Best Weekend Getaways from Kolkata
Sometimes, all we need is a short break to recharge. Luckily, there are many amazing best weekend getaways from Kolkata …
Sometimes, all we need is a short break to recharge. Luckily, there are many amazing best weekend getaways from Kolkata with everything from misty hills and sandy beaches to wildlife adventures and cultural experiences.
Whether you’re looking for a fun-filled family vacation, a romantic escape, or just a quick trip with your gang, these weekend spots from Kolkata are perfect for a rejuvenating 2-day getaway.
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Best Places to Visit for a Weekend Getaway from Kolkata
- Darjeeling
- Digha
- Sundarbans
- Shantiniketan
- Mandarmani
- Kalimpong
Darjeeling
If you’re a mountain lover, head to Darjeeling – one of the best weekend trips from Kolkata. Wake up to mesmerising views of the Himalayas, roam through beautiful tea gardens, take a joyride on the famous ‘toy train’, and relax in the peaceful ambience that makes every journey worthwhile.
Digha
If you’re thinking of a beach holiday, then there are few better options than Digha which is one of the best places to visit near Kolkata. Relax by the sea, indulge in some delicious fresh seafood, enjoy the beautiful sunsets or just laze around spending some lovely quality time with your loved ones on the beach.
Sundarbans
For a unique travel experience, head to the Sundarbans. Famous for its mangrove forests and exciting boat safaris, this is the perfect getaway for all nature lovers seeking an amazing nature adventure from Kolkata
Shantiniketan
Shantiniketan is perfect for travellers who appreciate art, culture, and history. Explore museums, local handicraft markets, and the peaceful surroundings that reflect the legacy of Rabindranath Tagore.
Mandarmani
Mandarmani will be an escape from all the crowded beaches. A perfect getaway among the best romantic weekends from Kolkata. With its long beach line, calming resorts and serene atmosphere, Mandarmani is an amazing place to visit with your loved ones as well as with your family.
Look at the Top Tourist Places in West Bengal
Kalimpong
Scenic mountains, beautiful flower nurseries, colourful monasteries & pleasant year-round weather – Kalimpong has everything you’d wish for! It’s one of the most amazing destinations to just sit back and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Plan Your Next Weekend Escape
Whether you prefer beaches, hills, wildlife, or cultural attractions, these best weekend getaways from Kolkata offer something for every traveller. Plan your next 2-day trip from Kolkata and create unforgettable memories with the people you love.
FAQs
- Where to go for 2 days from Kolkata?
Popular options include Darjeeling, Digha, Mandarmani, Kalimpong, Shantiniketan, and the Sundarbans. These destinations are ideal for a relaxing two-day trip. - What are some offbeat places near Kolkata for a weekend trip?
Kalimpong, Purulia, Bishnupur, and the Sundarbans are excellent offbeat destinations offering nature, heritage, and peaceful surroundings. - Where to go on the weekend in Kolkata?
If you’re staying in the city, explore Eco Park, Victoria Memorial, Princep Ghat, or plan a short drive to nearby destinations like Digha or Shantiniketan. - What are some romantic weekend getaways from Kolkata?
Mandarmani, Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Digha are among the best romantic weekend getaways from Kolkata, offering beautiful scenery and relaxing stays for couples.
Best places to visit in April in India 2026
In India, April is considered one of the peak summer months, with an average temperature of about 25°C to 35°C across regions. So, it is high time people visit hill stations
In India, April is considered one of the peak summer months, with an average temperature of about 25°C to 35°C across regions. So, it is high time people visit hill stations and enjoy pleasant weather to escape the scorching sun.
Here are the Best places to visit in April in India 2026.
- Munnar, Kerala
- Manali, Himachal Pradesh
- Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
- Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh
- Darjeeling, West Bengal
- Cherrapunji, Meghalaya
- Coonoor, Tamil Nadu
- Sonamarg, Jammu and Kashmir
- Andaman and Nicobar Islands
- Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh
Munnar, Kerala
A must-visit hill station located in Kerala—God’s own country. It is a part of the beautiful Western Ghats and is popularly called the “Kashmir of South India.”
Attractions: Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kurinjimala Sanctuary, Rose garden
Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Undoubtedly, this is the ideal spot for couples tours in April. Known as the most favorite honeymoon destination for newlywed couples, this place is housed in the Kullu region of the great Himalayas.
Attractions: Solang Valley, Rohtang La Pass, Mall Road, Hadimba Devi Temple
Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
This hill station on the Western Ghats is called the “Princess of Hill Stations” in the country with a wide range of tourist attractions that suit couples, families, and friends.
Attractions: Kodaikanal Lake, Pillar Rock, Guna Cave, Pine Forest, Dolphin Nose, Kodaikanal Golf Club, Kodaikanal Solar Observatory
Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh
This is one of the Best places to visit in April in India. It has amazing sightseeing spots, adorable landscapes, and adventure activities. Thus, it serves as the best relaxation destination for families.
Attractions: Panch Pula, St. John’s Church, Chamera Lake, Dhauladhar Range
Darjeeling, West Bengal
Most people know Darjeeling for Kangchenjunga—the third-highest mountain range in the world. Bordering India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh, this place is more culturally vibrant.
Attractions: Peace Pagoda, Batasia Loop, Tiger Hill, Rock Garden, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
Cherrapunji, Meghalaya
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You can experience rainfall throughout the year here in this destination and it is recognized as the world’s wettest place. Thus, making it one of the perfect April tourist destinations. Another specialty of this place is its living root bridges developed by a particular tribe.
Attractions: Nokrek National Park, Seven Sister Falls, Mawsynram, Mawsmai Cave, Mawphlang Sacred Forest Meghalaya
Coonoor, Tamil Nadu
Housed on the Nilgris plateau, it is a perfect summer vacation spot for children and families—an alluring cool climate with a lot of attractions.
Attractions: Dolphin’s Nose, Tiger Hill Cemetery, Sim`s Park, All Saints Church, Wellington Lake
Sonamarg, Jammu and Kashmir
If you’re looking for some of the best holiday destinations in April in North India, choose Sonamarg. It has breathtaking views of valleys, most pleasant weather, and glaciers.
Attractions: Silk Road, Krishansar Lake, Zoji La Pass, Kolahoi Peak
Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Though it encompasses a handful of beaches and islands, the number of places to admire and explore is truly many and most importantly unique with rich historical and cultural heritage.
Attractions: Limestone caves, Cellular Jail, Scuba Diving, Kayaking, Dhaninallah mangroves
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Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh
Another vacation spot in Himachal Pradesh, the hill station capital of India. Popularly called the “Mini Switzerland,” this destination is ideal for summer retreats and is also famous for being one of the Best places to visit in April in India.
Attractions: Khajjiar Lake, Dhauladhar Mountains, Khajji Nag temple, Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary
In general, which part of India is best to visit in April?
Irrespective of the Northern or Southern region, hill stations are the best places to go in summer. So, find which hilly spots are near your district or state. Try visiting them instead of choosing the regular beach-side destinations, which are dry, humid, and sunny.
What is Eco-Friendly Travel? | Eco-Friendly Sites
The world has just recovered from the COVID pandemic, and still, we can see no drastic reduction in climate change rates or global warming. Besides, world studies claim that the tourism industry contributes at least 10% of greenhouse gas emissionsn
The world has just recovered from the COVID pandemic, and still, we can see no drastic reduction in climate change rates or global warming. Besides, world studies claim that the tourism industry contributes at least 10% of greenhouse gas emissions worldwide. Thus, now is the high time for everyone to absorb what ‘Ecotourism’ and eco-friendly travel are all about.
While the former revolves more around a particular tourist spot or destination, its sustainability, protection, and the improvement of the welfare of the local communities, the latter revolves around one or more tourist spots to which you travel and how effectively you make the whole travel sustainable from the beginning to the end.
The primary goals of ecotourism and sustainable travel
Undoubtedly, the primary goals are sustainability and conservation of natural resources and biodiversity. However, there are different ways in which we can attain these goals. Curated here are the three easiest and most doable actions every traveller or tourist must consider.
Minimising the impact of conventional tourism
- Focus more on slow progress and avoid aggressive or rapid development of particular tourist spots that have higher footfall.
- Avoid visiting overcrowded tourist spots to reduce pollution.
- Plan for environmentally friendly travel that features proper waste management.
- Stop overutilizing the scarce resources available in the local communities.
Ensuring sustainability in every part of the travel
Whether you’re a frequent or occasional traveler, make sure your entire travel is well-planned and executed so that you reduce gas or fossil fuel consumption, reduce the disposal of harmful materials like plastic or electronics, and increase the use of sustainable materials.
Focusing on reduce, reuse, and recycle
If you ask us, “What is the most sustainable way to travel?” these three Rs would be our answer. Yes, reduce waste, reuse as many essentials as possible, and recycle the one-time used plastics or other recyclable items you carry.
Above all, these are not governmental initiatives you need to wait for. It all starts with you. Certainly, each one of us is responsible for making this happen and giving future generations a green earth that we cherish and embrace.
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Top 5 Eco-Friendly Tourist Spots in the World
According to the 2024 GDS (Global Destination Sustainability) index, the top five places for each region include:
Asia-Pacific
- Singapore: ‘City in a Garden’
- Sydney, Australia: Carbon-neutral city
- Goyang, South Korea: Many ecological parks
- Melbourne, Australia: Promotes cycling
- Brisbane, Australia: Certified sustainable tour operators
Northern Europe
- Helsinki, Finland: Higher green spaces
- Gothenburg, Sweden: Green technologies
- Copenhagen, Denmark: Waste reduction
- Bergen, Norway: Sustainable development
- Aarhus, Denmark: Eco-friendly hotels
Central and Southern Europe
- Bordeaux, France: Numerous green activities
- Zurich, Switzerland: Public transportation
- Bilbao, Spain: Reduced emissions
- Lyon, France: Eco-friendly businesses and transport
- Paris, France: Supports local food and economy
North America
- Victoria, Canada: Biosphere-certified destination
- Montreal, Canada: 1500+ parks
- Quebec City, Canada: Responsible travel
- Edmonton, Canada: Carbon-neutral communities
- Ottawa, Canada: Large greenbelt
How about India and eco-friendly travel destinations?
Though the country is not topping the GDS index, several measures are being taken to promote ecotourism and conserve nature. Thenmala in Kerala is the country’s first planned ecotourism destination. Besides the central and state government initiatives, welfare organisations and local communities seem to make extended efforts to make their tourist spots eco- and environment-friendly. In all these places,
Explore the top eco tourism destinations in India with the best eco-friendly travel planner agency! Some of the best spots include:
- Kaziranga National Park, Assam
- Coorg, Karnataka
- Mawlynnong, Meghalaya
- Chilika Lake, Odisha
- Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Pulicat Lake – Largest Brackish Water Lagoon in India
Probably, you might have heard less about a lagoon—it is nothing but shallow water that is naturally separated from a sea or ocean. Pulicat lagoon in India is one of….
Probably, you might have heard less about a lagoon—it is nothing but shallow water that is naturally separated from a sea or ocean. Pulicat lagoon in India is one of the notable coastal lagoons in Nellore, Andhra Pradesh, extending to more than 35 miles in length and about 10 miles in width. It is recognised to be the second largest brackish (mix of fresh and saltwater) lagoon in India, next to Chilika Lake, Odisha, which is about 40 miles in length.
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History of Pulicat Lake
In the first few centuries, mariners in this port region called it the Podouke Emporion. However, later in the 13th century, Arabs migrated from Mecca and used it as their residence. Later, in the 16th century, the Portuguese occupied the region and colonised it. Then came the Dutch in the 17th century, and the Dutch East India Company was established for trading. After 1825, the British took control and used them as health resorts. Finally, after independence, Indian villagers used these lagoons for fishing.
Things to do in the Pulicat Lake
The Pulicat Lake tourism has numerous things to offer for tourists. The major ones include:
Exploring the Dutch Fort
The ruins of the Fort, Church, and Cemetery built by the Dutch in the early 17th century are still protected by the Archaeological Survey of India.
Boating on the Lake
Taking a boat ride on the lake is a must-do when visiting Pulicat. Tourists cannot miss this serene experience at the Lake.
Visiting the Pulicat Bird Sanctuary, Dutch Fort
Bird lovers, families travelling with children, and most importantly, wildlife photographers, have to include this sanctuary in their itinerary. Indeed, such an incredible activity!
Strolling the nearby coasts
A handful of small beaches are near the lake. So, visit them in early mornings or late evenings to watch the sunrise or sunset. Also, stroll along the coastal region with your partner.
Participating in the Flamingo festival, Pulicat Bird Sanctuary, Dutch Fort
In January, the Flamingo festival will take place and is amazing to watch flocks of flamingos arriving on the islands in the lagoon. Don’t miss it!
Look out for some Road trips to visit in South India!
Best time to visit Pulicat Lake
The ideal time to visit this tourist spot is between October and March or April for two reasons:
This period includes winter and spring, wherein tourists can enjoy the pleasant climate, visit nearby tourist destinations, relax, admire nature, etc.
In this period, the flamingos migrate from the Rann of Kutch and arrive at the Pulicate marshlands in huge flocks. Watching this is truly bliss for tourists and bird lovers.
Frequently asked questions:
How do I go to Pulicat Lake from Chennai?
The lake is just about 65–70 km away from Chennai, Tamil Nadu. So, it is easily accessible by all means. Be it road, bus, or train, you have to first reach Gummidipoondi as it is the nearest location to the lake. Then, you can choose to travel to the lake by the same or alternative modes.
Does the place house a bird sanctuary?
About 200 bird species inhabit the lake and the surrounding island villages. So, it is also a bird sanctuary. More than fifteen thousand Flamingos come in October and leave in April. So, they are unavoidable. Otherwise, you can also spot Rufous turtle dove, Yellow-throated sparrow, Garganey, Brown headed gull, Blue chat, Besra sparrow hawk, etc.
Where is Pulicat Lake located?
It is located on the border region of two major southern states in India—Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. However, jurisdiction-wise, it is considered a part of the Nellore or Tirupati district in Andhra Pradesh.
Is it a natural lake?
Of course, it is a natural lake formed along the Coromandel coast by the barrier island, Sriharikota. This island separates the lake from the great Bay of Bengal. However, a man-made canal, Buckingham Canal, runs through this lake but does not alter its natural formations.
Why is Pulicat Lake famous?
There is no doubt about whether it is famous or not. It is the second-largest natural brackish water lagoon in India. Moreover, the lake is inhabited by enormous flora and fauna, including a wide range of birds, mammals, and fish species.
10 Must-Have Travel Accessories: Best and Useful Items for Every Traveler
Of course, shopping for travel is always fun. But is packing fun?
Of course, shopping for travel is always fun. But is packing fun? Well, the travel prep mode is quite boring. But we’re sure it would be interesting and easy if you had the checklist handy. This blog has a curated list of travel essentials or accessories you may badly need when planning your next trip.
Check out Stree- free to travel with a Travel agency!!
Top 10 Travel Accessories
- Multipurpose bags
- Waterproof bags
- Toiletries
- Weatherproof essentials
- Luggage locks
- First aid kits
- Necessary tools
- Water/light essentials
- Mobile apps for travel
- Makeup kits
1. Multipurpose bags
These bags have multiple functionalities and utilities. For example, you can either carry them, use them as a backpack, or have them on your shoulders. It has several compartments, pockets, and holders to pack versatile items. You can easily buy the best backpacks for travel from e-commerce sites.
2. Waterproof bags
Bags with an elastic, adjustable cover are called waterproof or rainproof. They are perfect when traveling to places in and around water, like islands, cruises, mountains, etc.
3. Toiletries
A must-have collection for everyone and any tourist destination—brushes, toothpaste, soaps, hand or body washes, shampoo, mirror, and towel. These are essential to ensure hygiene and protect ourselves from external contaminations or infections.
4. Weatherproof essentials
A packing list must include this set of items. Be it summer or winter, the respective weatherproof apparel has to be carried. For example, jackets, socks, overcoats, hats, sunscreen, shoes, etc.
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5. Luggage locks
If you do not have a bag with a widely accepted inbuilt TSA lock, then you need to carry your private luggage locks to protect your belongings from unnecessary damage.
6. First aid kits
They are badly needed for travelers attempting risky or adventurous activities like hiking, trekking, etc. They are helpful not only for small injuries but sometimes can save lives. They are especially considered one of the vital road trip essentials.
7. Necessary tools
Tools or accessories, like adaptors, power banks, air tags, travel pillows, socks, locks, sanitizers, hooks, ropes, screwdrivers, or similar emergency articles, are necessary for anyone to survive unforeseen situations. You can carry a mini-tool kit that saves space.
8. Water/light essentials
The first and foremost necessity for any life is water and light. Thus, travel-friendly water bottles and lights top the list of travel essentials and are found to be extremely useful for many travelers.
9. Mobile apps for travel
Yes, downloading travel-friendly or language-translating mobile applications on your device is a unique prerequisite when traveling to unfamiliar or foreign tourist places. Certainly, this is not an item or accessory that you need to pack but install on your mobile phones for easy navigation, communication, exploration, etc.
10. Makeup kits
Of course, these are the primary travel accessories for women these days. One reason is that they are fond of photographs and another reason is that they want to wear makeup and present themselves neat and appealing.
There are a lot more must-haves when it comes to traveling short or long. However, each travel is unique. So, consider altering this list as per your needs—specific to places, persons, and activities.
Frequently asked questions
What to pack for a ten-day trip?
A 10-day trip is quite a long one; you must pack everything from clothing to snacks, towels to toiletries, essentials to add-ons, etc. Based on the travel destination and your physical health, you may or may not need thermal wear, raincoats, boots, water bottles, or emergency medicines. So, you first need to prepare a customized checklist of items you require for that particular travel.
What is the best cosmetic bag for travel?
Any best cosmetic bag must have multiple compartments for travel-size and full-size cosmetic products and added features, like detachable pockets, transparent holders, and zipped cases. According to Business Insider, the top brand choices include Kusshi Signature Makeup Bag, Calpak Large Clear Cosmetics Case, Quince Italian Leather Pouch Travel Set, and Leatherology Clamshell Makeup Bag Set.
What travel items make travel easier?
Today, we have several innovative and creative products on the market that make your travel easier. It could be as simple as a luggage weighing scale, reusable water bottles, multiport/adapters, space-saving bags, packing cubes, sleep masks, and honestly, this is a never-ending list.
Cheapest European Country to Visit from India
According to the European Tourism Trends & Prospects report by the ETC (European Travel Commission)
According to the European Tourism Trends & Prospects report by the ETC (European Travel Commission), foreign arrivals are on a 10–12% rise every year owing to a lot of factors like increased interest toward offbeat or less crowded destinations and non-traditional Mediterranean countries. Especially concerning Indian tourists, the numbers are doubling year on year. Thus, we have come up with a list of budget-friendly tourist places or the Cheapest European Countries for Indian travelers.
Cheapest European Countries from India: Top 7 picks
- Greece
- Poland
- Romania
- Czech Republic
- Hungary
- Slovakia
- Portugal
European Countries
European Country
The key reasons why Indians like to travel to Europe are shorter flight travel, economical expenses, and unique attractions. With these factors into consideration, we can see that Central European countries take the major share on the below list. Now, let’s dive into each of them.
Greece
Even a one-week-long trip from India to Greece seems cheaper (between INR 1 to 2 lacs), including flight travel, accommodation, food, and local commutation. Most importantly, the VISA processing for touring Greece takes 10–15 days maximum.
- The average starting price for flight tickets is INR 13,000–17,000
- Best time to visit Greece: September, October, and November
- Attractions in Greece: Benaki Museum, Porto Katsiki, Balos and Myrtos Beach, National Archaeological Museum, Acropolis of Athens, etc.
Poland
If you ask us, “Which Europe country is best for Indians?” we would say “Poland” first. Because this place is known for its cultural and colonial architectural heritage. The Embassy takes about 20 to 25 days to process the VISA for this country from India. Do not miss their street food, especially their authentic Polish pierogi.
- The average starting price for flight tickets is INR 17,000–22,000
- Best time to visit Poland: May to September
- Attractions in Poland: The Royal Castle in Warsaw, Market Hall, Energylandia, Sopot Brach, Stary Kleparz, Museum of Modern Art, and Brzezno Beach.
Romania
Besides the heritage, this country has a lot more to impress tourists like you—the black sea, bears alongside the beaches, magnificent castles, and painted monasteries. For a short stay in this country, the VISA processing takes only about 10-15 days.
- The average starting price for flight tickets is INR 14,000–18,000, and this varies depending upon the city of arrival in this country.
- Best time to visit Romania: May to August
- Best places to visit in Europe—Romania: The Red Ravine, Plaja Eforie Nord, Salina Turda, Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum, Sighișoara, Modern Beach, National Museum of Art, Poenari Citadel, and Relax Beach Mamaia.
Czech Republic
If you’re planning to visit this place, you have to apply for a VISA Appointment much earlier than other EU countries, as it takes more than 20-30 days for approval. Though the Czech Republic is a part of the European Union, they use a different currency called the Czech crown (CZK) instead of the usual Euro (EUR).
- The average starting price for flight tickets is INR 17,000–25,000
- Best time to visit Czech Republic: March, April, May, September, and October
- Attractions in the Czech Republic: The middle-aged Český Krumlov Castle, Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, Prague Zoo, Lobkowicz Palace, St. Vitus Cathedral, Dancing House, etc.
Hungary
If you’re wondering, “Which country in Europe is the cheapest to visit?” Hungary could be the most common answer. Yes, it is an extremely affordable tourist destination when compared to Western European countries. The VISA processing usually takes about 10-15 days.
- The average starting price for flight tickets is INR 14,000–20,000
- The best time to visit Hungary is April to May and late August to October.
- Attractions in Hungary: The Church of Our Lady of Buda Castle, Széchenyi Chain Bridge, Fisherman’s Bastion, Hungarian State Opera, Western Pleasure Beach, and Lehel Market.
Slovakia
Unlike other countries that are rich in heritage and culture, Slovakia is quite different with many landscapes, rivers, mountains, and biodiverse-rich sites. So, irrespective of whether you’re planning for a solo travel to Europe or a family trip, this place has a lot of activities to impress you.
- The average starting price for flight tickets is INR 18,000–22,000
- Best time to visit Slovakia: June to October
- Attractions in Slovakia: Orava Castle, Demanovska Cave of Liberty in Zilina, Tatras National Park, Strbske Pleso Lake, Lomnicky Peak, and the Sucha Bela Canyon.
Portugal
This is one of the Cheapest European Countries is abundant in historical sites, delightful authentic dishes, stunning landscapes, adventurous sporting activities, and architectural marvels. Besides everything, fine wine is special here. So, do not miss them when visiting here.
- The average starting price for flight tickets is INR 18,000–27,000
- Best time to visit Portugal: September to February
- Attractions in Portugal: Luis I Bridge, Praia do Camilo, Casino Estoril, Quinta do Francês Winery, National Palace of Pena, Marinha Beach, Porto Cathedral, and a lot more.
Other budget-friendly or Cheapest European Countries to visit from India
Apart from the above-listed countries, there are other pocket-friendly EU countries that you can travel to from India—Bulgaria, Serbia, Denmark, Sweden, Austria, etc.
Best Places to Visit in December
Undoubtedly, December is the best month to plan your holiday or vacation. Most tourist destinations across the globe experience winter and only a few places like Costa Rica, Tasmania, etc. experience summer in December. As people are more fond of winter chill than summer rays
Undoubtedly, December is the best month to plan your holiday or vacation. Most tourist destinations across the globe experience winter and only a few places like Costa Rica, Tasmania, etc. experience summer in December. As people are more fond of winter chill than summer rays of sunshine, in this blog post, let’s explore some of the best places to visit in December winter.
The Top 9 Destinations to Visit in December for Winter
- Scotland, United Kingdom
- Venice, Italy
- Shimla, India
- Zurich, Switzerland
- Male Atoll, Maldives
- Colombo, Sri Lanka
- Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
- Krabi, Thailand
- French Alps, France
Winter
December
1. Scotland, United Kingdom
The pleasant cold weather in Scotland makes it the top choice for a December visit. The winter sightseeing places here include castles like Edinburgh, Dunnottar, and Stirling, and other attractions like Loch Ness Centre, Glasgow museums, Cairngorms National Park, and the Isle of Skye. Indeed, it is one of the good winter holiday destinations.
2. Venice, Italy
Most lavishly spending newly-wed couples choose Venice for their winter honeymoon. This place is perfect, with a serene environment and a handful of places to explore: Teatro La Fenice, Leonardo da Vinci Museum, Hard Rock Cafe, and Doge’s Palace. Besides, you can enjoy the gondola ride, the boat ride, and the Christmas market.
3. Shimla, India
Located in Himachal Pradesh, one of the most famous northern states with the Great Himalayas peaks, rivers, and valleys, this place is top-notch for December visits for all groups of tourists, including families, couples, and solo travelers. Do not miss this hill station in India, as it ranks number one among the best Places to visit in December.
Have you heard of shoulder seasons? Read to know!!
4. Zurich, Switzerland
This place in Switzerland is world-renowned for its largest indoor Christmas market. A happening place can’t get any better! From cozy cafes to snowmobile racing activities, from museums to dine-ins, everything is most welcoming and lovely. Do not miss skiing when visiting this place or the nearby Swiss Alps in this alluring European country.
5. Male Atoll, Maldives
Winter in the Maldives is like a dry season as it stays close to the equator. However, tourists can enjoy relaxing weather along the coasts and islands. Exploring the underwater, Maafushi, the walking tour, and the submarine experience are some of the best things to do in Male. Hence, the Maldives is the right choice for December travel destinations.
6. Colombo, Sri Lanka
Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka, is another perfect destination for Places to visit in December winter. Be it cherishing water sports, visiting the temples, discovering the historical buildings, or strolling the landscapes, every activity feels peaceful and satisfying. The climate here in winter is ideal for admiring the tourist places and participating in outdoor activities.
7. Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
This island in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, is a wonderful holiday destination as it experiences winter starting in December. The weather is super cool, and the place is full of celebrations, a New Year’s vibe, a luxurious lifestyle, and sky-scraping man-made architectural wonders. In fact, all emirates of the UAE serve as the best countries to visit in December.
8. Krabi, Thailand
In December, Krabi experiences the lowest temperature around 23-24℃ and you can expect some rainfall. Still, you can enjoy attractions like the pristine beaches and spectacular limestone cliffs. When the tour is planned a little longer, you can also visit the nearby Thailand islands and their attractions as a day trip.
9. French Alps, France
Unlike other countries, it is not ordinary cool but freezing and snowy weather in France in December. Skiing is the major must-do activity in the French Alps of this country. It is no surprise people flock to this place just to experience this activity. Besides, in the urban areas, you can see grand celebrations on the occasion of Christmas and New Year.
Which country is worth visiting in December?
Well, we cannot limit ourselves to one country as the best to visit this month. However, here are the top two countries as per the tourism experts.
Switzerland: This is one of the favorites Places to visit in December for most travelers across the world, as it encompasses unique winter things to do, like snowshoeing, Christmas festivities, deep natural snow at Mont Fort Glacier, etc.
India: Known for the majestic hills in most parts of the country, enjoying the winter in India is distinguished and adventurous with snow-capped mountains and adrenalin-rushing sports/activities.
What places are best to travel in December for summer?
Tourist places like Paraguay and Bolivia in South America, Queenstown and the Bay of Islands in New Zealand, Tasmania and Byron Bay in Australia, and Costa Rica and Panama in Central America are good choices for experiencing summer in December.
7 Best Places to Visit in Bangkok
Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, ranks high on the list of most visited tourist places in the world. Most international tourists visiting Thailand pick this city for touring or at least as a gateway to the country. This city has more than 15% of the country’s population and makes a key contribution to the country’s economy.
In terms of Tourism, the multifaceted country attracts varieties of tourists. The majority of tribe includes cultural tourists, history/ heritage tourists, shopaholic tourists, nightlife tourists, sex tourists, etc.
Curated below are the top seven picks or places to visit in Bangkok for first-timers.
Best Tourist Places to Visit in Bangkok – Top Seven Picks
Grand Palace
Your vacation in Bangkok will not get complete without visiting this Grand Palace, the former residence of the King of Rattanakosin Kingdom. Tourists can admire the grandeur of this palace throughout the year except for royal ceremony times. The world-famous “Emerald Buddha” temple is located here.
Wat Arun Temple
Housed on the banks of the river Chao Phraya, it comes first on the list of most incredible sites to see in Bangkok. The sunset here is breathtaking. You can feel awestruck looking at the architectural beauty of the temple. Locally, this temple is referred to as “The Temple of Dawn.”
What are the other best things to do in Bangkok?
Lumphini Park
This park was named after the place Lumbini, the birthplace of Budha. It has 58 hectares of the man-made lake amidst lush green lawns, strolling walkways, kid’s play areas, etc. You can enjoy rowing and paddleboat rides. The photogenic Chinese-style clock tower is located here. What not? Isn’t this park one of the best destinations for kids to visit in Bangkok?
Chatuchak Weekend Market
From food, flowers, apparel, art and crafts, home decor, beauty products, cafes, antiques, and souvenirs you can get anything and everything here. It encapsulates more than ten thousand shops and for sure you’ll get lost or stranded in these busy streets. Watch out! There are information centers to help you catch hold of the main walkways. Nothing to worry about.
Reclining Buddha Temple
This 46-meter-long reclining Budhha temple is a globally recognized tourist site. Next to the temple of Emerald Buddha, tourists visit this destination in Bangkok. This stunning statue is found to be covered in a golden leaf. Also, has around thousand images of Buddha images and more than ninety small shrines.
Floating Markets
Enjoying the floating markets in Bangkok is indeed the best among the various cool things to do in Bangkok. There are many floating markets in Bangkok. The most acclaimed one is at Damnoen Saduak. You can have fun riding on the long-tail boats and relish Bangkok’s local cuisine, tropical fruits/ vegetables, etc.
Museum of Contemporary Art
Looking for a unique and best of the best tourist attractions to visit in Bangkok? This is the place! Yes, it has more than eight hundred selective works of Boonchai Bencharongkul. This museum is dedicated to Professor Silpa Bhirasri who is popularly called the father of Contemporary Art in Thailand. You can find the best of Thai art, creativity, and beliefs here!
Planning a trip to Bangkok? We’re here to help!
FAQs About Best Places to Visit in Bangkok
1. What is the nicest area of Bangkok?
Sukhumvit (best for stay, spa, and tourist attractions), Siam & Chinatown (best for shopping, and food), Pratunam (best for exploring local life and markets), Thong Lor (nightlife of Bangkok), etc.
2. What you can’t miss in Bangkok?
The above-listed seven best places to visit in Bangkok are the ones you cannot miss. Apart from these, you can also visit Rose Garden, Wat Saket, Siam Park City, Chao Phraya River, Madame Tussauds, Vimanmek Mansion, and Safari World.
3. What is very famous in Bangkok?
Temples, floating markets, shopping centers, spas/ massage centers, and parks are famous in Bangkok.
How to plan a family trip during Covid-19?
Planning a family trip during COVID-19 is not without risks. Experts advise against making family trips during the pandemic. However, when planning such trips, great care has to be taken, especially with kids and senior citizens usually with low immunity levels around, to avoid direct exposure to infection. Here is how one can plan a family trip safely and enjoy the happy moments in nine essential steps.
- Check with the local laws first if you need to travel within the country or the law of the land regarding COVID-19 if you wish to travel abroad. Avoid travelling overseas as much as possible as several European and Asian countries are facing a second wave of pandemic, and consequently forced lockdowns to prevent public movement.
- Talk to your doctor regarding your family’s health and determine risk factors if any. Elderly people should talk to specialists if they’re suffering from diabetes, hypertension or blood pressure. It is important to get a clearance letter from the doctor before travel to avoid health complications.
- It’s important to understand the health risk profiles of individual members in a family before travel, and it is always a recommended practise to share the details with the family in the case of an emergency for preparedness.
- Avoid travelling to COVID-19 hotspots to avoid maximum exposure of infection. It is recommended to talk to your travel agency and get the ground details of COVID-19 of a particular touring destination including staying in quarantine, lockdown restrictions (if any), and the general rules and regulations of pandemic relief programs that apply in the region.
- Avoid over-crowed hotels and restaurants; check for a remote hotel to avoid mixing with other teams or hotel guests. Use touchless operation wherever required including contactless check-in.
- It is safe to travel in a car or cab to cover short distances than to travel by train or take a flight. As flight bookings are marked by uncertain timeliness, it is pertinent to check the booking and cancellation policies to avoid disappointments and save on unnecessary costs.
- Don’t forget to carry COVID-19 essentials such as hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, face masks, a thermometer, gloves, hand soap and health insurance cards.
- Plan only for outdoor activities. This is because visiting public places (not all follow safety protocols) can put you at greater risk of infection.
- And finally, it is important to keep your kids completely safe during the travel by educating them on pandemic guidelines during the tour.
COVID-19 and what it means for the frequent traveller
If you’re a frequent traveller or have been one pre-COVID outbreak, the feeling of tied down to home for a fairly long period should have been an excruciating experience, to say the least. For a travel freak, travel is an expression of one’s freedom, creativity and a longing to explore the unknown and cohabitate with the known. The COVID-19 has cast a dark spell upon the possibilities of travelling normally mainly due to the uncertainties surrounding the crisis, for the thrill-seeker is not withered by the storm gathering or blowing his wit away. He scales peaks, beats the rain at its game, runs towards sunlight and encourages others to follow him. He doesn’t stick to the rules of the games, and often breaks away from how it is traditionally played. He may carry the burden of travel as light as a feather, which he feels he is already part of. So how did COVID-19 affect the frequent traveller? From temperature to luggage, challenges, far too many, were flung at him at will.
The rules of travel kept changing, fuelling the feelings of despair, the last thing he’d want is a total lockdown, which will prevent him from moving out of his home, a phenomenon rife in almost every part of the world where life existed. Flights were happy to remain in the hangars until the travel ban was revoked. The anxiety levels of the frequent traveller remain unchecked as the lover may have in the longing for his beloved.
Expectations of relaxing lockdowns kept growing with every passing day though there wasn’t any respite whatsoever. The race for the first COVID-19 vaccination in the world didn’t enthuse the die-hard traveller as nothing significant emerged out of the findings. Here we go, an imminent second wave of the pandemic shattering the hopes of the traveller whether you’re a soul searcher or the frequent weekender will only extend the wait until the COVID is over.
