20 Places To Visit In India During Christmas 2024

Are you looking forward to planning your next Christmas vacation but need help deciding where to jingle the bells? After a hectic work year, a lovely Christmas holiday can be a much-needed break to relax in the warmth and love of the winter season. Some prefer to celebrate it in the comfort of their homes, while others love to explore the beauty outside. Check out these top Christmas holiday destinations in India and have a winter worth remembering.

How is Christmas celebrated across India?

The best part about celebrating Christmas in India is that it is enjoyed by Christians and non-Christians alike. The celebrations may be different depending on the region, but some common traditions exist.

One of the most popular Christmas traditions in India is attending Midnight Mass. Poinsettia flowers, candles, and Christmas lights adorn churches across the country. Families and friends get together to pray and sing carols.

People, especially children, enjoy exchanging gifts with each other and their favourite Santa Claus.

In some regions of India, Christmas is celebrated with traditional folk dances and songs. For example, Goan Christmas is incomplete without huge fanfare and dancing the "Fado" on Christmas Eve. In Kerala, Christmas carols are sung in Malayalam. In North India, Christmas celebrations are usually a mix of Indian and Western traditions. Many churches and organizations also hold charity events to help the poor and needy. This is in keeping with the Christian spirit of love and compassion.

Top 20 Christmas Getaways You Can Explore in India

If you are someone who likes to step out and experience the joys of Christmas, you can plan your next getaway in one or more of these fantastic destinations:

1. Goa

The party capital of India, Goa, is the go-to favourite destination of people worldwide. The famous Christmas carnival is Goa’s gift to the winter season. You can explore the beauty of serene beaches and mesmerising cathedrals and dance it out at Christmas parties. If parties are not your scene, you can even rejuvenate yourselves with a refreshing trek or enjoy the sweet delicacies at local restaurants.

2. Shillong

Have you tried a Christmas holiday in the North East? Then this can be your chance. The capital city of Meghalaya is known for its unique blend of tribal and Christian traditions. Midnight Mass, caroling, festive meals, and charity events mark the Christmas celebrations. The city comes alive with Christmas lights, bazaars, concerts, and parades, making it an extraordinary time of year.

3. Pondicherry

If you are looking for some old-world French charm, Pondicherry is the place to be. This lovely city is known to host a bustling Christmas market. Additionally, you can visit places like Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Promenade Beach, the French Quarter, or Auroville to experience the unique blend of cultures and festivities.

4. Kerala

The southwestern tip of the Indian mainland is a sight to behold at Christmas. One of Kerala's most popular traditions is the Christmas Eve boat race, usually celebrated in the beautiful backwaters. Tourists can even see lovely Christmas cribs across churches and homes in the state, depicting the birth of Jesus Christ. Fort Kochi, Alleppey, Munnar, and Wayanad are refreshing spots to visit during the season. 

5. Mumbai

The city is known for its beautiful churches, vibrant nightlife, and cosmopolitan culture. Mount Mary Church, Bandra, St. Thomas Cathedral, Church gate, Colaba Causeway, Marine Drive, and Gateway of India are known for their stunning colonial architecture. People from all walks of life come together to celebrate Christmas in Mumbai, and the city is adorned with festive lights and decorations.

6. Kolkata

The city is known for its beautiful churches, Anglo-Indian cuisine, and rich cultural heritage. The historical ‘Flurys’ is known to serve some of the best sweets of the season. Park Street and different parts of the city are decked up in lights and decorations and host some of the best Christmas parties. You can even visit the midnight mass at the famous St. Paul’s Cathedral.

7. Bangalore

Suppose you are working in Bangalore (Bengaluru) and unable to step out of the city; worry not. The Garden City has lights and festivities for everyone to enjoy—Koshy’s, Thomsons Bakery, and Caperberry dish out some of the tastiest meals.

8. Daman And Diu

The Union territory is known for its beautiful beaches, Portuguese colonial architecture, and laid-back atmosphere. The serene Devka beach, Bom Jesus Church, Fort Aguada, Fort Moti, and St. Paul's Church are must-visit places.

9. Manali

Snow is almost synonymous with Christmas in the Northern Hemisphere, and Manali can provide the perfect setting. With the town blanketed in snow and tall pine trees, you can plan the perfect Christmas holiday in Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Hidimba Devi Temple, Manu Temple, or the Vashisht Hot Springs.

10. Delhi

The Indian capital is known to host one of the best Christmas celebrations in the country. Though not having a Christian majority, people in Delhi enjoy the festivities with great fervour. You can visit the Sacred Heart Cathedral for the midnight mass and engage in the traditional Minstrel choir concert.

11. Shimla

This quaint town of Himachal is decked out in festive lights and decorations, and the snow-capped mountains create a magical backdrop. The Mall, Ridge, Jakhoo Temple, Chadwick Falls, and Christ Church are popular go-to sites for enjoying Christmas.

12. Chennai

Chennai is known for its beautiful beaches, churches, and vibrant culture. People prefer visiting places like Marina Beach, Santhome Basilica, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Fort St. George, and Valluvar Kottam to brighten Christmas cheer.

13. Lansdowne

If you seek solitude, a trip to Lansdowne is perfect for you. You can try places like Tip n Top View Point, Bhulla Tal, War Memorial, Darwan Singh Sanatorium, and St. Mary's Church for a quiet and relaxing holiday.

14. Sikkim

This stunning state offers picturesque views, clean surroundings, and snowfall, making it a trekkers' paradise. Must-visit churches include Hope City, St. Thomas, and the Baptist Church of Sikkim. Tourists can enjoy festive meals and the holiday spirit.

15. Dadra And Nagar Haveli

Dadra and Nagar Haveli have a lovely climate that compliments the holiday season. People from all parts of India and outside visit this Union territory to enjoy the Christmas festivities with a tribal touch. Our Lady of Piety Church, New India Church Of God, and Church Silvassa are some must-visit places for Christmas celebrations here.

16. Hyderabad

Christmas is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Hyderabad, the capital of Telangana. The city is known for its beautiful churches, Charminar, and rich cultural heritage. The town is filled with festive lights and decorations during Christmas.

17. Ooty

Who says the best hill stations are only in North India? Ooty is a lovely town in Tamil Nadu adorned with greenery, hills, and some fantastic churches. The surreal gardens and surroundings make this hill station the perfect place to enjoy carols, feasts, and midnight masses.

18. Gulmarg

Have you ever heard of Gondola Ride, Kongdoori Mountain, Alpather Lake, Gulmarg Golf Course, or Ningle Nallah? If yes, then you know Gulmarg pretty well. This spot is perfect for adventure enthusiasts who like combining winter sports and festivities.

19. Bhubhaneshwar

Known for its rich heritage, Bhubhaneshwar is emerging as an upcoming tourist destination for Christmas celebrations. Churches shine with beautiful lights and festive decorations.

20. Madurai

If you find yourself in Tamil Nadu during Christmas, take advantage of the enchanting celebrations in Madurai. You can join the warm-hearted locals for prayers and masses and visit St. Mary's Cathedral. Experience the true spirit of Christmas in Madurai by participating in the various church events and celebrations.