15 Best Places To Visit In Kerala In December 2025

October 27, 2025

When winter takes over most parts of India with fog and cold winds, December Kerala tells a different story altogether. It is filled with sunshine, spice-scented air, and emerald backwaters shimmering under golden light. The month transforms Kerala into a paradise for travellers seeking warmth, celebration, and serenity.

One of The Best Places to Visit in Kerala in December

This is also when cultural festivals like Cochin Carnival and Christmas celebrations fill the state with unmatched energy and joy. The blend of nature, culture, and festive spirit makes the places to visit in Kerala in December even more inviting. You can spend your mornings strolling along palm-fringed beaches, afternoons exploring tea gardens, and evenings enjoying local cuisines by the waterfront.

If you are planning a year-end getaway, December is the perfect time to book the best Kerala tour packages that showcase the state’s coastal charm, hill station beauty, and traditional hospitality. Every corner of Kerala in this season feels like a postcard comes alive. This makes it one of India’s most soul-refreshing destinations to end the year on a beautiful note.

Why December Is Perfect For Kerala?

There is something magical about planning a Kerala tour in December. When the rest of India is wrapped in the heaviest winter clothing, Kerala is greeting the visitors with gentle sunshine, cool breezes, and green vegetation in its prime. The landscape is revitalised by the post-monsoon season so that all the beaches, hills and backwaters appear picture perfect.

Many travellers call it the best time to visit Kerala. The humidity is lowered, skies are also clear, and the temperature is kept within the range of 24 °C and 32 °C, which is comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and houseboat tours. The Christmas and New Year festive atmosphere also brings colour to all the towns and beaches, from the Cochin Carnival at Kochi, to the lighted streets of Fort Kochi and Kovalam.

A Kerala visit in December is the most suitable combination of the beauty of nature, cultural experience and relaxation. Whether you are wading through the sunsets of the Arabian Seas or drinking hot chai in the hills, Kerala in December feels like nature’s way of ending the year with peace, joy, and a touch of tropical magic.

Top 15 Places To Visit In Kerala In December 2025

December brings Kerala to the heaven of cool winds and greenery, as well as Christmas glitz. The travellers will have an opportunity to visit foggy hills, still backwaters and picturesque beaches which sparkle with winter sunshine. These beautiful sceneries make it one of the most mesmerising places to visit in Kerala in December.

Whether it is the calm views of the river on a houseboat or the cultural festivals and spice-reeled plantations, all the experiences are magical. Some of the best places to visit in Kerala during the winter season are as follows:

1. Munnar

Munnar

Munnar is nestled in the high ranges of Kerala and is magical in the month of December. The entire landscape of cool air, mist-capped mountains, and endless tea gardens makes the setting look like it is a painting. Travellers usually choose the Munnar tour packages because of the scenic nature of the place, its quiet valleys, and waterfalls that shine in the winter sunlight.

The season is ideal to go nature walking, to have tea-tasting, and to spend a cosy stay in a place which is covered with greenery. Munnar is a charming destination and probably the best place to visit in Kerala during December, with its cool climate and breathtaking scenery.

2. Wayanad

Wayanad is One of The Best Places to Visit in Kerala in December

Wayanad is a place where nature tells its secrets, and it is buried in the green Western Ghats of Kerala. December paints all its forests with dew, its hills with mist and its skies with soft sunlight. Most of the travellers opt for Wayanad tour packages to see its spice plantations, gushing waterfalls, and an old cave which narrates stories from centuries ago.

Whether you are trekking to viewpoints or relaxing by serene lakes, Wayanad’s charm feels endless. It is one of the most magical es to visit in Kerala in December, and one can enjoy adventure and relax at the same time due to its pristine beauty and cool weather.

3. Kumarakom

Kumarakom is One of The Best Places to Visit in Kerala in December

Floating gently on the serene backwaters of Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is where time slows down and peace takes over. During the months of December, the cold air, the waving waters, and the green vegetation make it one of the attractions of Kerala tourism.

Every sunrise here feels like poetry, calm, colourful, and deeply refreshing. Kumarakom is one of the most beautiful places to see in Kerala in December, with its scenic beauty and relaxing environment. This is the ultimate experience that gives one a combination of nature and absolute relaxation.

  • Places To Visit in Kumarakom: Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, and Pathiramanal Island.
  • Things To Do in Kumarakom: Stay in a houseboat, go birdwatching, and experience authentic Keralan village life.

4. Idukki

Idukki is One of The Best Places to Visit in Kerala in December

Tucked away in the misty folds of the Western Ghats, Idukki is a haven of undulating hills, thick trees and gleaming reservoirs. The serene nature and the cold weather in the month of December make it one of the honeymoon places in Kerala. Couples may walk around in an endless valley or just relax by the serene waters of Idukki Dam.

Idukki is also one of the ideal honeymoon destinations in India in low budget who want to enjoy their time without spending a lot of money. It provides seclusion, scenic nature and memorable experiences. It proves that love thrives best amidst nature’s quiet elegance.

  • Places To Visit in Idukki: Idukki Arch Dam, Hill View Park, and Ramakkalmedu.
  • Things To Do in Idukki: Go trekking, visit spice gardens, and enjoy panoramic views from mountain tops.

5. Kochi

Kochi is One of The Best Places to Visit in Kerala in December

Kochi is a city which attracts any traveller with its mixture of history, culture, and coastal beauty. In December, its pleasant weather makes exploring a delight. A lot of travellers select Kochi tour packages in order to enjoy art cafes, spice markets and vibrant festivals.

Having romantic water fronts, rich culture and beautiful sunsets, Kochi has also made a name for itself as one of the best wedding destinations in India. It is a coastal gem with an unforgettable blend of culture, beauty, and harmony, whether sightseeing or in love.

  • Places To Visit in Kochi: Fort Kochi, Marine Drive, Mattancherry Palace, and Chinese Fishing Nets.
  • Things To Do in Kochi: Take a heritage walk, explore art cafes, and watch a Kathakali performance.

6. Thekkady

Thekkady is One of The Best Places to Visit in Kerala in December

Thekkady is an animated place during the month of December, and it provides travellers with cool air, hazy sceneries and rich wildlife activities. Exploring spice gardens and taking relaxing boat trips on the Periyar Lake contribute to the beauty, and it makes it one of the best places in Kerala in December. The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is known to have good biodiversity and gives you an opportunity to see elephants, deer and exotic birds in their natural environment. 

Thekkady is also one of the best hill stations in India, especially the combination of adventure and relaxation, which makes it an ideal choice to spend time trekking and bamboo rafting. To enjoy all this, Thekkady tour packages have guided tours, houseboat rides and comfortable accommodation among the beautiful scenery.

  • Places To Visit in Thekkady: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Mangala Devi Temple, and Chellarkovil Viewpoint.
  • Things To Do in Thekkady: Take a boat safari, go bamboo rafting, and enjoy an elephant ride.

7. Kozhikode

Kozhikode is One of The Best Places to Visit in Kerala in December

Kozhikode has golden beaches and ancient forts, which bring a special coastal flavour in December. From relaxing beach walks to cultural explorations, it is recognised as one of Kerala best places to visit in December, attracting winter travellers from across India. The weather is favourable, and it is best suited to visit local markets, taste the Malabar cuisine and have a pleasant walk on shore. 

Kozhikode tour packages are among the most popular places visited by travellers in a bid to see everything the place has to offer, such as bird sanctuaries, temples, and some of the most scenic places in the area. Such a cultural, natural, and heritage combination makes Kozhikode one of the must-see places to visit in Kerala in December. 

  • Places To Visit in Kozhikode: Kozhikode Beach, Mananchira Square, and Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary.
  • Things To Do in Kozhikode: Relish Malabar cuisine, visit the lighthouse, and explore historical sites.

8. Kovalam Beach

Kovalam Beach is One of The Best Places to Visit in Kerala in December

Kovalam Beach is a calm coastal holiday resort where golden sands are combined with the blue waters of the Arabian Sea. The weather in December is cool and pleasant, making it ideal to make long walks, sunbathe, and watch the sunset. Lovers flock here, and it is one of the best honeymoon places in India in December, and the best time to go on romantic escapes.

In addition to its romance, Kovalam has some of the most relaxing beaches in Kerala, as well as picturesque beauty that makes it a stunning Kerala place to visit in December. The tourists will be able to see the popular lighthouse, local fishing villages, and cliffside data, enjoying the fresh local seafood. It is also among the best honeymoon places in India in winter, with its winter charm that brings in the best memories.

  • Places To Visit in Kovalam Beach: Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, and Samudra Beach.
  • Things To Do in Kovalam Beach: Go surfing, enjoy Ayurvedic massages, and watch breathtaking sunsets.

9. Alappuzha Backwaters

Alappuzha Backwaters is One of The Best Places to Visit in Kerala in December

Alappuzha, which is also known as the Venice of the East, is particularly a magical place in December with its serene backwaters. Houseboat cruises through winding canals, dotted with coconut palms and quaint villages, making it one of the top places to visit in Kerala in December. Tourists are able to have local delicacies, folk music, and peaceful sunsets by the water.

During their exploration, the travellers can also explore some of the famous temples in South India. Located with its serene waters and picturesque beauty, Alappuzha is one of the places that should also be included in the list of places to visit in Kerala December, as it is a perfect destination to relax, learn about culture and enjoy the beauty of nature.

  • Places To Visit in Alappuzha: Alleppey Beach, Krishnapuram Palace, and Pathiramanal Island.
  • Things To Do in Alappuzha: Cruise through backwaters on a houseboat, visit coir factories, and enjoy canoe rides.

10. Cherai Beach

Cherai Beach is One of The Best Places to Visit in Kerala in December

Cherai beach has golden sands and calm waters, which make it a good place to have a sunbath, swim and have a peaceful stroll by the shore. The tranquil environment and picturesque seashores make it one of the most popular beaches in India, with attractive visitors who want to rest and find peace.

It is a great place to spend the winter with the good weather in December. The Kerala places to visit in December include Cherai Beach with its calm waves, local foods and beautiful sunsets, which are a refreshing adventure to families, couples, and individual tourists.

  • Places To Visit in Cherai Beach: Cherai Lake, Pallipuram Fort, and Munambam Breakwater Point.
  • Things To Do in Cherai Beach: Try dolphin spotting, cycling, and enjoy fresh seafood by the shore.

11. Vagamon

Vagamon is One of The Best Places to Visit in Kerala in December

Vagamon, due to its undulating meadows, hazy hills and pine forests, is a peaceful retreat in Kerala. To adrenaline junkies, the area is also home to some of the bungee jumping places in India and the serene environment is also accompanied by an adrenaline rush. The weather during December is cool. It is ideal to go out into nature, trek and view picturesque spots.

Vagamon ranks among the top adventure destinations in India. It offers travellers an exciting yet rejuvenating experience amidst the Western Ghats’ breathtaking beauty. Travellers exploring Kerala in winter often include Vagamon among the top places to visit in Kerala in December.

  • Places To Visit in Vagamon: Vagamon Meadows, Pine Forest, and Thangal Para.
  • Things To Do in Vagamon: Go paragliding, nature camping, and visit serene hill viewpoints.

12. Poovar

Poovar is One of The Best Places to Visit in Kerala in December

The coastal resort in Kerala is the serene Poovar, where the river Neyyar joins the Arabian Sea. Poovar will be one of the budget-friendly places to visit in India among travellers who want to explore the beautiful site without incurring excessive expenses. 

Its sunsets, golden sand beaches and peaceful backwaters are ideal in December, both for relaxation and exploration. It is also considered one of the best places to visit in winter in India as its weather is charming, breezes are soft and serene, and the scenery is beautiful to visit with couples, families and even lone travellers.

  • Places To Visit in Poovar: Poovar Beach, Neyyar River, and Thirparappu Waterfalls.
  • Things To Do in Poovar: Take a backwater cruise, enjoy floating cottages, and explore nearby fishing villages.

13. Varkala

Varkala is One of The Best Places to Visit in Kerala in December

A scenic Kerala tourist destination is Varkala, with its cliffside and perfect beaches. Varkala is usually among the best places to visit in South India by travellers who prefer cultural and scenic experiences, as well as appreciating its natural beauty and spiritualism. The pleasant weather of December makes walking on the beach, sunbathing and visiting the local cafes and temples ideal.

It is also considered to be one of the best places to visit in India with family due to its serene beaches and its family-friendly atmosphere. This offers a combination of adventure and fun-filled moments throughout the journey.

  • Places To Visit in Varkala: Varkala Cliff, Janardanaswamy Temple, and Kappil Beach.
  • Things To Do in Varkala: Swim in the Arabian Sea, shop at cliffside cafes, and relax with yoga sessions.

14. Neliyampathy

Neliyampathy is One of The Best Places to Visit in Kerala in December

Neliyampathy (one of the well-known hill stations in South India, with its rolling hills, tea estates, and dense forests, is a serene escape in Kerala. December is cool and refreshing with a pleasant climate that is ideal for trekking, walking in nature and seeing the hidden waterfalls. Its tranquillity and perfection render it a popular destination for travellers who need peace in the midst of beautiful scenery.

This scenic hill station is considered one of the best places to visit in Kerala in December, attracting those who love calm landscapes and fresh mountain air. Its natural beauty and serene environment also make it a popular choice among the best places to visit in December in India, offering a memorable winter getaway.

  • Places To Visit in Neliyampathy: Seethargundu Viewpoint, Pothundi Dam, and Palagapandi Estate.
  • Things To Do in Neliyampathy: Trek through forests, visit waterfalls, and enjoy panoramic mountain views.

15. Kannur

Kannur is One of The Best Places to Visit in Kerala in December

Kannur, with its golden beaches, historic forts and the traditional theyyam performances, is a perfect place to get away during winter. Kannur is usually included by travellers in the list of the best places in Kerala to visit in December because of its combination of nature, history, and colourful traditions.

The winter season is cool, and the low temperatures in December make it the best time to explore the calm coastal setting, local markets, and cultural places.  It is also one of the places to visit in Kerala in December, to have an unforgettable experience on the coast, as it is scenic and has serene and calm beaches.

  • Places To Visit in Kannur: Payyambalam Beach, St. Angelo Fort, and Muzhappilangad Drive-in Beach.
  • Things To Do in Kannur: Witness Theyyam performances, enjoy scenic drives, and explore historic forts.

Practical Tips For Travelling To Kerala In December

Travelling to Kerala in December is a delightful experience, as the weather is cool and the landscapes are at their most scenic. Proper planning can make your Kerala trip in December smooth and enjoyable. Here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your visit:

  • Book in advance: December is the high season for tourists, and hence book early, especially accommodation and transport.
  • Pack appropriately: Woollens are to be used in the hills, and cosy clothes at the beach.
  • Plan your itinerary: Have a combination of the hill stations, backwaters and cultural places to have a well-rounded experience.
  • Carry essentials: Sunscreen, hats, and reusable water bottles are recommended for day trips.
  • Local transport: To save time and increase convenience, a cab may be hired or guided tours may be used.

These tips will ensure that your trip to Kerala in December will be a memorable and stress-free one.

Famous Food To Eat In Kerala

Kerala is not only a heaven in terms of scenic beauty, but its cuisine is also very unique and tasty. When exploring the places to visit in Kerala in December, tasting local dishes adds an unforgettable dimension to your trip. Some of the must-try foods in Kerala are:

  • Kerala Sadya – Traditional vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf.
  • Appam with Stew – Soft rice pancakes paired with vegetable or meat stew.
  • Puttu and Kadala Curry – Steamed rice flour cylinders with spicy chickpea curry.
  • Fish Moilee – Coconut milk-based fish curry with subtle spices.
  • Uniyappam – Sweet fried rice and jaggery dumplings.
  • Ada Pradhaman – Classic coconut and jaggery dessert pudding.

You should not miss trying these dishes during a visit to Kerala, as they incorporate natural beauty and authentic taste.

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