Kolkata
Who said winters have to be gloomy or drab? It is the festive season, marked by one of the most loved festivals of the West, Christmas. Now, we Indians may not be as crazy about Christmas as we are about Diwali or Holi, but we can certainly do something to make it memorable, can’t we? So, why not travel? Yes, rather than sitting at home after failing in our attempts to beat the cold and step out of the house, why not go someplace far away? Intrigued? Then check out our picks of the best places to celebrate Christmas this year.
Christmas is the best time to visit Goa, as not only the festival is celebrated with immense pomp and show, but the weather is also at its absolute best during this time. The many historical churches that mark its landscape make it one of the top Christmas destinations in India. As the clock strikes 12 on Christmas Eve, masses sing carols that go on till the wee hours. Restaurants and shacks serve lunch and dinner and live bands play throughout the city. Also, the famed beaches parties are there, of course. So, don’t wait any longer, and get your hotel room booking done already.
Churches to visit in Goa: Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral, Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church, Santa Cruz Church
Nearest airport to Goa: Belgaum Airport
Nearest airport to Kolkata: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport
Relaxing at serene beaches, exploring local churches, meditating at peaceful ashrams, or simply enjoying the incredible weatherâ¦there are so many things one can do in Pondicherry during the winter season. But there are many more things that make this city one of the best tourist places for Christmas in India. Much like Goa, Pondicherry also boasts a considerable Christian population that celebrates Christmas with every bit of zeal and enthusiasm. Moreover, there are many churches and cathedrals that you can visit to enjoy the festivities.
Churches to visit in Pondicherry: Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Domus Dei Cathedral
Nearest airport to Pondicherry: Chennai International Airport
Are you dreaming of a snowy white Christmas as they have in the movies? Well, then Shimla is where you should head. As December arrives, a glistening layer of snow takes over the entire terrain of the region. Since Shimla once served as the Summer Capital of British India, you will find historic churches in gorgeous hill stations; well, maybe just one, but it is a frequented place of worship.
Churches to visit in Shimla: Christ Church, St. Michael’s Catholic Cathedral
Nearest airport to Shimla: Shimla Airport
If Shimla is too mainstream for you, then here’s another pristine hill station that makes for a great vacation spot in Christmas India. Although its popularity has been budding in the past years, Lansdowne is still far from becoming a destination as recognized as Shimla, Manali, or Nainital. Thus, it is an amazing offbeat place to visit in India during Christmas. Find the lowest airfares in India to book an online air ticket to this gorgeous town.
Churches to visit in Lansdowne: St. Mary’s Church, Saint John Church
Nearest airport to Lansdowne: Jolly Grant Airport Dehradun
A large population of the country flock to Goa, leaving hardly any serene options for Christmas celebrations. If you are seeking a calm and peaceful ambience for your Christmas celebrations away from the hustle and bustle, head straight to Kerala. Christmas celebrations in Kerala is filled with people singing carols at midnight, witnessing the Christmas plays, indulging in the local feast and enjoying a bonfire on the pristine beaches with your loved ones. With so much for more than a merry experience, Kerala is one of the best places to visit during Christmas in India.
Churches to visit in Kerala: Basilica of our Lady of Dolores Church, St. Francis Church
Nearest airport to Kerala: Cochin International Airport
Bangalore is among the best places to go in Christmas, if the celebration to you is more than just exotic cuisines and desserts. Gorged in an exuberant festive spirit and delicious culinary delights, the city witnesses a grand Christmas celebration. Check out events in Bangalore to make your Christmas exciting and eventful. Foodies can head to Koshyâs for tasting their delicious plum cake and ginger tea or Caperberry for their mouth-watering turkey dinner.
Churches to visit in Bangalore: St. Francis Xavierâs Cathedral, Infant Jesus Church
Nearest airport to Bangalore: Bengaluru International Airport
If you are not much of a beach person, you can head to Himachal and spend your Christmas in snowy hills. Manali in Himachal is undoubtedly among the best places to visit in India during Christmas. You and your loved ones can enjoy a fairytale Christmas in Manali by playing in the snow, trying skiing and snowboarding, decorating Christmas trees, sitting by the fireplace and praying at Manali churches.
Churches to visit in Manali: Arcot Lutheran Church, Gilgal Prayer House Church
Nearest airport to Manali: Kullu Manali Airport
Looking for a unique experience this Christmas? Then why not fly off to the Northeast? And, if the idea is fine by you, Shillong can be a great pick. You may think that Shillong and winters don’t go hand in hand, but that is not the case. The plummeting temperatures only add to the allure of the city. And, with a sizable Christian population, Shillong celebrates Christmas in a grand fashion. What else are you looking for in your Christmas travel destination?
So, with the conclusion of this list of awesome places to celebrate Christmas in India you are all set. Since the festival is just around the corner, pick one today, book cheap flight tickets online, book hotels and fly off for a memorable vacation.
Churches to visit in Shillong: Mary Help of Christians Cathedral, All Saints’ Cathedral
Nearest airport to Shillong: Guwahati Airport
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