10 Best Places to Visit Himachal in December 2024

If you dream of walking on a snow-clad road or playing with snowballs, then Himachal will be the ultimate destination for you. Himachal is the land of snow. It is located in the western Himalayas and surrounded by mesmerizing mountains. The beauty of Himachal is truly beyond your imagination. And, when it’s about Himachal, December will be the apt time to visit this specular place.

During December, you will experience the snowfall and the blanket of snow all around you. During December, the temperature varies from 0 degrees Celsius to 13 degrees Celsius. But do you know where you should head when you head to Himachal? If you don’t know, we will share the 10 best places to visit in Himachal in December.

A list of the Top 10 Places to Visit Himachal in December:

1. Dharamshala

It is one of the best destinations in Himachal, where you can explore the awe-striking beauty of nature. You can spend the best time here in the lap of nature. Dharamshala is situated at an altitude of around 1,475 meters. This place is famous as the holy residence of the Tibetan monk Dalai Lama.

When you come to Dharamshala, make sure to visit the Mansoor Rock Cut Temple, Tea Garden, and the Kalachakra Temple. In December, the tranquility of this place will surely captivate you.

How to Reach:

• Air: Gaggal Airport (also known as Kangra Airport) is the nearest, about 15 km away.
• Rail: Pathankot railway station is the nearest broad gauge station, about 85 km away.
• Road: Well-connected by bus with major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh.

Weather Conditions in December:

• Cold with temperatures ranging from 4°C to 7°C.
• Possibility of snowfall at higher elevations.

Trip Duration:

• 2 to 3 days.

2. Manali

Manali is popular all around the world as one of the best tourist destinations. This beautiful place is nestled in the Himalayas. Here, you can explore many spectacular views. If you want to spend a perfect holiday in the lap of Mother Nature, Manali will be the perfect destination for you.

This place also shares historical significance through its architecture and museums. Apart from youngsters, religious devotees also can visit Manali. The Hadimba Devi Temple, Nehru Kund, Manu and Shiv Temple, and Rohtang Pass are some must-visit attractions of Manali.

How to Reach:

• Air: Bhuntar Airport, approximately 50 km away.
• Rail: Joginder Nagar railway station is the nearest, about 160 km away.
• Road: Accessible by road with regular bus services from Delhi, Chandigarh, and other regional hubs.

Weather Conditions in December:

• Freezing with temperatures from -1°C to 10°C.
• High chance of snow, particularly in the latter half of the month.

Trip Duration:

• 3 to 4 days.

3. Mcleodganj

This place is situated in the Kangra district of Himachal. As many Tibetans occupy this place, Mcleodganj is also known as the Little Lhasa. This destination is only 3 kilometers away from Dharamshala.

For its serene beauty, many tourists visit this place, and it is one of the best destinations in Himachal. Minkiani Pass, Bhagsu Falls, Dal Lake, and Trihund are some must-visit destinations of Mcleodganj.

How to Reach:

• Air: Gaggal Airport is the closest, around 20 km away.
• Rail: Pathankot Railway Station, roughly 90 km away.
• Road: Bus and taxi services are available from major cities.

Weather Conditions in December:

• Cold, similar to Dharamshala, as it’s a suburb of this region.

Trip Duration:

• 2 to 3 days.

Check out the itinerary for the 2 Nights 3 Days Mcleodganj Tour Package.

4. Spiti Valley

Spiti Valley is situated away from the urban chaos. It is one of the most recommended destinations in Himachal. December is the best time to visit this valley. This time, you will explore a lot of snowfalls and enjoy the pure blessing of nature.

Spiti Valley is also famous for its cold desert valley. The greenery, majestic mountains, and local life will captivate you. When you come to Spiti Valley, make sure to explore the Pin Valley, Suraj Tal, National Park, and Kunzum Pass.

How to Reach:

• Air: Bhuntar Airport is the nearest.
• Rail: Shimla railway station is relatively closer but still far.
• Road: Reachable via road through Shimla; however, the Manali route is often closed in December due to snow.

Weather Conditions in December:

• Harsh with temperatures ranging from -15°C to -5°C.
• Roads can be blocked by snow, and many facilities are closed.

Trip Duration:

• 5 to 6 days, if accessible.

View the package for the 6 Nights 7 Days Spiti Valley Tour Itinerary from Delhi.

More read the 10 Most Beautiful Places to See in Spiti Valley

5. Dalhousie

Dalhousie is also another recommended place to visit in Himachal. This place is also reckoned as the Peaceful Abode for its stunning views. If you want to flee away from the hustle-bustle of your hectic life, then Dalhousie will be the perfect destination for you.

Kalatop Wild Sanctuary, Khajjiar, and Panchpula are some recommended destinations in Dalhousie. Here, you also will see many monasteries worshipped by Buddhists.

How to Reach:

• Air: Pathankot Airport, about 75 km away.
• Rail: Pathankot railway station is also the nearest.
• Road: Connected by road to cities like Delhi and Chandigarh.

Weather Conditions in December:

• Cold, with temperatures from 1°C to 10°C.
• Occasional snowfall.

Trip Duration:

• 2 to 3 days.

View the itinerary for planning a trip to the 2-night 3-Day Dalhousie Package.

6. Chamba

It is the northernmost district of Himachal and one of the best places to visit in December. It lies at the intersection of the Zanskar and Dhauladhar ranges. Chamba is truly a beautiful destination for its spectacular views.

The streams, lakes, meadows, valleys, rich wildlife, everything will please you. The main town of Chamba is situated on the banks of River Ravi and is surrounded by dense forests. The local culture of this place will surely fascinate you.

How to Reach:

• Air: The nearest airport is Dharamshala, Gaggal Airport.
• Rail: Pathankot railway station.
• Road: Regular bus services from major towns in Himachal Pradesh.

Weather Conditions in December:

• Moderately cold with temperatures around 0°C to 10°C.
• Snowfall is rarer in the town itself but common at higher elevations.

Trip Duration:

• 2 days.

7. Kasauli

Kasauli is the perfect combination of snow-clad mountains, lush landscapes, and picturesque hiking trails. This place is one of the best places to visit in Himachal for its utmost peace.

The outstanding natural beauty makes it one of the best holiday destinations. Whether you are a nature lover or a trekking lover, you must visit Kasauli.

How to Reach:

• Air: Chandigarh Airport, about 70 km away.
• Rail: Kalka railway station, approximately 25 km away.
• Road: Well-connected by road.

Weather Conditions in December:

• Chilly, with temperatures between 5°C to 15°C.
• Occasional snowfall.

Trip Duration:

• 1 to 2 days.

Read More: Top 10 Places to See in Kasauli

8. Parashar Lake

In December, Parashar Lake looks truly marvelous. It is a hidden gem of Himachal. Though it is not a much-explored place, here you will get the most exclusive experience. You can spend long hours here exploring the mystic beauty of Parashar Lake.

The snow-clad mountains surround this peaceful lake and add a more majestic view. Make sure to visit the Triloknath Temple, Deval Temple, and the Trokada Temple when visiting Parashar Lake.

How to Reach:

• Air: Bhuntar Airport near Kullu.
• Rail: No nearby railway station; Shimla is the closest major railhead.
• Road: Access through Mandi by road; however, the final stretch may require trekking or a sturdy vehicle, especially in December.

Weather Conditions in December:

• Extremely cold with heavy snowfall often leading to road blockages.

Trip Duration:

• 1 day if an overnight stay is not planned; 2 days with an overnight stay.

9. Kufri

It is the most awaited destination of Himachal. If you are an adventure lover, then Kufri will be the ideal option for you. In winter especially, you can indulge yourself in many exciting activities.

The unparalleled beauty of Kufri will fascinate you. Rupin Pass, Mahasu Peak, and Fagu are some popular destinations of Kufri.

How to Reach:

• Air: Shimla Airport at Jubbarhatti.
• Rail: The nearest broad gauge railway station is at Kalka.
• Road: Easily accessible from Shimla by road.

Weather Conditions in December:

• Very cold, with temperatures around -4°C to 10°C.
• Heavy snowfall is common, making it a popular spot for snow activities.

Trip Duration:

• 1 to 2 days.

Check more details on Kufri:

• 10 Tourist Attractions to See in Kufri
• What is the best way to Reach Kufri?
• Enjoy the First Indoor Ski Park in Kufri, Himachal Pradesh
• Skiing Destinations in Himachal Pradesh

10. Chail

Chail is an enchanting destination of Himachal. In this place, you will explore the serenity of nature. However, in the last few years, this place has been popular among tourists. It’s a year-round destination.

But December is the best time to visit Chail. Chail Wildlife Sanctuary, Chail Palace Hotel, and the Kali Temple are the best attractions in this place.

How to Reach:

• Air: Shimla Airport.
• Rail: Kalka railway station.
• Road: Well connected to Shimla and other nearby cities by road.

Weather Conditions in December:

• Cold, with temperatures typically between 2°C to 10°C.
• Snowfall can occur, adding to the scenic beauty.

Trip Duration:

• 1 to 2 days.

Find more about the 4 Nights 5 Days Chail Tour Package.

View more details: 10 Best Places to Visit in Chail 

Conclusion

Himachal is the abode of spectacular beauty. And, when you visit this place in December, undoubtedly you will fall in love with nature and the surroundings. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to the mentioned destinations this December.