Himachal has always been a paradise for backpackers who have strong affinity towards hills and wilderness. Its prodigious and snow capped mountains not only mesmerize the backpackers or solo travelers but also allure a large number of honeymooners and families to witness the spellbinding Himalayan ranges at these 10 best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh in December. Therefore, indulge in the serenity of such captivating landscapes, and include these places in the itinerary of your next trip to Himachal, for an unforgettable vacation.
Please Note: Shimla has been chosen as the central location to state the best ways to reach the respective cities.
15 Best Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh In December
Check out the most interesting excursions in Himachal Pradesh, not to be missed out on this year in December:
- Kufri
- Rohtang La
- Spiti Valley
- Khajjiar
- Parashar Lake
- Churdhar
- Kheerganga
- Solan
- Kalpa
- Mashobra
- Tosh
- Barot
- Mcleodganj
- Shimla
- Manali
1. Kufri
Known for its trekking trails and hiking paths, Kufri is one of those destinations in Himachal Pradesh that has something or the other for anyone and everyone. From white snow covering its floors to some of the most breathtakingly beautiful views of the scenery that form all around, Kufri in December is nothing less than a winter wonderland that reeks of magical vibes. The hill station might be small but the experiences that one can encounter in this destination are impeccable making it one of the best place to visit in Himachal Pradesh in December.
Weather In December: The weather in Kufri in December is pretty harsh. The temperature can fall down to as low as -4 degrees Celsius and during extreme conditions, it can also touch -10 degrees Celsius.
Must Experiences: Try hands-on skiing on the slope of Mahasu Peak and embrace the inner daredevil. To add more to an adventurous vacation, trek in Chail which is just an hour’s drive from Kufri. The stunning oak trees and pine forests would make the whole experience all the more exciting.
How To Reach: Once in Shimla, one can either take a private cab or the bus to Kufri which is located just 20 kilometres from the airport. One can also take the toy train that runs from Shimla to Kalka and get dropped off at Kufri. The whole train journey offers some of the most beautiful views of the destination.
Must Read: 30 Best Hill Stations In Himachal
2. Rohtang La
If your idea of a vacation is your utmost adventure and thrill and looking for the best places in Himachal in December, paying a visit to Rohtang La should definitely be on the bucket list. Blessed immensely by mother nature, Rohtang La, also known as Rohtang Pass, this destination connects two of the most significant valleys of Himachal Pradesh- Manali and Lahaul & Spiti. Daredevils are given an opportunity to ride a bike on slippery roads with dangerous curves and extreme weather conditions. Permit for Rohtang Pass is available only during certain months of the year.
Weather In December: Due to its high altitude, this destination experiences snow almost throughout the year. Rohtang Pass is open for tourists in December if it does not snow heavily. With fresh snow, the land becomes magical. Although, the amount of snowfall is unpredictable in this destination.
Must Experiences: One should definitely try Heli Skiing in the heavy snow. Look at the whole town from a bird’s eye view while paragliding up high. Embrace the adventurous inner soul while taking part in snow scooter driving.
How To Reach: Rohtang La is easily accessible, but reaching this destination is not much of a task. Once in Manali, most daredevils opt to travel by road which exhibits some of the most beautiful views. The nearest railway station is in Joginder Nagar and one can hire a taxi or HRTC bus that frequently runs from Manali to Rohtang Pass.
3. Spiti Valley
One of the most awe-inspiring and breathtakingly beautiful destinations in Himachal Pradesh has to be Spiti Valley, without any shadow of a doubt. When one gets to witness the mighty snow-clad mountains surrounding a clear blue lake that is spread as far as the eye can see, one usually tends to go speechless. Located at a high altitude, Spiti Valley is a cold desert mountain which is one of its kind and ranks among the best places to visit in Himachal in December.
Weather In December: The average temperature in Spiti Valley in December hovers anywhere between -1 to -5 degrees Celsius during the day. However, the temperature can go as low as -20 and -25 degrees Celsius during the night.
Must Experiences: Fight with the waves while river rafting. The water might be cold but it would be one great adventure. Embrace the peace in various ancient Buddhist monasteries. Camp next to the Chandratal Lake.
How To Reach: By road, once in Chandigarh, one can reach Spiti via Shimla and Lahaul via Manali. By train, one can reach Shimla, the railway station is well connected with the major parts of the country and then continue a cab journey from thereon.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh
4. Khajjiar
Kajjiar is known as the Switzerland of India and lures travellers from across the globe with its panoramic landscapes. This is undoubtedly amongst the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh during December where one can witness the exclusive snowfall amidst the serene ambiance. Do visit this beautiful place while holidaying in Himachal this winter, as the place houses enough surprises for you.
Weather In December: Average temperature ranges around 5-12°C
Must Experiences: Visit Golden Devi Temple, Manu Temple, Sankat Mochan Temple, Jakhu Temple, IIAS, and Trek on Rohtang pass.
How To Reach: It is a part of the Chamba district and is well-connected to Chamba and Dalhousie. The nearest railway station to Khajjiar is Pathankot from where you can board a taxi.
5. Parashar Lake
If you are looking for snowfall places in Himachal Pradesh in December, the Parashar Lake is your best bet. This lake is a hidden gem of Himachal which is not much explored by the tourists, giving you an exclusive experience of Himachal. You can spend hours here by admiring the mystic beauty of snow-clad mountains surrounding this peaceful lake. Whether holidaying with friends or your partner, Prashar Lake will truly enthral you with its astounding beauty and vibe as it is one of the best tourist places in Himachal Pradesh in December. You can also grab some local delicacies from the food stalls here or simply sip the hot drinks, offered by the local vendors during winter.
Weather In December: Day temperature ranges between 8-12°C, however, nights are quite colder and may even cross -5°C.
Must Experiences: Visit Devnal Temple, Trokada Temple, and Triloknath Temple.
How To Reach: Take a bus to Manali get down at Mandi and take a private vehicle to Prashar Lake.
Suggested Read: A Handy Delhi To Shimla Trains Guide
6. Churdhar
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Churdhar is a must-visit place for travellers who are looking forward to audacious treks in Himachal in December. Standing tall at 3647 meters above sea level, this colossal peak is the highest in the Shivalik range. It is one of the most strenuous treks that Himachal has to offer but once a traveller reaches the top, the realization comes easy that the effort has borne fruit. The mesmerising grandeur of nature and the tranquillity of the mountain work as rewards for the laborious trek, and make Churdhar one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh in December.
Weather In December: Average temperature ranges around 15°C
Must Experiences: Visit Shirgul Maharaj Temple, trek to Churdhar, witness the charm of Bijjat Maharaj Temple, and the Statue of Lord Shiva, and more.
How To Reach: The trek has 2 starting points – Saharan (8 kilometers), and Nohradhar (15 kilometers). Sarahan is around 160 kilometers from Shimla while the distance between Nohradhar and Shimla is about 110 kilometers. Both these places can be reached by road through public as well as private transport.
Himachal Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle
Head to Himachal to witness lush valleys surrounded by snow-capped hills. Indulge in skiing, paragliding, and other adventure sports. Book holiday packages inclusive of airport transfers, cab, resort, sightseeing, and meals to Shimla, Manali, Kasol, Dharamshala, and more.
7. Kheerganga
Kheerganga is one of the best villages in Himachal Pradesh. It is another divine place that travellers should include in the itinerary of their trip to Himachal in December. Situated at a height of 2690 meters, Kheerganga is a small village in the mystical Parvati Valley blanketed by gigantic mountains from all sides. Reaching to the top demands an arduous 13-kilometre-on-foot journey from Barshaini. The journey, when completed, provides an enthralling view of the lush green mountains, and a natural hot water spring to wash away your fatigue and render this village one of the best tourist places in Himachal Pradesh in December.
Weather in December: Average temperature ranges around 15°C.
Must Experiences: On your trek to Kheerganga, witness magnificent Rudra Nag, and Sheshnag waterfalls, and bathe in the hot sulphur spring at the end of the trek to wash away the fatigue.
How To Reach: Barshaini (Kheerganga trek base camp) is 247 kilometres away from Shimla. From Barshaini, one has to complete a trek of 13 kilometres to reach Kheerganga.
Suggested Read: 5 Types Of Offbeat Stays In Himachal
8. Solan
Known as the ‘Mushroom capital of India’, Solan is a major city in Himachal Pradesh surrounded by charming hills all around. The place is named after the Hindu goddess Shoolini Devi for whom a festival is celebrated every year on a large scale which includes a 3-day fair as well. Therefore, it is one of the top historical places in Himachal that one should visit during their trip.
Weather in December: Average temperature ranges around 15°C.
Must Experiences: Trek to Karol Ka Tibba, visit the mystical Shoolini temple, and Jatoli Shiv temple, and explore other parts of the city like Gurkha Fort, and the Tibetan monastery. One can also visit nearby places like Kasauli, Chail and Parwanoo.
How To Reach: Solan has its own railway station where travellers can get down to reach the city easily. The nearest airport, i.e., Shimla Airport is 53 kilometres away from Solan and travellers can commute via public and private transport.
9. Kalpa
Kalpa is an offbeat destination, in the Kinnaur district of Himachal, famous for its apple orchards, and ethnic rural life. Situated at an altitude of 2,690 meters, Kalpa is surrounded by snow-capped peaks all year round, and one can also get a clear view of the Shivling on the Kailash mountain which changes its colour at different intervals in a day. For those who want to witness snowfall places in Himachal and breathtaking views of the hills, Kalpa serves them right as it is one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh in December.
Weather in December: Average temperature ranges around 8°C
Must Experiences: Visit majestic places such as Kinner Kailash, Kamru Fort, Sangla Valley, Roghi Village Suicide point, Sapni fort, and witness awe-inspiring views of snow-covered peaks all around.
How To Reach: The closest airport is Shimla Airport and from there Kalpa is around 240 kilometres away. This distance can be covered through private as well as public transport.
Suggested Read: 18 Secret Places In Himachal Tourists
10. Mashobra
Mashobra, a town in the Shimla district of Himachal, is predominated by pine forests which house a number of ravishing gardens naturally decorated with alluring flowers and isolated picnic spots. One of the two presidential retreats in India is situated in Mashobra where the Indian president visits every year. Hence, Mashobra also qualifies as one of the best historical places in Himachal that is best experienced in December.
Weather in December: Average temperature ranges around 14°C
Must Experiences: Mashobra boasts of beautiful places like Craignano, Reserve forest sanctuary, Mahasu Peak, and Shali Tibba which are popular tourist places in the town. One can also opt for outdoor activities like trekking to Chharabra village and indulge in other activities such as paragliding, camping, biking, skiing, rappelling and quad biking.
How To Reach: The nearest airport is Shimla Airport and is 12.7 kilometers away from Mashobra. This distance can be covered in about 45 minutes using public or private transport. One can also get down at Shimla railway station and cover the remaining journey by road.
11. Tosh
Tosh is another picturesque village situated in the Parvati Valley at an altitude of 7,874 feet that leads to the thrilling Pin Parvati pass. It is one of the offbeat destinations that can be visited during your Himachal tour in December. Indulge in a daunting Tosh valley trek leading to the Tosh glacier through scenic paths with mountains on one side, and the Tosh river on the other side during your trip to Himachal in December.
Weather in December: Temperature drops below freezing point at times during the month of December. So, do check the weather before visiting the place.
Must Experiences: Trek to Tosh village and witness the mesmerising views of Tosh River on one side and prodigious mountains on the other. Also visit the Tosh Glacier, and Pin Parvati Pass for thrilling experiences.
How To Reach: Tosh is 249 kilometres from Shimla and can only be reached by private transport. Public transport is available to Barshaini which is 3 kilometers from Tosh. From Barshaini, one can either trek or take a cab up to Tosh.
Suggested Read: 10 Overrated Destinations In Himachal
12. Barot
Barot is yet another offbeat yet one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh in Winter located in the Mandi district. The village does not experience a large tourist footfall which makes it a tranquil place to sit beside the Uhl river and relax for a few days in the arms of nature away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Therefore, this hidden gem, being one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh in December, is a must-visit on your next trip.
Weather in December: Average temperature ranges around 12°C.
Must experiences: Visit the Dev Pashakot temple, Uhl river, and Nargu wildlife sanctuary. Head to trekking camps, and indulge yourself in fishing with prior permission from the concerned government office.
How To Reach: The nearest railway station is Joginder nagar railway station which is 43 kilometres away from Barot and one can use public or private transport to reach Barot from there. For flight travellers, Kullu airport is the nearest airport from where one can reach by road to Barot.
13. Mcleodganj
Known as little Lhasa, Mcleodganj is one of the best hill stations to visit in December in Himachal Pradesh where one would witness an amalgamation of Indian, and Tibetan cultures living in harmony. Not only the rich culture, but the town also houses a number of cafes which serve palatable Tibetan, Italian, and Himachali cuisines, thus, making it one of the top places in Himachal to visit in December.
Weather in December: Average temperature ranges around 12°C
Must Experiences: Trek to Triund, take a bath under the Bhagsu Falls, and visit the Bhagsunath temple, Baglamukhi temple, Namgyal monastery, Tibetan museum, and Dal Lake.
How To Reach: Mcleodganj is a 240 kilometre drive from Shimla and if one wants to travel by train then Pathankot is the nearest railway station which is 89 kilometres from the hill station.
Suggested Read: 11 Travel Tips For Himachal Pradesh
14. Shimla
Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, is a major tourist hub of the country. It is one of the most developed places in Himachal and fulfils all the desires of a traveller by offering top-notch sightseeing places to visit, thrilling activities to indulge in, flavourful food to eat, comfortable accommodation options, and a full-fledged Mall Road for shopping. Therefore, Shimla is surely one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh in December.
Weather in December: Average temperature ranges around 12°C.
Major Attractions: Visit the Vice Regal Lodge, Christ Church, Jakhoo Peak, and the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies for sightseeing, shop to your heart’s content at the Mall road, Lakkar Bazar and Tibetan market, experience venturesome outdoor activities like paragliding, camping, skiing, and many more.
How To Reach: The nearest railway station is Shima railway Station and the nearest airport is Shimla airport.
15. Manali
Manali is the most versatile, and most popular place to visit during your trip to Himachal in December as it attracts all types of tourists ranging from honeymooners to family members, and most importantly solo travellers. From luxurious hotels to the most ravishing and scenic views and lip-smacking food, Manali offers everything to its travellers. Hence, it always retains the number one spot in all the lists of best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh in December.
Weather in December: Average temperature ranges around 10°C.
Must Experiences: Visit the snow-covered Rohtang pass, the divine Hidimba Devi temple, and indulge in thrilling outdoor activities in Solang Valley like trekking, paragliding, and skiing, and shop across the Mall road to fulfil your shopping desires.
How To Reach: Kullu airport is the nearest airport and Jogindernagar railway station is the nearest rail connection to Manali. One can reach Manali from these places via public as well as private road transport.
Further Read: Places To Visit In Manali
We are sure that after reading this blog, you would have to roam around looking for tourist places in Himachal Pradesh with a map. Craving to go on a trip to these best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh in December? Then book a customizable trip to Himachal Pradesh, and witness the charm of these places.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Best Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh In December
Is it possible to trek to Tosh in December?
Yes, if the weather conditions are apt, and your health allows you to perform such activities then it is definitely possible to trek to Tosh village.
Does Manali witness snowfall during December?
Chances of snowfall in Manali during December are quite low but one can witness snowfall at higher places such as Solang Valley, and Rohtang pass.
Is prior permission required to visit Rohtang Pass during winters?
In case one is travelling in a non-state vehicle, one has to take prior permission from the SDM office for which they shall submit an application, and relevant documents one day prior to their visit.
Are outdoor activities, like paragliding, performed under expert supervision?
Yes, an expert will always ride with you while paragliding or in any other outdoor activity which involves special training.
Is it necessary to hire a guide for trekking?
It is not necessary to hire a guide but it is recommended to hire one as they have better knowledge of the routes, and also because emergency forces might not be able to reach on time for rescue.
Where can I find snow in Himachal in December?
The chances of snowfall in most regions of Himachal are lower than average but if you want to travel to see the white blankets cover the valley, make your way to Rohtang Pass or Solan Valley during this time.
Which place is most beautiful in Himachal Pradesh?
Some of the most beautiful places in Himachal Pradesh that are worth visiting are Shimla, Narkanda, Manali,. Kufri, Dalhousie, Khajjiar, Kullu.
Which is the coldest place in Himachal Pradesh in December?
Spiti Valley is the coldest place in Himachal Pradesh in December when you can witness picturesque landscapes covered with a thick blanket of snow. The natural beauty of this place is mesmerising and attracts people from far and wide to immerse in the solitude of this place.
Does it snow in Khajjiar in December?
Yes, it is possible for Khajjiar to experience snowfall in December. The region, often referred to as 'Mini Switzerland of India,' is located in Himachal Pradesh at an altitude of approximately 6,500 feet above sea level. During winter months, especially in December, Khajjiar can receive snowfall, transforming the area into a magical winter wonderland.
Is December a good time to visit Dalhousie?
Yes, December can be a wonderful time to visit Dalhousie. The town, located in Himachal Pradesh, offers a charming winter experience with snowfall often occurring, creating a picturesque setting. However, it's essential to be prepared for cold weather, and some tourist activities might be limited due to the winter season.
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