Christmas in India is a grand affair. Though the country’s diverse culture brings many different ways of celebrating, there is something truly magical about this festival. Cities light up with colorful decorations, the aroma of Christmas cakes fills the air, and a joyful spirit spreads through the streets. From the beaches of Goa to the snowy hills of Manali, India has some of the best places to visit during Christmas, offering festive charm, traditional celebrations, and incredible experiences.
Let’s explore the best places to visit for Christmas in India and get into the festive spirit. Christmas carols, illuminated churches, snowy landscapes, or lively markets, these great places to go for Christmas will ensure you have an unforgettable holiday.
1. Goa – Lit Place to Celebrate Christmas
Goa is undoubtedly one of the best places to go for Christmas in India. Vibrant state is known for its beach parties, lively nightlife, and stunning churches that come alive with Christmas decorations. You can enjoy a midnight mass, indulge in scrumptious Goan delicacies, and soak in the festive atmosphere.
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Must Visit Churches: Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral, Santa Cruz Church
Things to do: Explore Saturday night markets, participate in beach parties
Best place to visit on Christmas: Anjuna Beach, Panjim, and Old Goa
Places to stay: DoubleTree by Hilton Goa, Cozy Woods Hill Resort
Nearest Railway Station: Margao and Vasco-da-Gama
2. Shillong – Celebration With Much Zeal and Enthusiasm
Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, offers one of the best Christmas celebrations in India. Entire town is filled with bright lights and festive decorations. Locals here celebrate Christmas with great enthusiasm, and it’s one of the best places to visit during Christmas if you want a unique experience in the Northeast.
Must Visit Churches: Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians
Things to do: Attend carol services, visit the local Christmas markets
Best places to visit during Christmas: Police Bazar, Ward’s Lake
Places to stay: Orchid Hotel, Café Shillong
Nearest Railway Station: Guwahati Railway Station
3. Pondicherry – Find Crunchy Cookies and Gifts
Pondicherry offers a laid-back yet magical Christmas experience. Coastal town is known for its French colonial influence, making it one of the nice places to visit for Christmas. City is beautifully decorated, and the air is filled with the smell of freshly baked goodies like plum cakes and cookies.
Must Visit Churches: Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
Things to do: Shop for unique gifts at local markets, enjoy French-style Christmas meals
Best places to go for Christmas: Promenade Beach, Auroville
Places to stay: Le Pondy Resort, Maison Perumal
Nearest Railway Station: Pondicherry Railway Station
4. Kerala – Sing Carols at Midnight
Kerala is a wonderful place to visit during Christmas, as the state’s Christian population celebrates the festival with zeal. With its backwaters, churches, and traditional Christian festivities, Kerala is among the best places to visit for Christmas. It’s perfect for those looking to sing Christmas carols, enjoy a midnight mass, and revel in a peaceful holiday setting.
Must Visit Churches: Santa Cruz Basilica, St. Francis Church
Things to do: Attend midnight mass, enjoy traditional Kerala Christmas feasts
Best place to visit on Christmas: Kochi, Alappuzha
Places to stay: Kumarakom Lake Resort, Taj Malabar Resort & Spa
Nearest Railway Station: Kochi, Ernakulam Railway Station
5. Mumbai – Witness Brightly Illuminated Christmas Trees
Mumbai’s Christmas celebrations are spectacular, with dazzling Christmas trees, beautifully lit up buildings, and vibrant markets. City offers an exciting blend of traditional Christmas celebrations and modern festivities, making it one of the best places to go for Christmas in India.
Must Visit Churches: Mount Mary Church, St. Andrew’s Church
Things to do: Visit the Christmas markets, attend carol services, explore the city’s Christmas lights
Best places to go during Christmas: Colaba, Marine Drive, Bandra
Places to stay: Oberoi Mumbai, Taj Mahal Palace
Nearest Railway Station: Churchgate, Mumbai CST
6. Kolkata – City of Joy Gets Joyous
Kolkata is a city that knows how to celebrate Christmas with unmatched enthusiasm. City’s churches and streets are beautifully decorated, and you can join in the celebrations by attending midnight mass, enjoying the vibrant markets, and indulging in delicious festive treats. Kolkata is undoubtedly one of the best places to go during Christmas in India.
Must Visit Churches: St. Paul’s Cathedral, Church of the Mission
Things to do: Visit Park Street for Christmas celebrations, enjoy the Christmas markets
Best places to go for Christmas: New Market, South Park Street
Places to stay: Oberoi Grand, The Park Kolkata
Nearest Railway Station: Howrah Railway Station
7. Bangalore – For An Exuberant Festive Spirit
Bangalore comes alive during Christmas with grand celebrations and unique experiences. City is known for its Christmas markets, splendid Christmas trees, and lively street celebrations. Energetic atmosphere makes it one of the great places to visit during Christmas in India.
Must Visit Churches: St. Mary’s Church, Infant Jesus Church
Things to do: Attend carol singing, shop at Christmas markets, visit illuminated streets
Best places to visit during Christmas: MG Road, Brigade Road
Places to stay: Leela Palace, Taj West End
Nearest Railway Station: Bangalore City Railway Station
8. Daman and Diu – Attend the Cultural Shows
Daman and Diu offer a quaint, peaceful, and festive environment during Christmas. If you’re looking for a calm getaway with cultural shows, Christmas carols, and beautifully decorated churches, this coastal destination is one of the best places to visit for Christmas.
Must Visit Churches: St. Jerome Church, Our Lady of the Sea Church
Things to do: Attend cultural shows, visit the Christmas markets
Best places to go for Christmas: Daman Fort, Nani Daman
Places to stay: Deltin Hotel, Miramar Beach Resort
Nearest Railway Station: Vapi Railway Station
9. Manali – Perfect Snowy Christmas
Manali offers a snowy Christmas experience like no other. It’s one of the best Christmas places to visit in India for those who love the snow. Quaint little town is adorned with beautiful Christmas decorations, and you can enjoy Christmas amidst snow-capped mountains and picturesque landscapes.
Must Visit Churches: Christ Church Manali
Things to do: Enjoy snow sports, attend midnight mass, explore the Christmas decorations
Best place to visit on Christmas: Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass
Places to stay: Himalayan, Manuallaya Resort
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station
10. Delhi – For A Festive Atmosphere
Delhi during Christmas is filled with excitement, with every corner decked up in festive lights and decorations. From grand Christmas trees to bustling markets, Delhi offers a fun-filled holiday experience. It’s definitely one of the great places to visit during Christmas.
Must Visit Churches: Sacred Heart Cathedral, St. James’ Church
Things to do: Explore Christmas markets, attend carol singing, visit the Christmas light displays
Best places to go during Christmas: Connaught Place, Dilli Haat
Places to stay: Imperial, The Leela Palace
Nearest Railway Station: New Delhi Railway Station
11. Shimla – Just Visit These Snow-Laden Hills
Shimla, the queen of hills, is a dream Christmas destination. Snow-laden streets, the cool weather, and the festive decorations create the perfect atmosphere for a cozy Christmas celebration. It’s one of the best places to visit for Christmas if you want to experience a magical winter holiday.
Must Visit Churches: Christ Church, St. Michael’s Church
Things to do: Ice skating, attend midnight mass, enjoy snowfall
Best places to go for Christmas: Mall Road, Ridge
Places to stay: Wildflower Hall, Hotel Clarkes
Nearest Railway Station: Kalka Railway Station
12. Hyderabad – Experience the Joy Lingering in the Air
Hyderabad is one of the best places to visit during Christmas, offering a unique blend of cultural traditions and modern celebrations. City lights up with grand decorations, illuminated streets, and bustling Christmas markets where you can shop for decorations, gifts, and delicacies. Churches like the Holy Trinity Church and St. Mary’s Church hold beautiful midnight masses. If you’re looking for a festive vibe mixed with some history and grandeur, Hyderabad is one of the good places to visit for Christmas.
Must Visit Churches: Holy Trinity Church, St. Mary’s Church, St. Joseph’s Cathedral
Places to stay: Westin Hyderabad, Trident Hyderabad
Things to do: Attend the midnight mass, visit the Christmas markets, enjoy Hyderabadi Christmas feasts
Nearest Railway Station: Hyderabad Railway Station
13. Ooty – Witness the Stunning Churches
For those who love the misty hills, Ooty is one of the best Christmas places to visit. Town is covered in a layer of fog, adding a magical charm to the celebrations. Churches are beautifully adorned with Christmas decorations, and you can participate in the Midnight Mass. Festive spirit in Ooty is complemented by its colonial charm and pleasant weather. Serene atmosphere makes it one of the best places to go to Christmas for a quiet and peaceful getaway.
Must Visit Churches: St. Stephen’s Church, Ooty Church of South India
Places to stay: Willow Hill Resort, Sterling Ooty Elk Hill
Things to do: Visit the local churches, enjoy a boat ride on Ooty Lake, stroll through the botanical gardens
Nearest Railway Station: Ooty Railway Station
14. Gulmarg – Of Snow, Santa and Celebrations
Gulmarg, known for its pristine snowy landscapes, is an excellent destination to celebrate Christmas in India. Snow-capped mountains, festive decorations, and winter activities make it one of the best places to go for Christmas. Santa Claus parades, local festivities, and winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding are popular here. Peaceful, snow-covered environment combined with the holiday spirit is what makes it one of the great Christmas places to visit.
Must Visit Churches: St. Mary’s Church
Places to stay: Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, Hotel Pine Grove
Things to do: Skiing, snowboarding, enjoy the Christmas Eve celebrations, go ice-skating
Nearest Railway Station: Srinagar Railway Station
15. Bhubaneswar – Surprising Addition to Christmas Celebrations
Bhubaneswar, the temple city of India, offers a unique blend of religious traditions and modern celebrations during Christmas. Known for its beautiful temples and architectural marvels, the city also celebrates Christmas with zeal. Expect vibrant Christmas lights, elaborate decorations, and Christmas markets with local handicrafts. Churches in Bhubaneswar host traditional midnight masses, making it a great place to visit for Christmas. It is one of the best places to go during Christmas to experience something unique and different.
Must Visit Churches: St. Vincent’s Church, The Immaculate Conception Church
Places to stay: Mayfair Lagoon, Trident Bhubaneswar
Things to do: Visit the Christmas markets, attend the midnight mass, explore the local temples and markets
Nearest Railway Station: Bhubaneswar Railway Station
16. Madurai – Visit the Well-Decorated Churches
Madurai, a city that is traditionally known for its temples, also shines during Christmas. Churches here are beautifully decorated with Christmas trees, lights, and nativity scenes. Midnight mass at the St. Mary’s Cathedral is a must-attend event. Madurai has a rich cultural backdrop with its majestic temples and heritage, making it one of the great places to visit during Christmas. Warmth of the people and the festive cheer that fills the air make Madurai an ideal destination to spend Christmas with family.
Must Visit Churches: St. Mary’s Cathedral, St. Andrew’s Church
Places to stay: Gateway Hotel Pasumalai, Courtyard by Marriott Madurai
Things to do: Attend the midnight mass, explore the Meenakshi Temple, enjoy traditional South Indian Christmas dishes
Nearest Railway Station: Madurai Junction
Best Christmas Destinations in India
From the sandy beaches of Goa to the snow-covered hills of Gulmarg, there are many great places to visit during Christmas in India. To celebrate with music, dance, and lights or prefer a quiet, peaceful retreat with your loved ones, India offers a wide variety of destinations for the Christmas season. These places provide the best of both worlds: rich traditions and modern-day festivities, making them great choices for your holiday season. So, pack your bags and head out to one of these best Christmas places to visit for an unforgettable experience.
If you are still wondering where to go for Christmas, any of these charming and delightful destinations will ensure that your holiday season is filled with cheer, joy, and plenty of unforgettable memories. From Christmas carols to midnight masses, from festive decorations to local celebrations, these places will offer you a magical experience, making them the best places to visit during Christmas!
