India is one unique multicultural land where you stand to find depictions of Jesus and Mary in pietra dura engravings within historic Islamic-era buildings. Thus, naturally, the country celebrates Christmas with as much zeal as it celebrates Diwali or Eid. Scattered across the country, various cities tend to have glorious celebrations on Christmas. For instance, Goa turns into a festive paradise with midnight masses, decorated churches and beach parties. Kolkata’s Park Street lights up with Christmas markets and live music, while Mumbai’s Bandra area buzzes with carols and vibrant lights. As the season for Santa and reindeer and carols sneak up around the horizon, we have curated a list of the top 5 destinations in India where you can immerse yourself in Christmas celebrations. Take a look at the list before you plan the final festive week of the year.
The former Portuguese colony, Goa, transforms into a festive paradise with twinkling lights, beautifully decorated churches and lively street parties during Christmas. If you plan on spending Christmas in Goa, make sure you attend the midnight mass at the Basilica of Bom Jesus, an unforgettable experience with soulful carols and the scent of incense filling the air. Another local tradition to take part in is that of decorating cribs with clay figures – a nod to the region's rich cultural heritage. However, Goa isn't just about the spiritual; it's a sensory overload. From the delectable Christmas sweets like bebinca and dodol to the lively parades featuring Santa Claus on a tuk-tuk, the celebrations here are anything but conventional. If you're lucky, you might catch a fireworks show on the beach, illuminating the night sky as the waves crash against the shore. In addition, a Christmas enthusiast in Goa must also keep their eyes peeled at the events happening at the Museum of Christian Art as they organise lively performances and shows on the occasion. The museum is dedicated to artistic and cultural heritage showcasing the Indian-Influenced Christian Art of Goa. Summarily, a Christmas in Goa is like no other, blending tradition with an unmistakable Goan flair.
Shillong, often called the “Scotland of the East,” was a hill station during the British Raj. Renowned for its cool climate and scenic beauty, reminiscent of the British countryside, the city naturally houses several pieces of British architecture, culture and festive traditions. As such, the city offers a magical Christmas experience. With a significant Christian population, the city is adorned with fairy lights, and the air is filled with the sound of carols. The Colonial-era buildings such as All Saints Cathedral and the Shillong Club are cherished landmarks that take on a special significance during Christmas. For instance, All Saints Cathedral, with its beautiful stained-glass windows, hosts midnight services and choral performances, drawing locals and visitors alike, while the Shillong Club, once a social hub for the British, hosts holiday gatherings that blend colonial charm with Khasi traditions. In addition, the quaint hill station’s colonial homes and cottages across the city are adorned with lights and festive decorations; Shillong’s Christmas celebrations evoke a nostalgic charm, honouring its history while embracing the season’s joy.
Dubbed the “Queen of Hills” in the Himalayas, Shimla is quite the quintessential winter wonderland of India. It’s the place from where the British ruled, for most of the Indian summer, a landmass as huge as stretching from Myanmar to Khyber Pass. While Christmas in Shimla during the British Raj used to be a grand affair marked by Victorian elegance of candle-lit services, festive lights and wreaths, dinners at clubs like the Shimla Club, feasting on roast meats, plum pudding and mulled wine, colonial houses filled with warmth, cosy firesides in the hearth of homes and snowy Indian hills, the hill station continues to glow with an identical buzz to this day. The Mall Road and Ridge area come alive with holiday markets, lights and carol singing, transporting visitors to an era of Victorian celebrations. Colonial-era hotels, such as the Oberoi Cecil, offer seasonal festivities and special events for their visitors, blending British Christmas traditions with local flair. Shimla’s snowy landscapes, old-world charm and vibrant celebrations make it a cherished Christmas destination, where history and holiday come together beautifully.
Pondicherry, with its French colonial heritage, offers a unique and charming Christmas experience. In the olden days, churches like the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges were beautifully decorated, drawing the French community and locals alike for midnight Mass. The tradition has continued and the town's streets, lined with French-style villas, are adorned with fairy lights and decorations. The Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception and Sacred Heart of Jesus host beautiful midnight masses, where the Indo-French traditions create a truly unique atmosphere. The serene beaches and quaint cafes add to the town's charm, making it a perfect place to unwind and celebrate. In addition, Pondicherry also has its own quirky traditions. Experience the local custom of decorating 'kolam' – intricate patterns drawn with rice flour – in front of homes to welcome guests. The town also comes alive with street performances, including traditional dance and music, adding a lively touch to the celebrations. And don't forget to indulge in the local cuisine, where French pastries meet South Indian flavours, creating a festive feast like no other.
Mumbai, the city that never sleeps, knows how to throw a Christmas party. On the eve of Christmas, the city's skyline is lit up with twinkling lights and the air is filled with the scent of freshly baked cakes and cookies coming from some of the heritage bakeries. The midnight mass at the iconic Mount Mary Church in Bandra is much sought-after, drawing crowds from all over the city. Travellers can also look forward to vibrant Christmas markets, selling everything from handmade ornaments to festive foods that add to the city's festive spirit. Nevertheless, what makes Christmas in Mumbai truly unique is its eclectic mix of traditions. From the bustling streets of Colaba to the serene neighbourhoods of Bandra, every corner of the city has its own way of celebrating. Catch a performance of traditional Christmas carols in Marathi or explore the city's colonial-era churches as well as its modern art-deco buildings, each with its own fascinating history. If you're looking for something offbeat, head to the beach for a Christmas bonfire – a perfect way to celebrate the festive season in true Mumbai style.