India in December

The vastness and geographically diversity of India make generalizing about the weather a fool’s errand, though we shall try. The northern Himalayan parts of the nation can be covered in snow while the southern beaches be mired in monsoonal winds and rain. Northern India is considered generally cooler, though outside the highest mountain peaks never really cold, while the south is tropical, the central interior hot and dry. The ‘winter’ is generally considered the best time to visit India for most regions.

December to March in Northern India is cool and mainly dry. The year's coldest months are December and January, when temperatures average around 10–15 °C (50–59 °F) in the northwest. In January to February, certain regions such as Himachal Pradesh in the far north can see heavy bursts of rain, and heavy snowfall at elevations over 2,000 meters. Winter highs in New Delhi, the nation’s capital, range from 16 to 21 °C (61 to 70 °F), with a light rainfall of under 20 mm per day. Without the searing heat of summer it is one of the best times to visit. Delhi serving as an excellent starting base to explore the diverse surrounding northern regions, from the dusty deserts of Rajasthan in the west to the snowcapped Himalayan mountains to the north.

Winter in Southern India sees January as the coldest month.  It is the best time to visit the country due to the cool(er) temperatures and relative dryness. Again, the weather varies significantly depending on where you are. Temperatures get higher towards the equator, peaking around 20–25 °C (68–77 °F) in mainland India's southeast. Maharashtra, parts of Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh are cooler states. Minimum temperatures in western Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh hover around 10 °C (50 °F). The much visited states of Goa and Kerala on the Malabar Coast see highs of 30 °C  (86 °F) and lows of 22 (72 °F), with almost zero rain in winter. Many head to the coastal areas here as the cool breeze off the Indian Ocean moderates the weather.
 

 

Suggested Itineraries

Classic India

Explore India’s age-old culture and witness its beauty across its most popular destinations on this 14-day journey. Travel through New Delhi’s bustling Chandni Chowk market, to the steps of the iconic Taj Mahal, into the bushland home of royal tigers, and the banks of the sacred Ganges river, all while staying at some of the country’s most luxurious hotels.

Duration
14 days / 13 nights
Price Per Person
From $17,500
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A Journey Through Bengal: Bangladesh and India

Explore the sights and attractions of India’s exciting Bengal region, on a 12-day luxury journey from Bangladesh’s bustling Dhaka, through the lush Sundarbans mangrove forest, onwards to Calcutta for lunch at the Polo Club, and ending Darjeeling for a tour and stay at Glenburn Tea Estate.

Duration
12 days / 11 nights
Price Per Person
From $9,000
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A Naturalist’s Trip Through the National Parks of Madhya Pradesh

The trip takes intrepid travelers through India's expansive central state of Madhya Pradesh. Over the course of 11 days, you will have the opportunity to explore three of the state’s major parks. Along the way, visit some of Madhya Pradesh's historical palaces and temples.

Duration
12 days / 11 nights
Price Per Person
From $7,600
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Archaeological Excursion Through Madhya Pradesh

This 10-day quest through the central state of Madhya Pradesh, India, will take you to numerous off the beaten path archaeological and UNESCO world heritage sites to discover the vibrant cultural traditions of Indian’s expansive inland state.

Duration
10 days / 9 nights
Price Per Person
From $6,000
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Celebrating Dev Deepawali and Other Gems of Madhya Pradesh

The exciting 12-day agenda includes numerous stops at historic, lesser-known gems away from the standard tourist-heavy beat with a final stop at Varanasi. Though travelers may opt for this itinerary at any time of year, we highly recommend timing this trip in late October to early November to coincide with Dev Deepawali – an annual celebration that occurs in Varanasi and translates to “Festival of Lights of the Gods” in Hindi.

Duration
12 days / 11 nights
Price Per Person
From $5,100
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Central India Cultural Highlights

Take a journey through Central India, passing through Mumbai, Hampi, Bangalore, and Hyderabad on this 11-day luxury journey. You’ll sleep in some of India’s most luxurious hotels, including the Taj Mahal Palace & Tower, spend time in Bollywood, visit the ancient ruins of Golkonda, and rock climb in Hampi.

Duration
11 days / 10 nights
Price Per Person
From $8,900
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Extravagant India: An Engagement in Regal Rajasthan

This 14-day itinerary is ideal for a couple seeking a truly luxurious and romantic getaway together in exotic India. Punctuated with magical moments, this trip perfect for making unforgettable memories and perhaps even a special proposal to last a lifetime.

Duration
14 days / 13 nights
Price Per Person
From $12,600
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Highlights of Madhya Pradesh

Especially suited to those who have already been to India and experienced the typical Rajasthan route, this trip takes travelers on a dynamic introductory journey through the heart of the country. The 10-day itinerary includes visits to numerous highlights of the lesser-visited central Indian state, many of which hold special cultural and historical significance.

Duration
10 days / 9 nights
Price Per Person
From $3,600
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Indian Safari Adventure

Escape into the wilds of India’s safaris on an exciting 13-day adventure through Panna, Bandhavgarh, and Kanha National Parks, where you’ll search for the mighty, elusive Bengal Tiger. You’ll explore ancient forts, hike to majestic viewpoints, and interact with exotic animals while staying in luxury hotels.

Duration
13 days / 12 nights
Price Per Person
From $12,500
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Intimate India and Beautiful Bhutan: Overland from New Delhi to Bumthang

Spend 22 days traveling from India to Bhutan on this luxurious adventure of a lifetime. Shop in New Delhi’s world-famous Chandni Chowk market, dine at the Calcutta Polo Club, and marvel at the ancient Tibetan Buddhist Ghoom Monastery, while staying in luxury hotels like Amankora and Oberoi.

Duration
22 days / 21 nights
Price Per Person
From $20,600
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Recommended Festivals For India in December

Hornbill Festival

Hornbill Festival

December

This 10-day annual festival in India’s northeastern region of Nagaland brings together a wide variety of local tribes, who perform their traditional dances and folk songs for all to see, wearing traditional dress. Held at Naga Heritage Village, constructed for the event, there are also fun competitions, a large market, and more. 

Location Nagaland, India

Sonepur Elephant Fair

Sonepur Elephant Fair

November-December

Also known as the Sonepur Cattle Fair, this fall event is one of the largest cattle fairs in the world. Visitors from all over Asia make their way to Sonepur, Bihar, on the banks of the River Ganges, for the ancient festival that can stretch from 15 days to one month. Farm animals from dogs, to rabbits and Persian horses are sold at the event.

Location Sonepur, India

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