Christmas season is almost around the corner. Beautifully decorated Christmas trees, the sound of tinkling baubles, the starlight, the sweet smell of cakes from bakeries and the streets filled with the vibrancy of the Christmas season, make this festival so enjoyable and certainly asks for a vacation. Even though Christmas isn’t celebrated in India as much as it is in the West, the exquisite Christmas traditions observed in certain cities in India will make it worth the experience. If you are looking for a Christmas getaway this holiday season, these charming places in India should be on your list. Rounded below are some top places to visit in India for Christmas. Take a trip to these places, it’ll be the perfect way to end your year.

Goa

Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church, Goa

Goa tops our list owing to its Portuguese legacy and the population of its Roman Catholics. This festive season is celebrated with much pomp and zeal all through the state. The state begins its Christmas celebration right from the early weeks of the Advent season. On Christmas Eve, groups of youth serenade door to door singing the good old traditional Christmas carols. Midnight Christmas masses are held with churches beautifully decorated. You will find beautifully and delicately built cribs across various parts of the state. Midnight masses are usually followed by parties hosted at various restaurants and beach shacks, with delicious Christmas food served. To keep you entertained are live bands playing till the early hours of the morning. Popular beaches that organize parties are Anjuna, Mapusa, Candolim etc. Following Christmas, the popular Sunburn festival is usually held in Goa. In all, the state sees a very joyous atmosphere during this season and certainly makes it a beautiful place to visit in India for Christmas.

Kerala

With its many churches, Kerala is certainly one beautiful place to visit in India for Christmas. The festival is celebrated with high spirits and worth every experience. On your trip to this state, witness twinkling Christmas stars hung outside homes and the birth of Christ depicted through beautiful cribs and the joyous singing of Christmas carols. Visit the churches of Kerala which are open all night during this season, experience a taste of the local flavour from the streets and enjoy a bonfire with your friends and family on its gorgeous beaches. A Christmas vacation in Kerala is something that is more to be experienced than put in words  and a trip to this place will leave you with many tales to tell your folks. Kerala is indeed an alluring place to visit in India for Christmas.

Mumbai

Pic Credits: Flickr

Experience the warmth of Christmas with a trip to Mumbai. The city boasts of its many majestic churches. Holy Name Cathedral, Saint Thomas’s Cathedral, Gloria Church, Saint Michael’s Church, Mount Mary’s Basilica, Saint Peter’s Church, Saint Andrew’s Church and Lady of Immaculate Conception, are the among the popular ones where you can attend the midnight mass. During this festive season, Mumbai’s bakeries have the best desserts and the delicious smell of fruitcakes will tantalize your taste buds. Just like the other Indian states, you will find houses and streets decorated with Christmas trees and lights and the air filled with music and warm smiles all around. Mumbai is also the perfect place if you are looking for parties. The city is no doubt one best place to visit in India for Christmas.

Pondicherry

   Immaculate Conception Cathedral

The pleasant weather of Pondicherry in December makes it one enjoyable place to visit in India for Christmas. This French colony of India has many serene and calm beaches where you can take long walks and spend your evenings enjoying the festive season. But more than that, Pondicherry boasts of its many gothic churches and cathedrals. Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Our Lady of Assumption Church, and Church of Our Lady of Good Health are a few architectural wonders that you should visit. During the Christmas season, you will find the state glistening in brightly coloured Christmas lights and the people celebrating with much merry and zeal. Vendors are seen on the streets selling crunchy cookies and other baked Christmas goodies. Pondicherry is a great place for travelers and is indeed one beautiful place to visit in India for Christmas.

Bangalore

The city of Bangalore is yet another place where the warmth of Christmas can be greatly felt. Watch the city share the affection and cheer of the festive season with malls and sidewalks illuminated with decked up Christmas trees, lights and other props, the atmosphere filled with the joyous singing of Christmas carols and the scent of Christmas sweets from markets. The city is also the perfect place to relish on some rich and delicious Christmas delights. Plum cakes, rum soaked cakes, fruity cakes, coconut cakes, cupcakes; the city has it all tempting you all the way. When it comes to Christmas Eve parties, get on your feet and get to the HardRock Café, Blue Frog and The Biere Club. Most of these parties offer a variety of cuisines with live performances and will fill your evenings with fun and laughter.  All these make Bangalore the perfect Christmas holiday destination and a must place to visit in India for Christmas.

Shillong

Bara Pani Shillong

Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, also called as the Scotland of the East celebrates Christmas with much enthusiasm and zeal like any other state in India. It is one spectacular northeastern city and a great place to visit in India for  Christmas. This hill station has quite a considerable population of Catholics. Christmas here dawns one and a quarter hours earlier than the other states in India. The Mary Help of Christians Cathedral, Laitumkhrah Presbyterian Church and All Saints Church are a few Churches you must visit while in Shillong. Shops are seen filled with festive clothes and the locals are seen trudging through the crowd as the days to Christmas draws nearer. The cool December breeze of the air around makes you want to take an early morning or late evening stroll on the sidewalks. Overall Shilling is a great place to visit in India for Christmas.

Delhi

Connaught Place New Delhi, Pic Credits: Wikimedia Commons

The capital city celebrates Christmas with much joy and laughter like any other festival. The city streets are stylishly decorated making you feel the Christmas vibe of the season. If you wish to spend your Christmas in Delhi, you can attend the midnight mass at Sacred Heart Cathedral. This is one of the oldest churches in the state. The cathedral has a Christmas vigil service on the midnight of 24^th followed by the Christmas cake cutting. The feast of the Holy Family of Nazareth is also another day to not miss. The Connaught Place is a great place to visit during the Christmas season if you are a shopaholic. This stretch of the city is beautifully decorated with Christmas lights, has amazing cafes, restaurants and bars and overall is a great shopping place. It will make you feel the essence of Christmas. Make the most of Delhi’s festive shopping discounts, as the city has great Indian handicraft and jewelry. Visit Sarojini Nagar and Kamla Nagar to buy inexpensive Christmas gifts for your loved ones. And if you’re looking for some fun-filled adventure in Delhi during the Christmas season, go out skiing. The city is all jazzed up and it’s a blissful experience altogether, making it another amazing place to visit in India for Chritsmas.

Manali

If the snowy hills are what you are thinking about for Christmas, it definitely has to be Manali. The place has its own Christmas vibe. Manali is one of the first places to receive the first snowfall of the season and attracts a huge tourist footfall. If you’re an adventure lover, there are a lot many fun-filled winter activities that you can do in Manali. Roll around in the snow, go skiing, snowboarding and trekking. You could also drink up to a hot cup of tea or a mug of hot chocolate to keep you warm in the winter chill. Enjoy a While Christmas in Manali, it is a great place to visit for that perfect Christmas getaway.

Daman and Diu

 Devka Beach, Daman and Diu, Pic Credits: Wikimedia Commons 

This union territory in western India celebrates Christmas in its own unique way.  A Portuguese colony since the 1500s, Daman and Diu have a sizeable population of Roman Catholics. During the Christmas season, various traditional and cultural activities are held. Corrindinho a form of Portuguese dance is quite popular here danced with pairs of girls and boys forming a circle. Attend the Christmas midnight mass at Saint Paul’s Church, an ancient church in this union territory. Se Cathedral, St Thomas church, and Church of Our Lady of Rosary are other churches you may want to visit in Daman and Diu. This otherwise quiet place becomes vibrant and lively during this season and is one exceptional place to visit in India for Christmas. Visit Daman and Diu and be a part of the Christmas excitement!

Kolkata

Victoria Memorial, Kolkata

Ring in the Christmas cheer with a visit to Kolkata. Also called as the City of Joy, Christmas here is celebrated with as much vigour as it in the south.  The streets are seen illuminated with festive lighting, malls and markets with Christmas trees and other props, bakeries selling fresh and delicious Christmas treats and locals buying merchandise at shops offering heavy discounts. Rock band performances are also seen at various parties all through the state and will make you have a gala time. St. Paul’s Cathedral on Chowringhee Road is one church you should visit in Kolkata, especially for the Christmas Midnight mass. You could also visit the Victoria Memorial, a huge museum made of white marble building in the heart of the City of Joy. All these make Kolkata a great place to visit in India for Christmas.

Dadra and Nagar Haveli

Vanganga Lake Garden, Kolkata

Though an unpopular Christmas destination, Dadra Nagar and Haveli is a great place to be at during the month of December. This union territory celebrates Christmas in its own unique way with a tribal touch. There are many splendid and magnificent churches to visit. Vanganga Lake Garden is one wonderful place to visit in Kolkata. The place is well maintained and has a peaceful ambiance and one can enjoy a boat ride. Overall, it’s a great place to visit in India for Christmas with your family and friends.

Shimla

Shimla, the Queen of Hills is yet another perfect destination to spend your Christmas vacations. This hill station is a hot spot for many tourists during the month of December. The weather is also pretty chilly here and the place looks amazing. You can enjoy Christmas Eve parties, indulge in some delicious and fresh Christmas sweets from bakeries and shop around in the street markets. There are many winter activities too that you can indulge in during your stay in Shimla, such as skiing and snowboarding. Shimla surely pleases every traveler and is a pleasant place to visit in India for Christmas.

Chennai

Pic Credits: Flickr

Eat, drink and be merry this Christmas season in Chennai. The state has some beautiful breathtaking churches you can visit while traveling in the city. Santhome church, St. Mary’s Church, Armenian Church, Velankanni Church, Descanso Church are to name a few. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, Chennai bakeries are filled with cakes, pastries, cookies and much more for you to relish on. Bakers Spring, Brunchies All Day, Bobby’s Bistro, Pantry D’Or are a few places where you can pick up some delightful Christmas goodies. Apart from these, Chennai hotels offer lavish buffets and night-long parties are hosted at different venues. The Phoenix Market City has exciting activities for all.  All these make Chennai a beautiful place to visit in India for Christmas.

Each city has its own unique style of merrymaking and celebrating Christmas. Take a trip to these beautiful places and feel the Christmas vibe, it’ll be the perfect way to end your year. Plan a glittery and merry filled Christmas vacation this winter with Travco Holidays.

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A honeymoon is not just a vacation for the newlyweds. It is their time in seclusion to celebrate the newfound relationship & for making the bond stronger and lay a foundation to eternal love. India is one of the most preferred honeymoon destinations all over the world. If you want to experience romance in the ‘Shudh Desi’ way, then we have a diverse list for you where you can spend your honeymoon in India. Here are some of the Best Honeymoon Destinations in India.

Goa

On the western coast lies one of the most prized beach destinations of Goa. Spend some of most romantic, memorable moment of your life, at sunset on a Goa beach. Being the smallest state, Goa is known for its exotic and surreal beaches. But there’s more to Goa to than just the beach. Goa has a vast natural and wildlife reserve making it one of the ideal honeymoon destinations in India. Clubbed with the nightlife and the amazing seafood in Goa, it is definitely one of the best honeymoon destinations in India.

Andaman & Nicobar

Once naval ports to the British, this tropical paradise in the Bay of Bengal is bound to blow your mind. It is also one of the most trending honeymoon destinations in India for the newlyweds. Explore the marine life of the Andaman Islands in the sparkling blue water with your loved one. The islands are full of beautiful secluded beaches making them an ideal place for all the newlyweds. This place is so amazing that you would wish your vacation never got over.

Allepey

Although the moniker of Venice has been awarded to other places in India, the coastal town of Allepey & its backwaters are no less. Sometimes silence speaks more than what words can express. The silent and peaceful boat ride in Allepey will do the talking for you. With 100s of boats taking people on 2-3 day long trips into the lake is among one of the best honeymoon destinations in India.

Munnar

While on your honeymoon trip to Kerala, you cannot exclude Munnar from your itinerary. Carpeted with dense tea plantations, Munnar is the perfect example of 50 shades of green. Munnar is regarded as one of the most exotic honeymoon destinations in India. Let the captivating beauty of Munnar redefine your love for your loved one.

Pondicherry

You don’t have to go to Paris to experience the French environment. The French colony in India will give you the same fulfilling experience as France. Pondicherry will add the pinch of French touch to your honeymoon to make it all the more romantic. The city of Pondicherry is house to many luxury hotels and resorts making it the most charming honeymoon destinations in India.

Lakshadweep

(Pic Credits: commons.wikimedia.org)

Off the coast of Kerala lie many unexplored islands of Lakshadweep. The sandy beaches along with its sparkling water make this one of the best honeymoon destinations in the India. These group islands offer some of the most serene unexplored locations in the country. The love affair between the emerald beaches & the turquoise waters is going to add to your romance on your honeymoon.

Leh-Ladakh

If you and your partner are adventure junkies, Leh-Ladakh has to be one of the trips you guys make together. And what better occasion than the Honeymoon? Home to the highest memorable road in the world, the Leh-Ladakh trip will definitely make your bond stronger. Leh is known for its Tibetan monasteries & heaps of romantic getaways making it one of the perfect honeymoon destinations in India.

Mahabaleshwar – Panchgani

(Pic Credits: Flickr)

Located on the Western Ghats, the hill of Mahabaleshwar – Panchgani will give you many opportunities to make memories with your special someone and is among one of the most spectacular honeymoon destinations in India. Right from taking a boat ride in the Venna Lake to riding a horse on table-top in Panchgani, you can make every step memorable. Even though Mahabaleshwar offers a ton of places to explore the view, a simple hotel room on a sloppy mountain is going to make your complete trip worthwhile. Oh and, don’t forget the strawberries.

Coorg

Filled with immense coffee estates, the district of Coorg will connect you with your partner & nature, in the most instinctive ways. Chilly mornings will be even better with a freshly brewed cup of coffee state from the estates. Rejuvenate yourself from within by a trip to ‘Scotland of India’. Without doubt, it is one of the most romantic honeymoon destinations in India from Bangalore. Bandipur Tiger reserve & Nagarhole National Park are a must visit when you’re trip to Coorg.

Jodhpur

Red is the colour of love… or is it? Bleed blue in the town of Jodhpur. Dubbed in different hues of blue, and often regarded as the most beautiful cities in Rajasthan, the city of Jodhpur houses a ton of forts. Explore these forts, knowing the love stories within them and creating your own while at it. Open your heart to your partner in the open deserts of Thar and make exciting memories amidst the sand dunes of Jodhpur. The beauty of Jodhpur certainly makes it one of the top honeymoon destinations in India.

Udaipur

Want your honeymoon to be as royal as it can get? Look no further. The city of lakes, Udaipur will make you feel just that and is one of the best honeymoon destinations in India. Known as the ‘White City’, this romantic & royal city is chosen by many couples as their first romantic trip together. This ‘Venice of the East’ will not stop awing you till your honeymoon becomes one of the most memorable moments of your life.

Jaisalmer

Spend beautiful nights under the stars with your partner on the sand dunes of Jaisalmer. You can call your honeymoon to Jaisalmer a hearty affair as it is located in the heart of the Thar Desert. Have jovial conversations over authentic Rajasthani meals and make your own finger licking good memories. Jaisalmer is all about the true Rajasthani culture of art and crafts, culture and tradition, add this to the warmth of each other’s company and you have the ingredients for the best honeymoon anyone can have!

Rishikesh

Celebrate your adventurous love on the rock in Rishikesh. If living life on the edge is what drives you and your partner than Rishikesh has to be your honeymoon destination. Filled with tough treks, loads of adventure activities, camping & other exciting places to visit, every step of the way will make your honeymoon an enthralling experience for you. All this certainly puts Rishikesh among one of the top honeymoon destinations in India.

McLeod Ganj

(Pic Credits: commons.wikimedia.org)

Residence of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and home to a large Tibetan population, the café town of McLeod Ganj easily qualifies to this list. This quiet, cool, laidback town is a perfect destination for your offbeat honeymoon plan. Experience the Tibetan culture amidst hundreds of monks and monasteries in this romantic escapade in the hills.

Rann of Kutch

What is normally a normal white salt desert during the day, turns into a glittering fairyland under the moonlight. It’s really something to watch the entire desert glow up ethereally. And experiencing this with your loved one by your side is bound to make ‘the moment’ even more special. The annual Rann Utsav is the best time to visit this place. This is a perfect spot for star gazing too.

Agra

The city of Agra is home to the Taj Mahal, the eternal monument of love. Along with its historic significance, the city is also a famous honeymoon destination for couples around the country. In the name of this historic tombstone, make promises of eternal love with your partner.

Srinagar

Regarded as the heaven on earth, where else could you possibly think of spending your first vacation with your partner other than Srinagar?  It is, without doubt, one of the best honeymoon destinations in India. Live a classic 70’s movie scene with your partner lying back on a Shikara on the Dal Lake.

Gangtok

Witness breath-taking sunrise on the horizon of Khangchendzonga while snuggling with your loved one. Northeast India is the lesser explored part of the country and without doubt is among one of the most romantic honeymoon destinations in India. You cannot miss Gangtok while planning your honeymoon on the North East part of the country.

Kumarakom

(Pic Credits: Flickr)

If you want to have your honeymoon in a place with much less crowd and a lot more seclusion, backwaters and lagoons of Kerala in Kumarakom is the place you want to go to. It is the best way to experience the inner beauty of Kerala backwaters. Experiencing the sunrise on the houseboat on a cold, chilly morning will be a lifetime memorable moment for you and your loved one.

Ooty

Get mesmerised by the fascinating beauty of Nilgiri Hills while living in one of the cottages lined on the hills. With pleasant weather all throughout the year, Ooty has been a favoured honeymoon destinations for many couples all over the country. Honeymoon in Ooty will be all about cuddling with each other while soaking in the natural beauty Ooty has to offer.

Ranikhet

(Pic Credits: Flickr)

Ranikhet literally translates to ‘Queens Meadows’. Relive the folklore and make your loved one feel like a queen and give her abundant reasons to fall in love with you. From shopping malls in the city centre to calm roads for romantic walks, Ranikhet will give you a complete Honeymoon experience. Bond with your partner while admiring the breath-taking beauty of the majestic Himalayas.

Auli

(Pic Credits: Flickr)

This is one more honeymoon destination for all the hot-blooded newly married couples out there. Known as the skiing capital of India, Auli will most definitely satisfy your thirst and speed. It is not just another hill station in India, you might just call it the holy grail of skiing in India.

Kanyakumari

(Pic Credits: Flickr)

A point where the Bay of Bengal meets the Arabian Sea and joins together to be the Indian Ocean, a place where the land ends and becomes the mighty ocean. The only place in the entire country where you can see the sunrise & sunset on the horizon. The land might end here, but the eternal bond between you & your partner can begin right here.

Shimla

Going on a honeymoon is not just about going far to see places, it also means you bond with your loved one and lay the foundation to your eternal & everlasting relationship. What better place to do this than the beautiful city of Shimla which is located on 2205M above sea level, covered in snow. Shimla is known as the queen of hills and is known for its scenic beauty and white snow. Bond with each other with love and affection and make them the most memorable moments of your life. This is a among one spectacular honeymoon destinations in India

Planning a trip to one of these honeymoon destinations in India? Contact Travco Holidays for Visa and Passport services and all your travel requirements on +91-9860090341.

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India during the monsoon season will leave you spellbound as much as during the exotic summers. Lush greenery covering mighty hills and mountains, and swollen lakes flowing with crystal clear cool water makes India all the more incredible during the monsoon season! Lined up are top Monsoon Destinations in India you should visit for a surreal experience. Pack your bags for the perfect monsoon trip to these places.

Coorg, Karnataka

Pic Credits: flickr

Coorg also known as “The Kodagu region”, is an extremely beautiful mountain area in southern Karnataka. Coorg welcomes the monsoon season in June and experiences decent rainfall all through the months up to September. Situated amongst the beautiful hills of the World Heritage Western Ghats range, its dense forest cover with vast coffee plantations and delicious cuisine makes Coorg worth a monsoon destination in India to visit.

Places in Coorg to visit:

• Abbey Falls: Located around eight kilometres north of the peaceful town of Madikeri.
• Irupu Falls: A beautiful waterfall situated around 90 kilometres south of the town of Madikeri and 20 kilometres from the Nagarhole National Park.
• A mountain track from Kakkabe to Thadiyandamol.
• Namdroling Nyingmapa Tibetan Monastery and Golden Temple.
• Sightseeing around the town of Madikeri.

Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Pic Credits: flickr

Kodaikanal, another popular monsoon destination situated in Tamil Nadu is commonly referred to as “Princess of Hill stations”. It receives average rainfall in the month of June, making it a pleasant place for a perfect monsoon getaway. Mighty mountains covered with lush greenery, scenic waterfalls gushing down on sturdy rocks and blissfully flowing streams; monsoons make Kodaikanal charmingly beautiful. Embark on a sightseeing tour while in Kodaikanal for a memorable experience. If you like hill stations with deep valleys and cloudy skies, Kodaikanal is your calling.

Places to visit in Kodaikanal:

• Silver Cascade Waterfall: A beautiful waterfall over 180 ft high gushing over the rocks situated on the Madurai-Kodai road.
• Dolphin nose: A rocky cliff that provides a bird’s eye view of the breathtaking beauty of Kodaikanal. The best time to visit is early in the morning when the mist is seen hanging among the clouds.
• Green Valley View: The place is known for its thick and beautiful mist and once they clear a mesmerising view of the famous hill station stands beneath.

Munnar, Kerala

Pic Credits: flickr

Kerala, in general, is a very pleasant place to visit all through the year but monsoon rains make it more magical. Covered with lush green foliage and acres of vast plains, Munnar, also known as “Lover’s Paradise” is frequently visited by honeymooners. Enjoy Onam, a popular harvest festival of Kerala celebrated with much joy and enthusiasm all over the state on your trip down to the south. Rains here aren’t incessant, so don’t be afraid to give Munnar a monsoon visit.

Places to visit in Munnar:

•  Kolukkumalai Tea Estates: A leisurely stroll in this beautiful tea garden perched at an elevation of almost 8000 ft.
• A trek to the fascinating Anamudi Peak situated inside the Eravikulam National Park.
• Thirumeni Cultural Centre: Watch beautifully masked artists perform Kathakali, a popular classical dance of India.
• Top Station: Enjoy the beauty of the Western Ghats at Top Station, the highest point in Munnar with some scintillating views of the hills, rivers and valleys.

Dudhsagar, Goa

Pic Credits: flickr

Goa known as the beach capital of India has more than its popular sunny side. Enjoy long treks along mossy ridden pathways and the feel of little droplets on your face on bike rides in the rain. Indulge in some steaming hot rice and curry and get a first-hand experience of Goa’s soulful cuisine on your taste buds. Goa’s iconic Dudh Sagar falls is in its full glory during the monsoons and a trek makes it one of the most amazing activities of the season. The powerful gush of water becomes almost dizzying! Stand close to it for a completely drench-worthy experience and if you are feeling adventurous, trek up the falls. Dudhsagar is one monsoon destination in India you sure can’t miss.

Darjeeling, West Bengal

Pic Credit: flickr

Despite the grapevine, Darjeeling is a great place for a monsoon trip and will make you physically drawn to the place. If the south is too far for you to plan a trip, head west. The misty weather and foggy white atmosphere with moisture-laden winds blowing from time to time are quite soothing and ideal for a perfect monsoon getaway. This pleasant weather of Darjeeling adds to the beauty of the place and makes it more alluring. Darjeeling can be visited throughout the year as the weather remains cool and is ideal for sightseeing.

Related: Things to do while in Goa

Places to visit in West Bengal:

• Keventer’s: An eatery located on Nehru Road leading to the Chowrasta Mall. It serves the best English breakfast, tea and snacks in this hill town.
• Bengal Natural History Museum: Get to know more about the flora and fauna of Darjeeling. The museum houses a huge collection and specimens of birds with nests and eggs, reptiles and fishes, mammals, insects and more.
• Ava Art Gallery: A beautiful art gallery located on Hill Cart Road, National Highway 55 towards Darjeeling town centre, this bright purple and yellow coloured building houses a sixty piece collection of artwork that includes water, oil and thread paintings.

Planning a trip to any of these monsoon destinations? Visit https://travcoholidays.com/ or call on 9860090341 for help with passport and visa assistance and make that dream come true.

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