The mystical towns and amusing hills of Uttarakhand are perfect to add an extra dose of adventure in your December trip. From experiencing a spiritual awakening to being one with nature amidst the dense forests, snow-capped mountains, rolling hills, and meandering streams and rivers, Uttarakhand is a heaven for nature lovers. From playing in the snow in Auli to catching a glimpse of the wildlife in Jim Corbett, an incredible experience and adventure await the entire family in these mountains. See the best places to visit in Uttarakhand in December, especially during the New Year’s weekend, for a much-needed break and a dose of fun.
15 Best Places To Visit In Uttarakhand In December 2024
So, which of these captivating and refreshing hill towns in Uttarakhand will you be checking out first? Scroll down to see all the top places to visit in Uttarakhand in December and what all they offer before you book a trip.
1. Auli – A Captivating Wonderland
Recognized as the skiing capital of India, Auli turns into a majestic wonderland during the winter months between November and February, making it one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand in December. Whether you are a professional or simply trying to learn skiing, you will surely enjoy sliding down the slopes of Auli situated 2500 to 3050 meters above sea level. There are many things to do in Auli. If skiing is not your thing, you can choose to play in the snow, throw snowballs at each other, or even make a snowman. For exhilarating views of the peaks, set off on a scenic trek to Gorson Bugyal situated only 3 km away from Auli. It is surely one of the best places to see in Uttarakhand in December with kids.
Best time to visit: November to March
Ideal trip duration: 3 to 4 days
Ideal for: Couples, families, friends
Things to do in Auli: Skiing, camping, trekking, cable car ride
How to reach: Taxis are conveniently available from Jolly Grant Airport and Kotdwar Railway Station. The railway station is only an hour away situated at a distance of 40km.
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2. Lansdowne – Untouched Natural Splendor
For experiencing the unspoiled beauty of a lesser-known hill station, visit Lansdowne which is one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand in December. Surrounded by scenic hills, this charming place is perfect for enjoying various adventurous activities and even moments of complete bliss amid natural surroundings. All these are among the best things to do in Lansdowne. If you enjoy bird watching, get ready to discover over 600 species of birds that migrate to Lansdowne each year. It is truly a heaven for trekkers providing innumerable trekking opportunities covering a few hours to even a few days.
Best time to visit: October to March
Ideal trip duration: 3 to 4 days
Ideal for: Couples, families, friends
Things to do in Lansdowne: Bird watching, rock climbing, trekking
How to reach: Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest airport to Lansdowne and taxis are available from the airport to Lansdowne. The nearest railway station is at Kotdwar from where one can hire a taxi. Buses and taxis are available to Lansdowne from ISBT Kashmiri Gate and from major destinations of Uttarakhand such as Kotdwar and Dugadda.
3. Dhanaulti – A Walk In The Clouds
Dhanaulti is one of the best places to visit in December in Uttarakhand if you would like to bypass the popular hill station of Mussoorie situated only 60 km away. For a peaceful getaway and to watch the first snowfall of the season, do visit Dhanaulti during the winter months. Nestled among dense woodlands of Oaks, Deodars, and Rhododendrons, you get to marvel at magnificent views of the Himalayas and simply relax in the lap of nature. It’s also the base point of numerous treks. You can trek through the alpine forests to reach Kunjapuri, Surkanda Devi, and Chandrabadni, which is among the top things to do in Dhanaulti. Some of the interesting places to visit in Dhanaulti include Dhanaulti Eco Park, Klaudia Forest, and Surkanda Devi Temple.
Best time to visit: October to January and April to June
Ideal trip duration: 2 days
Ideal for: Couples, families, friends
Things to do in Dhanaulti: Camping, trekking through dense woods
How to reach: Shared or private taxi can be hired to drive down to Dhanaulti from Dehradun or Mussoorie.
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4. Pithoragarh – A Charming Hideaway
Image Credit: Ashok singh negi 41 for Wikimedia Commons
Quaint and enchanting, the small valley of Pithoragarh often called the ‘Little Kashmir’ possesses a quaint and enchanting atmosphere and is one of the best places in Uttarakhand in December. Embark on a fascinating journey as you get to experience charming village life and get acquainted with the local customs and festivals. Trekkers will find Pithoragarh an ideal starting point to explore the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. Quite a few shrines and temples such as Kapileshwar Mahadev Temple and Nakuleshwar Temple can be visited too.
Best time to visit: Between October and December and April to June
Ideal trip duration: 3 to 4 days
Ideal for: Couples, families, friends
Things to do: Paragliding, trekking, visiting the villages
How to reach: Tanakpur is the nearest railway station at a distance of 138 km from where taxis and buses are available for Pithoragarh. Buses from ISBT Anand Vihar in New Delhi are readily available for Pithoragarh.
5. Chakrata – A Well-kept Secluded Secret
Mystical and charming, the beautiful hill station of Chakrata, surrounded by pristine mountains, is a haven for trekkers. It offers a serene delight away from the clutter of city life. 90 km from Dehradun, Chakrata is home to some of the most magnificent waterfalls, caves, and ancient temples. Sightseeing and adventure activities are among the best things to do in Chakrata. Mundali, situated close to Chakrata, allows skiers to slide on the slopes during the winter months.
Best time to visit: Throughout the year
Ideal trip duration: 3 to 4 days
Ideal for: couples, solo travellers
Things to do in Chakrata: Camping, village walks, trekking, visiting Tiger Falls
How to reach: The railway station at Dehradun is the nearest and is just 2 hours away from the city center.
Related Post: Water Sports In Uttarakhand
6. Bhimtal – The Land Of Lakes And Pristine Beauty
If you would like to explore an offbeat destination, plan a trip to Bhimtal, one of the best places in Uttarakhand in December. This idyllic and less crowded hill station is surrounded by dense woods of pine, oaks, and shrubs. Spend your mornings bird watching, exploring the scenic surroundings, or with a boat ride at Bhimtal Lake. Adventurists and explorers can even trek to Garg Parvat, the source of River Gargi.
Best time to visit: September to December and March to June
Ideal trip duration: 1 to 2 days
Ideal for: Honeymooners, families, friends
Things to do in Bhimtal: Boating in the lake, nature walks, trekking, fishing
How to reach: From Delhi one can choose to drive down or hire a private cab. Pantnagar Airport at a distance of 58 km is the nearest. Kathgodam Railway Station is the nearest railway station from where cabs and buses can be easily found.
7. Nainital – A Jewel In The Crown Of Unmatched Beauty
The ever-effervescent and popular hill station of Nainital is one of the best places to visit in December in Uttarakhand. Known as the lake city and surrounded by nature’s bounty, Nainital is the best place to visit in December in Uttarakhand. From basking under the sun and leisurely enjoying a boat ride in Naini Lake to visiting Eco Cave Garden and Nainital Zoo, there are plenty of places to visit for the entire family. Adventure enthusiasts can choose to trek to Cheena (Naina) Peak, which is at 8568 feet and offers magnificent views of the Himalayas.
Best time to visit: November to February and between March and June
Ideal trip duration: 4 to 5 days
Ideal for: Couples, families and office goers
Things to do in Nainital: Camping, boating, trekking, a ride on the aerial ropeway
How to reach: Kathgodam is the nearest railway station, located 34km away from where buses and cabs are easily available. It takes about 7 hours to reach Nainital from Delhi.
Related Post: Waterfalls In Uttarakhand
8. Sattal – Mystical Magic Of Nature’s Glory
Sattal, as the name suggests, is a cluster of seven lakes and is one of the best places to visit in December in Uttarakhand. Being home to migratory birds, nature enthusiasts and keen bird watchers will find Sattal a fascinating destination. Pleasant weather throughout the year and innumerable opportunities to explore the verdant woods of Sattal make it one of the most preferred getaways in Uttarakhand in December.
Best time to visit: September to December and March to June
Ideal trip duration: 3 to 4 days
Ideal for: Couples, families
Things to do: bird watching, nature walks, boating, angling, mountain biking, rock climbing
How to reach: Cabs for Sattal are available from Kathgodam Railway Station and Pantnagar Airport.
9. Jim Corbett – The Wild Within Close Range
Situated on the banks of Ramganga River, Jim Corbett National Park is a popular holiday spot and one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand in December. Home to over 480 species of flora and fauna, wildlife enthusiasts can look forward to sighting endangered species such as the Royal Bengal Tiger. Divided into five zones, this magnificent park encompassing an area of 500 sq km is covered with lakes, grasslands, streams, hills, and marshy lands. The resorts within the park as well as the jungle safari tours allow one to experience wildlife from close quarters.
Best time to visit: Mid-October to Mid-June
Ideal trip duration: 2 to 3 days
Ideal for: Families, nature enthusiasts, photographers, couples
Things to do in Jim Corbett: Jungle safari, bird watching, fishing, wildlife photography
How to reach: Jim Corbett National Park is well connected through bus and taxi services from Delhi and Ramnagar. One can even hail a taxi or take a bus from Pantnagar Airport.
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10. Kanatal – A Welcome Escape
Travelers seeking solitude away from the hectic schedules of city life will find Kanatal an idyllic escapade boasting apple orchards, verdant green woodlands, magnificent hills, and trees. This charming hamlet with untouched beauty is one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand in December. Kanatal also receives snowfall in the winter months and offers a visual delight to the adventure enthusiasts keen on camping and trekking amid the scenic surroundings. The popular tourist attraction of Surkanda Devi Temple is also situated only 10 km from this charming hamlet. If you love nature, you will surely enjoy a walk through the dense Kodia Jungle situated 1 km away.
Best time to visit: Mid-October to mid-June
Ideal trip duration: 2 to 3 days
Ideal for: Families, friends, adventure enthusiasts
Things to do in Kanatal: Hiking, nature walks, resorts offering ayurvedic treatments
How to reach: Dehradun is around 75 km away and one can easily find a bus or hire a private taxi to reach Kanatal.
11. Munsiyari
Image Credit: 73109955@N00/ for Wikipedia
This is one of the most beautiful places to see in Uttarakhand in December where it feels like the time has stopped. Munsiyari is known as one of the best skiing destinations in the state which is located amidst the Kumaon hills. While this is quite a beautiful place to visit in Summer, but during winter it gets covered with snow and looks magical.
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 Days
Ideal For: Family, Friends. Couples
Things To Do In Munsiyari: Wildlife explore, Skiing, Sightseeing
How To Reach: The nearest airport from Munsiyari is Pantnagar which is 313 km away. Haldwani and Kathgodam are the nearest railheads.
Related Post: Uttarakhand In June
12. Chopta
Image Credit: Alok Prasad for Wikipedia
Quite an offbeat location, Chopta is a paradise for nature and adventure lovers, making it all worthwhile. Surrounded by the mighty hills and the lush greenery, this place is known as one of the surreal offbeat places to visit in Uttarakhand in December. Often visited by the trekkers, this place holds a peaceful vibe.
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 Days
Ideal For: Adventure Junkies, Nature Lovers
Things To Do In Chopta: Trekking
How To Reach: Jolly grant airport is the nearest airport, Haridwar and Rishikesh are the closest railheads
13. Rishikesh
This is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand which is a favorite of every traveler. Known as the gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas, this place is a haven for both pilgrims and adventure junkies. Alongside that this city is also called the ‘yoga land of India’ where people come from far and beyond to seek peace and rejuvenation.
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 Days
Ideal For: Family, Friends, Couples
Things To Do In Rishikesh: Sightseeing, Yoga
How To Reach: Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest airport from the city, Rishikesh has its own railway station
Related Post: Uttarakhand In March
14. Chaukori
Image Credit: Shubhachemu for Wikipedia
Considered to be one of the best-kept secrets in Uttarakhand, Chaukori is a beautiful place that is a must-visit during the winter season. Surrounded by the lush green hills and also the tea gardens, this place offers a relaxing stay away from the hustle and bustle. This tiny hamlet gives a beautiful camping experience while capturing the best sunsets and sunrises.
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 Days
Ideal For: Family, Friends, Couples
Things To Do In Chopta: Trekking, Sightseeing
How To Reach: Pantnagar airport is the nearest, Haldwani and Kathgodam railway stations are the nearest
15. Harsil
Image Credit: Debrupm for Wikipedia
Located amidst the serenity of nature, Harsil is a beautiful place resting amidst the lush green valleys of Garhwal Himalayas. Offering a beautiful view of the green valleys and the meadows, this place is a paradise during winter. This is an ideal place to escape and relax amidst the surreal beauty of nature.
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 Days
Ideal For: Family, Friends, Couples
Things To Do In Harsil: Sightseeing
How To Reach: Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest airport/ Haridwar and Rishikesh are the nearest railheads
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So, which of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand in December are you going to check out first? Let the expert travel agents at TravelTriangle help you decide! Get in touch with us and plan an awesome-sauce trip to Uttarakhand right away.
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Places To Visit In Uttarakhand In December
Which month is the best to visit Uttarakhand?
If you would like to watch the snowfall and play in it, you should visit Uttarakhand between December and February.
Where is snowfall in Uttarakhand?
Some of the best places to see snowfall in Uttarakhand include Dhanaulti, Auli, Mussoorie, and in and around Chopta.
Is there snowfall in Dhanaulti?
Yes, you will find snowfall in Dhanaulti in the winter months. The temperature ranges in Dhanaulti between 1° and 7° and therefore it is quite common to see snowfall here in the months of January and February.
Which is the coldest place in Uttarakhand?
Auli is considered to be one of the coldest places in Uttarakhand.
Which are the best hill stations in Uttarakhand to celebrate the New Year?
Mussoorie, Nainital, Lansdowne, and Kasauli are a few awesome places to celebrate New Year. Also, the hotels in these hill stations offer exciting packages and special deals during New Year.
Which is the most beautiful place in Uttarakhand in December?
Some of the most beautiful places you can visit in Uttarakhand in December include the likes of: 1. Auli 2. Dhanaulti 3. Nainital 4. Haridwar 5. Jim Corbett 6. Chakrata 7. Pithoragarh 8. Lansdowne
How far is Auli from Rishikesh?
Auli is situated around 267 km away from Rishikesh. You can reach it by taking a bus or hiring a taxi from Rishikesh.
What is Auli famous for?
Auli is famous for its ski resorts and ski slopes and is particularly visited by families and ski enthusiasts during the winter months.
Does it snow in Nainital in December?
Nainital is definitely quite cold during the winter months and at times it receives snow in late December or early January.
Where should you go for a 2-day trip near Delhi?
There are quite a few places in Uttarakhand where you can go for a two-day or a short weekend trip near Delhi: 1. Lansdowne 2. Sattal 3. Nainital 4. Bhimtal 5. Jim Corbett 6. Dhanaulti 7. Rishikesh 8. Dehradun 9. Mussoorie 10. Kasauli
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Kanika has 4 years of experience in writing blogs and marketing content for travel. And when she’s not writing, she’s either exploring new terrains in a different corner of the world, or out in the city freezing urban scenarios in her camera.
