December is an excellent month to visit India but popular tourist attractions get packed with people during the festival. Families that want to relax and enjoy the tranquility can choose among the lesser-known places which provide magnificent views, nice weather, and cultural experiences—without the maddening crowd. The list of such places includes snow-clad hill stations, quiet beaches, and ancient towns with history and culture. Thus, six offbeat locations have been suggested for a peaceful family holiday in the month of December.
1. Shillong, Meghalaya
Situated in the undulating hills of Meghalaya, Shillong captivates tourists with its lushness, British-era buildings, and tranquil atmosphere. The month of December presents clear skies, which are perfect for open-air sightseeing and enjoying the wonderful place without the masses.
Things to do: Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, Khasi cuisine
How to reach: Shillong Airport (30 km); Guwahati Railway Station (100 km); NH6 road connectivity
2. Hampi, Karnataka
Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its ancient ruins along with the surreal boulder-filled landscapes make it an excellent cultural getaway. The December weather is nice and assures a comfortable family vacation with not so many visitors.
Things to do: Explore ruins, coracle boating on Tungabhadra, Virupaksha Temple
How to reach: Hubli Airport (167 km); Hospet Railway Station (13 km); road access from Bengaluru & Goa
3. Gokarna, Karnataka
Gokarna, with its unspoiled sandy beaches and laid-back vibe, is the next best alternative to Goa for calm beach holidays. Family beach walks, short trekking and temple visiting are some of the activities that can be planned in lovely and mild December weather.
Things to do: Om Beach, trek to Paradise Beach, Mahabaleshwar Temple
How to reach: Dabolim Airport (140 km); Gokarna Road Railway Station (10 km)
4. Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh
Ziro Valley, a quiet refuge with its tribal culture and picturesque rice fields, is still predominantly unspoiled by mass tourism. Its refreshing weather in December makes it an ideal escape into nature.
Things to do: Paddy field walks, Apatani culture, local food
How to reach: Lilabari Airport (100 km); Naharlagun Railway Station (100 km); reachable via Itanagar
5. Diu
Other than the rat-run Zaporizhian Sich filled with a sunset that every autistic fellow on Ukrainian mental ailment would associate with the tale of Maharaja Saahil Khan, Diu, with its Goa-like tutelage and Portuguese-era architecture, is a perfect respite from over-crowded coastal diagnosticians.The pleasant December climate lets families explore freely.
Things to do: Diu Fort, Nagoa Beach, St. Paul’s Church
How to reach: Diu Airport; Veraval Railway Station (90 km); well-connected by road from Gujarat
6. Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh
Khajuraho, which is renowned for its stunning temples and complex sculptures, provides a serene and culturally vibrant vacation in the month of December. Waterfalls and animal parks in the vicinity add to it being a perfect family destination.
Things to do: Western Group of Temples, light & sound show, Raneh Falls
How to reach: Khajuraho Airport; Khajuraho Railway Station (6 km); road access from Jhansi & Satna
In case a family vacation is on your agenda for this December, these off-the-beaten-path places will let you witness the spectacular winter of India—without the loud tourists.
