Covered with a thick snow blanket and appearing like a wonderland, Himachal Pradesh looks no less than a paradise in the winter. This is the ideal time to explore the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh in December.
Thick alpine forests covered with fresh powdered snow, the high-altitude lakes and waterfalls freeze down, and the lush green landscapes turned white surroundings giving the feeling of living in the painting.
While planning the tour to Himachal in December, add these destinations to your itinerary to enjoy some unique experiences!
Check out here the 15 Best Places in Himachal to visit in December for Cherishable Vacations
- Mashobra
- Barot
- Mcleodganj
- Shimla
- Manali
- Jibhi
- Sainj
- Lahaul Valley
- Sangla
- Bir Billing
- Khajjiar
- Parashar Lake
- Churdhar
- Kheerganga
- Kalpa
1. Mashobra
Located on the Hindustan – Tibet Road, Mashobra is a quaint town and was built by Lord Dalhousie in 1854. The lush green expanse of this enchanting tourist destination is covered with powdered snow and transforms this beautiful hill resort into a fairyland.
This peaceful little town is a perfect tourist destination to visit in Himachal in December and enjoy leisure vacations amidst serene environs. Away from the hustle-bustle of city life, Mashobra offers tranquility and restfulness to peace seekers and nature lovers.
- Weather in December: The temperature in Mashobra in December ranges between 1⁰ C and 11⁰ C.
- Must Experience in December: Skiing, sledding, snow trek, hiking, and camping
- How to reach Mashobra: The nearest airport is Shimla Airport, which is situated just 13 km away and Shimla railway station is 11 km from the hill town. Taxi and cabs are easily available from the respective places for Mashobra.
2. Barot
This quaint hill town is among the offbeat tourist places to visit in Himachal in December. Nestled on the bank of the Uhl River, Barot Valley is encompassed by the Dhauladhar ranges and is among the top 10 coldest places in Himachal Pradesh. Every inch of the hill town is covered with snow in December and intensifying the charm of this beautiful hill station in Himachal.
This high-altitude town enjoys heavy snow showers makes this place a paradise for nature lovers as well as adventure enthusiasts. Couples and families can enjoy their holidays while partaking in adventure as well as leisure activities.
- Barot Weather in December: The temperature in Barot in December ranges between 4⁰ C and 16⁰ C.
- Barot – Must Experiences in December: Trekking, trout fishing, nature walk, and spotting Himalayan Black Bear in Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary
- How to reach Barot: The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport in Kullu, which is situated just 102 km away. The nearest major railhead is Pathankot railway station, which is 180 km from the hill town. Private taxis are easily available from the airport and railway station for Barot.
Plan your winter vacation with these Himachal family tour packages.
Shimla Calling Tour
Enthralling Himachal Tour
Spiti Valley Tour with Manali & Kasol
Best of Himachal Tour3. Mcleodganj
Popularly known as ‘Little Lhasa’, Mcleodganj is known for Buddhist Monasteries and ancient temples. This pristine hill town is blessed with jaw-dropping locales and scenic vistas. From the cozy cafes of Mcleodganj, you can admire the mesmerizing view of the snow-clad mountains while having lip-smacking pancakes and muffins.
The salubrious weather and pleasant climatic conditions make it among the best places in Himachal in December. The trek to Triund and Bhagsunag Waterfall is among the most sought-after things to do in Mcleodganj, which offers panoramic views of the snow-white Dhauladhar peaks.
- Weather in December: The temperature in Mcleodganj in December ranges between 5⁰ C and 14⁰ C.
- Must Experience in December: Trekking, camping, nature walk, paragliding, and hiking
- How to reach Mcleodganj: The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport in Kangra, which is situated just 18 km away. The nearest major railhead is Pathankot railway station, which is 90 km from this beautiful hill station. The government-run and private buses are easily accessible for Mcleodganj. Also, you can hire a private taxi from Gaggal and Pathankot.
4. Shimla
A paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, Shimla in December looks breathtakingly beautiful. Nestled at an altitude of 2,200 m above sea level, Shimla is a popular hill town, which is thrived by a large number of families and couples in winters. You can admire the panoramic views and scenic vistas of the snow-covered mountain ranges.
The snowfall occurs in December in Shimla, which covers the entire region with powdered snow and transforms it into heaven. For families and honeymooners, Shimla is one of the amazing tourist places in Himachal Pradesh to visit in December and enjoy memorable vacations.
- Weather in December: The temperature in Shimla in December varies from 1⁰ C to 12⁰ C. Check the best time to visit Shimla here.
- Must Experience in December: Skiing, ice skating, tobogganing, trekking, river rafting, camping, and hiking.
- How to reach: The nearest airport is Jubbarhatti Airport, which is situated just 20 km away. The nearest major railhead is Shimla railway station, which is a narrow-gauge railway station and is accessible from Kalka by numerous trains. The government-run and private buses are easily accessible from nearby towns and cities. Also, you can hire a private taxi from Chandigarh, Delhi, and other cities. Read complete details here.
See more:
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Best Places to Visit in Shimla for a Memorable Honeymoon
Best Things to do in Shimla
Shimla Manali (Honeymoon Special)
Scenic Shimla Tour
Magnificent Shimla Manali Tour5. Manali
Fondly known as the ‘lover’s paradise and honeymoon capital of India’, Manali is popular for its breathtaking landscape, lofty mountains in the backdrop, and architectural marvels. No doubt, it is one of the best places to visit in Himachal in December for honeymoon. Flanked by the Beas River, this majestic hill town of Himachal Pradesh is a hub of adventure activities.
This enthralling town receives frequent snow showers in December, which allow tourists to indulge in snow activities. The region enjoys sub-zero temperatures this month and predominantly cold climatic conditions make the excursion enjoyable.
- Weather in December: The temperature in Manali in December varies from -5⁰ C to 6⁰ C.
- Must Experience in December: Snow trek, skiing, sledding, snowboarding, paragliding, quad biking, zorbing, and river rafting.
- How to reach: Bhuntar Airport in Kullu is the nearest airport to Manali, which is situated just 50 km away. The nearest railhead is the Jogindernagar railway station, which is a narrow-gauge railway station and has limited connectivity. Another major railhead is Chandigarh Railway Station at 316 km away. The government-run and private buses are easily accessible from Chandigarh. Also, you can hire a private taxi from Kullu, Chandigarh, Delhi, and other cities. Click here to know more.
See more:
- Best Places to visit in Manali in November
- Best Places to Visit in Kullu Manali
- Best Places to Visit in Manali
- Top 19 Things to do in Manali for an Unforgettable Trip
[ Explore Packages to Plan your Trip to Manali. ]
6. Jibhi
A tiny hamlet nestled in Tirthan Valley on the bank of the gurgling Tirthan River, Jibhi is among the cheap places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. Boasting stunning landscapes and captivating beauty, this quaint town is a refreshing getaway from the hustle-bustle of the mainstream hill towns.
Tucked away in the lap of the mighty Himalayas, Jibhi is known for its beautiful nature trails that transform into paradise in December when the entire region is covered in snow. The apple orchards and backyard of every house are packed with powdered snow in December, which makes everything look magical.
- Weather in December: The temperature in Jibhi in December varies from -5⁰ C to 6⁰ C.
- Must Experience in December: Trout fishing, river crossing, trekking, angling, rock climbing, trekking, and camping
- How to reach: Bhuntar Airport in Kullu is the nearest airport from Jibhi, which is situated just 60 km away. The nearest railhead is Shimla railway station, which is a narrow-gauge railway station and has limited connectivity. Another major railhead is Chandigarh Railway Station at 254 km away. The government-run and private buses along with taxis are easily accessible from Chandigarh, Kullu, Chandigarh, Delhi, and other cities.
Also Check: Himachal tour packages are available from Delhi, Chandigarh, Ahmedabad, Pune, Kolkata, Bangalore, Chennai, Indore, Hyderabad, and Mumbai.
3 Days Tour to Shimla from Delhi
3 days tour to Chamba from Amritsar
Short Escape to Dalhousie
3 Days Tour to Chail7. Sainj
Hiding in the lap of the massive Himalayas, Sainj Valley is a hidden gem of Himachal Pradesh. This quaint hamlet is situated in the proximity of numerous other popular tourist places including Kullu and Manali still it is visited by few travelers. The pristine beauty of Sainj is enhanced in December when the sprawling meadows are covered with occasional snow.
This is an offbeat place to visit in Himachal Pradesh in December to enjoy rejuvenating vacations with your family and loved ones. It is a haven for trekkers as the trail starts from Sainj and can take you to the Great Himalayan National Park you can also spot Pundrik Lake, which is one of the most beautiful lakes in Himachal, which is surrounded by tall trees and grasses.
- Weather in December: The temperature in Sainj in December varies from 4⁰ C to 20⁰ C.
- Must Experience in December: Trekking, camping, hiking, nature walk, and bird watching. Know the best time to visit Kullu Manali here.
- How to reach: Bhuntar Airport in Kullu is the nearest airport from Sainj, which is located just 36 km away. The nearest major railhead is Chandigarh railway station. It is situated at 257 km and is well-connected by roadways. The government-run and private buses along with taxis are easily accessible from Chandigarh, Kullu, Chandigarh, Delhi, and other cities to Sainj. Read detailed information about how to reach Kullu and Manali here.
Also, check out our:
- Himachal Family Tour Packages
- Himachal Honeymoon Packages
- Himachal Trekking Tour Packages
- Himachal Adventure Tour Packages
8. Lahaul Valley
Gateway to Ladakh and Spiti Valley, Lahaul Valley is no less than heaven owing to its stunning landscapes and astonishing setting. Home to some massive glaciers, high-altitude mountain passes, and placid lakes, Lahaul Valley is blessed with implausible beauty. The region enjoys heavy snowfall in winter, which turns the ethereal scenery of the valley into an otherworldly setting.
The lakes of the region freeze down and high-altitude passes are covered with snow. The magical Himalayan landscape and spectacular beauty of Lahaul Valley make it among the best tourist destinations in Himachal in December. Soak in the spectacular beauty of the snow-capped mountains and powdery white surroundings to enjoy the best vacation of your life.
- Weather in December: The temperature in Lahaul Valley in December varies from -19⁰ C to -7⁰ C.
- Must Experience in December: Snow trek, off-roading, camping, hiking, and skiing
- How to reach: Rohtang Pass remains closed in December. To reach Lahaul Valley, you have to travel through the Atal Tunnel. The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport in Kullu, which is located just 120 km away from Keylong. The nearest major railhead is Chandigarh railway station. It is situated at 382 km and is well-connected by a road network. In December, you can travel to Lahaul Valley by your own vehicle or by taxi which is easily available in Manali.
9. Sangla
Bounded by sprawling slopes, dense forests, and snow-covered mountains, Sangla is flanked by the Baspa River and is situated in the Kinnaur district. It is one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh in winter as it looks like a place that comes straight out of a fairytale. The stunning landscape of Sangla is covered with snow in winter making it a wonderland.
The snowflakes shielded the tall trees and roads in December, which makes the occasional snow showers in Sangla a memorable affair. The stunning view of snowy peaks and white surroundings in this quaint village is an experience of life. The rejuvenating and relaxing scenery makes the trip to Himachal memorable.
- Weather in December: The temperature in Sangla in December varies from -7⁰ C to 4⁰ C.
- Must Experience in December: Snow trek, off-roading, camping, hiking, fishing, angling, and skiing
- How to reach: The nearest airport is Shimla Airport, which is located just 240 km away from Sangla. The nearest major railhead is also in Shimla, which is a narrow gauge station. It is situated at 222 km and is well-connected with Sangla by road network. In December, you can travel to Sangla by your own vehicle or by taxi which is easily available in Shimla. The connectivity of buses is very limited in winter.
Explore Packages to Plan your Trip to Sangla
10. Bir Billing
Widely known as the ‘Paragliding Capital of India’, Bir Billing is blessed with natural bounties and amazing landscapes due to which it is popular for paragliding. Also, it is a hub of adventure activities. The pleasant and salubrious weather of December makes the trip to Bir Billing worthy.
Just imagine the feeling and experience of flying in the air amidst the snow-clad mighty Himalayas. The upper region of this quaint hill town receives snowfall in December and makes the paragliding experience worth cherishing for your whole life. You can also indulge in numerous other activities with your loved ones.
Also, Check out Bir Billing Paragliding tour packages here.
- Weather in December: The temperature in Bir Billing in December varies from 5⁰ C to 14⁰ C.
- Must Experience in December: Snow trekking, camping, hiking, and paragliding
- How to reach: Gaggal Airport in Kangra is the nearest airport from Bir Billing, which is located just 67 km away. Another nearest major airport is Pathankot Airport, which is 147 km. The nearest major railhead is the Pathankot railway station. It is situated at 140 km and is well-connected with Bir Billing by road network. Palampur is a major town near Bir, which is well-linked by Dharamshala, Dalhousie, Pathankot, Kangra, and Chandigarh.
3 Days Tour to Kasauli11. Khajjiar
Renowned by the name of ‘Mini Switzerland of India’, Khajjiar literally looks like a piece of heaven in December. It is definitely one of the best snowfall places in Himachal Pradesh in December as it is covered with a thick sheet of snow and nestled amidst the snow-capped mountains and looks no less than a fairyland. This mystic village of Himachal Pradesh experiences heavy snowfall in winter.
To experience the magical snow showers you can visit here and the ethereal beauty of this quaint village makes it among the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh in December with family and friends.
- Weather in December: The temperature in Khajjiar in December varies from -2⁰ C to 4⁰ C.
- Check out here the best time to plan your trip to Khajjiar.
- Must Experience in December: Paragliding, zorbing, trekking, camping, and hiking
- How to reach Khajjiar: The nearest airport is Pathankot Airport, which is located just 95 km away from Khajjiar. The nearest major railhead is also located in Pathankot, which is at 90 km and is well-connected with the major cities of the country. Dalhousie and Chamba are nearby major towns that are well-connected with the rest of the state and country by road network. Read complete details about how to reach Khajjiar here.
Explore Packages to Plan your Trip to Khajjiar
12. Parashar Lake
Dedicated to Parashar Rishi, this lake is one of the pristine lakes of Himachal Pradesh and is among the top 5 tourist places in Himachal Pradesh for nature lovers. The temple is also located on the bank of the lake and is among the most revered shrines in the region. You can reach the lake by road and also choose to trek. The trekking trail will take you through meadows and dense forests.
You will have to cross the river and also pass through the snow. This is one of the best treks in Himachal in winter for families and beginners. It offers a panoramic view of the snow-capped Dhauladhar ranges. The snow-filled adventure to Prashar Lake in December offers a unique experience, which you can always remember.
- Weather in December: The temperature in Prashar Lake in December varies from -2⁰ C to 12⁰ C.
- Must Experience in December: Snow trek, camping, hiking, and skiing
- How to reach Prashar Lake: The nearest airport is Shimla Airport, which is located just 190 km away from Prashar Lake. The nearest major railhead is Chandigarh railway station. It is situated at 250 km and is well-connected by road network. Mandi is the nearest major town, which is well-linked with the major cities and towns of the nearby states by road network.
Also Read:
Best Time to Visit Himachal Pradesh
How to Reach Himachal Pradesh
13. Churdhar
The highest peak of the Shivalik range, Churdhar is situated in the Sirmaur district. This region comprises a sanctuary and is blessed with a stunning landscape. You can trek to the peak and enjoy the spectacular views while trekking.
There are numerous Himalayan peaks visible from the top including Kinner Kailash, Srikhand Mahadev, Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Kedarnath, Badrinath, and Black Peak. This peak and the trekking trail of Churdhar are covered with snow in December, which boosts the beauty of this serene destination.
- Weather in December: The temperature in Churdhar in December varies from 0⁰ C to 9⁰ C.
- Must Experience in December: Trekking, sightseeing, wildlife spotting, bird watching, hiking, and camping
- How to reach Churdhar: The nearest airport and railway station is Chandigarh, which is located just 130 km away from Churdhar. The airport and railhead are well-connected with Churdhar by road network. You can also hire a private taxi from Chandigarh, Nahan, and Shimla to reach here.
14. Kheerganga
Nestled at an altitude of 2,960 m above sea level at the extreme end of the Parvati Valley, Kheerganga is the last inhabitable village before Pin Valley. Known for its hippie culture and astonishing beauty, Kheerganga is a paradise for nature lovers and trekkers. Covered with snow, Kheerganga is a staircase to heaven owing to the breathtaking landscape.
You can trek to Kheerganga from Tosh and the trail takes you through several serene villages. Blessed with natural bounties, this idyllic destination is the base camp for numerous treks that can take you to the other side of the world including Pin Valley and Spiti Valley.
- Weather in December: The temperature in Lahaul Valley in December varies from -4⁰ C to 6⁰ C.
- Must Experience in December: Trekking, hiking, nature walk, and camping
- How to reach Kheerganga: The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport in Kullu, which is located just 54 km away from Kheerganga. The nearest major railhead is the Shimla railway station. It is situated at 252 km and is well-connected by a road network. You can travel to Kheerganga by boarding a bus from Shimla and Bhuntar. Also, by your own vehicle or taxi that is easily available in Manali.
15. Kalpa
If you are looking for an adventure trip to the mountains in winter then go no far than Kalpa. This is situated in the heart of the Kinnaur Valley and is known for its pristine beauty. This quaint hamlet offers a majestic view of the snow-capped Kinnaur Kailash peaks.
This is among the top destinations to visit in December in Himachal due to its unmatched natural beauty. The snow-blanketed rooftops and roads of this tiny village intensify the charm of this amazing hill station. The picture-perfect scenery of Kalpa in winter makes the trip worthwhile.
- Weather in December: The temperature in Kalpa in December varies from -8⁰ C to 4⁰ C.
- Must Experience in December: Skiing, snowboarding, trekking, and nature walk
- How to reach Kalpa: The nearest airport is Shimla Airport, which is located just 243 km away from Kalpa. The nearest major railhead is also in Shimla, which is situated at 224 km. Shimla is a major hill town of Himachal and is well-connected with Kalpa by road network. Private taxis and government buses are available from Shimla to Kalpa.
Explore Packages to Plan your Trip to Kalpa
Himachal Pradesh is no less than a heaven in any of the seasons but in December, the charm and beauty of this enchanting hill state reach its epitome that cannot be described in words. It is better to go yourself to witness the breathtaking and surreal magnificence of this mesmerizing place.
Now, you have the list of the best places to visit in Himachal in December. According to your choice, you can add these places to your itinerary and embark on the excursion. Book your tickets, pack your bags, and visit any of these places to enjoy a memorable vacation. Also, let us know which place entices you the most!
[ Explore our collection of Himachal Pradesh Tour Packages. ]
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Tusharika
A travel enthusiast and emerging from an engineering background Tusharika is a travel writer by profession. Go through her penned down travel experiences on indianholiday.com
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