Best AQI Destinations in India: 10 Clean-Air Places to Visit in December

Kazi Nasir | Dec 11, 2025, 18:00 IST

Breathtaking Scenery

( Image credit : Freepik )

December brings festive travel energy, but it also brings some of the year’s worst air pollution across many Indian cities. If you’re looking for a winter getaway with clean, breathable air, this guide highlights the 10 best destinations in India with low AQI and minimal PM2.5 levels during December. From the pristine mountains of Gangtok and the winter deserts of Ladakh to the serene tea estates of Munnar and the crystal-clear coastal skies of the Andaman Islands, these places offer both freshness and unforgettable landscapes.

The month of December brings holiday energy with the next level comfort of winter. But unfortunately, the results of climate change are also here. Across northern Indian plains and big cities are experiencing poor air quality. So, if you are planning a winter vacation look for destinations that are low in PM2.5 and have a healthy AQI. That might be a hill station or coastal islands. Below are the ten destinations across India that can offer you a great winter combo with breathtaking views and the best quality of air.

1. Gangtok, Sikkim

Breathtaking Mountain Range

( Image credit : Freepik )

The current AQI of this place is 18. To experience the clear mountains and air that's cool for freezing Gangtok is the best place. Ideal for a 2-4 night stay.

2. Aizawl, Mizoram

The air quality of Aizawl is 52, which is moderate. The place appears in lists of cities with low annual PM and according to the 2024 reports ranked among the cleaner capitals.

3. Leh & Nubra Valley - Ladakh

Leh - Unimaginable Scenery

( Image credit : Freepik )

The AQI here is 49, which is good. The area is gifted with dramatic high-altitude winter landscapes. Ladakh's Leh region is one of India's least polluted regions. The population density is very less.

4. Andaman & Nicobar Islands

The place is gifted with excellent snorkelling visibility and fresh sea air. December is peak weather season. On the matter of AQI, Andaman is consistently low. Ideal for 4-7 night stay.

5. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

In December, this place gives cool weather with misty mornings. The current AQI here is 60. Here you cna do Kodai lake boating, Coaker's walk or waterfall day trips. Best for a 2-4 night stay.

6. Ooty (Udhagamandalam), Tamil Nadu

Tea Garden

( Image credit : Freepik )

Here you can enjoy Nilgiri winter charm with cool days and tea garden scenery. Ooty often listed among hill stations that is with better AQI. According to travel guides, December is a good time to explore this place.

7. Munnar, Kerala

This is the lush tea estates with cool climate and clear air. December is a great month for visibility and hiking. You can have a tea garden walk or explore areas of Eravikulam National Park (Nilgiri tahr), Mattupetty Dam.

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FAQs

Q1. Which city is cleanest in India by AQI?
Ans: Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu

Q2. What is the purest AQI?
Ans: 0-50

Q3. Where is it cheap to fly in December?
Ans: Maybe Morocco

GENERAL

Kazi Nasir