December marks the beginning of winter and holidays in North India. The pleasant weather coupled with festive vibes makes it one of the best times to visit this culturally rich region. Aside from scenic landscapes and heritage sites, visitors can immerse themselves in local culture through vibrant festivals and lively markets. Here are 10 top destinations to experience unique cultural trips and holiday cheer in North India this December.
Delhi
As India’s bustling capital, Delhi comes alive with festivities in December. You can start your cultural exploration at the Red Fort, an iconic monument illuminated with diyas (earthen lamps) during the Delhi Tourism Festival. Shop for unique ethnic gifts at Dilli Haat and visit food stalls scattered across the city sampling Christmas delicacies. Don’t miss attending Christmas mass at Sacred Heart Cathedral for its ornate decorations and soulful choir.
Dharamsala
Head to Dharamsala for a cultural pilgrimage surrounded by towering Dhauladhar mountains. In fact, Dharamsala is one of the best places to visit in October in India. Explore monasteries like the Dalai Lama Temple which houses holy relics. During Losar (Tibetan New Year), the town bursts with color as monks perform sacred masked dances. Immerse in Tibetan culture by attending prayers, trying delicious momos, and shopping for thangkas (painted Tibetan scrolls). You can also catch music and art performances organized to celebrate this important festival.
Amritsar
Go for a blend of spirituality and festive cheer in Amritsar. Begin your cultural journey at the iconic Golden Temple, beautifully illuminated at night. Watch devotional kirtans and listen to traditional Indian instrument performances at the Wagah Border retreat ceremony. Indulge in lip-smacking lassi, kesar kulfi, and jalebis while relishing qawwali nights during Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti celebrations. Catch a glimpse into the rich Sufi traditions of Punjab during this memorial day.
Rishikesh
Embrace the peaceful vibes of Rishikesh surrounded by the holy Ganges. In fact, Rishikesh is one of the top places to visit in October in India. Pamper your spiritual side with early morning yoga sessions and meditation classes while enjoying tranquil sunrises. Visit Laxman Jhula and celebrity ashrams like The Beatles Ashram. Drop by local bazaars selling puja items, organic teas, and handicrafts. Try langar thalis served at Parmarth Niketan ashram and remember, no trip is complete without sampling fluffy malpuas.
McLeod Ganj
No December is complete without a trip to this picturesque hill station in Himachal. Delight in the mesmerizing vistas of Dhauladhar ranges under a blanket of snow. Experience a day in the life of Tibetan refugees by visiting Norbulingka Institute to see artisans working on thangkas, masks, and wooden crafts. Attend prayer sessions and shop for curios, incense, and Buddhist books. Indulge your taste buds at Bakery Cafe enjoying corn cakes with coffee.
Chail
Explore the lesser-known marvels of Chail nestled within the laps of Dhauladhar ranges. In fact, Chail is one of the best tourist places in India in December. Walk through its enlightening history at the Chail Military Museum and relax in European-style palaces converted into heritage hotels. Spend evenings sipping on Garma garam chai while listening to melodious folk tunes at local eateries like Pabdha Restaurant. It is a perfect stop for those seeking peaceful trails amidst woods and charming village vibes.
Binsar
Head to Binsar Biological Park in winter for unique sightings of Himalayan wildlife and blooming rhododendrons. Follow meandering jungle trails dotted with sholas (oak forests) to the emerald meadows of Kafnai Kalan—witness rare pheasants, cuckoos, and red pandas up close. Visit Chunakhan village for a feel of the rustic Kumaon lifestyle – sip on ghughuti and shop for organic honey and embroidery works. Stay at Forest Rest House run by locals for a true immersion.
Manali
Counter December chills in Manali with hill station allure – cozy cafes, bonfires, and adventures in snowy valleys. Shop for pashmina, woolens, and artifacts reflecting tribal culture at Old Manali bazaar. Witness intricate craftsmanship at local co-op societies and attend music festivals at Hadimba Temple. Drive 30 mins to admire Solang Valley’s snowy peaks and try paragliding. End the day by skiing, sledding or just admiring twinkling lights from a café window.
Kullu
Immerse in Himachali folk heritage at Kullu’s Dussehra festival – one of North India’s biggest. Witness vibrant parades of deities astride wooden chariots accompanied by shehnai and thavil performances amidst festive processions. Catch glimpses of fairytale Royal families and shop for phulkari embroidery, chappals, and locally grown apples at weekend markets near Bhunter. For an authentic experience, visit Jagatsukh to see mandap artisans crafting chariots through winter.
Haridwar
Soak up the spiritual ethos of Haridwar during Ganga Aarti at Har-ki-Pauri ghat. See priests chant Vedic hymns and light agarbathis, diyas while devotees offer prayers. Wander alleys bustling with local bazaars selling religious books, Malas, and herbal potpourris. Head to Chandi Devi temple atop Bilwa Parvat for panoramic views of the holy Ganga. Back in town, let the mellow vibes of Haridwar soothe your soul over evenings curled with a book at Buddha Park.
I hope this guide provides you with ample options for cultural explorations and holiday experiences amidst vibrant festivities in North India’s magical winter landscapes. Do share your favorite destination and memories from past trips.
Also, Read: 15 Best Places to Visit in October in India 2023 Updated list