Best places to visit in December in India: North India

If you’re wondering when to travel to India, look no further than November. November, the month of complete relaxation in terms of weather stability in India, entices travellers of all types to straighten their backs. While the northern half of India is being relieved of the hot heat, the eastern part is saying farewell to the torrential monsoon. Along the same lines, the southern and western sections of the country begin to calm down and are ready to receive suitors to visit them. Travellers from all over the world consider November to be the greatest month to visit India because of the pleasant weather. In November in India, the tourism season is just beginning to kick off and everything is opening up after the monsoon. So you can go sightseeing around India with great weather, lower prices, amazing festivals and fewer crowds. But where to go in November is a significant question that every traveller would love to know. So, to minimise your tussle of finding out the best places, here are some of the best places to visit in India in November.

Places to visit in November in Northern India

1. Shojha, Himachal Pradesh

Places to visit in India in November - Shoja

Shojha is a charming tiny hill village in the Himalayas, equipped with multiple wooden temples and plenty of photo opportunities. Shojha, with its gently undulating hills and lush greenery all around, is a dreamy offbeat destination in India, pristine, undisturbed, and pure. Although the weather in Shojha is pleasant throughout the year, November is the best month to explore. During these months, the natural beauty of the town is at its finest. The Dhauladhar and Himalayas are a feast for Shojha’s eyes in November.

Places to visit

  • Waterfall Point
  • Jalori Pass
  • Serolsar Lake

How to Reach

Shoja is well connected by road and can be travelled via air and rail followed by a break journey by road. The closest air base to Shoja is the Bhuntar Airport located in Kullu. The nearest railway station is the Joginder Nagar Railway Station.

2. Auli, Uttarakhand

Places to visit in India in November - Auli

Auli is a hiking and ski destination in the Chamoli district in Uttarakhand. Surrounded by the Lower Himalayan Mountain ranges, it is the most non-commercial hilly getaway you can find in the state. If you love the mountains, snow, or just the pristine beauty of nature, it is indeed a paradise.Usually peaceful for the rest of the year, Auli gets all peppy and wakes up to the snowfall season close to the month of November. It is almost difficult to describe its scenic beauty in words during the snowfall, you must experience it atleast once in your lifetime. Check out this handy travel guide to experience all the treasures of this Himalayan town.

Places to visit

  • Artificial Lake 
  • Joshimath 
  • Gorson Bugyal
  • Chattrakund 
  • Kwani Bugyal 
  • Chenab Lake

How to Reach Auli

There is no railway station in Auli. There is no flight service to Auli. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (DED), 180 Km away. Dehradun airport is well-connected to all major cities and towns in the north and other parts of India. Auli is well-connected to all northern cities and towns in India by road. You can travel from Delhi, Nainital, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Dehradun, Shimla, Manali, etc. There are regular state-run and private buses from all these cities/towns. You have to travel to Joshimath, which is at 10KM from Auli. From there, you can either trek or take the cable car to reach Auli. The best alternative to reach Auli by road is to book a cab from any nearby major city and travel to Auli via the Upper Ganga Canal Road.

Best places to visit in December in India: Eastern IndiaBest places to visit in December in India: Eastern India

1. Bodh Gaya, Bihar

Bodh Gaya

Bodhgaya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an important Buddhist pilgrimage site where Lord Buddha obtained enlightenment. If you are looking for tranquilly that reaches your inner self, there is no better place to be than here. Monks dressed in crimson from all over the world hum holy writings here. The most sacred place in town, Mahabodhi Temple Complex, is a visual and spiritual treat. The months of November to March are thought to be the finest for visiting Bodhgaya. The temperature remains temperate, and Tibetan pilgrims from Dharamshala visit during this period.

Places to visit

  • Mahabodhi Temple Complex
  • Bodhi Tree
  • Royal Bhutan Monastery
  • Thai Monastery
  • Chinese Temple
  • Vishnupad Temple and Root Institute for Wisdom Culture

2. Kalimpong

Kalimpong

Kalimpong is a quaint little hill station located in the foothills of the Himalayas in the northern part of West Bengal. Located 50 minutes towards the east of Darjeeling, it is a sleepy but surreal Buddhist town. Known for its panoramic views, Buddhist monasteries, and Tibetan handicrafts, Kalimpong is a delight to visit. It is a favourite with the people of Kolkata, who make frequent trips to the town to escape the heat all year round. 

It is one of the best places to visit in November, as the monsoon recedes, the sky becomes clear and radiant and those beautiful dazzling snow-capped peaks become visible. Check out this handy Kalimpong travel guide that details the treasures of Kalimpong that every traveler must experience. 

Places to Visit: 

  • Deolo Hill 
  • Tharpa Choling Monastery
  • Zong Dog Palri Fo Brang Monastery
  • MacFarlane Memorial Church
  • Pine View Cacti Nursery

How to Reach

There is no railway station in Kalimpong owing to its steep terrain. The nearest railway station is in New Jalpaiguri. There are frequent trains from all major cities in India like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Bangalore, Cochin, Chennai, etc. From there you can rent a car in New Jalpaiguri to reach the town.

The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri, 43KM away from Kalimpong. You can fly to Bagdogra from anywhere in West Bengal or other major towns/cities in India and then rent a local car or book a Bagdogra airport taxi to reach Kalimpong in two hours.

3. Daringbadi, Odisha

Places to visit in india in november - Daringbadi

Daringbadi is a small and serene hill station in the Kandhamal district of Odisha. Due to its lush, hilly terrain, chilly winters, and pleasant environment all year round, Daringbadi is often called the Kashmir of Odisha. Dotted with pine forests, coffee plantations, and gorgeous valleys, the town is blessed with natural bounties and makes for an ideal summer retreat for travelers. This place is also home to one of the most ancient ethnic tribes of India, thus making this destination an eclectic mix of nature and culture. Daringbadi in November is extremely pleasant and the climate is perfect for hiking, sight-seeing, relaxing and taking part in other outdoor activities. With our Daringbadi travel guide, you can plan an all-rounded trip to this scenic place and explore attractions in this scenic location.

Places to visit in Daringbadi

  • Mandasaru Kuti
  • Doluri River 
  • Putudi Falls
  • Nature Park
  • Lover’s Point

Best places to visit in December in India: North Eastern India

1. Shillong, Meghalaya

Shillong

Sitting in the heart of the mystical land of Meghalaya, Shillong is a pure natural treasure. Although technically, it is a city and boasts quite an urban environment, its neighbouring areas are a delight for sore eyes. The ‘Scotland of the East, the hilly town of Shillong is surrounded by rolling hills, deep valleys, sparkling lakes, and waterfalls. In November, the hillsides of Shillong are aburst with pink flowers, like a painting with whimsical colours dotting its panoramic landscape. Shillong will be celebrating the Cherry Blossom Festival from November 24th to 26th to commemorate seasonal blossoming and indulge in leisure. The annual Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival is recognised as one of the state’s most vivid and colourful festivals. Click here to know all about the much awaited Cherry Blossom Festival happening this year in Shillong. 

Places to visit

  • Elephant Falls 
  • Shillong Peak
  • Police Bazaar
  • Laitlum Canyons
  • Don Bosco Museum
  • Ward’s Lake
  • Sweet Falls

How to reach

There is no railway station within the city limits of Shillong. Shillong is well-connected to the rest of Meghalaya and other major towns and cities of North East India. There are also regular state-run and private bus services available to Shillong from Guwahati, Agartala, Aizwal, Imphal, Kohima, Dimapur, etc. You can book a cab from any of these cities to reach Shillong comfortably.

2. Tawang

Tawang

Sitting in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, Tawang Valley is a highlight of Arunachal Pradesh. The town is home to the largest Buddhist monastery in Asia. With its tranquil environment, unsullied nature, and rich cultural heritage, the ancient town of Tawang is a handful for the true explorer. It has come to be recognized for offering natural beauty, spiritual solace, and a generous dose of adventure to every seeker. The month of November marks the onset of the season in Tawang and the place remains quite cold till the mid of March. Check out this handy travel guide to experience all the treasures of this Himalayan town.

Places to Visit

  • Tawang Monastery 
  • Tawang War Memorial 
  • Nuranang Waterfall
  • Tse La Pass 
  • Bailey Trail

How to Reach

Tawang does not have an airport or railway station. The nearest airport to Tawang is in Salonibari, in Tezpur, about 317 KM away. You can also fly to Guwahati from any other major cities/towns across India and then travel to Tawang from there. From either of these airports, you have to book an airport taxi or rent a private car to reach the mountain valley.

4. Mawlynnong, Meghalaya

Places to Visit in India in November - Mawlynnong

If you’re seeking a tranquil way to spend November with your family, North East India’s natural splendor is ideal. Experience the enchantment of nature and peace in Mawlynnong, a picturesque town in Meghalaya surrounded by lush flora. The attractive Mawlynnong village, also known as God’s Own Garden, has been named Asia’s cleanest village! Here’s a guide to Mawlynnong, with comprehensive details on activities and things to do here, to make the most out of your trip.

Places to visit

  • Mawlynnong waterfall
  • Jingmaham Living Root bridge
  • Dawki-Shnongpdeng.

How to Reach

Mawlynnong can only be reached directly via road. The nearest airport is the Shillong Airport, also known as Umroi Airport, located in the capital city of Shillong. Domestic flights from all across the country fly to Shillong directly; there are also connecting flights available to the city. The distance from the airport to Mawlynnong is just around 90 km. You can book a Shillong to Mawlynnong taxi and reach comfortably.

Best places to visit in December in India: Western India

1. Dangs, Gujarat

Gujarat’s Dangs district, around 270 kilometres from Vadodara, is rich in verdant forests, offers great weather in November, and has a wealth of attractions to visit. Local tribal residents will teach you how to create tribal Diwali rangoli designs, as well as organise art demonstrations and provide healthy tribal food. Trekking is another option for an intensive experience.

Places to visit

  • Saputara Lake
  • Bhalkhet Waterfall
  • Gira Falls
  • Girmal Waterfall.

2. Dapoli, Maharastra

Places to Visit in India in November - Dapoli

A tiny picturesque town in the Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra, Dapoli was once a military camp for the British. This port city attracts tourists from all over the world with its pristine beaches, historical monuments, Konkan delicacies, thrilling water sports and more. November has been observed as the peak season to visit Dapoli and rightly so. The temperatures range between 66℉ and 91℉ and the humidity that has been observed to be a usual of 80% marking the perfect climate to head out and check out Dapoli. 

Places to visit

  • Karde beach
  • Ladghar Beach
  • Murud Beach
  • Keshavraj Temple
  • Kelshi Beach

Best places to visit in December in India: Central India

1. Bhedaghat, Madhya Pradesh

Jabalpur

This is one for the bucket list, people! This is THE location to go to if you want to see the Marble Rocks of Bhedaghat. The captivating marble rocks, which may reach heights of 100 feet, can be seen on both sides of the Narmada River. The river glides gently over these high marble rocks before cascading down a cliff to produce the Dhuandhar waterfall. Nature lovers can also enjoy boat rides beginning in November, as sailing through the marble cliffs at night will undoubtedly be a fascinating experience. Check out this guide to Jabalpur, with comprehensive details on activities and things to do here, to make the most out of your trip.

How to Reach

The best way to reach Bhedaghat is by travel by air to Jabalpur and, thereafter, booking a cab to Bhedaghat. The city is served by Dumna Airport, 17 KM away from the main city centre. Jabalpur airport is well-connected to major cities and towns in India. Jabalpur is well-connected to the rest of the state and neighboring towns and cities via NH7 and NH34

2. Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary, Chhattisgarh 

The Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary, one of Chhattisgarh’s most popular tourist destinations, is home to the Bar and Nawapura forest settlements. It was founded in 1976 and covers a wide area of 245 square kilometres. This region’s thick and lush foliage supports a diverse range of species. The ground is generally level, with a few low and high hillocks thrown in for good measure.

How to Reach

The nearest airport is Raipur which is 85 km away. The nearest railway station is Mahasamund which is 60 km away. You can book a taxi from Raipur to the Sanctuary.

Best places to visit in December in India: South India

1. Ponmudi, Kerala

Places to Visit in India in November - Ponmudi

Set in the lap of the Western Ghats, this offbeat place in India is packed with tea plantations, lush green hills, streams and waterfalls. Mountain climbing can be attempted at Ponmudi on the Agasthyarkoodam, the highest point in the area at 1868 feet. Ponmudi is best visited in November when the landscape is engulfed in mist. The lush green trees, varied hills, shimmering Kallar River, and gleaming waterfalls will offer you a picture-perfect scene that will make you feel like you’re in heaven.

Places to visit

  • Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Koyikkal Palace
  • Agasthyakoodam
  • Mankayam Falls
  • Varayattumotta
  • Golden Valley Kallar

2. Meghamalai, Madurai

Meghamalai

Meghamalai, often known as the ‘High Wavy Mountains,’ is a tiny but lovely offbeat destination in India located in the Western Ghats in the state of Tamil Nadu. At an elevation of 1500 metres, this location is ideal for beating the heat and spending some peaceful time relaxing in nature. The fresh perfume of cardamom, cinnamon, and pepper fills this spot nestled between the evergreen forest. The lush green tea estates will allow you to sip fresh steaming tea while taking a stroll through nature’s flora and animals.

Places to visit

  • Highwavy Dam Manalar Dam 
  • Megamalai Viewpoint
  • Iravangalar Dam
  • Chinna Suruli Falls
  • Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuary

3. Dodda Ayur, Bangalore

This quarry, located 60 kilometres from Bangalore, bears an uncanny similarity to Ladakh. Dodda Ayur, which is cut off from the rest of the world, is well-known for its serenity and tranquility. The existence of a body of water in the centre surrounded by mountains only adds to Chota Ladakh’s allure and beauty. It is recommended to visit this gorgeous location in November as the weather is a lot more pleasant, compared to other seasons as the intense sun becomes intolerable throughout the day with no nooks to hide in. It is ideal for trekkers, early risers, trekkers, and fitness fanatics.

4. Lambasingi, Andhra Pradesh

Lambasingi

Fondly called the ‘Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh’, the little hamlet of Lambasingi is situated at an altitude of 1025 m in the beautiful and lushly forested Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh. One of the best-kept secrets of Andhra Pradesh, the tiny village is known for its majestic hills, quaint valleys, and chilling temperatures. This village is the only place in all of South India that experiences snowfall as the temperatures drop significantly. Wrapped in the misty haze of winter, strawberry picking has become a big tourist attraction for the region and November is the most ideal time for it. 

Places to visit in Lambasingi

  • Thajangi Reservoir
  • Kothapalli Waterfalls
  • Susan Garden
  • Ghat Road
  • Bojjannakonda
  • Kondakarla Bird Sanctuary
  • Annavaram Temple
  • Yerravaram Waterfalls

Experience the beauty of of these scenic destinations by booking a car rental to take you to all these places with a local driver. Install Savaari cab booking app for offers and discounts on outstation rentals.  

Last Updated on January 18, 2024 by Swati Deol

About the author

Shabari, a modern-day wanderer, seeks out the hidden stories within the world's serene landscapes and vibrant cultures. She views each person as a living, breathing tale, a unique signature in the grand narrative of existence. With an insatiable curiosity for local customs and traditions, Shabari explores the rich drapery of humanity wherever her journey leads. Her passion is to unravel the secrets of tranquil temples, scale majestic mountains, and share the ancient wisdom they hold. Join Shabari on her quest for solace amidst the world's quiet corners and let her writing transport you to the heart of these captivating adventures.

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