The season of merrymaking is already knocking on our door. Delicious plum cakes, decorated Christmas trees, glittering markets, and vibrant decorations have managed to play their magic on us. Did you know that the first Christmas celebration was recorded in Rome on December 25, AD 336? No wonder, the festivities bring around a beautiful change in our routine life.
However, we do know how the season can be hard on so many of us trying to juggle between work and Christmas celebrations. So we thought of helping you out with the last-minute plans. As we groove into the mood of the holiday season, let’s take a look at the best places to celebrate Christmas 2024 in India.
Best Places to Celebrate Christmas 2024 in India
Here are some popular places to observe Christmas celebrations 2024 in India:
1. Christmas Celebration in Bangalore 2024
Celebrate Christmas 2024 in India
Bangalore, the Silicon Valley of India, hosts a cosmopolitan culture and celebrates almost every festival with much fervour and enthusiasm. It is more than obvious to find it all decorated and decked up for the holiday season. While there are about 40 churches in the city, the popular ones like the City Harvest AG Church, St. Mary’s Basilica and Christian Fellowship Church witness the maximum crowd during the midnight Christmas mass. As far as the feast is concerned, Bangalore doesn’t like to be left behind. Several restaurants are hosting special feasts and parties to make the day special for you.
- Famous Churches: City Harvest AG Church, St. Mary’s Basilica, Christian Fellowship Church
- Nearest Railway Station: Bangalore Railway Station
- Nearest Airport: Bangalore Airport
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Bangalore
Famous Christmas Spots in the City
To take the absolute feel of the season, roam around Commercial Street, Chickpet, Johnson Market and Cox Town. Head to Thom’s Bakery, Fatima Bakery and All Saint’s Bakery for that perfect plum cake. Feast right at Grasshopper, Monkey Bar, 100 Feet, Lalit Ashok, Shangri-La, Olive Beach, My Fortune, Hoppipola and The Only Place.
2. Christmas Celebration in Kolkata 2024
Celebrate Christmas 2024 in India
In the ‘City of Joy’, festivity and celebrations never come to an end. Although Kolkata is known for its Durga Puja, it displays as much enthusiasm for Christmas celebrations. The city’s colonial connection is one of the reasons behind it being a popular destination to celebrate Christmas. The much popular Park Street is lit up like never before; starting from St Xavier’s College to Jawaharlal Nehru Road. Various food stalls are set up by different communities which is a delight for one’s eyes. For the midnight mass, walk to the magnificent St. Paul’s Cathedral.
- Famous Churches: St. Paul’s Cathedral, Basilica of Bom Jesus, St. Philomena’s Cathedral
- Nearest Railway Station: Kolkata Railway Station
- Nearest Airport: Kolkata Airport
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Kolkata
Famous Christmas Spots in the City
No second thoughts! Park Street is the place to be for Christmas 2024. Bow Barracks is a society that is home to the Anglo-Indian population in Kolkata. During Christmas celebrations, stalls are set up which sell all traditional items from vindaloo and rose cookies to homemade wine. Saldanha Bakery and Nahoum’s are your go-to points for a delicious bite of plum cake. For that typical treat of roasted turkey or chicken and a plate full of pie, you can book a table at Trincas and Moulin Rouge.
3. Christmas Celebration in Delhi-NCR 2024
Celebrate Christmas 2024 in India
Delhi can be easily declared as the ‘Celebration Capital of India’; be it Diwali, Gurupurab or Christmas, Delhi celebrates all the festivals with utmost joy and enthusiasm. The entire city is decorated with Christmas trees and lights. Markets and Shopping malls are also abuzz with the same spirit and offer astonishing discounts for customers on this special occasion. Cafes and Nightclubs organise live performances by celebrated artists. Every second shop would sell Santa caps, Christmas trees, Christmas-themed costumes, and whatnot. For the traditional Christmas celebration mass, try going to the Vatican Embassy Chapel at Chanakyapuri. Sacred Cathedral Church in Connaught Place is yet another church to go to on Christmas 2024; however, be warned of the number of people that turn up.
- Famous Churches: St. Paul’s Cathedral, Basilica of Bom Jesus, St. Philomena’s Cathedral
- Nearest Railway Station: New Delhi Railway Station
- Nearest Airport: IGI Airport
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Delhi
Famous Christmas Spots in the City
Some of the best places to enjoy Christmas in the NCR region include Khan Market, Chanakyapuri, Saket, Connaught Place, Hauz Khas Village and South Extension Market. If you are around Noida, Sector 18 is your go-to place. In Gurgaon, Christmas celebration 2024 can be best experienced at Cyber Hub where various activities and events are organised to cheer up the crowd. There is no dearth of options when it comes to feasting in Delhi-NCR, a few of which include Olive Mehrauli, Bbar, Yum Yum Tree, Smoke House Delhi, The Imperial and Fio.
4. Christmas Celebration in Mumbai 2024
Celebrate Christmas 2024 in India
Mumbai, the entertainment capital of the nation, is surely worth the visit during Christmas. Sparkling streets, markets, restaurants, cafes and nightclubs fill the city with Christmas fever. Numerous events, parties and church masses take place to celebrate the birthday of Jesus Christ. Among the top places in Mumbai where Christmas celebrations are observed with full enthusiasm are Hill Road, Bandra and Church Gate. The most significant churches in the city include St. Thomas’s Cathedral, St. John’s Church, Mount Mary’s Basilica and Holy Name Cathedral. Mumbai has a decent group of Christian community that makes the city a delight to watch during the festive season.
- Famous Churches: St. Thomas’s Cathedral, St. John’s Church, Mount Mary’s Basilica, Holy Name Cathedral
- Nearest Railway Station: Mumbai Central Railway Station
- Nearest Airport: Mumbai International Airport
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Mumbai
Famous Christmas Spots in the City
Khotachiwadi, Vasai, Orlem in Malad, IC Colony at Borivali, Bandra, Colaba and Vile Parle are the hotspots when it comes to watching the traditional Christmas celebrations. To buy the best plum cake in town, head to Theobroma, Vienna Bakery, Merwan’s and The Patisserie Home. Brewbot, Maker Maxity, The Daily Bar and Kitchen, Veranda Cafe and Clearing House are some of the places where you can enjoy a delicious Christmas Special Feast. In order to keep troubles at bay, we suggest you make your bookings in advance and reach a little early as the traffic makes the city go berserk.
5. Christmas Celebration in Goa 2024
Celebrate Christmas 2024 in India
Goa, the party capital of India, is on top of this list owing to its magnificent beaches, vigorous nightlife and high Christmas spirit. Owing to its roots embedded in the Christian religion, the state celebrates the festival with a perfect blend of tradition and fun. Goa looks stunning around this time of the year as every house, office, restaurant, cafe and club is decorated with vibrant lights, poinsettia flowers and lit Christmas trees. You can witness locals building Santa Claus with sand on the beaches, enjoying lip-smacking snacks at the shacks and partying with all their hearts at one of the nightclubs in Goa. So, if budget is not a constraint, then Goa is surely the best place to be during Christmas. You are indeed the lucky one if you landed up in Goa during Christmas celebrations. Almost every beach has parties with a live music concert and gala dinners are hosted at several restaurants and bars. Goa is known for its old-world charm and 400+ churches. For the midnight mass, head to The Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral or the Immaculate Conception Church.
- Famous Churches: The Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral, Immaculate Conception Church
- Nearest Railway Station: Thivim Railway Station and Margao Railway Station
- Nearest Airport: Dabolim Airport, Manohar International Airport
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Goa
Famous Christmas Spots in the City
You may go to the popular beaches of North Goa like Baga, Calangute and Candolim if you wish to witness the beautiful fireworks of the Christmas celebrations. If you are in South Goa, Colva and Bogmalo are your go-to places. Club M, SinQ, Club M, Club Cabana, Nyex, Leopard Valley and several others host Christmas feasts. For gala dinners, make your reservations in advance. And while you are at it, don’t forget to gorge on Goa’s very own dessert, Bebinca Cake. Confeitaria 31 de Janeiro, Royal Foods and German Bakery (at Anjuna) are some of the best places to relish a piece of plum cake.
6. Kerala
Celebrate Christmas 2024 in India
If you’re looking forward to spending some peaceful moments with your family, you can head to the beautiful state of Kerala. Its Christian population and colonial-era churches contribute to the Christmassy feel of the destination. All big and small churches in Kerala are decorated and kept open on Christmas Eve where people in large numbers gather, sing carols and exchange wishes. Kochi, Kovalam, Munnar, Wayanad and Kollam are among the best places to celebrate Christmas in Kerala. So, if you want to experience the true spirit of this merry-making festival, then plan a vacation in Kerala during this time.
- Famous Churches: St. Francis Church, Edathua Church, Basilica of our Lady of Dolores Church
- Nearest Railway Station: Kerala Central Railway Station
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Kerala
Famous Christmas Spots in the City
In Kerala, witness the Christmas play, enjoy the local feast or have a bonfire on the beaches for a delightful Christmas experience. Visit the churches during the day and enjoy the parties at the beaches in the night. Some popular churches are St. Francis Church, Edathua Church, and Basilica of Our Lady of Dolores Church. You can try festive delicacies like Plum Cake, Kallappam and Chicken Stew, Munthiri Wine, Palappam and Duck Roast, Bread and Fish Molee.
7. Pondicherry
Celebrate Christmas 2024 in India
Pondicherry or Puducherry is known as India’s Little France owing to its colonial connection which makes it a picturesque destination around Christmas. This beautiful city looks even more stunning during Christmas celebrations owing to its opulent churches, a stunning seacoast and French-styled architecture. Quaint churches in the city like the Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception and Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus hold all-night masses (in Tamil and English) to enlighten people about the true spirit of Christmas. In Pondicherry, you can experience a peaceful Christmas vacation by chilling by the beach during the evening and indulging in a night mass later.
- Famous Churches: Domus Dei Cathedral, Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception, Sacred Heart of Jesus
- Nearest Railway Station: Puducherry Railway Station
- Nearest Airport: Puducherry Airport
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Pondicherry
Famous Christmas Spots in the City
There are a lot of Christians in Pondicherry who celebrate Christmas due to their French lineage. The churches are stunningly decorated offering midnight mass. Celebrating Christmas here is a great choice as one can relax at the beach, enjoy the stunning marine life and experience the festivities at their best. Cafe Des Arts, Le Dupleix, Blueline, Crepe In Touch, and Carte Blanche are some popular places to relish Christmas dishes.
8. Manali
Celebrate Christmas 2024 in India
Manali is one of the favourite spots to witness the white Christmas celebrations in India. The festivities include decorations, food and games stalls, and snowmen covering the landscape of Manali. The heavy snowing in Manali gives it a romantic grandeur for couples. Christmas celebrations include bonfires, singing carols and songs, enjoying the chill weather and watching the weather.
- Famous Churches: Gilgal Prayer House Church, Arcot Lutheran Church
- Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station
- Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Manali
Famous Christmas Spots in the City
Manali’s Christmas celebration is the perfect escape to enjoy the festival in the snowy mountains. You can go skiing and snowboarding, decorate Christmas trees, hang out at the chic cafes, and sit by the fireplace. There are Himachal Kullu folk music performances to learn about the local culture.
9. Chennai
Celebrate Christmas 2024 in India
Chennai proves to be a great option to witness Christmas celebrations. The celebrations include carols and mass at the churches, special buffet feasts, and club parties. The malls in the city organise various activities and carnivals with Christmas celebration themes.
- Famous Churches: St. Thomas Cathedral Basilica, Armenian Church, St Andrew’s Church
- Nearest Railway Station: Chennai Central Railway Station
- Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport
- Places to Stay: Hotels in Chennai
Famous Christmas Spots in the City
The malls in the city organise carnivals which include face painting, nail art, balloon shooting, cupcake decoration, Interaction with Santa, and Instant Photo Booth. Some popular venues to celebrate Christmas are Cocktail Peninsula, Panaama, The Moon And Sixpence, Brew Room and Vasco.
10. Shillong
Shillong is a city in Meghalaya with a considerable population of Catholics. Christmas celebrations are carried out with zeal and enthusiasm in Shillong. The city offers many fun and engaging activities during the festive season. The churches and the homes are decorated with beautiful lights with Christmas vibes. People attend the midnight mass with bands playing soulful gospel music in the churches.
- Famous Churches: Laitumkhrah Presbyterian Church, The Shillong Catholic Cathedral, Mary Help of Christians Cathedral
- Nearest Railway Station: Guwahati Railway Station
- Nearest Airport: Umroi International Airport
Famous Christmas Spots in the City
The streets are decorated with Christmas celebrations in Shillong. You can head to the popular churches in the city including the Laitumkhrah Presbyterian Church and the Shillong Catholic Cathedral. You can also visit Laitumkhrah Street for your Christmas shopping needs. Some popular places to relish the festive treats are Cafe Shillong, Dylan’s, Munchies, Trattoria, Lamee, and Ginger Cafe.
Christmas celebrations in India can be as cheery as you’d want. Party up, indulge in lip-smacking meals or simply spend some time at the church. Go out with your loved ones and make this day count. After all, it’s Christmas. Here’s wishing you a Merry Christmas from all of us at FabHotels!
FAQs
Q. How can I spend Christmas in India?
A. Some famous places to visit in India during Christmas are Shillong, Goa, Delhi, Mumbai, Manali, etc to witness and indulge in the Christmas celebrations.
Q. When was the first Christmas celebrated?
A. The first Christmas celebration was recorded in Rome on December 25, AD 336.
Q. Is Christmas a holiday in India?
A. Yes, Christmas is a public holiday in India.
Q. Is it a good time to visit Delhi in December during Christmas?
A. Yes, you can visit Delhi during Christmas as the city gets into Christmas celebration vibes with decorations and fun events all around the city.
Q. How to celebrate Christmas with family?
A. You can celebrate Christmas with your family by decorating your home with a Christmas vibe, exchanging Christmas gifts, getting together with friends, hosting a Christmas party, and planning a vacation together.
Q. What is the celebration of Christmas?
A. Christmas is a Christian holiday that commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ.
Q. How to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas?
A. To celebrate the true meaning of Christmas focus on compassion, sharing, giving and love. Spend quality time with friends and family, be kind to others and embrace the spirit of selflessness.
