Visit these Destinations in December for some truly unique experiences
According to a survey done by Booking.com, for almost three in four travelers experiences are valued higher than material possessions when on holiday (73%)
It is that time of the year again, where everyone’s celebrating and closing their year with happiness and joy. The month of December naturally calls for holidays where friends and families love to come together and celebrate the end of the year. Are you looking for your next holiday destination? Booking.com, the digital travel leader connecting travellers with the widest choice of unique places to stay at has curated a list of places that are a must visit in December for a truly diverse, authentic and soul filling holiday. From classical folk dance and art camp to hot air balloon rides and a crash course on ancient tribal lives, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Kumbhalgarh Festival, RajasthanThe colourful city of lakes and sand dunes, is a state where art and culture go hand in hand. Rajasthan celebrates Kumbhalgarh festival every year which marks the contribution of Maharana Kumbh towards art and culture. Set against the backdrop of beautifully lit fort Kumbhalgarhand showcases some of the finest form of classical and folk dance, art camp and music show. Divided into two sections, the festival hosts exhibitions by the locals in the day and cultural events in the night. One can participate in tying the turban popularly known as Pagadi Bandho or enjoy the popular puppet show. Popular amongst tourists, Kumbhalgarh Festival takes place every year between December 1, 2019 and December 3, 2019.
Feast of Francis Xavier, GoaKnown for its beaches and parties, Goa hosts one of the biggest Christian festivals called the Feast of St Francis Xavier in the first week of December every year. The feast honours the memory of St. Francis Xavier and marks the date the saint died and was buried. Celebrated for nine days, the feast sees Goans from all over the state participating in large scale festivities and fun events. The Church services mostly begin at 4 am and thousands of people come together at the Basilica of Bom Jesus to participate in the mass and enjoy the local delicacies and music afterwards. The entry to this festival is open for all!
Galdan Namchot, LadakhCelebrated on the 25th day of the 10th month of the Tibetan lunar calendar, the Galdan Namchot festival in Ladakh is to commemorate the birthday of the Buddhahood of the Tibetan saint-scholar, Tsongkhapa. It’s been said that that Tsongkhapa was known for preaching Tibetan Buddhism during the 14th century. During the festival, Ladakh glitters with all the monasteries, public and residential buildings lit up beautifully. Ladakhis begin to celebrate the New Year with this festival which continues till the Dosmoche festival in February. So while you pack your winter clothes, make sure to visit this festival in December to relish all kinds of traditional dishes such as vegetable and chicken noodle soup or thupkas.
Hornbill Festival Kohima, NagalandIf you are yet to explore the northeast of India, head to the Hornbill Festival which is celebrated from December 1st - 10th every year in Kohima, Nagaland to promote the richness of Naga culture. Organised by the State Tourism of Arts and Culture Department Government of Nagaland, this festival is organised to promote intercultural harmony. So plan a trip to Kohima this December for a chilly weather and to learn about ancient tribal lives through the exploration of the structure of tribal huts, which is dated back to primaeval lifestyles including other instruments like drums, gongs, costumes and wooden carvings.
Hot Air Balloon in Hampi, Mysore and BidarIf you have not made plans for New Years yet, you must straight away book your tickets to Karnataka which hosts one of the most exciting Hot Air Balloon Festival at the end of December. The weather is just perfect to endeavour a ride in the balloons. You can attend the festival in three places in Karnataka simultaneously – cities Bidar and Mysore, as well as the historically significant village of Hampi. So, you can alternatively try paragliding in Bidar or bungee jumping in Mysore or flying fox in the rich ruins of Hampi, and the palaces of Mysore. And it’s ideal to experience these adventures either early in the morning or at sunset. And to add to it all, every participant on the balloon rides are given free insurance.
Sunburn Festival, GoaIf you want to dance through the New Year, then pack some party clothes to Asia’s biggest electronic dance music festival, called the Sunburn Music Festival. Held at Vagator beach in Goa, the Sunburn Festival is a three-day experience of amazing music and unmissable lineup with DJ Snake, Chainsmokers and Martin Garrix this year. Taking place from 27th - 29th December, the festival is going to be bigger and better as it’s returning to Goa after three years.
