15 Best Places in India to Visit by Road in December (For Snow & Sun)

Looking to explore the best places in India for this December? Whether you crave snow-touched mountains or sun-drenched beaches, India has it all. From the high point Himalayas to the coast, the month brings cooler weather, fewer crowds and unforgettable scenery.

We’ll take you through 15 top destinations that you can reach by road, perfect for a scenic winter road trip. You’ll learn how to pick between snow or sun locations, what vehicle to rent, how to plan your drive, and exactly why each destination deserves a spot on your list of the best places in India.

How to Choose Your December Road Trip

When we plan a December road trip in India is not just picking a destination, it’s about matching the season, terrain, and travel goals to your comfort and interests. Start by deciding whether you want snow or sun. If you’re craving chilly mountain air and pine-covered slopes, places like Manali, Auli, or Sikkim are perfect for a winter wonderland experience. For travellers seeking warmth and sea breeze, Goa, Gokarna, and Rann of Kutch offer golden beaches and vibrant festivals in December.

Next, consider distance and road conditions. Hill routes like Shimla or Kodaikanal demand careful driving and well-serviced vehicles, while coastal highways are smoother and ideal for long, relaxed drives. Always check for local advisories, fog conditions, and state entry permits if you’re crossing borders.

Choose your car type wisely, hatchbacks work best for short couple trips, SUVs for family or group getaways, and tempo travellers for larger groups. We at N Seater help compare rental options with verified drivers and transparent fares.

Lastly, map your stopovers and sightseeing spots. A good road trip isn’t just about the destination, it’s the chai breaks, detours, and local food stops that make the drive unforgettable.

Related: Bangalore to Kodaikanal Car Rental

The 15 Best Road Trip Destinations

1. Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir (Snow)

In December, Gulmarg transforms into a snow-covered wonderland that feels straight out of a dream. This pristine hill town, just 50 km from Srinagar, is India’s most popular winter sports hub and one of the best places in India to visit by road in December. The famous Gulmarg Gondola, one of Asia’s highest cable cars, takes travellers to stunning heights for skiing and panoramic Himalayan views. Roads from Srinagar are scenic yet slippery in parts, so an SUV or 4×4 rental is ideal.

Apart from skiing, visitors can enjoy snow treks, snowboarding, and even yak rides. Cafés serve piping hot kahwa and wazwan delicacies that complete the winter charm. If you’re looking for real snow, adventure, and postcard-perfect beauty, Gulmarg is the crown jewel of Kashmir’s December magic, combining thrill, tranquillity, and cinematic landscapes in one unforgettable experience.

2. Shimla / Kufri, Himachal Pradesh (Snow)

December paints Shimla and Kufri in dreamy shades of white, making them the most accessible winter getaways from Delhi and Chandigarh. The 350-km drive from Delhi offers smooth highways and winding hill roads framed by pine forests. Once you reach Shimla, snow-capped rooftops and colonial buildings greet you warmly. A short drive further, Kufri bursts into life with snow adventures, skiing, snow-tubing, and horse rides across icy slopes.

The local markets glow with Christmas cheer, perfect for buying woollens and sipping hot coffee. For families, couples, and photographers, this region offers both romance and nostalgia. Walk along the Mall Road, take a pony ride to Mahasu Peak, or simply enjoy the snowfall from a cozy café window. Shimla and Kufri combine heritage with Himalayan freshness, proving that you don’t need to go too far to find snow, serenity, and unforgettable mountain vibes in December.

Related: Bangalore to Goa: The Ultimate Travel Guide

3. Auli, Uttarakhand (Snow)

When winter arrives, Auli becomes a sparkling carpet of snow surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks. Known as India’s skiing capital, this destination is perfect for travellers craving adventure and peace in equal measure. The road from Rishikesh or Joshimath to Auli offers breathtaking views of the Garhwal range, though it’s steep, best tackled with a sturdy SUV or chauffeur-driven rental. By mid-December, snow covers the slopes, creating ideal conditions for skiing, snowboarding, and chairlift rides.

The Auli Ropeway, one of Asia’s longest, gives you a bird’s-eye view of snowy ridges and pine valleys. Cozy mountain lodges and wooden huts complete the winter charm. What sets Auli apart is its silence, pure, peaceful, and pollution-free. For travellers who seek crisp mountain air, adventure on the slopes, and unforgettable sunrises over Nanda Devi, Auli in December is a breathtaking snow paradise worth every kilometre.

4. Manali – Snow & Adventure

If there’s one place that defines the perfect Indian winter road trip, it’s Manali. December here is all about snow, adventure, and scenic drives through the Beas Valley. The approach from Chandigarh or Delhi is smooth, with snow-dusted pine trees welcoming you into the Himalayas. Once in town, Solang Valley becomes a playground for paragliding, skiing, ATV rides, and snow fights. The Atal Tunnel ensures access to Lahaul even in deep winter, making it an all-weather route.

The cafes at Old Manali buzz with travellers sharing stories beside bonfires, while nearby waterfalls freeze into stunning crystal formations. You can also enjoy local Himachali cuisine and shop for handmade woollens in the Mall Market. Whether you’re seeking adventure, romance, or peaceful snow walks, Manali delivers it all, a perfect balance of thrill and tranquillity, making it a must-visit winter road trip destination in India.

Related: Bangalore to Tirupati Cab Service

5. Leh‑Ladakh (Early December) – High Altitude Snow

For seasoned travellers, Leh-Ladakh in early December offers a raw, untouched experience of the Himalayas. Before heavy snow blocks the mountain passes, the region transforms into a land of pure white silence and spiritual calm. Travelling by road from Manali or Srinagar isn’t possible later in the month, so most visitors fly to Leh and explore local routes like Khardung La, Pangong Tso, and Nubra Valley.

The cold is extreme, often dipping below -10°C, but the rewards are equally stunning: monasteries wrapped in snow, frozen lakes glowing under the sun, and crisp blue skies. Self-driving in this terrain requires solid preparation and a sturdy vehicle, though guided local rentals make it easier. Ladakh in December isn’t about luxury, it’s about solitude, resilience, and breathtaking beauty. For those seeking a deeper connection with nature and themselves, this is the ultimate high-altitude snow escape in India.

6. Coorg, Karnataka (Sun & Greenery)

If you want to skip the snow and embrace misty hills and coffee-scented air, Coorg is your December paradise. Known as the “Scotland of India,” this lush green region in Karnataka is just a 5-hour drive from Bangalore, making it one of the best short road trips in South India. December brings crisp mornings, warm afternoons, and endless views of rolling plantations. Drive through Madikeri, Abbey Falls, and Dubare Elephant Camp, every curve offers postcard-perfect beauty.

Unlike hill stations up north, Coorg stays comfortably cool but never freezing, ideal for couples and families. Homestays here serve authentic Kodava food, fresh coffee, and bonfire evenings under starry skies. The drive itself, through forest roads and coffee trails, is therapeutic. Coorg in December offers serenity, sunshine, and soulful warmth, proving you don’t always need snow to feel the spirit of winter wanderlust.

Related: Bangalore to Pondicherry Cab Service

7. Goa / Konkan Drive (Sun, Beach)

December and Goa are practically synonyms, sun, sea, and festive spirit all rolled into one perfect trip. The drive along the Konkan coast from Mumbai or Pune is as scenic as the destination itself, lined with palm trees, sea cliffs, and fishing villages. By December, Goa glows with Christmas lights and beach parties, yet still offers hidden corners for peace seekers, South Goa’s beaches like Palolem and Agonda stay calm and soulful.

The Mumbai–Goa Highway (NH66) is smooth, and you can make pitstops at Ganpatipule or Vengurla for local seafood and quiet shores. Goa’s December weather stays between 20–30°C, perfect for sunbathing, exploring forts, and trying water sports. Whether you’re chasing beach festivals or sunrise yoga sessions, Goa’s December charm lies in its balance of energy and ease, a sun-soaked celebration of travel and freedom by the sea.

8. Kerala Backwaters & Drive (Sun & Warm Weather)

In December, Kerala glows with golden sunlight, shimmering water canals, and lush paddy fields, a true tropical dream for road trippers. A drive from Kochi to Alleppey or Kumarakom unfolds like a moving postcard, coconut palms, village bridges, and serene lakeside homestays. This is the best time to enjoy houseboat cruises, birdwatching, and Ayurvedic spa retreats, as humidity drops and the air feels pleasantly warm. Roads are smooth and scenic, making it easy to cover multiple gems, Munnar, Thekkady, Varkala, or even Kovalam.

Local food adds flavour to the journey, think fish curry, appam, and toddy fresh from the palm. For travellers seeking relaxation, nature, and slow living, Kerala’s backwaters in December offer a peaceful alternative to snowy hill escapes, where every sunrise reflects off calm waters and every road leads to pure bliss.

Related: Bangalore to Kochi Road Trip Guide with Outstation Cabs

9. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat (Sun, Salt Flats)

Come December, the Rann of Kutch transforms into a vast silver-white desert under Gujarat’s winter sun, surreal, silent, and spellbinding. The Rann Utsav festival runs this month, celebrating local art, music, and crafts against a backdrop of endless salt plains. The drive from Bhuj to Dhordo or Hodka is a visual treat, straight desert roads, colourful villages, and camel silhouettes at sunset. Daytime stays pleasantly warm, while nights dip cool enough for bonfires under starry skies.

From the White Rann viewpoint to Kala Dungar and Mandvi Beach, every stop feels cinematic. Staying in traditional kutchi bhungas adds to the cultural charm. For photographers, dreamers, and culture enthusiasts, Kutch in December is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, where the sun, sand, and salt combine to create one of India’s most unique and luminous landscapes.

10. Jaisalmer & Thar Desert Drive (Sun, Sand, Winter Cool Nights)

For those craving golden sands and royal heritage, Jaisalmer in December is the ultimate desert escape. The road trip through Rajasthan, from Jodhpur or Jaipur, is scenic and smooth, passing through arid plains, small forts, and camel caravans. Days are pleasantly sunny (around 25°C), while nights turn crisp and magical under starlit skies. The Sam Sand Dunes come alive with cultural shows, folk dances, and bonfire dinners.

You can explore Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon ki Haveli, or take a desert jeep safari for breathtaking views. The Thar Desert in December is all about contrasts, warm days, cold nights, and endless horizons that redefine solitude. Luxury desert camps and local Rajasthani cuisine make the experience even richer. Whether you’re after culture, adventure, or calm, Jaisalmer offers a golden winter glow that stays etched in every traveller’s memory.

Related: Your Complete Guide to Traveling from Bangalore to Hyderabad

11. Darjeeling / Kalimpong, North-East (Snow & Hill Roads)

The twin hill towns of Darjeeling and Kalimpong are a dream for those who love winding roads, cool air, and misty Himalayan views. The drive from Siliguri through the Teesta Valley is scenic and full of sharp curves, tea gardens, and viewpoints overlooking river gorges. While Darjeeling charms with its colonial-era Toy Train, cafes, and Kanchenjunga views, Kalimpong offers quieter escapes, monasteries, flower nurseries, and rustic homestays.

A reliable vehicle with good ground clearance is best for these hilly roads. Along the route, you’ll find cosy tea houses and viewpoints like Lovers Meet and Ghum. This is the kind of trip that slows you down, connects you with mountain life, and fills your journey with fresh air, steaming momos, and timeless Himalayan serenity, a must-do North-East drive for anyone seeking peace and beauty.

12. Ooty & Nilgiris Drive (Sun + Misty Hills)

The Ooty and Nilgiris route is one of South India’s most charming hill drives, full of mist, eucalyptus scent, and tea-covered slopes. Travellers from Bangalore or Coimbatore love this route for its smooth highways and hairpin bends that climb into cooler, greener altitudes. The drive through Coonoor and Wellington offers countless scenic stops, waterfalls, and viewpoints like Doddabetta and Dolphin’s Nose. What makes this trip special is its gentle mix of adventure and calm, perfect for couples or families seeking a quiet mountain escape. Local chocolate shops, tea factories, and colonial guesthouses add old-world charm to the journey. The Ooty–Coonoor drive is best enjoyed slow, with windows rolled down and a flask of filter coffee at hand, pure South Indian mountain magic.

13. Andaman Islands Drive & Ferry (Sun, Sea)

Few road trips mix land and sea quite like the Andaman Islands. Here, travel means cruising along coastal roads, crossing emerald blue waters on ferries, and exploring islands like Havelock and Neil. Rent a car or scooter in Port Blair to discover Corbyn’s Cove, Chidiya Tapu, and Wandoor Beach, every stretch feels like a postcard. The Port Blair–Baratang route is especially exciting, cutting through rainforests and tribal reserves before leading to the famous limestone caves. Though connected by ferries, this trip still counts as one of India’s most unique “road and sea” adventures. Warm sunlight, quiet beaches, and turquoise lagoons make it perfect for couples and explorers alike. Andaman’s coastal roads are less about speed and more about the rhythm of waves and island life, peaceful, scenic, and unforgettable.

Related: Bangalore to Chennai by Road

14. Munnar & Western Ghats Drive (Sun, Tea Estates)

Driving through the Western Ghats to Munnar feels like entering a living painting, hills layered with tea gardens, winding roads, and cool mountain air. Starting from Kochi or Coimbatore, the route gradually ascends into misty green slopes dotted with waterfalls like Valara and Cheeyappara. Munnar itself offers postcard views, from Eravikulam National Park to Mattupetty Dam and Top Station. The tea estates here stretch endlessly, creating one of the most photogenic drives in South India. The roads are well-paved but curvy, rewarding careful drivers with breathtaking scenery at every bend. Stop for local tea tastings, homemade chocolates, and spice gardens along the way. Munnar’s road journey is not just travel, it’s an immersion into calm, greenery, and the soothing rhythm of mountain life.

15. Wayanad & Karnataka Hill Drive (Sun & Mild Weather)

Tucked between Kerala and Karnataka, Wayanad is a gem for travellers who love green forests, mild weather, and winding mountain roads. The drive from Bangalore or Mysore via Bandipur is especially scenic, dense forests, occasional deer sightings, and stretches of mist-laden hills. Wayanad’s highlights include Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam, and Pookode Lake, each accessible by peaceful countryside roads.

Homestays surrounded by plantations and chirping birds make the experience deeply relaxing. Unlike more commercial hill stations, Wayanad keeps its natural charm intact, perfect for slow travellers, photographers, and families. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls or just escaping city noise, the Wayanad–Nilgiris belt offers a rejuvenating drive through some of South India’s most tranquil landscapes.

Plan Your Outstation Trip With N Seater

Planning a perfect road trip is all about comfort, safety, and convenience, and N Seater makes it effortless. Whether you’re heading to snowy mountains or sunny coasts, N Seater offers well-maintained cabs with professional drivers who know the routes and local highlights. You can choose from hatchbacks to SUVs, book instantly online, and enjoy transparent pricing with no hidden costs. Every journey is GPS-tracked and customer-supported for peace of mind. With N Seater, your outstation travel becomes smooth, scenic, and stress-free, just as a road trip should be.

Related: Bangalore to Mangalore

Wrapping Up

India in December is a traveler’s dream, from snowy peaks in Gulmarg and Manali to sunny escapes like Goa, Kerala, and the Rann of Kutch, every route tells a new story. Whether you crave adventure, serenity, or a scenic drive, these destinations offer the best of both winter chills and warm getaways. With reliable travel partner. N Seater plan your road trip that becomes effortless and enjoyable. So pack your bags, start your engine, and experience the magic of India, one road at a time.

Related: The Ultimate Guide to a Golden Temple Road Trip (From Delhi & Chandigarh)

FAQs – Best Places in India to Visit by Road During Winters