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India is a country known for its vibrant festivals and rich cultural heritage. Christmas is no exception, with people across the country coming together to celebrate this joyous occasion. From the snow-capped mountains of Himachal Pradesh to the pristine beaches of Kerala, India offers a plethora of options for a memorable Christmas vacation. In this article, we will explore the 20 best places to visit in India during Christmas in 2023, ensuring a grand celebration.
1. Goa – A Lit Place to Celebrate Christmas
Goa, known for its lively atmosphere and stunning beaches, tops the list of the best places to visit in India during Christmas. The state comes alive with nightlong parties on the beaches, friendly chats, and cocktails in bars and pubs. The cathedrals adorned with lights and flowers, along with the midnight mass in churches, create a magical ambiance. Some must-visit churches in Goa include the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral, and Santa Cruz Church.
Goa offers a range of accommodation options, such as the DoubleTree by Hilton Goa and Cozy Woods Hill Resort. During your visit, make sure to participate in ball dances and explore the vibrant Saturday night markets. The nearest railway stations to Goa are Margao and Vasco-da-Gama.
2. Shillong – Celebration with Much Zeal and Enthusiasm
Shillong, located in Meghalaya, is a hidden gem when it comes to Christmas celebrations in India. With a considerable population of Catholics, Shillong celebrates Christmas with great zeal and enthusiasm. The city becomes even more paradisiacal in December, offering a plethora of fun activities during the festive season. The Mary Help of Christians Cathedral is a must-visit church in Shillong.
For accommodation, consider staying at Woodland Hill Stay or Silver Brook Homestay. Attend the midnight mass and witness the lighting of the century-old fir tree. The nearest railway station to Shillong is Guwahati Railway Station.
3. Pondicherry – Find Crunchy Cookies and Gifts
Pondicherry, with its pleasant weather in December, serene beaches, and elaborately decorated gothic churches and cathedrals, is an ideal destination for a Christmas vacation in India. The city offers a range of activities, including indulging in crunchy cookies, gift exchanges, and exploring Christmas markets. The Domus Dei Cathedral is a popular church in Pondicherry.
Consider staying at Maison Perumal Hotel & Restaurant or Anantha Heritage. Attend the midnight mass and explore the various Christmas markets. The nearest railway station to Pondicherry is Puducherry Railway Station.
4. Kerala – Sing Carols at Midnight
Kerala, known as "God's Own Country," offers a unique way to celebrate Christmas. Singing carols at the midnight mass, witnessing Christmas plays, indulging in the local feast, and enjoying bonfires on the beaches are some of the highlights of Christmas in Kerala. The state is home to beautiful churches like the Basilica of our Lady of Dolores Church, Edathua Church, and St. Francis Church.
For accommodation, consider Palm Grove Service Villa or GoldenBeach Home Stay. Stay in a well-lit tree house and enjoy the Christmas-based meals. The nearest railway stations to Kerala are Trivandrum Central and Ernakulam Junction.
5. Mumbai – Witness Brightly Illuminated Christmas Trees
Mumbai, the bustling city of dreams, transforms into a magical wonderland during Christmas. Witness brightly illuminated Christmas trees on the sidewalks, malls, and markets adorned with Christmas lights and props. The delicious scent of fruitcakes and date rolls fills the air. The Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount, St. Thomas Cathedral, and Afghan Church are some must-visit churches in Mumbai.
For accommodation, consider Holiday Inn or Holiday Inn Mumbai. Visit well-lit cafes and witness mass events at a church. The nearest railway station to Mumbai is Mumbai Central.
6. Kolkata – The City of Joy Gets Joyous
Kolkata, also known as the "City of Joy," celebrates the birth of Christ with great vigor and enthusiasm. Whether you are Catholic or not, you can experience the festive spirit in Kolkata. Light and sound exhibitions, rock band performances, glittering decor, and heavy discounts on merchandise make Kolkata one of the best places to visit in India during Christmas. St. Paul’s Cathedral, St. Philomena’s Cathedral, and Basilica of Bom Jesus are some prominent churches in Kolkata.
For accommodation, consider Ambuja Neotia Vista or Calcutta Bungalow. Visit the grandeur of Park Street and become a part of the Christmas Carnival. The nearest railway stations to Kolkata are Howrah Junction and Kolkata Railway Station.
7. Bangalore – For an Exuberant Festive Spir
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If you are a food lover, Bangalore is the perfect place to celebrate Christmas. The city is known for its exuberant festive spirit and culinary delights. Indulge in tempting cuisines and desserts at various restaurants and cafes. On Christmas Eve, head to Koshy’s for their plum cake and ginger tea, Thomsons Bakery for their rum-soaked cake, or Caperberry for a tempting turkey dinner. Some must-visit churches in Bangalore include the Infant Jesus Church and St. Francis Xavier’s Cathedral.
For accommodation, consider Vivanta Bengaluru or Vivanta Bengaluru. Attend Christmas balls and witness the Christmas night extravaganza. The nearest railway station to Bangalore is KSR Bengaluru Railway Station.
8. Daman and Diu – Attend the Cultural Shows
Daman and Diu may not be the most prominent destination for Christmas celebrations, but it offers a unique and fun experience. The cultural shows, Corridinho (a Portuguese dance), midnight mass in churches, and the millions of lamps illuminating the skies create a festive ambiance. St. Paul’s Church and Cathedral of Bom Jesus are must-visit churches in Daman and Diu.
For accommodation, consider Silver Sands Beach Resort or Hotel Casa De Damao. Witness the midnight mass at churches and explore the decorated attractions in the area. The nearest railway station to Daman and Diu is Vapi Railway Station.
9. Manali – A Perfect Snowy Christmas
If you prefer a snowy Christmas, head to Manali in Himachal Pradesh. Surrounded by snow-laden hills, Manali offers a perfect winter wonderland for your fairytale Christmas. Play in the snow, go skiing and snowboarding, visit chic cafes, decorate Christmas trees, and enjoy hot chocolate by the fireplace. Gilgal Prayer House church and Arcot Lutheran Church are some must-visit churches in Manali.
For accommodation, consider AmNeu Village House or Holiday Heights & Spa. Shop from Manali Mall Road and visit the chic cafes. The nearest railway station to Manali is Joginder Nagar Railway Station.
10. Delhi – For a Festive Atmosphere
Delhi, the capital of India, celebrates Christmas with enormous enthusiasm. Malls and posh streets are stylishly decorated, clubs throw theme parties, and cafes and restaurants offer special menus for the occasion. The city exudes the essence of all festivities in the atmosphere. St. Alphonsa’s Church, St. James’ Church, and Sacred Heart Cathedral Church are some prominent churches in Delhi.
For accommodation, consider Radisson Blu Hotel or Hotel Gold Regency. Visit various malls and witness celebrations at Dili Haat. The nearest railway station to Delhi is New Delhi Railway Station.
11. Shimla – Just Visit These Snow-Laden Hills
Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, offers stunning views of the snow-laden hills during Christmas. The picturesque hill station is a paradise for winter lovers. Take a toy train ride, watch snow-capped hills from your cabin, eat at British-era cafes and restaurants at Mall Road, and attend the mass at Christ Church. Christ Church Shimla and St. Michael’s Cathedral Catholic Church are must-visit churches in Shimla.
For accommodation, consider Shimla Nature Ville or Snow Valley Resorts. Attend prayers, listen to carols, and enjoy all the customs at the churches. The nearest railway station to Shimla is Kalka Railway Station.
12. Chennai – Of Carols and Masses
Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, offers a unique blend of Christmas celebrations. Apart from the carols and mass at its many churches, the city organizes special buffet feasts, nightlong parties, and exciting activities at the Phoenix Market City mall. St. Thomas Cathedral Basilica, Armenian Church, and St Andrew’s Church are must-visit churches in Chennai.
For accommodation, consider Sarovar Inn Hotel or Ibis Chennai. Visit the town square and bazaar for a memorable experience. The nearest railway station to Chennai is Chennai Central.
In conclusion, India offers a diverse range of destinations for a grand Christmas celebration in 2023. From the vibrant beaches of Goa to the serene hills of Shimla, each place has its unique charm and festive spirit. Whether you are looking for lively parties, tranquil moments, or cultural experiences, India has it all. So, start planning your Christmas vacation now and make memories that will last a lifetime.