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A chill in the air, streets adorned in twinkling starry lights, colorful Christmas trees, Nativity sets in churches and the inviting whiff of freshly baked plum cakes — these signs mark the beginning of the Christmas festivities in India.
But some places in the country are particularly unbeatable when it comes to the Yuletide celebrations. From singing midnight carols to partying till dawn and offering mouth-watering Christmas spreads, here’s a list of the 11 best places to visit during Christmas in India.
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1. Goa
Goa is the first place that comes to mind when you think of the best Christmas celebrations in India. Known for its centuries-old churches and grand nightlife by the beach, this is the ultimate place to be for Christmas parties.
However, Christmas in Goa has a lot to it than just parties. With a large part of its population being Christians, many traditional activities and competitions are organized, which make Goan Christmas a community festival.
Must-Visit Churches In Goa
The most popular churches that you should visit this Christmas are Se Cathedral, Church of Basilica Of Bom Jesus, and Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception.
Things To Do In Goa During Christmas
Sing carols at the Midnight Mass.
Set out with the locals for fund collections, along with Santa Claus.
Participate in the traditional Christmas dance.
Go Christmas Crib hopping at Betalbatim Beach, Se Cathedral in Old Goa, Church of Basilica Of Bom Jesus, Siolim, Porvorim, Cansaulim, St. Jacinto Island, and Panjim.
Indulge in the Christmas feast and savor traditional Goan Christmas delicacies like Dodol, Bebinca, Serradura, Kulkul, Sorpotel, Sanas, and others.
Rock to soulful beats of Christmas parties at Anjuna Beach.
You can either take a direct flight to Goa International Airport or a train to Madgaon Railway Station.
TWT Trivia: During the Christmas and New Year festivities, Goa observes an age-old tradition. An effigy of an old man is made with hay and straw, symbolizing the sorrows of the past year. It is burnt as the locals welcome the new year with fresh hopes and happiness.
Planning a trip to India during Christmas? Reserve your stay at one of the top Indian hotels!
2. Kolkata
Kolkata is one of the best places to visit in India during Christmas. An ever-joyous city that lights up for every festival, Kolkata begins gearing up for Christmas right from the onset of December.
Since the city was once the capital of the British Raj, Kolkata is home to the country’s largest Anglo-Indian community. Hence, Christmas in Kolkata is a captivating infusion of solemn midnight masses, best Christmas delicacies, and rave parties.
What’s more is that, if you’re visiting Kolkata during Christmas, you also get a chance to indulge in Kolkata’s special winter sweets made of date palm jaggery or ‘nolen gur’.
Must-Visit Churches In Kolkata
Some of the best churches in Kolkata are the St Paul’s Cathedral, St Thomas Church, St James Church and St Mary’s Church.
Things To Do In Kolkata During Christmas
Go Christmas shopping in New Market. You can get everything from Santa Claus attire, fake Christmas trees, decor props, fake snow, LED Christmas stars, and a lot more. In case you have a sweet tooth, there are also many candy stores in New Market that you can happily raid.
Savor the rich fruit cake at Nahoum and Sons Private Limited Confectioners located in Dharmatala.
Attend the midnight mass at St. Paul’s Cathedral at Cathedral Road.
Dance under the stars at the party at Bow Barracks.
Visit Park Street to view the Christmas-themed lights and indulge in Kolkata’s renowned street food.
Book your tickets for the Christmas Eve River Cruise organized by Vivada Inland Waterways Limited on the Ganges or attend the River Cruise with Gala Dinner by Jupiter Travels at Millennium Park.
Another Christmas place to visit near Kolkata is the renowned Basilica of the Holy Rosary, Bandel, commonly known as the Bandel Church. This is one of the oldest Christian Churches of West Bengal established in 1599 and later reconstructed in 1660 after it was burnt down during an attack. Located about 55 km from Kolkata, you can easily take the Bandel Local Train from either Howrah or Bally Railway Station and experience a life-changing Christmas celebration.
The easiest way to reach Kolkata is by a direct flight to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport or a train to Howrah Railway Station.
3. Delhi
Christmas celebrations in Delhi are a rage and the festivities continue till New Year. From Christmas carnivals in shopping malls to festive season fairs, beautifully decorated churches, grand feasts to Christmas Eve parties, Delhi is a must-visit for a sensational Christmas celebration in 2024.
Must-Visit Churches In Delhi
The main churches in Delhi are Sacred Heart Cathedral Church, St. Alphonsa’s Church, Vatican Embassy Chapel and the St. James Church.
Things To Do In Delhi During Christmas
Visit the famous churches of Delhi to check out the Christmas cribs and attend the Christmas services.
Have an unforgettable experience at one of the many Christmas parties organized throughout the capital.
Indulge in the Christmas brunch by Sheraton New Delhi, Taj City Centre, or Crowne Plaza New Delhi.
Shop at the Sorbet Soiree Christmas Market.
Where To Stay In Delhi During Christmas?
Some of the most popular hotels in Delhi are Eros Hotel New Delhi Nehru Place, Lemon Tree Premier, Taj Palace, and Shangri-La Eros New Delhi.
How To Reach Delhi During Christmas?
To reach Delhi take a flight to the Indira Gandhi International Airport or a train to either New Delhi Railway Station or Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station.
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With a whopping 7.72% Christian population, Chennai boasts some of the most beautiful churches in India. One of my personal favorites is the St. Thomas Mount Church nestled atop a hillock that offers stunning views of the city.
Christmas in Chennai usually involves visiting the local churches, watching the Nativity crib decorations, and indulging in Christmas feasts and parties.
Must-Visit Churches In Chennai
St Thomas Mount Church, Santhome Cathedral Basilica, Christ The Redeemer Church and Christ The King Church.
Things To Do In Chennai During Christmas
Visit the churches of Chennai for the midnight mass on Christmas Eve.
Go Christmas shopping in T Nagar.
Savor the delectable flavors of a grand Christmas feast at Stix and Spice Haat (Hyatt Regency Chennai).
Check out the Christmas decorations at Phoenix Marketcity and Express Avenue Mall.
Pick up Christmas special plum cakes from some of Chennai’s oldest bakeries like the Whitefield Bakery (Purasaiwakkam) and Verghese Bakery (Mylapore). You can also visit Writer’s Cafe and Old Madras Baking Company for some mouth-watering Christmas desserts.
You can also take a 7-hour bus from Koyambedu and visit the Velankanni Church (Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health), a popular Christmas destination frequented by many Tamilians.
Where To Stay In Chennai During Christmas?
Some of the best hotels in Chennai are Grand Chennai by GRT Hotels, Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Taj Connemara, Taj Coromandel Chennai, The Raintree, Park Hyatt Chennai and Ramada Plaza.
How To Reach Chennai During Christmas?
You can land at Chennai International Airport, while the main railway station in Chennai is the Chennai Central Railway Station.
Christmas is one of the biggest festivals in Kerala and the state truly lights up for the festivities. So if you are planning a Christmas vacation in 2024, the ‘God’s Own Country’ is definitely one of the best Christmas destinations in India. Kerala in winter also enjoys fine weather conditions making it a perfect time to tour its beautiful landscapes.
Must-Visit Churches In Kerala
The most famous churches in Kerala are the Basilica of Our Lady of Dolores (Thrissur), St. George’s Syro-Malabar Forane Church (Edapally), Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica (Kochi), St. George Church (Ernakulam), and Arthunkal Church (Alappuzha).
Things To Do In Kerala During Christmas
Enjoy the glitz and glamor of Kochi nightlife, where homes and streets are decorated with fairy lights and Christmas stars.
Attend the Christmas mass at the famous churches of Kerala.
Savor the traditional flavors of Kerala such as Idiyappam Kadala Curry, Fruit Skewers, Appam, Banana Chips, Puttu, Sadya, etc., and enjoy handmade Christmas cakes from its bakeries.
Shop Christmas attire and decor at Broadway Kochi.
Enjoy a calm cruise on the Alleppey backwaters or head to Munnar for a Christmas in the hills.
Visit Fort Kochi to attend the annual Cochin Carnival, one of the biggest carnivals in the country. Organized by the District Tourism Promotion Council, the carnival is a visual treat that includes street rallies, traditional dances, various competitions, and firework displays.
The Indira Gandhi Boat Race, held annually in the last week of December, can also be witnessed here.
The beach carnival at the Kovalam beach is also a special attraction for tourists during this time of year.
Where To Stay In Kerala During Christmas?
Some of the best hotels in Kerala are the Taj Malabar Resort & Spa (Cochin), Trident Hotel (Cochin), Blanket Hotel & Spa (Munnar), Vythiri Mist Resort (Wayanad), and Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel (Thiruvananthapuram).
How To Reach Kerala During Christmas?
Take a flight to Cochin International Airport or a train to any of the main railway stations in Kerala such as Trivandrum Central Railway Station, Ernakulam Junction, Thrissur Railway Station or Kozhikode Railway Station.
For a fun bohemian Christmas celebration, head to the lively beaches of Pondicherry. Owing to its Franco-Tamil culture, you get to experience the best of both places in all its festivals. From visiting its famous churches, to strolling through its colorful streets, attending the beach festivities, and indulging in the authentic French delicacies, there’s a lot you can do here during Christmas.
Must-Visit Churches In Pondicherry
Some of the main churches in Pondicherry that you can visit are the The Sacred Heart Basilica, Immaculate Conception Cathedral, and the Notre Dame Des Anges Church.
Things To Do In Pondicherry During Christmas
Visit the beautifully decorated churches of Pondicherry and sing Christmas carols at the midnight mass.
Embark on an epic culinary adventure as the bakeries of Pondicherry outdo themselves and create the most delectable cakes and desserts. From typical French pastries to the rum-infused fruit cake, Pondicherry is one of the best places to go for Christmas.
Feel the merriment in the air as you head to Mission Street and explore the Christmas market.
Head to the town of Auroville in the evening, and after a quick meal at the Auroville bakery, check out the Christmas decorations and Christmas sales at shops nearby. You may even find a Santa Claus waving at you near these stalls.
You can also stop by hotels in Pondicherry such as The Promenade or Hotel Atithi TGI Grand for a sumptuous Christmas feast. However, don’t forget to make a reservation beforehand.
Take a long walk down the Promenade beach and enjoy Christmas delicacies at the cafés nearby.
Where To Stay In Pondicherry During Christmas?
Some of the best hotels in Pondicherry are The Promenade, Palais De Mahe, Le Pondy, Accord Puducherry, Hotel Atithi, Hotel De L’Orient, 18th Century Puducherry, Villa Du Ocean and The Residency Towers Puducherry.
How To Reach Pondicherry During Christmas?
To reach Pondicherry, you can either take a flight to Puducherry Airport or to Chennai International Airport and drive to Pondicherry. Or, take a train to Puducherry Railway Station.
For a frosty Christmas amidst snow-clad mountains, pack your bags and head to Shimla. This is a popular winter destination in India, where you can make your own snowman. The beautiful golden glow of Christmas lights adorning the streets blanketed in snow is a mesmerizing sight to behold.
Must-Visit Churches In Shimla
Two of the most beautiful churches in Shimla are Christ Church and St Michael’s Catholic Cathedral.
Things To Do In Shimla During Christmas
Head to Kufri and indulge in all kinds of snow sports such as skiing, trekking, snowball fights and more.
Visit the Gothic-styled Christ Church for the midnight mass.
Revel in the festivities as you walk down the Mall Road and enjoy the street foods of Shimla.
Where To Stay In Shimla During Christmas?
Some of the most popular hotels in Shimla are Snow Valley Resorts Shimla, The Zion Hotel, Royale Retreat, and Shimla Havens Resort.
How To Reach Shimla During Christmas?
Jubbarhatti Airport or the Shimla Airport connect the hill station to other major cities. You can also take a train to Kalka Railway Station.
8. Mumbai
Mumbai’s vibrant lifestyle is perfect for the city adventurer who wants to have a blast this Christmas. However, the city also has some amazing Christmas destinations that would make your celebrations merrier.
Must-Visit Churches In Mumbai
Some of the best churches in Mumbai are St Thomas’ Cathedral, St Michael’s Church, Our Lady of Egypt Church, Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount Church and Cathedral of the Holy Name Church.
Things To Do In Mumbai During Christmas
Attend the Christmas services at some of Mumbai’s famous churches in Mumbai.
Visit the heritage village of Khotachiwadi for a unique Christmas celebration.
Watch the Christmas lights at Waterfield Road (Bandra), and Ranwar village.
Go Christmas shopping at Colaba Causeway, Hill Road (Bandra) and other Mumbai markets.
A Mumbai Christmas isn’t complete till you immerse yourself in the joyous festive spirit of Juhu beach. Enjoy the street food and shop Christmas decor at the local stalls here.
Check out the stunning Christmas decorations at Phoenix Mall, R City Mall and Oberoi Mall.
Delve into the special Christmas spreads in many restaurants and star hotels. You can also drop in to any of Mumbai’s famous bakeries such as American Express Bakery and Bombay Baking Company.
Go on an open-air jeep tour under the Christmas lights of Bandra and get to know the untold tales of this suburb with BandraBling.
Where To Stay In Mumbai During Christmas?
Some of the most popular hotels in Mumbai are Taj Lands End, Trident Hotel, Nariman Point Mumbai, Four Seasons Hotel, The Lalit Mumbai and the Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai.
How To Reach Mumbai During Christmas?
Take a flight to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport or a train to Mumbai Central Railway Station.
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For those of you who like to party hard, Bangalore is the best place to celebrate Christmas in India. This posh city decks itself in Christmas colors and offers the perfect blend of traditional and urban festivities.
Must-Visit Churches In Bangalore
Some of the largest churches in Bangalore are St Patrick’s Church, Holy Trinity Church, St Mark’s Cathedral, and St Mary’s Basilica.
Things To Do In Bangalore During Christmas
Head to Commercial Street for all things Christmassy. This is one of the best places to shop in Bangalore. From beautiful dresses in Christmas colors to all kinds of Christmas decorations, this is your one stop shopping destination.
Attend the midnight mass at many churches in Bangalore.
Christmas is all about feasts and Bangalore is the perfect hub for foodies. To indulge in the Christmas spread check out Portland Steakhouse, That Only Place, Toit, The Reservoire and other similar pubs and eateries.
Apart from known bakeries like Thom’s Bakery, O.G Variar & Sons, Sreenivasa Brahmins Bakery, you can also head to Infinitea or Happy Belly Bakes who offer a great assortment of Christmas cakes and other goodies.
Pay the shopping malls of Bangalore a quick visit for their absolutely gorgeous Christmas decorations.
Where To Stay In Bangalore During Christmas?
Some of the best hotels in Bangalore include The Leela Palace Bengaluru, Vivanta Bengaluru, The Ritz Carlton, Taj Yeshwantpur and Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru.
How To Reach Bangalore During Christmas?
Take a flight to Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru or a train to Bengaluru City Junction Railway Station, or Bangalore Cantonment Railway Station.
10. Shillong
Enjoy a warm, homely Christmas amidst unspoiled nature in the pristine hill station of Shillong. This is one of the best Christmas holiday destinations in India that allows you to experience the traditions of the North East.
Mornings in Shillong are calm and beautiful while the evenings dazzle in Christmas lights. With Christmas trees in every corner, you will find the whole city buzzing with Christmas carols and large crowds dressed in their traditional attire thronging the streets.
Must-Visit Churches In Shillong
Laitumkhrah Presbyterian Church, Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians, and All Saints’ Cathedral.
Things To Do In Shillong During Christmas
Take a walk down the streets of Shillong, where every house and shop is adorned with tinsel lights.
Head to Police Bazaar for all your Christmas shopping needs.
Get a taste of Mahari cake at one of the local bakeries. Other local delicacies to try in Shillong are Momos, Phan Tungtap, Pu Khlien and Pu Tharo.
Visit the famous churches of Shillong for the Christmas prayers.
Apart from the popular Christmas destinations, do make time to visit famous tourist attractions of Meghalaya like the Double Decker Living Root Bridge, Krem Dem Cave and Rainbow Falls.
Where To Stay In Shillong During Christmas?
Some of the best hotels in Shillong are The Pear Tree, Hotel Polo Towers, Woodland Hill Stay and Vivanta Meghalaya.
How To Reach Shillong During Christmas?
You can either take a flight to the Shillong Airport located in Umroi or a train to the Guwahati Railway Station.
11. Ooty
Ooty has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Tamil Nadu. According to the locals, this stunning hill station is visited by Indian and foreign tourists throughout the year. Surrounded by the lush greenery of the Nilgiris, Ooty has many tourist attractions that can give you a busy itinerary for your Christmas vacation this year.
While the churches in Ooty are decked in starry lights and its markets and malls announce their Christmas sales, its innumerable bakeries, cafes, and restaurants cook up all kinds of Christmas delicacies. Another aspect that makes Ooty one of the best places to visit for Christmas in India, is that almost all its hotels, resorts and nature stays put up Christmas decorations and organize special Christmas menus and activities for their guests.
Also, if you have a couple of days in hand, make a quick trip to the nearby hill stations of Coonoor and Kotagiri. Both these places offer the most pristine views of the Nilgiri mountains, completely blanketed with tea plantations. Unlike the busy streets of Ooty in December, Coonoor and Kotagiri are perfect for long treks, nature walks and chance meets with wildlife in their natural habitats.
TWT Tip: If you wish to indulge in some mouthwatering liquor-infused Christmas plum cakes and authentic French desserts, head to The Culinarium at Bicketty (8 km from Ooty). This fine dining restaurant and bakery is a rage among Indian and foreign tourists, including celebs.
Must-Visit Churches In Ooty
Some of the most visited churches in Ooty are St. Stephen’s Church, Sacred Heart Cathedral, CSI St. Thomas Church, and St. Mary’s Church.
Things To Do In Ooty During Christmas
Visit the old churches of Ooty for a traditional Christmas service.
Head to the Tibetan Market located near the Government Botanical Garden for some beautiful cardigans, shawls, and ponchos. You can also find a variety of Christmas decors, bags, caps, and scarves in the nearby shops.
You can also visit the Ooty Cauvery Silk And Handicrafts (government emporium) for unique banana leaf shawls.
Reserve a table at the famous restaurants of Ooty for a mouth-watering Christmas feast. Some of these are Earl’s Secret, The Culinarium, Savoy, Tycoons, and Le Cafe.
Visit the popular tourist attractions of Ooty such as the Stone House (Museum), Karnataka Siri Horticulture Garden, Toda Temple, Botanical Garden, The tea factory & The Tea Museum, and Rose Garden. Enjoy the sunset during a romantic boat ride at the Tamil Nadu Tourism Ooty Boat House.
Munch on Ooty’s famous homemade chocolates and Varkeys.
Catch up with your friends over an exotic cup of herbal tea at the Buddies Cafe.
Enjoy a scenic ride on the Ooty Toy Train.
If time permits, travel to the other Christmas destinations in India near Ooty, such as Emerald Lake, Coonoor, Kotagiri, Dodabetta Peak, Mudumalai National Park, and Masinagudi for a thrilling adventure during your Christmas vacation.
The nearest airport to Ooty is the Coimbatore International Airport and the closest railway station is the Mettupalayam Railway Station. From here, you can catch the toy train to Ooty. There are also direct buses to Ooty from Chennai.
As India prepares for the festive season, this is also the best time to pack your bags and go on a Christmas adventure. From attending midnight masses in colossal gothic churches to savoring delectable Christmas delicacies, there’s something for every kind of traveler. So refer to our list of the best places to celebrate Christmas in India and ride on the Yuletide celebrations like a pro.
Frequently Asked Questions On Best Places To Celebrate Christmas In India
1. Which is the best city in India to celebrate Christmas this year?
While there are many cities in India which celebrate Christmas with much enthusiasm, cities in Goa and Kerala, along with Kolkata, Mumbai, Pondicherry and Shimla are the best places to celebrate Christmas in India.
2. Which is the most beautiful place in India to spend Christmas?
Goa is the most beautiful place in India to celebrate Christmas.
3. How do Indians celebrate Christmas ?
During Christmas, Indians usually visit churches to attend the Christmas services. At home, they prepare Christmas cakes and food and share Christmas presents with friends and family. They also attend Christmas feasts and parties.
4. What special foods do Indians eat during Christmas?
Some of the most common culinary delicacies that Indians eat during Christmas are Plum Cake, Cookies, Walnut Fudge, Mashed Potatoes, Dodol and Bebinca.
5. Which other places can you celebrate Christmas in India?
Some other places where you can celebrate Christmas in India are Ooty, Daman and Diu, Sikkim, Manali, Hyderabad, and Madurai.
6. Do you get a holiday during Christmas in India?
Yes, most schools and colleges in India have Christmas vacations and remain closed during those 8 days from 25th December (Christmas) to 1st of January.
7. Is India cold during the December months?
Different parts of India experience different climates. While most Himalayan hill stations in the north receive snowfall in December, places in the central and South India experience pleasant weather.
8. Should I visit Delhi in December during Christmas?
Yes, Delhi experiences low temperatures during December and beautifully adorns itself in Christmas lights. Christmas in Delhi is celebrated with much enthusiasm, making it a great Christmas destination in India.
9. How is Christmas celebrated in Goa?
There are many Christmas carnivals and parties that happen in Goa during this festive season. Locals visit churches for Christmas prayers and prepare delicious foods and desserts.
10. How can I celebrate Christmas in Pondicherry this year in 2024?
You can hit the lively beaches of Pondicherry, visit the Christmas markets and gorgeous churches, watch the Christmas lights, enjoy French desserts and indulge in Christmas feasts.
Location courtesy of feature image: Teanest by Nature Resorts, Coonoor
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Traveling to the mountains has been an annual ritual for Sayantani and her family since her childhood. Her first international trip was in 2011 to the picturesque Yamaguchi prefecture of Japan, through a student exchange program conducted by the Govt. of Japan. A post-graduate in English Literature from the University of Calcutta, Sayantani also holds a diploma in Japanese from Rabindra Bharati University. Over her 7-year career span, she has written over 120 articles on beauty, lifestyle, travel and food for various online platforms. Read More
4 thoughts on “11 Best Places To Visit For Christmas Celebrations In India”
Well written information with all required inputs for travelers. I really appreciate your article. Congratulations.
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excellent article in detail,will be really helpful for families to plan the trip.
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