Publish On November 6, 2024

Year-end is a magical time all around the World. It’s that time of the year, when the air is filled with joy as people wait for New Year's celebrations. This time is perfect for escaping to some of the most beautiful and budget-friendly destinations in India. If you’re looking for a memorable Christmas celebration and an unforgettable New Year’s experience during the long weekend getaway 2024, here are some of the best places to celebrate Christmas and New Year in India 2024. Whether it is adventure, serenity, or the experience of local culture, this travel guide covers it all.

And, a better way to visit these places is without breaking the bank. Vacation during the time of December means a high spend of money on travelling, but there are also various places to visit in India during December on a low budget where you can celebrate your Christmas and New Year 2024 without spending much from your pocket.

So, let’s hop onto the list of Budget-Friendly travel destinations in India where you can chill and celebrate your Christmas and New Year 2024 long weekend.

Short Duration Trips during Christmas & New Year

The short trips for the celebration of Christmas and New Year are for those who planned a trip at the last moment and are unsure which place to visit, so here are some of the short trips that people can enjoy.

• Chopta & Tungnath: The Himalayan Escape

The Chopta & Tungnath trek is a hidden gem for trek enthusiasts around the world and is a perfect escape during the time of Christmas and New Year’s. The panoramic view of the snow-capped mountains makes it the perfect spot for a white Christmas. The accommodations and food are quite affordable around there if you choose homestays and Guesthouses. Tungnath Temple at the end of the trek is also a must-visit place as it is one of the highest Lord Shiva temples in the world. Which makes it one of the best places to visit during winter.

Location: Uttarakhand
Duration: 2 Nights and 3 Days
Major Attractions on this Trip: Deoriatal, Devprayag, Tungnath Temple, Chandrashila Peak, Rishikesh.

• Manali Sissu Kasol: The Snow Lover’s Paradise

Manali is already a popular holiday destination among tourists but combining it with Sissu and Kasol makes it a unique place to visit in India during Christmas & New Year for travelers. Manali is popular for its scenic views, adventure sports, and Igloo stays. If you want a quieter or more secluded space head to Sissu. Complete your trip to Kasol where you can experience Budget-friendly Accommodations and explore cafes that offer a wide range of cuisines. These locations are perfect for those who are looking to enjoy the snow without breaking the bank.

Location: Himachal Pradesh
Duration: 5 Days and 4 Nights
Major Attractions of this Trip: Lahaul Valley, Kullu, Chalal Bridge, Parvati riverside.

• Mcleodganj Triund Bir: A Spiritual & Adventurous Journey

Mcleodganj in the suburb of Dharamshala in Kangra District in Himachal is famous because of its blend of spiritual retreats, and scenic beauty which makes it the best place to visit in December on a low-cost holiday with family. Triund is highly recommended for its trekking experience and breathtaking views of the Dhauladhar range. Wrap up the trip in Bir which is famous for its paragliding experience. The entire trip will be very affordable with budget-friendly accommodations, and street food readily available.

Location: Himachal Pradesh
Duration: 5 Days and 4 Nights
Major Attractions of this Trip: Triund Trek, Bhagsu Waterfall, Namgyal Monastery, Kangra Fort.

• Jibhi & Tirthan Valley: The Enchanting Valleys of Himachal

If you’re searching for a less crowded, and Budget-friendly destination, Jibhi and Tirthan Valley should be on your list. These valleys offer cozy homestays which makes it easy for the guests to celebrate Christmas and New Year in peace. Whether it is fishing, trekking to waterfalls, or enjoying the beauty of nature these valleys provide all of them. This will be the place to visit in December with family.

Location: Himachal Pradesh
Duration: 4 Days and 3 Nights
Major Attractions of this Trip: Jibhi Waterfall, Mini Thailand, Jalori Pass, Serolsar Lake.

• Auli & Joshimath: The Skiing Paradise of Uttrakhand

If you’re looking for a truly snowy holiday experience, Auli is one of the best spots in India. It is known for its skiing and snowboarding opportunities and provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Auli is perfect for adventure enthusiasts, and located nearby is Joshimath which Offers budget accommodations and easy access to slopes. December and January are considered to be the best times to visit Auli and enjoy the snow-covered landscapes, which makes it one of the best places to celebrate Christmas and New Year.

Location: Uttarakhand
Duration: 4 Days and 3 Nights
Major Attractions of this Trip: Devprayag, Narsingh Temple, Joshimath, Auli Lake, Gorson Bugyal, Rishikesh.

• Kasol & Kheerganga Trek: Every Backpacker’s Bliss

Kasol and Kheerganga are the go-to destinations for backpackers and nature lovers during the time of Christmas and New Year. Kasol is famous for its laid-back vibes, combined with affordable cafes and hostels, which makes it a place to visit for Christmas and New Year with family. The Kheerganga trek adds an adventurous touch to the trip. You can also enjoy the Hot Springs at the top of the trek, which will be a unique experience during the winter.

Location: Himachal Pradesh
Duration: 4 Days and 3 Nights
Major Attractions of this Trip: Chalal Bridge, Kheerganga Trek, Manikaran Hot Springs.

• Jaisalmer & Longewala: Rajasthan’s Dessert Safari Adventure

For those who want to spend their long weekend during Christmas and New New in the warmth of the desserts during the winter, Jaisalmer and Longewala will be the go-to destination for you. Jaisalmer is famous for its stunning forts and camel safaris and is also known as the golden city of India. If you have an interest in Indian History then you can visit the Longewala Border to learn about Indian history. Budget accommodations and dessert camps are also available in Jaisalmer, providing an affordable and immersive experience.

Location: Rajasthan
Duration: 4 Days and 3 Nights
Major Attractions of this Trip: Camel Safari, Jeep Dune Bashing, Kuldhara village, Longewala post Indo-Pak Border.

• Manali & Sissu: The Snowy Wonderland

Manali and Sissu are two of the most popular destinations in the Indian Himalayas, which offer some of the most stunning landscapes and many types of winter activities. The best time to visit Manali and Sissu is the winter season from December to February. There are many things to do in Manali like skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and visiting the Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass. Sissu is mainly known for its serene beauty and also offers activities like trekking and fishing. 

Location: Himachal Pradesh
Duration: 4 Days and 3 Nights
Major Attractions of this Trip: Hadimba Devi Temple, Lahaul Valley, Solang Valley, Jogini Waterfall.

Long Duration Trips during Christmas & New Year

Long Trips are those kinds of trips people have planned over time. Long trips are usually one week but can be extended as needed. Here are some Long Budget friendly trips to spend the Christmas and New Year.

• Spiti Valley: The Winter Wonderland

Spiti Valley, often known as the Middle Land between India and Tibet, is a snowy desert which is located at a high altitude, known for its rugged landscapes, ancient Monasteries, and Remote Villages. Spiti Valley’s real appeal lies in its beauty and secludism from the hustle and bustle of the city. The valley, with its frozen rivers during winter and its serene atmosphere, creates a perfect place to visit during winter. During winter, Spiti has below sub-zero temperatures but that seems perfect for those who want solitude in their lives, making it one of the best places to visit in December for solo travellers.

Location: Himachal Pradesh
Duration: 8 Days and 7 Nights
Major Attractions of this Trip: Key Monastery, Kibber, Langza, Hikkim, Chitkul, Kaza, Hikkim, Tabo, Nako.

• Uttarakhand Backpacking: The Spiritual & Natural Paradise

Uttarakhand, also known as “Devbhoomi or the land of Gods” is famous for its pilgrimage sites and beautiful natural landscapes. During Winter the state takes up a different aura as the Himalayas are covered in blankets of snow. Backpacking through Uttarakhand is perfect for those who seek spirituality and adventure. Popular travel spots like Chopta and Auli becomes the winter heaven during these days, making them the perfect place to celebrate Christmas and New Year in India.

Location: Uttarakhand
Duration: 6 Days and 5 Nights
Major Attractions of this Trip: River Rafting, Ram Jhula, Janaki Setu, Rudraprayag, Nandprayag.

• Kalpa and Chitkul: The offbeat Himalayan Getaways

Kalpa and Chitkul are the quiet villages in Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, offering a peaceful retreat amidst nature. Kalpa and Chitkul are mostly surrounded by snow-covered mountains and lush forests and also become a hidden gem during the winter. For those backpackers who often look to escape the crowds and just want to embrace nature, Kalpa and Chitkul is the place for them and a perfect place to visit in December.

Location: Himachal Pradesh
Duration: 5 Days and 4 Nights
Major Attractions of this Trip: Bhimakali Temple, Gateway to Kinnaur, Kalpa Village, Chitkul, Hindustan Ka Akhri Dhaba.

• Rajasthan Backpacking: The Dessert Wonderland

Rajasthan is known for its Royal Palaces, Majestic Forts, and Vibrant Culture and is often called the “Land of Kings”, is often associated with hot desserts but it has pleasant weather during the winter making it ideal for Backpackers who are looking for the best place to visit in December on a low budget. Rajasthan has a very rich heritage which is showcased by its cities like Udaipur is known to be “the City of Forts”, and Jaisalmer is also known as “the Golden City of India”. A backpacking trip to Rajasthan lets you explore popular tourist spots and the hidden gems of the place.

Location: Rajasthan
Duration: 6 Days and 5 Nights
Major Attractions of this Trip: City Palace, Mehrangarh Fort, Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh Fort, Haldighati.

Some Tips for a Budget-Friendly Christmas and New Year 2024 Trip

• Book in Advance: Accommodations tend to fill quickly during the year-end season, especially in popular destinations. Booking in advance can save money and secure better deals.
• Create a Budget: If you want a stress-free trip and want to spend more money during the trip, make sure to track your regular expenses and save money for the trip, this way you have more to spend during the trip.
• Travel in Groups: To make the trips more affordable, make sure to travel in groups so that you can split accommodation and meal costs.
• Stay in Homestays or Hostels: To experience the authentic local culture homestays, and hostels are generally a cheaper option than hotels.

So yeah, these are some of the best travel destinations where you can visit during the year-end season to celebrate Christmas and New Year during the long weekend. From the adventurous trek of mountains to the warm desert safari, each of these destinations provides a unique experience and caters to a variety of different audiences with different tastes.

Also, remember to pack your winter gear and get ready for an unforgettable Holiday Season!

So if you’re planning to take a trip during Christmas and New Year, make sure to Book the Trip in advance whether it is a short or long trip. We’re here to help check out our travel packages and book accordingly.