Unbeatable Budget Trips in December That Won’t Break The Bank
Planning a year-end holiday but worried about your budget? Breathe – there are a plenty of budget-friendly destinations in India that promise epic adventures without draining your wallet. The month of December is the best month to travel, thanks to the cool weather, festive vibes and endless options for fun. From snowy hill stations to sunny beaches, you can find the best places to visit in December either with friends, family or solo. Not to mention, these spots are great places to visit in January, too. So, from an idyllic vacation in the hills to a peaceful sojourn at the beaches, you can plan a budget trip in December. Ready to discover the best places to go in December? Let’s find out.
In this Blog
Shimla
Want to escape to a beautiful yet a budget trip in December? Shimla is an absolute treat for the soul. Often called the “Queen of Hill Stations,” this hill station in North India turns into an enchanting paradise covered with snow during the winters. A December getaway here means strolling on Mall Road in hand knit woollens and devouring steaming hot momos. Don’t forget the Winter Sports Festival where ice-skiing and snowball fighting are the main events. Looking for something quieter? Visit the quaint little village of Chail and experience some peace and quiet away from the crowds. Shimla’s colonial charm and snowy romance make it one of the best places to visit in December on a budget.
Manali
Manali is not a destination, it’s the magic of December vacation ideas come alive. This picture-perfect hill station in North India, surrounded by deodar forests, boasts some of the best adventure tourist places in India in December. Solang Valley is for people who crave for some thrills such as paragliding and skiing that will get your heart racing. One can also visit Lamadugh Meadows or trek to the Koshla Tree line for a quieter, unspoiled, surprisingly beautiful atmosphere. Manali’s curvy roads, cosy cafes, and frosty mornings make it one of the best places to travel in December on a budget, blending adventure and serenity in the most Instagrammable way possible.
Goa
Looking for December travel deals that promise wild parties and endless beaches? Goa is the word that pops up in everybody’s lips. This beach haven is the ultimate place to vacation in December, offering electric nightlife, sun-kissed shores, and bustling markets. Don’t miss the Sunburn Music Festival, which brings some of the best of EDM and vibrant vibes. December here is also a time to explore the Feast of St. Francis Xavier or let loose at the famed casinos for a Vegas-style thrill. Whether you are a party person or a peaceful seeker, Goa guarantees an unforgettable December trip every time.
Wayanad
Wayanad is a wonderful choice for those looking to take a vacation in December and wishing to be amidst nature. This southern state of India located in the Western Ghats is rich in mountains, rain forests and has exciting trails and quiet places for bird watching as well. You can visit the Edakkal Caves and see ancient engravings or take a walkthrough spice fields that smell like Christmas. Wayanad is a soup of history, culture and greens which makes it one of the best vacation spots to visit in December on a tight timeframe and budget.
Alleppey
For a budget trip in December that spells luxury, Alleppey’s backwaters are your go-to destination. Think of floating on serene palm bordered canals in a houseboat – how relaxing that must be. Alleppey is referred to as the “Venice of the East,” and offers Ayurvedic resorts that help you pamper your senses for relaxation. The month of December has cool weather added to it making it a perfect vacation spot in December. Also, use this opportunity to indulge in the local toddy and the Kerela fish curry. Alleppey’s combination of natural beauty and a relaxed atmosphere makes it unforgettable, making it the place to visit during the winter season.
Udaipur
This winter, Udaipur, is an awesome decorative corner just waiting to be uncovered. What could be better than standing by the gently swaying Fateh Sagar Lake while chilled winds of December caress your face? This beautiful place is perfect for people who enjoy lakes, palaces, and some history behind them. City Palace and Jag Mandir are two such places that will take you to the golden days of kings and Queens. The Shilpgram Arts and Crafts Festival will, however, impress you as it will spice your winter holidays perfectly. The best part is? You can learn crafting skills directly from the artists. With pleasant climate and majestic feel, Udaipur really stands out as one of the budget-friendly places to vacation in December.
Jaipur
Jaipur, in fact Rajasthan in December is absolutely wonderful. The Pink City has an appealing glow under the winter sun that makes it one of the best places to travel in December on a budget. From exploring the great of Amber Fort and Hawa Mahal to shopping for colourful items in Johari Bazaar, Jaipur has it all. The weather in Rajasthan in December is quite chilly so you can walk around the streets without sweating, savouring local delicacies such as dal baati churma and hot kachoris. Also, Jaipur is one of those winter holiday destinations where culture, history and cuisine waits for travellers all at the same time. So, whether it’s a solo trip or an annual family getaway, this city has all the potential for a memorable December vacation.
Gokarna
If you find the hustle and bustle of Goa a little too much, Gokarna is a pleasantly affordable option for your December holiday. In Gokarna, the scenic beaches on the Karwar coast of Karnataka with its calm atmosphere makes it one of the best places to visit in December. Savithri Temple speaks to the spiritual aspect of the place while Kudle Beach and Om Beach are perfect for lazing, meditating, or doing yoga. Sandwiched between fewer tourists and a totally relaxed atmosphere, this location feels like a privately owned tropical paradise. December is a great time for a budget vacation where aesthetics are not compromised.
Pondicherry
December is simply enchanting in Pondicherry as it sets the fusion of Indian culture and French influence. This coastal town is one of the best places for travel during December. Walk down its narrow cobblestone alleys that are interspersed with bright coloured colonial buildings and bougainvillea or have a latte in a small French coffee joint. The weather in December is quite pleasant and therefore it is ideal to visit Auroville or even sunbathe at Paradise Beach. Moreover, Pondicherry is quite friendly for the pockets which makes it a great holiday destination in December for families or couples and even for solo travellers. You should include this on your January to-go list as well – you won’t be disappointed!
Bangalore
Bangalore in December? Why not! This is a lively city and with winters around, it is almost a perfect place to visit in the month of December. Begin the day with a visit to Cubbon Park or take a tour around Bangalore Palace. This city has something for everyone – vibrant markets, lively nightlife, and cosy rooftop cafes where you can sip coffee under the winter sky. If you feel like taking a short break for a day or two, there are many hill stations near Bangalore that you could head to. The city of Bangalore is a fantastic destination for low cost travel in December as it has a perfect combination of fun activities and scenic beauty.
