The summers and monsoons have come and gone, and now we’re gearing up for everyone’s favorite time of the year – the winters! Signaling the year-end and welcoming Christmas and New Year, winters are the time for holidays and vacations, and joy. It is also the time when most tourist places are opened and packed due to the tourist season. So, if you’re looking for an offbeat winter experience somewhere that’s not mainstream, you are at the right place. Here are 7 less crowded places in India that you must visit in December.
7 Less Crowded Places To Visit In December
- Jibhi, Himachal Pradesh
- Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
- Lambasingi, Andhra Pradesh
- Dawki, Meghalaya
- Chopta, Uttarakhand
- Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh
- Naukuchiatal, Uttarakhand
1. Jibhi, Himachal Pradesh
Located in the Tirthan Valley, Jibhi is a lesser-known destination in Himachal Pradesh. This little hamlet is surrounded by lush green forests and rugged mountains. Untouched by industrialization, this unexplored Himalayan jewel is a perfect December vacation destination. The alpine forests, tranquil lakes, and stunning temples make Jibhi a place worth visiting. One of the highlights of the town are the old Victorian-style cottages sprinkled all around Jibhi which will certainly transport you. Your December vacation will be like vacationing in the Victorian era, in the lap of nature!
Places To Visit: Jalori Pass, Jibhi Waterfall, Serolsar Lake, Chaini Kothi
Things To Do: Hiking, camping, fishing, bird watching, and trekking
2.Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas at a height of 3,048 meters, Tawang is an incredible choice for a December vacation. Tawang’s immense tranquility and scenic beauty make the perfect getaway for a rejuvenating break. This picturesque hamlet is one of the lesser crowded places to visit than other destinations in Arunachal Pradesh due to its remote location. The bone-chilling December winters of Tawang are also a reason why it has a lower tourist footfall, but to some, that spells adventure! However, while the winters here can be harsh, the hospitality of the Monpa tribe is sure to keep you warm and happy!
Tawang is a curious mix of both spirituality and adventure. For those seeking the former, the town is home to the Tawang Monastery, Urgyelling Monastery, and more. For the latter, a visit to Sela Pass or a hike up to Gori Chen peak will get your adrenaline flowing!
Places To Visit: Tawang Monsatery, Taktsang Gompa, Sela Pass, Shonga-Tser Lake, Nuranang Waterfall, and Gorichen Peak
Things To Do: Trekking, hiking, mountain biking, wildlife spotting, and shopping
3. Lambasingi, Andhra Pradesh
Known as the ‘Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh’, Lambasinghi is a splendid offbeat location to visit this December. Located in the Eastern Ghats of Visakhapatnam district, Lambasinghi is a quaint village nestled in the thick forests of the Araku Valley. The hamlet is one of Andhra Pradesh’s best-kept secrets and is known for its majestic hills, fragrant apple orchards, and panoramic views of the valley. The village is the only one in South India that experiences snowfall! From towering hills and meandering rivers to misty forests and coffee and tea plantations, Lambasingi is an Instagram-worthy destination that you should visit!
Places To Visit: Kothapally Waterfalls, Susan Garden, Kondakarla Bird Sanctuary, Thajangi River
Things To Do: Trekking, nature walks, bird watching, and boating
4. Dawki, Meghalaya
One of the most picturesque locations in Meghalaya, Dawki is a small town located in the West Jantia Hills. Situated along the Indo-Bangladesh border, the small town is famous for its crystal clear Umngot River. With pictures circulating on social media of the bright turquoise water that is so clear that you can view the pebbles on the river bed, the river is quickly gaining popularity. This is one of the lesser crowded places so you won’t see as many tourists as you’d imagine, thanks to its location and smaller-scale infrastructure. Dawki’s location alongside the Umngot River makes it a scenic vacation spot that is quite offbeat and unique!
Places To Visit: Umngot River, Boorhill Falls, Jaflong Zero Point, Dainthlen Falls
Things To Do: Boating, kayaking, rappelling, zip lining, snorkeling, and camping
5. Chopta, Uttarakhand
Located at an altitude of about 2,600 meters, Chopta is a Himalayan paradise that is popularly known as the ‘mini Switzerland’ of Uttarakhand. Tucked away in the Garhwal region, Chopta is a year-round holiday destination but especially enchanting during the winters. From its beautiful meadows sprinkled with wildflowers to the majestic snow-capped peaks, the town has no shortage of splendid views. It’s also a well-known destination for pilgrimage and is the epicenter of the Panch Kedar – the five sacred temples of Shiva. The town is also an adventurer’s paradise and a bird-watching haven, where you can spot about 240 species of beautiful birds.
Places To Visit: Deoriatal, Kachula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary, Ukhimath, Tungnath Temple
Things To Do: Trekking, hiking, camping, bird watching, rock climbing, rappelling, mountain biking, and skiing
6. Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh
A quaint little town in Arunachal Pradesh, Ziro is home to the unique Apa Tani tribe. Hidden amidst the forbidding mountains forming the Ziro Valley, the village is an entrancing holiday destination in the North East. This charming hamlet has an enchanting allure to it owing to its sprawling paddy fields, green rolling hills, and vibrant flora. An epitome of scenic beauty, Ziro is practically untouched by urban life, making it a paradise for soul seekers and one of the lesser crowded places to visit in December. This hilly town is surrounded by lush bamboo forests and trails of tall blue and green pine trees. This offbeat location’s mild climate throughout the year makes it a great option for those looking for a ‘not-so-cold’ December vacation!
Places To Visit: Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, Kile Pakho, Midey, Ziro Valley, Bamboo Groove
Things To Do: Trekking, wildlife spotting, fishing, jungle camping, and music festivals
7. Naukuchiatal, Uttarakhand
Naukuchiatal is a lake village in Uttarakhand, set alongside the Naukuchiatal Lake. The name translates to ‘Lake with Nine Corners’ and legends have it that whoever can identify the 9 corners of this lake can attain nirvana. The destination is known for its tranquility and natural beauty. Located away from the bustling hill station of Nainital, this lakeside town is the perfect place for those looking for solitude and rejuvenation instead of an super-exciting holiday. But worry not, Naukuchiatal has enough to keep adventure junkies engaged as well. The town is blessed with incredible sights and captivating surroundings making a vacation here an extremely beguiling experience.
Places To Visit: Lake Naukuchiatal, Bhimtal Lake, Jungliagaon
Things To Do: Angling, boating, bird watching, paragliding, rowing, paddling, yachting, and parasailing
Summing Up
December is the month of vacations and trips. Popular destinations like Goa, Nainital, Srinagar, Shimla, and Rajasthan are jam-packed with tourists from around the globe. If you’re looking for a more quaint and offbeat vacation this winter, then there are several amazing places to visit. Whether you’re looking for hill stations or lakeside hamlets, India has a splendid mix of less crowded places to visit this December.
FAQs
What Are The Least Visited Places In India?
Lambasingi in Andhra Pradesh, Gurez Valley in Kashmir, Chopta in Uttarakhand, and Ziro in Arunachal Pradesh are some of the less visited places in India.
Which Are Some Of The Hidden Gems Of India?
Laitmawsiang in Meghalaya, Doodhpatri in Kashmir, Haflong in Assam, and Ubbalamadugu Falls in Arunachal are some of the hidden gems of India that you must visit at least once.
Which Are Some Best Places To Visit In December?
Goa, Dalhousie in Himachal Pradesh, Binsar in Uttarakhand, Coorg in Karnataka, and Rajasthan are some of the most popular places to visit in December.
Is December A Good Time To Visit Arunachal Pradesh?
Winter months are the best time to visit Arunachal Pradesh. The climate is pretty chilly and makes sightseeing activities particularly enjoyable and comfortable.
Which Hill Stations Are The Best In December?
Hill stations like Dawki in Meghalaya, Manali, Shimla, Dalhousie, Auli, and Binsar in Uttarakhand are incredible places to visit in December.
How Is Meghalaya In December?
Winters in Meghalaya are extremely pleasant, especially during the daytime. The average daytime temperature hovers around 15°C but the night time can get quite chilly as the temperatures drop to around 3°C.
Does Meghalaya Have Snowfall?
Even though Meghalaya is located at a higher altitude, the state does not see any snowfall. From time to time due to the low and humid temperatures, one might see layers of frost that resemble snow.
Is There Snowfall In Arunachal Pradesh?
When temperatures in certain parts of Arunachal dip below 4°C, there has been snowfall here. Many parts of the state even witness heavy snowfall that winter sports enthusiasts particularly love.
