Most people love the holiday season and believe it to be the best time of the year. During these holidays, everything is cheerful and pretty. The malls are decked with beautiful Christmas trees, restaurants are lit up in shimmery lights, and the cafes are filled with the smell of mouth-watering desserts. Anywhere you go, the surroundings are joyous and merrier. All this makes the holiday season the perfect time to check-out unexplored destinations.
So, here is a list of the best places to visit in India from Delhi for those who want to plan a short trip with their friends or family this holiday season!
Visiting Goa during the holiday season can never go wrong. Here, you can attend nightlong parties, check-out hippie bars and pubs, take part in midnight masses, and sing Christmas carols to get festive vibes. Or, for sober and peaceful celebrations, you can check out the alluring beaches of Goa and be enchanted by the beautiful faraway lights while sitting at the shore.
Must-visit Churches: Santa Cruz Church, Basilica of Bom Jesus, St Cathedral Church
What To Do: Attend the firework show, enjoy the Christmas feast, and do not miss the Sunburn fest.
Nearest Airport: Goa International Airport (GOI)
For people who are not a fan of beaches, the hills of Manali are the perfect destination for celebrating Christmas. Here, you can play with the snow, click pictures with Christmas trees, hang out at some lively cafes, and sit by the fireplace with hot chocolate. During the trip, visit the Solang Valley if you are seeking adventures like snowboarding and the quaint hamlet of Gulaba to find some peace.
Must visit Churches: Gilgal Prayer House Church, Arcot Lutheran Church
Things To Do: Take a tour of Arjun Gufa, shop for Christmas trinkets at Manu Market, and bathe in Vashisht Hot Water Spring
Nearest Airport: Kullu Manali Airport (KUU)
Chennai is nothing short of a paradise on Christmas. At this time, the place is decorated with golden lights, and the red and green colours dominate the surroundings. While passing through the streets, you can hear children singing Christmas carols until late at night. Tourists can also enjoy plays and participate in bonfires and feasts for a merrier experience.
Must-Visit Churches: St. Andrew’s Church, Velankanni Church, and St. George’s Cathedral
What To Do: Dine at the Brew Room, attend mass at Santhome Church, take a tour of Phoenix MarketCity Mall
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (MAA)
Fondly known as ‘the city of Joy,’ Kolkata is a site to behold during the holiday season. Park Street, which dazzles with lights & stars, and St. Paul’s Cathedral, which organises a midnight mass, are two must-visit destinations in Kolkata during Christmas. Tourists looking to have fun can also check out the pubs and bars in their vicinity that stay open for the whole night during the event.
Must-visit Churches: St. Andrew’s Church, Greek Orthodox Church, and St. John’s Church
What to do: Visit Bow Barracks, take a boat ride on Hooghly, check out the Eco Park
Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU)
A southern hill station in Tamil Nadu, Ooty houses several churches that are architectural marvels. The place boasts pleasant climatic conditions and is known for its picturesque beauty. When visiting Ooty for the holiday season, check-out Dolphin’s Nose, situated at an altitude of 1,550 metres, and Ooty lake, which is one of the country’s hottest biking locations.
Must-visit Churches: Holy Trinity Church, Sacred Heart Cathedral, and Mary’s Church
What to do: Take a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Toy Train, enjoy a dip in Catherine Waterfalls, and go for a stroll in Botanical Gardens.
Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport (CJB)
Christmas is a joyous occasion and an excellent time to plan a trip with your friends. So, instead of sitting at home, visit one of these charming places this holiday season.