December is here and with it comes the cold weather, celebrations, gifts and cakes. There is something magical about this month, is it the excitement to step into the New Year or the joy of seeing Christmas lights and decorations everywhere? Though India is a land with diverse cultures and traditions, Christmas is a festival that is celebrated throughout the country with great enthusiasm. From the North to South, and from East to West, each region of India brings out its own special flavors. Christmas in India is huge because of the many enchanting places that celebrate this festival with much pomp and fanfare. Here’s 8 amazing destinations in India that can make your Christmas celebrations truly memorable.
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Best Place To Visit For Christmas In India
It’s that time of the year when everyone’s making plans for Xmas and New Year. The celebrations will happen all over India, but if you have to pick one place which one would it be? Confused, unable to decide, no worries. Check out our list of best places to celebrate Christmas in India with great joy and enthusiasm.
1. Goa: Celebrations In The Beach Capital
A place like Goa which already has the tag of being the party paradise is one of the best places to celebrate Christmas in India this year. The whole place comes alive with the outstanding light, lantern and flower decorations. The beautifully decorated churches, beaches, streets, pubs, cafes and restaurants transform Goa into a twinkling wonderland during the Christmas season. Midnight masses, carol singing, beach parties creates a joyous atmosphere that cannot be matched with any other state of India. Many musical festivals, carnivals and fairs make the celebrations even more outstanding.
Things To Do In Goa During Christmas Time
- Attend the midnight mass at the Basilica of Bom Jesus Church.
- Rock and roll at some of the music festivals.
- Be a part of the celebrations at the beach party.
- Watch some fireworks at the stroke of midnight.
2. Bangalore: Traditional And Contemporary Style
Since Bangalore has a diverse population from across India and the world, one can see a mix of traditional and contemporary styles of celebrations here. Prominent places like Commercial Street, Brigade Road, Church Street, Kormangala and Indiranagar brings out the exuberant festive spirit. When it comes to satisfying your taste buds, Bangalore has so many options that you’ll be spoilt for choices.
Head straight to the famous Thomsons Bakery and Koshy’s for their mouthwatering plum cakes. The cool and comfortable weather of the city adds on to the overall experience.
Things To Do In Bangalore During Christmas Time
- Attend a mass at Infant Jesus Church, St. Mary’s Basilica or St. Francis Xavier’s Cathedral.
- Spend the evening chilling at the famous Church Street.
- Go café hopping for some drool-worthy delicacies.
- Visit the malls to see the gorgeous Christmas tree decorations.
- Savor some delicious cakes at the cake exhibition.
3. Pondicherry: For A Cozy Xmas Celebration
People in the Union Territory of Pondicherry celebrate Christmas with a great zeal. This is because of the large crowd of Christians from the French Colony. The many gothic churches and cathedrals decorated with a touch of the French lineage changes the entire look of the town during Christmas time. A strong presence of French culture can be seen in the streets of the French Quarter which is lightened up with twinkling decorations and Christmas trees. Spending some time on the calm and clean beaches of Pondicherry while savoring some delicious French dishes is definitely a great way to enjoy Christmas. The ecstasy with which both locals and tourists enjoy the festival makes Pondicherry one of the best places to celebrate Christmas in India.
Things To Do In Pondicherry During Christmas Time
- Sing Xmas carols at the Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception and Sacred Heart of Jesus.
- Chill at some of the best beach side cafes.
- Check out for the Christmas decorations and sale at the Christmas markets.
- Stop by to try some delectable French cakes and desserts at the best bakeries of Pondicherry.
4. Shimla: Snow Covered White Christmas
Shimla, one of India’s top tourist destinations, is a hotspot for travelers during the Christmas and New Year time. The peak winter season does not see a lot of tourists, however the beautiful snow-covered landscapes and cold holiday atmosphere makes for a great destination for a white Christmas. The beautifully decorated streets, churches and cafes bring about great fanfare and joy. In short, the entire place transforms into a white paradise that’s perfect for Xmas celebrations. For those dreaming of a white Christmas, Shimla is undoubtedly one of the best places to celebrate Christmas in India.
Things To Do In Shimla During Christmas Time
- Indulge in thrilling winter sports like skiing, snow ball fighting and more.
- Check out the decorations in almost all the streets of Shimla.
- Enjoy a toy train ride through the snow-capped hills.
- Dig into some mouthwatering dishes at the various British-era cafes and restaurants.
- Attend a late night mass at the Gothic styled Christ Church.
5. Kolkata: Joyful Celebration In The City Of Joy
Despite Kolkata having a small Christian population, the festival of Christmas is celebrated with a lot of zest. Park Street is where all the celebrations happen. The dazzling spectacle of lights, glittering décor, traditional Christmas cake shops and festive foods are what you can get to see during xmas time. Many live performances and exhibitions are organized in large grounds, just like during the Durga Pooja. Don’t miss out on the delicious sweets and cakes prepared by top class bakers. Whether a Catholic or not, make sure to visit Kolkata, as this place has got you covered for the best Christmas in India.
Things To Do In Kolkata During Christmas Time
- Head to Park Street to see the Christmas themed lighting and decorations.
- Visit the Basilica of the Holy Rosary and St. Paul’s Cathedral.
- Go on a river cruise with dinner at Millennium Park.
- Attend the many fairs, Christmas markets and carnivals.
6. Delhi: A Place Full Of Festive Vibes
Though the capital city Delhi does not have a major Christian population, they still celebrate Christmas enthusiastically like any other festival. With its stunning night life, extravagant parties, clubs & restaurants, Delhi does not fall short of reasons to get into the festive spirit. All prominent landmarks, malls and markets are decorated with Christmas lights and themes. Cafes and restaurants pull out special menus for the celebrations and the heavy discounts and deals on merchandise is something to look forward to. So if you want to feel the essence of the festivities, then Delhi is one of the best places to celebrate Christmas in India.
Things To Do In Delhi During Christmas Time
- Go to Sacred Heart Cathedral to attend the beautiful midnight mass.
- Attend Xmas themed parties in some of the top cafes and pubs.
- Shop at Popular shopping areas like Connaught Place and Sorbet Soiree Christmas market.
- Check out the decorations and the colors of this festival.
- Taste Christmas brunches at 5 star hotels like Sheraton and Taj.
- Attend the Capital City Minstrel choir concert.
7. Mumbai: The City That Never Sleeps
Mumbai being a multicultural city, people from different religious backgrounds have embraced the festival in a very energetic and vibrant way. Christmas in Mumbai is all about shopping, enjoying good food and meeting and greeting people. The streets of Mumbai get jazzed up with colorful lights and fancy Christmas trees. Moreover the great mix of traditional and modernity has added more flavors to the celebrations. There are so many great places to hang out and have fun in Mumbai that this dream city has become one of the best places to celebrate Christmas in India.
Things To Do In Mumbai During Christmas Time
- Visit the iconic Mount Mary Church for midnight mass.
- Look out for the beautiful Hill Road decorated with lights and flowers.
- Indulge in special Christmas menus at local bakeries and cafes.
- Go shopping at Colaba and Linking Road.
8. Kerala: Celebrations While Cruising Through Backwaters
Christmas in Kerala is a blend of traditional, modern and culinary celebrations. The two best places to celebrate Christmas in Kerala is, Kochi and Alleppey. With everyone taking part in the festivities, you can literally feel the vibe in the air. From lit-up houseboats to beautifully decorated churches, from Christmas plum cakes to elaborate feasts, everything about Kerala during this time is truly amazing. The festivities start one month in advance with the famous Santa Claus parading from one house to another singing carols. Apart from enjoying the festival, you can also cruise through the serene backwaters of Alleppey, which is one of the major attractions in Kerala.
Things To Do In Kerala During Christmas Time
- Celebrations while cursing through the backwaters of Alleppey.
- Shop for spices at the local markets.
- Be a part of one of the biggest festivals, the Cochin Carnival in Fort Kochi.
- Taste special flavors of Kerala like duck roast, beef-parota, appam with stew, puttu-kadala and the elaborate Ela Sadya.
Also Read: 26 Amazing Christmas Destinations To Visit Outside India
Conclusion
All of the above destinations host amazing parties and events to make your celebrations extraordinary. So Instead of sitting at home this Christmas, visit the above destinations to see what makes Christmas in India truly special. Make your pick today and share your joyful experience with us in the comment section below. Merry Christmas!
FAQ’s
Christmas celebrations in India include attending midnight mass followed by greeting and wishing each other. The festivities also include decorating homes and streets with lights and decorations. Exchanging gifts among your friends and family members is an integral part of the celebrations.
Places like London, New York, Chicago, France, Netherlands, Australia, and Germany, all celebrate Christmas on a grand scale. The light decorations in these countries are something to look out for.
The Kolkata Christmas Festival, held every year in Park Street is the largest Christmas carnival in India. Live music, Christmas parade, lighting and food stalls makes the annual celebrations completely worth it.
