Ah, the new year is upon us! We haven’t travelled for almost two years now, but with the right precautions, there is no reason why we should miss out on the fun. We have listed some of the best places to celebrate the new year in India.
Image credits: Wikipedia
Goa
Goa is not popular without a reason. With several picturesque beaches, handsome colonial architecture, delectable food, a sought-after collection of hotels, and a thriving drinking and party scene, Goa is truly one of the best places to unwind in the country. This is especially true around new year’s when several festivals and parties are lined up. You can enjoy yourself to the fullest there with like-minded people with no dearth of food, drinks or music. If you are not the party type, you can explore the state’s many hidden treasures like the Bamanbudo Waterfalls and Cabo De Rama. Either way, you are guaranteed to have an unforgettable start to your new year.
McLeod Ganj
The residence of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, and a destination famed for Yoga and meditation might not seem like the most upbeat place to start your new year. However, not all of us like loud music and over-enthusiastic crowds. McLeod Ganj is perfect for travellers seeking to relax before starting all the new year buzz. You can soak in the breathtaking mountain views, admire the European architecture or huddle up in a local café with live music. You can be sure to get a good drink, and a friendly bunch of strangers while you wait for the clock to strike 12. If you are someone who likes a laid-back celebration, we cannot recommend McLeod Ganj enough!
Also check out: Haunted places of Hyderabad you did not know about!
Rann of Kutch
With its endless white sands, there is something other-worldly about Rann of Kutch. It might seem like the last place for any kind of celebration given how isolated it is, and yet the vast white sands act as a canvas for an array of colourful activities around the new year time. Rann Utsav is a festival that spans for weeks beginning at the start of December and usually concluding towards the end of February. The Utsav enables you to enjoy the best of food, culture and shopping. Desert adventure activities are galore too! You can also get to install your tent. While you are making the most of the Utsav, don’t forget to attend to the star-filled skies and stunning sunsets.
Puducherry
Much like McLeod Ganj, this seaside town is more for the person who likes to take it easy. From bougainvillaea-draped houses to classy cafes, Puducherry is truly a slice of Europe in India. Its seaside promenade is perfect to witness the early-morning sun-rise as you step into the new year. Or you can visit the world-renowned Aurobindo Ashram that is not too far away and resolve to bring more positivity through meditation and yoga. Do check the famous colonial-era churches and the splendid Puducherry Museum. Also, don’t forget to pack the lovely souvenirs on your way back.
Also check out: Explore the unexplored Pondicherry I Top places to visit in Pondicherry!
Delhi
India’s capital certainly knows how to get the party going. If you are in Delhi at new year’s, you will be spoilt for choice. The city is a host to endless restaurants, pubs, clubs and hotels where you can unleash all your enthusiasm. But it is not just partying that Delhi does well. As one of the oldest cities in Asia, Delhi boasts of impressive monuments which seem as old as time. Equally incredible is the city’s shopping scene. From roadside bazaars to high-end malls – Delhi has got you covered. So, stay a little into the new year and look at everything that the city has to offer.
Udaipur
Affectionately named as the “Venice of the East”, we can all agree that few cities are as characterful as Udaipur. This is the place to go if you want to feel like royalty. From palatial hotels to exquisite boat rides to on-demand vintage cars, it seems time has stopped in this regal corner of Rajasthan. You can enjoy the new year celebrations from a balcony of a heritage hotel or witness the buzz of the city’s traditional markets. But don’t be tired of all those celebrations. Udaipur beckons the traveller in you. Its storied palaces, rich Havelis, endlessly fabulous shopping venues, and lip-smacking food – all demand a sincere urge to explore.
Also check out: Plan your BUDGET trip to Udaipur!
