehicle to Yuksom.

Tip: Being a not so popular destination, you will have to resort to taking a lot of help from locals. Respect the fact that it is their land—give love to receive love! Want more helpful tips on travelling to Yuksom? Click here and connect with your personal Yuksom travel guide.

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Photo of Orchha State, Madhya Pradesh, India by Pritha Puri

Orchha Panna is a mesmerising place for those who enjoy a tryst with history. This destination is rich in historical value and is surrounded by dense forest cover to protect its precious monuments. You will come across big boulders in the middle of a stretched out river bed, small brooks flowing between the ferns, and that is when you'll fall in love with the aura of Orchha. You can also visit the Panna National Park during this time of the year, which is equally beautiful. Click here to contact our Orchha travel guide and get answers to all your queries on booking your next vacation to the land drenched in history.

Ideal for: Travellers looking to take a trip down memory lane and explore Madhya Pradesh's rich history

Things to do in Orchha: Explore the massive ancient Orchha Fort; unearth the adventurer within you by going rafting in Betwa River and offer your prayers at the Chaturbhuj Temple.

How to reach Orchha Panna: Gwalior is airport closest to Orchha, and from there you can hire a taxi to reach Orchha. The most convenient way though, is to take a train to Jhansi, which is only 16km away from Orchha.

Tip: It is very important to space out your trip to Orchha owing to the sheer expanse of Orchha's forts. If you don't plan your trip well, you might just end up exhausting yourself completely!

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Photo of Wayanad, Kerala, India by Pritha Puri

Explore South India this December by ditching touristy spots and instead picking Wayanad, which is a quiet district in Kerala surrounded by emerald green peaks. Wayanad has a lot of places of attraction and you can visit the Edakkal Caves, trek up to the famous peaks in this region or see the Soochippara waterfalls. You will not be disappointed by the attractiveness of this unexplored South Indian paradise. In December, Wayanad will be enveloped in mist and the weather will be pleasant.

Ideal for: Travellers looking to explore a completely different side of Kerala, far away from its touristy backwaters

Things to do in Wayanad: Spend a quite day by Pookode Lake; plan a day trip to the beautiful Kuruva Islands; experience a spiritual awakening at Thirunelli Temple and trek to the famous Chembra peak. For more out of the world experiences in Wayanad, click here to connect with your personal travel guide and get unmatched expert assistance.

How to reach Wayanad: The nearest railway station is in Kozhikode and you can hire a taxi from here till Wayanad to cover 110km. Wayanad is also well connected by road and air, however the nearest airport is 100km away.

Tip: In some tourist spots like Bathery Jain temple, Kalpetta Jain Temple, photography is completely prohibited. Make sure you read the rules well before entering the premises with a camera.

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Photo of Auroville, Tamil Nadu, India by Pritha Puri

Auroville is famous because of the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, and it is a city that aims at creating a community-living environment. The people in Auroville are extremely friendly and they will go out of their way to help you. Auroville is perfect to enjoy lazy days and relaxed meditation sessions. We love Auroville so much because it is one of the best holiday destinations in December in India. If you're looking forward to spending a peaceful time with yourself or your family this December, then you should go to Auroville. You can also visit Puducherry for day excursions and enjoy the beach side with some delicious Portuguese food. Puducherry itself, is surrounded by old-fashioned bungalows and buildings that will transport you to the erstwhile French rule in India.

Ideal for: Travellers looking for a calm, spiritual holiday experience

Things to do in Auroville: Enjoy one of the many educational, health care and other activities that are open to visitors at Quiet Healing Centre, Pitanga and Arka; sign up for volunteer work and sample a mix of local and international food in one of Auroville's many different eateries.

How to reach Auroville: You can take a flight to Puducherry and from there take a bus or a taxi till Auroville.

Tip: During the months of December through February, guesthouses in Auroville are usually booked to their full capacity. Make sure you book your accommodation well in advance. For more such helpful tips on planning your visit to Auroville, click here to connect with our Auroville travel guide and book a peaceful vacation right now!

Check out the Best Places to Visit in October in India

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Photo of Daman and Diu, India by Pritha Puri

Coming back to beaches, a holiday is never complete in winters till you have your feet in sand, salt on your lips and wind in your hair. Daman and Diu, even though one of the most exotic holiday destinations in India, remains untouched by tourists. This coastal town maintains its old world charm pretty well and that is exactly what flatters us the most. The beaches are extremely clean, and you will not find too many tourists crowding here. In December, the weather during the day is hot, and as the sun sets it becomes very pleasant. An interesting choice for the best holiday destinations in December in India. Click here to connect with our Daman and Diu travel guide and get expert assistance in booking your perfect beachside vacation in Daman and Diu.

Ideal for: Travellers looking to ditch the crowded beaches of Goa for a more offbeat beach holiday

Things to do in Daman and Diu: Learn more about the port cities at Diu Museum; go shopping for leather accessories in Daman and unwind by the black sand Devka Beach.

How to reach Daman and Diu: You can take a flight straight to Daman and Diu. The nearest railway station is in Vapi, which is 12km away from Daman.

Tip: Being a popular beach cities, Daman and Diu are filled with touts who will try to make a quick buck out of tricking you. Do not buy travel tickets or book transportation and accommodation through unauthorised dealers.

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Photo of Agatti Island, Agatti, Lakshadweep, India by Pritha Puri

Lakshadweep is synonymous with beautiful and clean beaches and crystal clear blue waters. The Agatti Island, forms a part of Lakshadweep which has a collection of many smaller islands. This destination is perfect for enjoying a relaxed holiday and kicking up your feet with a pina colada in hand. You can snorkel, scuba dive and indulge in other water sports to make the most of this beautiful place. Lakshadweep is one of the best places to visit in India in December.

Ideal for: Travellers looking to unwind on white sand beaches and pamper themselves by staying in a luxury resort

Things to do on Agatti Island: Take a trip down time at Agatti Museum; take a glass bottom boat ride at Lagoon and witness the rich marine life in their natural habitat and plan a day trip to Bangaram Island. For more interesting things to do on Agatti Island, click here and contact your personal travel guide.

How to reach Agatti Islands: You can reach these islands by sea; there are many ships that go to and from Kochi. Agatti Islands is also connected by flights.

Tip: Due permissions from authorities are required without which no tourists, Indian or others is allowed to set foot on the Islands.

Check out the Best Places to Visit in November in India

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Photo of Murudeshwara, Karnataka, India by Pritha Puri

Murudeshwara is a coastal town in Karnataka, which has a wide variety of things to do and see. You can visit the statue of Lord Shiva, which is the second largest statue of Shiva in the world. The Netrani islands nearby are considered to be the best site for underwater sports in India. The Murudeshwara Fort stands as an astonishing structure that is completely covered in moss. December is the perfect time to visit Murudeshwara because coastal regions do not have a lot of humidity in the winters. Click here to contact our Murudeshwara travel guide and get professional help in planning your trip to Murudeshwara.

Ideal for: Travellers open to a unique amalgamation of a beachside destination with religious importance

Things to do in Murudeshwara: Offer your prayers to Lord Shiva at Murdeshwara Temple; shop for souvenirs in Murudeshwara's local markets and watch the sun go down at Murudeshwara Beach.

How to reach Murudeshwara: The most convenient way to reach Murudeshwara is through train. The nearest airport is in Mangalore, which is 165km away and from there you can hire a vehicle upto Murudeshwara.

Tip: Due to limited tourism, there are very few accommodation options near Murudeshwara. Make sure you make your bookings in advance to avoid sold out properties and inflated rates.

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Photo of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India by Pritha Puri

The Andaman and Nicobar islands are so diverse in nature that one trip will never be enough to completely soak in the spirit of this turquoise gem. Andaman and Nicobar Islands are home to a huge variety of flora and fauna. You can opt for underwater sport activities, such as snorkelling and scuba diving, which are very famous on the island because of the corals under the sea. Take a ferry ride to see India's own active volcano or visit the indigenous tribes of the island. In December, your tan won't be as dark as it would have been in any other month of the year! This place should be on top of your December holiday destinations in India list, if you love pretty islands!

Ideal for: Travellers looking for a romantic beach holiday destination

Things to do in Andaman and Nicobar Islands: Marvel at South Asia's only active volcano, Barren Island Plateau; witness turtle nesting at Diglipur; take a tour of Barren Island on a helicopter and spend a night on a beach hut at Long Island.

How to reach Andaman and Nicobar Islands: Andaman has its own airport in Port Blair, and Port Blair is well connected by sea as well. The fastest way to reach is by taking a flight straight to Port Blair.

Tip: While exploring the serene islands of Andamans and Nicobar, it is best to carry very little emergency cash and leave everything else locked in your room. If you are traveling only with your spouse and both of you plan to take the dip together, you may or may not find a safe place to keep your things. For more such helpful tips, click here to contact your personal travel guide and get expert help in planning your trip to Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

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Photo of Kalimpong, West Bengal, India by Pritha Puri

When you have had too much of vitamin sea, you can always take a break and head to the mountains. Kalimpong, is a remote little town in the north east of India, which is a perfect getaway. In Kalimpong, the Bhutia, Lepcha and Limbu tribes have preserved and promoted their culture. There is a spectacular view of the Kanchenjunga peak once you reach there. You can travel to the nearby areas as well, which are Gangtok, Sikkim and the Nathu La Pass. In December, it will be quite cold and there won't be too many tourists because of the off-season. Travel to this amazing destination in India this December for a relaxed holiday!

Ideal for: Travellers looking to explore North-east India on a budget, while avoiding the tourist rush

Things to do in Kalimpong: Experience calm and tranquility at Tharpa Choling Monastery; spot Red Pandas and Black Asiatic Bears at Neora Valley National Park and learn about the interesting rituals of Kalimpong's Lepcha community at Lepcha Museum. For more exciting things to do in Kalimpong, contact our expert Kalimpong travel guide by clicking here.

How to reach Kalimpong: To reach Kalimpong by train, you will have to take a train till New Jalpaiguri and from there you can either hire a vehicle, or take a bus up to Kalimpong. The distance from the railway station to Kalimpong is 4 hours. The nearest airport is in Bagdogra, from where you can reach Siliguri and take a vehicle/bus till Kalimpong. Bagdogra is 79km away from Siliguri.

Tip: Accompanying the harsh winters, Kalimpong experiences strong winds during this period which makes travelling all the more challenging. Make sure you carry adequate clothing and keep yourselves well covered at all times.

Credit: Benoy

Photo of Shillong, Meghalaya, India by Pritha Puri

If you want to enjoy the spirit of Christmas in a quaint far away town, then you should definitely go to Shillong this December. Shillong is popularly known as the 'Abode of Clouds' and we could not agree more! While in Shillong, do not forget to go to the Umiam Lake and the Elephant Falls. In December, the entire town will be christmasy!

Ideal for: Couples and family travellers looking for a simple yet charming winter vacation destination

Things to do in Shillong: Learn about the art of fishing at Dawki Lake; get a tryst of Shillong's exciting palate by going cafe hopping and learn all about North East India at Don Bosco Museum.

How to reach Shillong: Guwahati is the nearest railway station, which is 100km away, and the nearest airport is in Umroi, which is only connected to Kolkata.

Tip: If you are a pure vegetarian, you might not find many restaurants serving only veg food. Make sure you read up well on the places that do and plan your trip accordingly. Need help in planning your perfect getaway to Shillong? Click here and get unmatched assistance from our Shillong travel guide.

Credit: Sarangib

Photo of Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India by Pritha Puri

If you are wondering why Agra is on the list, let me put this out that there is a lot more to Agra than just the Taj Mahal. Agra has the best leather market in the country, where you will get the best quality leather products at dirt cheap prices. The street food is quite delicious and you just claim to have toured Agra without trying the chaat. Visit the Mausamman Burj, which stands as an impeccable historical structure with carvings on the walls, that overlooks the Yamuna river. It will be quite cold in Agra in December, so you should pack your woollens properly, however during the daytime it is much warmer. Agra is a very interesting place to visit in India in December!

Ideal for: Travellers looking for a quick weekend getaway from New Delhi

Things to do in Agra: Go birding at Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary; put your bargaining skills to test by going shopping at Kinari Bazaar and take the famed Chambal River Safari. For more offbeat things to do in Agra, click here and get expert help from our Agra travel guide.

How to reach Agra: The nearest airport is in Delhi and you can also reach Agra by road, through the Yamuna Expressway.

Tip: If you're travelling to Agra through the Yamuna Expressway, make sure you plan your journey in such a way that you're off the road at early mornings or late nights. The freeway sees dense fog during the winter months and it is best to travel on the route during broad daylight.

Start packing your things, and get out of the house for that one last epic journey in 2018!

What are some of the most astounding places you've travelled to in the month of December? Share your story with the Tripoto Community and help fellow travellers plan their next vacation this coming December!

Also, make sure to check out Tripoto's YouTube channel for travel inspiration and some really cool videos.

You can also check out The Best Places To Visit In India: Destinations For Every Month if you plan to travel in any other month of the year.

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