Yes, December is a good time to visit Delhi, India. Here are some reasons why:
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Weather: December is the start of winter in Delhi, and the weather is generally pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F). The days are mostly sunny, and the nights are cool. This makes it ideal for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor activities.
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Fewer crowds: December is considered to be the off-season for tourism in Delhi, so there are fewer crowds at popular tourist attractions. This means you can enjoy a more relaxed and peaceful experience, with shorter wait times to visit places like the Red Fort, the Qutub Minar, and the Lotus Temple.
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Festive atmosphere: Delhi comes alive during the month of December, with festive decorations and lights adorning the streets and markets. There are also several cultural events and festivals held during this time, such as the Delhi International Arts Festival and the Surajkund Crafts Mela.
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Shopping: December is a great time for shopping in Delhi, as the markets are filled with a wide variety of goods, from traditional handicrafts to designer clothes. You can find everything from souvenirs and gifts to carpets, jewelry, and electronics.
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Food: Delhi is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine, and December is a great time to sample some of the city’s best dishes. From street food stalls to fine dining restaurants, there are plenty of options to satisfy your taste buds.
Things to keep in mind:
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Air pollution: Delhi is known for its air pollution, which can be especially severe during the winter months. If you are sensitive to air pollution, it is important to take precautions, such as wearing a face mask when outdoors.
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Smog: Delhi also experiences smog during the winter months, which can make the air quality even worse. If you are planning on doing a lot of outdoor activities, it is important to check the air quality forecast before you go out.
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Dense fog: Dense fog is also common in Delhi during the winter months, which can lead to flight delays and cancellations. If you are traveling to Delhi by air, it is important to check the weather forecast before you travel.
Overall, December is a good time to visit Delhi, India, as the weather is pleasant, there are fewer crowds, and there are plenty of things to see and do. However, it is important to be aware of the potential for air pollution and smog.
Weather In Delhi During December
The weather in Delhi, India during December is characterized by pleasant and chilly mornings, warm and sunny afternoons, and cold nights. Here are the key weather conditions in Delhi during December:
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Temperature:
- Average Temperature: December is one of the coldest months in Delhi, with an average temperature ranging between 10°C (50°F) and 18°C (64°F).
- Daytime High: During the day, temperatures typically reach a maximum of around 20-22°C (68-72°F), making it relatively warm and pleasant for outdoor activities.
- Nighttime Low: At night, temperatures can drop significantly, with lows reaching around 7-10°C (45-50°F). This is when you’ll need a light sweater or jacket for warmth.
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Humidity:
- Average Humidity: Delhi experiences relatively low humidity levels during December, with an average humidity of around 50-60%.
- Dew Point: The dew point, which is the temperature at which water vapor in the air condenses into liquid water, is typically between 2-4°C (36-39°F).
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Rainfall:
- Average Rainfall: December is generally a dry month in Delhi, with very little rainfall. On average, the city receives around 15 mm (0.6 inches) of rain during the entire month.
- Number of Rainy Days: There are typically only about 1-2 rainy days during December in Delhi.
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Wind:
- Average Wind Speed: The average wind speed in Delhi during December is around 3-5 km/h (2-3 mph).
- Wind Direction: Winds typically blow from the northwest during this time of year.
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Daylight Hours:
- Sunrise and Sunset: In December, the sun typically rises between 7:00 AM and 7:30 AM and sets between 5:30 PM and 6:00 PM.
- Daylight Duration: The length of daylight in Delhi during December is approximately 10 hours.
Overall, the weather in Delhi during December is generally pleasant, with warm days and cool nights. While the mornings and evenings can be chilly, the daytime temperatures are comfortable for outdoor activities. However, it’s a good idea to pack a light jacket or sweater for the cooler hours and evenings.
Things To Do In Delhi In December
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Attend the Annual Qutub Minar Festival: Held in early December, this vibrant festival features cultural performances, music, dance, traditional food stalls, and various exhibitions showcasing India’s rich history and culture.
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Visit the Red Fort for the Sound and Light Show: During the month of December, the Red Fort in Delhi hosts a captivating Sound and Light Show that brings alive the history of Delhi and India. The show, narrated in Hindi and English, is a spectacular blend of music, light, and images.
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Celebrate the Delhi International Arts Festival: The Delhi International Arts Festival takes place in December and features a diverse array of art forms, including dance, music, theatre, visual arts, and more. The festival brings together renowned artists from around the world to showcase their talents and celebrate the spirit of art.
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Attend the Craft Bazaar: Held in December, the Dilli Haat Craft Bazaar in Delhi is a shopper’s paradise, offering a wide range of traditional and contemporary handicrafts, handlooms, and ethnic products from various regions of India.
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Take a Guided Tour of the Akshardham Temple: The Akshardham Temple is one of the most popular spiritual and cultural attractions in Delhi. During the month of December, the temple is beautifully decorated and illuminated, making it a mesmerizing sight. Guided tours are available for visitors to explore the intricate architecture and learn about the history and significance of the temple.
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Visit the Jama Masjid: The Jama Masjid is India’s largest mosque, and it is a stunning architectural marvel. During the month of December, the mosque is adorned with lights and decorations, creating a captivating ambiance. Visitors can join the daily prayers or simply admire the mosque’s grandeur.
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Enjoy the Winter Garden Festival: The Garden of Five Senses in Delhi hosts a Winter Garden Festival in December, showcasing a variety of seasonal flowers, plants, and foliage. The festival also features live music, cultural performances, and interactive activities for visitors of all ages.
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Explore India Gate and Rajpath: India Gate and Rajpath are iconic landmarks in Delhi, and during the month of December, they are illuminated with festive lights and decorations. Visitors can admire the grandeur of these monuments and take a stroll along Rajpath, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
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Attend the Christmas and New Year Celebrations: Delhi has a significant Christian population, and during the month of December, the city is adorned with festive decorations. Churches and cathedrals hold special Christmas services, and there are various Christmas markets and events organized throughout the city.
Tourism In Delhi, India During December
- Weather:
- December marks the beginning of the winter season in Delhi.
- It is characterized by cool and dry weather, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 18°C (64°F).
- This makes it a pleasant time to visit the city, with plenty of sunshine and little humidity.
- Popular Tourist Attractions:
- Delhi is home to a wealth of historical and cultural attractions, many of which are best experienced during the cooler winter months.
- Some of the must-visits include the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Jama Masjid, and Humayun’s Tomb.
- Additionally, the city offers various museums and art galleries, such as the National Museum and the National Gallery of Modern Art.
- Seasonal Festivities:
- December in Delhi coincides with several festivals and events.
- One of the most prominent is Christmas, which is celebrated with great enthusiasm in the city.
- Churches and markets are decorated with lights and ornaments, and various events and concerts take place.
- Additionally, the annual Delhi International Film Festival is held in December, showcasing a diverse range of films from around the world.
- Outdoor Activities:
- Delhi offers numerous outdoor activities that are ideal for the winter weather.
- Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Lodhi Gardens or explore the vibrant Chandni Chowk market.
- Additionally, the Yamuna Riverfront Development Project provides a scenic promenade for walking, cycling, and boating.
- Shopping:
- Delhi is a shopper’s paradise, and December is a great time to indulge in some retail therapy.
- The city offers a wide range of shopping options, from traditional bazaars to modern malls.
- Some of the popular shopping destinations include Chandni Chowk, Connaught Place, and Dilli Haat.
- Food:
- Delhi is renowned for its diverse culinary scene, and December is an excellent time to sample some of the city’s famous delicacies.
- From street food to fine dining, there are countless options to choose from.
- Some popular dishes to try include butter chicken, kebabs, chaat, and paratha.
- Accommodation:
- Delhi offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences.
- From budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels, there are plenty of places to stay.
- It’s advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially if you’re traveling during the peak tourist season.
Overall, December is a fantastic time to visit Delhi, India. The pleasant weather, festive atmosphere, and abundance of activities make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and modern city life.
