Wondering where to go this year for Christmas celebrations? Well, we have got you covered!
Chilly winds, snug winter attire, twinkling lights and stunning decorations, melodies of carols and jingles, and of course, the aroma of freshly baked cakes - well, we can't keep calm because Christmas is almost here. And as far as the celebration is concerned, we surely would not shy away from going all out and making it a memorable one. Unlike the West (where it's all about indoor gatherings and family traditions), we in India make it largely an outdoor phenomenon. Several parts of the country - literally from Kashmir to Kanyakumari - come alive this time, offering you an immersive experience like no other.
As we are all set for Christmas, let's have a look at top Indian destinations that you may want to visit to soak in the festive spirit.
Of course, the list must begin with Goa as it transforms into a dream-like place during Christmas. The streets of Panaji, Mapusa, Anjuna, Vagator, and Calangute look beautiful with lights, decorations, and more. And the nightclubs and several beaches get full of parties that you simply can't get enough of. The centuries-old Portuguese churches (such as the Basilica of Bom Jesus) organize various events, while the local temporary markets offer everything from artworks to household essentials.
Thanks to the state's large Christian population, you may witness different kinds of traditional activities as well here. And almost all the local bakeries serve Christmas-special cakes and pastries this time.
Notably, this is the peak tourist time here, and hence everything (from food to stays and others) will be overly expensive.
Delhi, the capital city of India, gets an entirely different entity during Christmas. Almost all the shopping malls, churches, and local markets are decorated at their best, drawing huge numbers of crowds from across the world. The must-visit churches include Sacred Heart Cathedral Church, Vatican Embassy Chapel, and St. James Church. Countless Christmas parties are organized across the city, while several markets offer festival-special discounts on items.
Connaught Place is the epicenter of Christmas celebrations in Delhi. And for an unmatched shopping experience, you can visit Delhi Haat and Hauz Khas.
However, please note that there's going to be a massive crowd on the street, so be prepared for traffic and all.
Kolkata, specifically the Park Street region, is one of the best places for Christmas celebrations. Thanks to its large Anglo-Indian population, it turns into a spectacle with its lights, decorations, music performances, and food stalls. Just strolling through the streets will provide you with a truly awe-inspiring experience. And the area is packed with clubs and restaurants that host various events this time.
Besides Park Street, Bow Barracks is another must-visit place in Kolkata this time. The list also includes New Market, Chandni Chawk, and Central. Go shopping (New Market), enjoy the music and dance performances at Bow Barracks, attend the midnight mass at the churches (such as St. Paul's Cathedral), or savor the rich fruit cake at local bakeries.
The list obviously doesn't end here. Besides the above-mentioned places, it also includes Manali, Bengaluru, Shillong, and Pondicherry.
