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Indians welcome the new year in many different ways and if you are looking for the best places to celebrate new year in India, you will have a hard time settling on one! The country is packed with vibrant party towns that are nestled in the lap of quaint natural landscapes. Right from the top of the country with dramatic, white peaks to the bottom with tranquil backwaters, you can have a new year’s eve just like you want!
Some of the best places for new year in India include Auli if you want to welcome the new year surrounded by snow, frozen lakes and ski resorts; Kerala if your idea for a new year celebration includes cruising down lush green backwaters on a houseboat. You can also choose to camp in the heart of a stunning white desert by choosing to spend new year at the Rann of Kutch or immerse yourself in the charm of old hill towns like Ooty and Shimla.
1. Party Planners
For the party lovers, these destinations are a must-visit for you. From a thrilling party in the beaches to a massive hit at the Gateway of India, you can never miss out on the party fun.
1. Goa
Why to go – Goa is one of the best places to celebrate this New Year in India as it is a paradise for beach, seafood and party lovers. From cheap booze to some exciting trance music in hilltops, tourists will get everything at Goa.
Attractions – Anjuna Beach, Sing in Candolim beach, Grand Hyatt and Tito’s Club at the Cavelossim Beach are some popular New Year attractions at Goa
Things to do – The Goa state consists of several beaches, discos, guest houses and resorts, you can hang out at any of these places and celebrate your New Year with the best. Goa offers each and every drink type for you to celebrate this special day. Eat and drink to the fullest, dance in the bars and swim in the beaches
Where to stay – Goa Marriott resort and spa, Taj Exotica, Citadel De Goa
Tours: Thrillophilia recommended offbeat activities in Goa
Flights – Book Now From Mumbai to Goa for as low as 2100 Rs.
Planning a trip to Goa Check out the Thrillophilia Reviews
2. Bangalore
Attractions – Lal Bagh gardens, ISKCON temple, wonderla, Bangalore palace, Hebbal Lake, Freedom Park and Peninsular Gneiss. Click here to check out more.
Things to do – Stroll on the MG road to shop, dine at the roadside eateries, or enjoy the calm Ulsoor lake, or drink at the pubs
Where to stay – Clark’s Exotica Resort, The Paul Bangalore
Tours: Thrillophilia recommended tours and activities
Suggested: Biggest new year bash events of Bangalore.
Flights – Book Now From New Delhi to Bengaluru for as low as 3000 Rs.
Planning a trip to Bangalore Check out the Thrillophilia Reviews
3. Mumbai
Why to go – The heart of India is in Mumbai, visit this never sleeping city and begin your New Year. Mumbai is one of the best places to celebrate this New Year in India as this is the top best place for Party lovers.
Attractions – The Gateway of India, Essel World, Girgaum Chaupatty, Chatrapathi Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, Mount Mary Church and Bandra
Things to do – Light up the crackers near the Gateway of India, sip some coffee at Nariman point, enjoy the beach view at midnight, linger to the taste of fine foods or do some shopping at the local markets
Where to stay – The Oberoi Mumbai, The Taj Mahal Palace
Flights – Book Now from New Delhi to Mumbai for as low as 2700 Rs
Planning a trip to Mumbai Check out Thrillophilia Reviews
4. Udaipur
Why to go – What can be better than opening your fresh year among the City of Lakes! Udaipur beauty is the joint effort of nature and mankind. Apart from lakes there are numerous things for tourists here, palaces, forts, temples and hills
Attractions – City Palace, Pichola lake, Fateh Sagar Lake, Eklingji temple, Saheliyo ki Bari, Jaisamand Lake, Jag Mandir Palace and Shilp gram
Things to do – Palace hopping, handicraft shopping, touch the Aravalli hills, touch the Peak of Bansdara Mountain, or play with the cars at vintage car museum, watch the Haldhigatti caves, boat ride at Pichola Lake, to finish taste some special Rajasthani Thali.
Where to stay – 32 Exotic resorts in Udaipur
Tours: Thrillophilia recommended offbeat activities and experiences in Udaipur
Flights – Book Now from Bengaluru to Udaipur
Planning a trip to Udaipur Check out the Thrillophilia Reviews
5. New Delhi
Why to go – New Delhi, the capital city of India is the hub for party animals.
Attractions – Qutb Minar, Red Fort, India Gate, Akshardham, Lotus Temple, Chandni Chowk, Lodi Gardens and Teen Moorthy Bhavan. For more attractions click here
Things to do – Eat some Mughali, south or north Indian foods, shopping for low price at Connaught Place, or open your spiritual year by opening it at Red Fort or Parliament house, Delhi has everything that you want
Where to stay – The Leela Palace, The Roseate
Tours: Best tours and activities in Delhi
Flights – Book Now from Bengaluru to New Delhi for as low as 3000 Rs
Planning a trip to Delhi Check out the Thrillophilia Reviews
6. Kasol
Why to go – Searching for some late night music parties? Then your search should end at village of Kasol. This paradise of Himachal Pradesh provides tourists with whatever they need. From trekking to hippies to Hills, all are mesmerising
Attractions – Parvathi River, Tosh, Malana, Kheer Ganga, and Manikaran Gurudwara are some top attractions
Things to do – Get indulged in some nerve wracking outdoors like river rafting, trout fishing, and trekking tours in Kasol the region, or tour to Manikaran, experience the hippie culture at Tosh, or visit the village in disguise or simply party around the mountains and enjoy the scenic beauty.
Where to stay – The Himalayan village, The Himalayan
Flights – Book Now from Bengaluru to the Nearest Airport in Kulu
7. Rann Of Kutch
Why go: If your idea for the best place for New Year in India is someplace quiet but still drenched in culture, then Rann of Kutch is the place for you. These massive salt marshes in the Thar desert look stunningly beautiful with their miles of white sand and a riot of bright stars at night.
This quiet haven lights up with dance and music around new years, offering you a new year welcome like nowhere else. From the latest party hits to regional dances, it has everything!
Attractions – Kalo Dungar Peak, The salt marsh, Kutch Fossil Park , Desert Wildlife Sanctuary, Dholavira Excavation Site
Things to do- Camping in the great white desert, Hike up to the highest region in Kutch, Kala Dungar , Visit the Kutch Museum at Bhuj, Explore the Prag Mahal and Aina Mahal at Bhuj, Visit the Vijay Vilas Palace.
Where to stay- White Rann Resort, Rann Village Resort
Flights- Book Now From New Delhi to Bhuj starting at Rs. 9,845
2. Trekkers/Adventurers
There might be a few of you who have been planning for some activity based adventure. Then here you go spend your New Year by heading out for exciting trekking expeditions.
1. Gangtok
Why to go – Gangtok is all about trekking, pilgrimage, monasteries, nature beauty and hills. This Switzerland of the East is one of the best places to celebrate this New Year in India.
Attractions – Tsomogo Lake, Do Drul chorten, Rumtek Monastery, Tashiding monastery, Hanuman Tok, Nathu LA pass, Tashi view point
Things to do – Forget beach hopping or Island hopping do Monastery hopping, trek to the Kanchenjunga or climb mountains. Start your New Year doing all these.
Tours: Thrillophilia recommended offbeat activities in Sikkim
Where to stay – The Elgin Nor-Khill, Mayfair Spa Resort and Casino
Flights – Book Now from Bengaluru to the Nearest Airport in Bagdogra
2. Mcleodganj
Why to go – Here is another place to celebrate your New Year – The Beautiful town of Mcleodganj, this wonderful land is a cluster of Food, cafes, souvenirs, sightseeing and monastery.
Attractions – Bhagsunath temple, Namgyal monastery, Tsuglagkhang, Tibetan museum, Dal Lake, Dhaulandhar ranges, and several other places in Mcleodganj village.
Things to do – There is an abundance of activities to do in Mcleodganj. Begin New Year eve by trekking in and around Mcleodganj, or spend some silent time at church of St. Johns or take the popular trek Triund, or simply relax and enjoy the pristine atmosphere at Bhagsu falls
Where to stay – The Exotica, 8 Auspicious Him View hotels
Flights – Book Now From Bengaluru to the Nearest Airport in Dharamsala
3. Manali
Why to go – Manali is the best place to enjoy your New Year regardless of if you’re a fan of trekking or whether you want to simply sit and watch the snow fall on the Manali hills.
Attractions – Solang valley, Rohtang pass, Hadimba temple, Beas Kund, Old Manali and Kullu
Things to do – It is a place which will make you realize that road to heaven is not so far! Experience some startling things to do on Manali trip, engage in some adventure sports like trekking, Zorbing, horse riding, skiing, paragliding, camping where the horizons meet or simply go for white river rafting. Don’t forget to start your New Year by taking the Manali-Leh highway ride.
Where to stay – Apple country resorts, span resort and spa
Tours: Best Tour Packages in Kullu Manali , Offbeat activities and stays in Manali , Manali’s Popular Tour Packages
Flights – Book Now from Bengaluru to the Nearest Airport in Kulu
4. Kodaikanal
Why to go – This Tamil Nadu charming hill station Kodaikanal is one of the best places to celebrate this New Year in India. Kodaikanal speaks of coffee plantation, hills and natural beauty; experience this pleasure by celebrating this New Year there.
Attractions – The Kodai lake, Green valley view, pillar rocks, Coakers walk, Bryant Park, Bear shola falls, Kurinji temple, Silent valley, Dolphins’ valley and Silver cascade falls.
Things to do – Enjoy the fullest from this princess of hill station by doing some activities like- get drenched in the Thailayar falls, drink some fresh coffee, trek in the exquisite locations, offer prayers at the Karthikeya temple, or go to the extreme danger spot at Devil’s kitchen
Where to stay –Villa Retreat Kodaikanal, Kodai Resort Hotel
Flights – Book Now from New Delhi to the Nearest Airport in Madhurai
5. Auli
Why go- Auli is the winter sports capital of the country and if your idea of the best new year celebration in India is one covered in fresh, white snow, then this is the place to be. This resort town is perched on a quaint corner of the Himalayan mountain ranges of Uttarakhand.
Tourists from across the world flock Auli during winters to enjoy skiing, hiking, and sightseeing amongst other things.
Attractions- Auli Ropeways, Auli Artificial Lake, Gorson Bugyal , Kwani Bugyal, Chenab Lake.
Things to do- Skii in fresh, white snow , Ride Asia’s longest aerial tramway , Enjoy glamping under the stars , Go bird watching , Visit the artificial lake
Where to stay- Cliff Top Club Resort , The Royal Village
Flights- Book Now From New Delhi to Auli starting at Rs. 2,618
3. Travellers
There might be a few who are just planning to spend your New Year in a quiet way being close to nature. We have planned out the perfect places for you.
1. Puducherry
Why go- As it has great access to plenty of beaches and sea shores, Puducherry takes top place in best places to celebrate this New year in India. This famous union territory is not only a hub for party lovers, but is a serene place for meditation lovers too.
Attractions – Aurobindo Yoga Ashram, Paradise beach, Seaside Promeda, The Basilica of sacred heart of Jesus, Serenity beach, Chunnambar boat house, Auro beach and Raj Niwas
Things to do – For self reflection and to begin New Year in a peaceful way mediate or pray at the Ashram, or hang out at the Beach and have beach fun or Rock and booze at the Auro beach
Where to stay – The Wind flower resort and spa, Ocean Spray
Tours: Offbeat Activites and stays in Pondicherry
Flights – Book Now From Bangalore to Chennai for as low as 1700 Rs.
2. Gokarna
Why go- Gokarna has two facets hidden in itself, the first being a Hindu pilgrimage centre and the other being paradise of beach.
Attractions – Gokarna beach, OM beach, Paradise beach, Kudle beach are some top attractions of Gokarna
Things to do – You have got the perfect place to celebrate your New Year, chug some unique brew, or go out with your beloved for a pub dance, or go trekking, chill out at the paradise beach, or pray at the Mahabelshwar temple.
Where to stay – Kudle Beach view resort and spa, Kawari Resorts
Flights – Fly to Goa From New Delhi as low as Rs. 3600 and take a public transportation from Goa to Gokarna
3. Coorg (Kodagu)
Why to go – Want to taste some best tea and coffee in India, book your tickets to Coorg. This is one of the best places to celebrate this New Year in India against a scenic background. Kodagu is the Scotland of India
Attractions – Abbey Falls, Namdroling monastery, Nagarhole national park and the list is endless
Things to do – Coorg is the place to taste some authentic Kodava cuisine, explore the coffee and tea plantations, taste some jackfruit, buy some spices, watch some migratory birds, or simply enjoy the beauty of the hills by sitting in the resorts on hills
Where to stay – Heritage resort Coorg, The Tamara Coorg
Places to See: Amazing places to visit in Coorg
Flights – Book Now from New Delhi to the nearest Airport in Mangalore
4. Jaisalmer
Why to go – Jaisalmer fort the UNESCO heritage site should not be only reason for you to travel to this place, enjoy your New Year as you travel to this Golden city for exploring its deserts, camel safari and clear skies
Attractions – Jaisalmer fort, sand dunes, camping, and famous monuments
Things to do – Hop for camel safari, take selfies at the Palaces, finish your night by viewing the clear skies of the Milky Way, or taste some authentic Rajasthani cuisine and make your New Year special
Where to stay – Suryaghar, Hotel Rang Mahal
Tours: Explore best tours and activites in Jaisalmer
Flights – Book Now From Here For Cheap Flight Fares
5. Varkala
Why to go – A place so close to heaven to enjoy your New Year eve and New Year can be Varkala, from calm beaches, delicious foodies to cliff top cafes, fisheries and lakes, Varkala is the perfect destination for celebrating New Year.
Attractions – Varkala beach, Sivagiri mutt, Thiruvambadi beach, Edava beach, Janardhanaswamy temple and Vishnu temple
Things to do – Check out for authentic Swedish cuisine at Abba restaurant, surf, or climb the Anjengo fort, or get immersed in between coconut grooves at Ponnumthurthu.
Where to stay – Bluewater beach resort, The Gateway Hotel
Flights – Book Now from New Delhi to the Nearest Airport in Kochi
6. Ooty
Why go- Ooty is a favourite destination amongst holiday-goers because of its lost-in-time, nostalgic atmosphere. Defined by architecture from the colonial times, this beautiful town offers the best of both worlds.
You can spend your new year eve dancing away at some of the most happening parties or enjoy a quiet time overlooking the rolling hills as the sun slowly sets. What makes it one of the best places to celebrate new year in India is its abundance of natural beauty and rustic charm.
Attractions- Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Ooty Lake, Botanical Garden, Fernhill Palace, Stone House, Pykara Waterfalls
Things to do- Have a picnic at Ooty Lake, Ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Toy Train , Visit the Botanical Gardens , Spend a day at the Deer Park, Go hiking in the Pine Forest.
Where to stay- King’s Cliff, Savoy Ooty
Flights- Book Now From New Delhi to Ooty starting at Rs. 8,201
4. Tourists
Have you been planning for an outing with your family for this New Year then we have saved the best ones for you. Not just celebrate New Year at these places but also spend some quality time with your loved ones.
1. Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Why to go – The Andaman Islands are one of the best places to celebrate new year, with unique freshness in air, serene atmosphere and calm islands, make Andaman the best destination for welcoming a new year.
Attractions – Neil Island, Elephant Beach, Ross Island, Chidiya Tapu, Bharatpur beach
Things to do – Wander on the Radhanagar beach, or welcome New Year in a different way by visiting the Cellular jail, taste some best seafood or relax at the Jolly Buoy Islands or cruise at Makruzz.
Where to stay – Silver Sand beach resort, Sea Princess beach resort
Tour Packages: Click Here for Andaman and Nicobar Tour Packages
Flights – Book Now from Bengaluru to the Nearest Airport in Port Blair
Also, check some amazing honeymoon tours of Andaman
2. Kerala
Why go- Kerala is one of the most naturally distinctive and dramatic places to see in the entire country. It is home to some of the most beautiful beaches, scenic backwaters and picturesque hill towns.
You can enjoy your new year celebrations in India at a happening beach party, spend a romantic new years eve on a houseboat or welcome the new year on a historic coffee estate. The weather around this time of the year remains dry and cool, making it an ideal place for a visit.
Attractions- Alleppey/Alappuzha, Munnar, Kumarakom, Trivandrum
Things to do- Attend the Cochin Carnival, Book a Houseboat, Visit Thekkady for Wildlife Safaris, See Fort Kochi and its ancient churches , Go Rafting at Periyar.
Where to stay- Old Harbour Hotel, The Leela, Kovalam Beach
Flights- Book Now From Delhi to Kochi, Trivandrum, Kannur, Kozhikode starting at Rs. 9,705
3. Lakshwadeep
Why to go – Lakshwadeep is again one of the most desired New Year destinations to hang out with Family or friends. The serene beaches, coral reef romantic atmosphere are enough reasons to visit this paradise on Earth
Attractions – Minicoy Island, Agatti Islands, Bangaram Island, Kadmat, Marine museum, Amindivi Islands, Andretti Islands and Light house
Things to do – Island hoping should top your to do list, water sports fun at Agatti Islands, fish watching at marine museum, experience the culture and markets at Amindivi islands
Where to stay –Kadmat Island beach resort, Agatti Island beach resort
Flights – Book Now From New Delhi to the Nearest Airport in Agatti Island
4. Alappuzha
Why to go – Want to see Venice in India, head to Allappuzha, and this beautiful place in Kerala is the threshold of lagoons, backwaters, beaches and coconut palms
Attractions – Allappuzha beach, Krishnampurma palace, Vembanad lakes, Mullakkal Temple are top attractions.
Things to do – Relax in the serene getaway Allappuzha, dive into the beach, and participate in some boat race or boat ride by hiring boathouses at backwaters.
Where to stay – Lake Palace Resort, Lemon tree Vembanad Lake resort
Flights – Book Now from New Delhi to the Nearest Airport in Kochi
5. Shillong
Why to go – Partying at the rock capital of India will be marvelous, isn’t it? Shillong is no doubt the best place to celebrate your New Year with your beloved.
Attractions – Elephant Falls, Mawlynnong, Umaim Lake, Don Bosco museum, Shillong peak, Mawsynram and Ward’s lake
Things to do – Put some tents on any of the sprawling meadows, visit the Sacred Forest, Trail on the David Scott, get mesmerized by the Sweet falls, or gush down to see Spread Eagle falls
Where to stay –Royal heritage, Hotel Centre point
6. Varanasi
Why to go – Best places to celebrate this New year in India need not always be at a place to party or club or drink, Instead you can rejuvenate your body and soul by travelling to Varanasi – Located on the Ganges Ghats, Varanasi is best way to welcome New Year
Attractions – Kashi Viswanath Temple, Dasashwamedh Ghats, Asi Ghats, Sankat Mochan Hanuman temple, Durga temple and BHU
Things to do – Sit at the Ghats and watch the spectacular fireworks, chant slokas and feel fresh, or purify your soul by visiting the numerous temples or go for Ghats hopping
Where to stay – The Amayaa, Radisson Hotel are some best Hotels
Tours: Best tours and experiences in Varanasi
7. Shimla
Why go- Shimla is fondly called the ‘Queen of Hills’ and for good reason. The stunning mountain scenery, defined by towering pine trees, gushing rivers and snow-capped mountains, offers the perfect backdrop for some of the most hep new year parties.
The place is also home to beautiful heritage buildings, manicured parks, restaurants and old cemeteries which mark the beautiful landscape.
Attractions- Mall Road, Annadale, Jakhoo Hill, The Shimla State Museum , Naldehra and Shaily Peak
Things to do- Ride the Toy Train through the hills, Shop at Lakkar Bazaar, Go ice skating at the Rink , Raft at Tattapani, Picnic at Chadwick Waterfalls.
Where to stay- Wildflower Hall, Evoke Shimla Havens Resorts
Flights- Book Now From New Delhi to Shimla starting at Rs. 2,174