Things to do in Joshimath in December

When is your trip?

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Looking for a different month?

Overview

December is a good time to visit Joshimath. The weather is usually really cold, with temperatures ranging from 15—36°F (-10—2°C).

Joshimath has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your December trip to Joshimath. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to December. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Joshimath in December. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout December, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

Visiting Joshimath? See our Joshimath Trip Planner.
Your itinerary and your map in one view

No more switching between different apps, tabs, and tools to keep track of your travel plans.

Learn more
What users say about the app

Best events and things to do in Joshimath in December

Top experiences in December
We couldn't find any experiences in December
Holidays in Joshimath in December
December
  • Christmas (December 25)
Other notable holidays
Create your ultimate travel itinerary

Plan your itinerary, find lodging, and import reservations — all in one app.

Learn more

Weather in Joshimath in December

Temperatures on an average day in Joshimath in December

The average temperature in Joshimath in December for a typical day ranges from a high of 36°F (2°C) to a low of 15°F (-10°C). Some would describe the temperature to be really cold.

For comparison, the hottest month in Joshimath, June, has days with highs of 60°F (16°C) and lows of 40°F (5°C). The coldest month, January has days with highs of 31°F (-1°C) and lows of 9°F (-13°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Joshimath in December based on historical data.

Visiting Joshimath? See our Joshimath Trip Planner.

Historical temperature average in December
36°F
highs
15°F
lows

General weather summary

Really cold
Feels like
9%
Chance of rain
0.061 in
Amount
8.1 mph
Wind speed
48%
Humidity
10.2 hrs
Daylight length
6:59 AM
Sunrise
5:12 PM
Sunset
80%
Cloud cover
Thick winter coat with gloves
What to wear
What to wear in December
With an average high of 36°F (2°C) and a low of 15°F (-10°C), it generally feels really cold. With that in mind, most people would dress in something toasty like a thick winter coat with gloves
Create your ultimate travel itinerary

Plan your itinerary, find lodging, and import reservations — all in one app.

Learn more

Best attractions for Joshimath in December

Besides the array of exciting events and activities Joshimath has to offer for travelers in December, we want to remind you of the classic attractions in Joshimath that are great to visit at this time of the year as well! You can’t miss these iconic landmarks, local favorites, and places rich with cultural heritage. We hope to give you insights and inspiration into the best things to see and do to make the most of your visit. Here is a list of our top attractions in Joshimath for December.
Ropeway To Auli
1. Ropeway To Auli
4.4
(204)
Cable car station
Transportation
Slide 1 of 8
Very nice experience. I have travelled in many ropeways in India as well as in in other countries. Considering the cable-car itself it's not anything special. 30 people can stand in the car. It's bit uncomfortable when full as the car itself is not that spacious. However what is special is the terrain where the cable car is built. The lower tower is at 6252 ft and the upper tower is at 10,200 ft. So the elevation gain is almost 4000 ft which is very rare in India. It takes almost 25 minutes to go up and 22 minutes to come down. The scenary from the Ropeway is Unbeatable. The lower tower is having lots of Peach trees. As we visited in August the trees were full of delicious 😋😋 peach 🍑🍑 fruits. We took the liberty of picking up some. The local authority welcomed us. It was one of the most pleasant experience. Thanks to them.
Auli ropeway or Gondola is the worth having experience when you're in Auli. It's an open flying trolley that takes you to the top and you witness breathtaking mountain views. Price per person is Ra.500/- only. You can do several snow adventure activities like Skiing, sledging, trekking etc when you reach the top.
Its the most unique experience. Ropeway costs 1000 and 500 for chair car incase you have reservations. Its a 25 min ride and the most enticing experience. You can see all snow tops. Beautiful scenery. . Tickets for ropeway gets booked easily and it closes by 4. So keep your timelines scheduled.
The longest ropeway in India.A full 25 minutes of hanging over some of the most picture-postcard perfect locales ever. We took it a total of four times during our five days stay there. The staff is helpful the gondola has a standing-only place and in case you want to go to the Auli ski resort you get down at a pillar before the end and take a rickety lift six floors down and then take the ski lift to the resort. The experience of sitting with your legs dangling and nothing but a bar between you and everything else around you ( in the ski lift) is like being in another world altogether. Even if you are not booked into one of the resorts in joshi math, please take this trip up to auli . It's worth every minute and every rupee sent on it
Nice place to visit. It’s very beautiful to visit both in winter and off winter. There are variety of flowers in this place. They looks so mesmerizing. After the rope way we took mule ride to see flowers. It was so beautiful. One must visit.
We went there but couldn't experience it. It's very important to get online booking done if you are choosing a crowded day like new year. Also, the offline booking portal opens at 9 am. So if you haven't got online ticket, try buying it offline early morning.
The true beauty of this place can be enjoyed only during peak winter that's when the entire area is covered in snow and winter sports like 🎿 is very popular. If the sky is clear and visibility is good then you would be able to see some of the peaks. Coming back to the ropeway it's a joy ride for sure but on the expensive side. The counter accepts payment in cash only (as usual in most part of UK and UP). Be aware that though there is a departure and return schedule the cable car won't take off until they have 20-25 people. The ground staff will ask you to enjoy pakoda and wait for your turn. The ride it self is good and takes ~ 21 mins one-way. After reaching the peak you can roam around and enjoy the view , take a pony ride or simply sit back and enjoy pakoda again :-).
This ropeway has two places to board. One is from Joshimath which is closed cabin and you have to go standing and maximum people allowed in cabin ropeway taxi is 25 people. This ropeway taxi goes at the maximum altitude of 10200 feet from where you can view Nandadevi, Trishul, Hathi ghoda Palki and many more peaks. Another ropeway to board is from Auli, which is open sitting seats and four people can sit on it.
Valley of Flowers National Park
2. Valley of Flowers National Park
4.7
(4405)
National park
Nature & Parks
Hiking trails cross this lush Himalayan valley, known for its bright alpine flora and rare animals.
Slide 1 of 8
⸻ 🥾 Valley of Flowers Review – Trek Experience “Unforgettable Trekking Journey!” Trekking to the Valley of Flowers was challenging but 100% worth it. The trail was scenic, filled with waterfalls, streams, and lush greenery. Once you reach the valley, the view is magical — a blend of colors and calm. Best time to visit is July–August when the flowers are in full bloom. Make sure you’re physically prepared and carry essentials. Nature at its finest! 🌿🥾🌼
Valley of Flowers National Park is truly a paradise on earth! Nestled in the Himalayas, it feels like stepping into a painting with endless meadows covered in vibrant wildflowers, snow-capped peaks in the backdrop, and crystal-clear streams flowing along the trails. 🌸 The trek itself is moderately challenging but absolutely worth it – every step rewards you with breathtaking views. During the peak flowering season (July–August), the entire valley bursts into a carpet of colors, making it one of the most magical sights in India. ✅ The place is very well maintained as part of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and its natural beauty is untouched and serene. A must-visit for nature lovers, trekkers, and photographers! Tip: Carry rain gear, good trekking shoes, and start your trek early in the morning to enjoy the valley at its best. ⭐ Overall: A once-in-a-lifetime experience that leaves you awestruck and rejuvenated.
Valley of Flower is beautiful. But, overrated trek in Uttrakhand. The season of this trek is Mid July to Mid August, This is monsoon season. Carry Raincoat/Ponchu, Stick, Water resistant Shoe. Temperature is moderate. Many place of this trek route is bit slippery. So, be careful when you are walking. It takes 6-7 hours for whole route. After reaching this valley, view is nice. But, not extraordinary.
I love that this place is still underrated and I hope it stays the same as the ecosystem is very volatile there. One of the most beautiful place I've been to. Only thing you need to worry about is how to reach there, the popular way is to get there from rishikesh but the problem is the ideal time to visit is peak monsoon which means lots of landslides on the way. So just keep that in mind(If you come late like in september then flowers will be gone)
Nestled high in the West Himalayas, the Valley of Flowers is truly one of India’s most enchanting natural wonders. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it feels like stepping into a painter’s canvas alive with color, fragrance, and serenity. The journey itself is an adventure — a moderate trek of around 16 km from Govindghat, passing through forests, rivers, and quaint villages. The trail can be a bit demanding, especially during rains, but the effort is completely worth it. Once you reach the valley, you’re greeted by a vast meadow blanketed with countless wildflowers in every shade imaginable. From May to early September, the valley bursts into bloom, with exotic Himalayan flowers like blue poppies, cobra lilies, and primulas carpeting the slopes. Snow-capped peaks in the backdrop add a dramatic contrast to the riot of colors below. Apart from its unmatched floral beauty, the valley also has a spiritual and mythical aura — local legends say it was the garden of fairies. The silence, punctuated only by birdsong and the distant roar of waterfalls, makes it a perfect retreat for nature lovers, trekkers, and photographers. Tips: Best time to visit is mid-July to August for peak bloom. The weather can change quickly — rain gear and good shoes are a must. Accommodation is basic in nearby Ghangaria village, so expect simple stays but warm hospitality. Plastic is banned — please help keep it pristine by carrying your waste back.
The Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand is an absolute must-visit! 🌸 The breathtaking views and endless carpets of colorful blooms make every step worth it. However, be prepared, this is not a beginner-friendly trek. It takes a couple of days to complete, and the terrain can be quite challenging. A few essentials to carry: • Hiking pole – helps a lot on steep and uneven paths. • Trekking shoes (ankle-level) – for proper grip and ankle support. • Poncho – the weather can change quickly, and rain is common. If you’re ready for a rewarding challenge, the Valley of Flowers will leave you with memories (and photos!) for a lifetime.
I travelled from Australia to see the valley of the flowers, I loved the walk into the valley, every where you looked was eye candy, so clean, the air was so fresh, Majestic!! I came by myself to India, with a organise group. A special thanks you to my guide Bhuvnesh, who looked after us over the 5 days.His knowledge on Himalayan plants was a bonus.What a gem.
I was present at the Valley of Flowers on 14th August 2025 and witnessed its amazing natural beauty. I was truly speechless by its amazing beauty. This is a different beauty and a different feeling which is very difficult to express in words. Trekking towards Valley of Flowers starts from Pulna village. So, you can take a shared car from Govindghat to Pulna village for 50 rupees.After covering about 11 kilometers, you will reach Ghangaria. The next morning, start your journey from Ghangaria towards Valley of Flowers. Start trekking by collecting a permit from the Valley of Flowers National park office for 200 rupees per head(Original Aadhaar Card must)and after covering 4 kilometers, you will enter Valley of Flowers. From here, after another 2.5 kilometers, you will find River Bed Side. Along with this, you will see the grave of John Margaret Legge.
Nanda Devi National Park Interpretive Trek
3. Nanda Devi National Park Interpretive Trek
4.6
(15)
Permanently Closed
Adventure sports center
Nature & Parks
Slide 1 of 6
Excellent, wondering how to convince the villagers to adopt me, the nature is awesome but what touches the heart is the culture , its alive and beautiful
Best place in India. Very very excited to visit there all the places.
Nice. excellent interpretation. Four days of indulgence with nature and culture
Way to dhak to Lata
Shri Vridh Badri Temple, Panch Badri
4. Shri Vridh Badri Temple, Panch Badri
4.6
(202)
Hindu temple
Sights & Landmarks
Slide 1 of 8
Being one of the 5 Pancha Badri Temples, the Vriddha Badri is located in the Badrinath Highway. Climb down 200 staircases to reach the temple from the Karnaprayag - Badrinath Highway. The Temple has a standing murthi of Vishnu, who gave Pratyaksha Darshana to Narada as an old saint (hence Vriddha Badri).
The Vriddha Badri temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, which is one of the Pancha Badri temples. Other four are Vishal Badri, Bavishya Badri, Yogdhyan Badri, and Adi Badri. This temple is easily accessible from Joshimath as its located just 7 km away at Animath on highway. The Vriddha Badri temple is located at an altitude of 1380 meters. We visited this temple while coming back from Kalpeshwar Mahadev temple trip. The Statue of Lord Vishnu is established as an old man, hence the name of this temple is Vriddha Badri. Vriddha Badri temple remains open throughout the year and Brahmins from south India serve as Chief priests in this temple.
One of the holy Panch Badri Tampels situated in Uttarakhand. Ancient and historical Temple of Bhagwan Badrinath (Vishnu)
Shri Vridh Badri Temple is a peaceful and spiritually uplifting destination nestled in the Himalayas. As one of the revered Panch Badri temples, it holds deep significance for devotees of Lord Vishnu, who is worshipped here in his old sage form. The temple is beautifully situated amidst natural greenery, and the walk down from the main highway adds a sense of adventure and quiet reflection. The historic atmosphere and traditional rituals make it worth the effort, though reaching the temple requires navigating several stairs, which may be challenging for some visitors. Improved signage and visitor amenities could further enhance the experience, but overall, Vridh Badri is a gem for anyone seeking serenity and a truly authentic spiritual journey. A lady sang the most sublime vishnu stuti when we sat here ! it was cathartic
It is en route from Joshimath to Karnaprag. A short walk from road to reach the temple. According to the legend, Vridha Badri is the place where Lord Vishnu appeared in the form of an old man to perform penance. Vridha Badri is a tranquil and less crowded site, making it ideal for meditation and spiritual introspection.
Great sage Narad decided to perform a penance at this place to please Lord Vishnu. Delighted by the penance Lord Vishnu appeared before Narada disguised as an old man and answered his prayers. Thus, an idol of Lord Vishnu in the form of an old man was created by Vishwakarma, the architect of Gods and Goddesses. The idol of Lord Vishnu stayed in Animath until it was flooded. It was found in the 8th century by Adi Shankaracharya who was spreading the tenets of Hinduism to every remote corner of India. He discovered the idol of Lord Badri in the form of Vridha Badri and reinstalled it in the temple premises
Old temple in line with Panch Badri, Lots of walking to do from the Road to get to the temple. The decoration of the lord is beautiful. Not to be missed in this area. Better to access this temple from the bottom route and not from the top side which takes long walking trek.
Vridh Badri mandir is one of 5 Badri temples located in uttarakhand. This temple is located little bit inside from badrinadh to Rishikesh road after karnprayag. You have to walk upto 400 meters by steps to visit this temple. Very beautiful and pleasant location.
Himalayan High Adventures
5. Himalayan High Adventures
4.9
(142)
Travel agency
Outdoor Activities
Slide 1 of 8
I recently completed a trekking expedition in the Himalayas organized by Mahavir, and it was an unforgettable experience—truly a slice of heaven. The arrangements were impeccable, ensuring that every aspect of our journey was comfortable and safe. We had waterproof tents that provided excellent shelter from the elements, and the food was warm and delicious, keeping our spirits high throughout the trek. Safety was a top priority, with meticulous planning and guidance from the team, making us feel secure at all times. I am especially grateful to Rana Ji for his exceptional leadership and dedication to making this trek such a memorable adventure. I couldn’t have asked for a better-organized trip. Thank you, Mahavir, for this extraordinary experience.
I recently completed the Brahmatal Trek (May 2025), and I must say it was an experience I’ll cherish forever! From day one, the Himalayan High Adventure's trek leaders and support staff were exceptional. Their knowledge, motivation, and constant encouragement made the journey smooth and enjoyable. They kept a close eye on every trekker’s health, ensured we were acclimatizing well. The campsite arrangements were beyond expectations. Tents were clean and perfectly set up even in challenging weather conditions. We always had cozy sleeping bags, and the campsites—especially at Bekaltal and Brahmatal—were set amidst picture-perfect surroundings. It’s amazing how they managed to cook such comforting food at that altitude. From chai in the chilly mornings to soup and warm meals at night—everything felt like home. They took great care of every participant. This trek wouldn’t have been the same without the amazing team behind it. I’m deeply grateful for the warmth, professionalism, and care they offered. If you're planning the Brahmatal Trek, I highly recommend doing it with this dedicated crew—you’ll not just see the mountains, you’ll feel at home in them.
An Unforgettable Trekking Experience with Himalayan High Adventures! I recently went on a trek to Bagini Glacier in Uttarakhand with Himalayan High Adventures, a wonderful trekking agency based in Joshimath, and I can confidently say it was one of the best experiences of my life! We were a small group of five trekkers, and from start to finish, everything was handled with such professionalism, care, and warmth that we felt completely at home in the mountains. Our guide, Mukeshji, was exceptional — knowledgeable, patient, and extremely attentive to every small detail. His understanding of the terrain, weather, and safety protocols made us feel secure throughout the trek. He shared so much about the local culture and environment, which added an extra layer of richness to the experience. The food prepared by our cook, Surinderji, was simply outstanding — we were amazed at the variety and taste of the meals he managed to create in the middle of the mountains! Every meal was delicious, but what truly blew us away were the desserts — Simay Payesh, Apple Custard, and Gulab Jamun! Who would have thought we’d be enjoying such treats at high altitude? His helper, Bhagatji, was equally hardworking, humble, and cheerful, always making sure we were comfortable and well-fed. There were also two other members of their team who contributed tirelessly behind the scenes, ensuring our camps were set up on time and everything ran smoothly. Each one of them was incredibly polite, dedicated, and genuinely caring. What stood out most was how the entire team became like family to us. Their kindness and hospitality went far beyond what we expected. Even when we faced a medical emergency, the team handled it calmly, efficiently, and with so much compassion. Their support during that time truly meant the world to us. Himalayan High Adventures isn’t just another trekking agency — they are a team of professionals with a heart, and they pour their soul into making every trek a memorable and safe adventure. I would highly recommend them to anyone planning a trek in Uttarakhand or the Himalayas. Thank you, Mahaveer Ranaji (the owner) for providing us such an amazing team- Mukeshji, Surinderji, Bhagatji, and others, who gave us such a heartwarming experience. You didn’t just guide us through the mountains — you welcomed us into your world with open arms. We returned home not just with memories, but with deep respect and affection for all of you. Highly recommended!
"An unforgettable journey to ब्रम्हताळ with Himalayan High Adventures! Huge thanks to Mahavir Rana Sir, Mahipat Sir, Kohli Sir, and the entire team for organizing such an amazing trek. From the scenic trails to the delicious meals, everything was perfect. Their constant motivation and support made this adventure truly special!" Thank a lot, i truly appreciate for all..
My experience with HHA is excellent. It was beyond imagination. The hospitality from the ground zero to 14800 ft, was simply mins blowing. Expert guide, cook, helping hands and the arrangements never were dissatisfactory. The way they took care of every situation, whether it is track condition to food preparation, were excellent. Mahaveer ji himself is a very friendly and cooperative person and is always ready to extend his helping hand for the satisfaction of his client friends. Looking forward to walk many more kilometres with HHA.
Excellent experience . Fantastic guide, cook and supporting staffs. Food is awesome. Behaviour of Ranaji is excellent. His homestay at Joshimath is also very comfortable with nice food. There are scope of few improvement 1. Tiffin box instead of aluminium foil for tiffing for trekking 2. Fruti packs can be replaced with reusable bottle drinks These small steps will help in reducing the environmental degradation of the fragile ecosystem of Himalaya 3. The photographs in the home stay may be captioned proper the convenience of the trekkers
Mahaveer Bhai arranged for our trek to Bagini Glacier. We found the team extremely responsible and warm. Excellent food quality and amazing service towards the care of the trekkers. Out guide Mukesh ji ensured that we summit safely and at our own pace. I'll trek with Himalayan High Adventures again!
I am delighted to share my exceptional experience with Himalayan High Adventures on our recent Brahma Tal Trek. The professional, courteous staff ensured our comfort and safety throughout. Food was delicious, accommodations exceeded expectations. Truly, they are the best in Uttarkhand! Unbeatable value for money adventure that I enthusiastically recommend to all.
Planning a trip to Joshimath?
Save all the best places to visit with WanderlogDownload the travel planning app everyone's been raving about
  • Itinerary + map in one view
  • Live collaboration
  • Auto-import hotels and reservations
  • Optimize your route
  • Offline access on mobile
  • Optimize your route
  • See time and distance between all your places
Learn more
Get the iOS app from the App Store
Get the Android app from Google Play
0 places saved to your trip to Joshimath