Christmas Travel in India: Five Domestic Destinations Driving Year-End Getaways

Where Indians are travelling this Christmas and New Year

As December approaches, domestic travel in India is seeing a renewed surge, shaped by evolving traveller preferences and a growing inclination towards meaningful experiences. Christmas and New Year holidays are increasingly defined by family trips, group journeys and immersive stays rather than quick getaways.

From coastal celebrations to mountain escapes and heritage cities, several destinations across India are emerging as preferred choices for the festive season.

Goa, located along India’s western coastline in the Konkan region, continues to hold its position as a year-end favourite. December brings mild weather, festive décor and a calendar filled with Christmas celebrations. Churches, including the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa, host midnight masses, while beachside areas across North and South Goa remain active through the holiday period. Beyond nightlife, there is growing interest in curated stays, sustainable tourism initiatives and experiences rooted in local communities.

In the north, Manali, set in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh, is drawing travellers seeking winter landscapes. Snowfall across surrounding regions, pine forests and mountain terrain shape the seasonal appeal. Activities such as skiing in Solang Valley coexist with quieter stays in Old Manali, where travellers opt for smaller lodges and locally operated cafés. The region’s altitude and winter climate make it a popular choice for those seeking a traditional winter holiday in India.

Further west, the Great Rann of Kutch in Gujarat presents a contrasting festive experience. The Rann Utsav, held near Dhordo village, is held in the winter months and offers access to the salt desert on full-moon nights. Temporary tent cities, folk performances and craft markets form the core of the experience. The vast, flat expanse of the Rann, located near the India–Pakistan border, offers a quiet alternative to crowded urban celebrations, with a focus on culture and landscape.

In Rajasthan, Jaipur and Udaipur are seeing steady interest during the festive period. Jaipur, the capital city, is known for its historic forts and planned urban layout, while Udaipur sits amid lakes and the Aravalli hills. Winter evenings, illuminated heritage structures and cultural programmes add to the seasonal appeal. Visitors are increasingly engaging with local markets, crafts and regional cuisine, positioning Rajasthan as a destination for heritage-led travel during Christmas and New Year.

For those avoiding colder climates, Kerala, located along India’s south-western coast, is emerging as a strong year-end destination. Hill stations such as Munnar, situated in the Western Ghats, offer cooler temperatures, tea plantations and mist-covered landscapes. In contrast, the backwaters of Alleppey provide slow-paced houseboat journeys through canals and lagoons. Christmas celebrations here are quieter, often centred around nature, local traditions and reflective travel experiences.

Overall, domestic travel trends this festive season indicate a shift beyond party-centric destinations. Travellers are increasingly prioritising heritage, spiritual, and nature-based experiences, alongside sustainability and less-crowded spaces. Christmas and New Year journeys are now being shaped as opportunities for deeper cultural engagement rather than just celebration.