December is one of the best months to visit Kerala because the monsoon has ended, the skies are clearer, the beaches are more enjoyable, the backwaters are calm, and the hill stations feel cool and fresh.
Kerala in December at a Glance
- Peak tourist season, best weather across the entire state
- Beaches, backwaters, hill stations, and wildlife are all fully accessible
- Christmas and Cochin Carnival make late December especially vibrant
- Book accommodation and houseboats at least 2 to 3 months in advance
- Ideal for families, couples, solo travellers, and groups equally
Weather in Kerala in December
December is considered the heart of Kerala’s dry season. The rains would have ended and all places have salubrious weather, especially the hill stations like Munnar and Wayanad, which are cool and pleasant, whereas the coastal areas are warm and sunny.
| Region | Temperature (Dec) |
Rainfall | Sea Condition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kochi and the coast | 23°C to 32°C | Minimal, very little rain | Calm, great for beaches |
| Munnar and hills | 8°C to 20°C | Dry and clear | Not applicable |
| Alleppey backwaters | 22°C to 31°C | Negligible | Calm, ideal for houseboats |
| Wayanad | 12°C to 25°C | Dry, misty mornings | Not applicable |
| Kovalam and the south | 24°C to 33°C | Very low | Calm, swimmable |
| Thekkady | 10°C to 22°C | Minimal | Not applicable |
It is advised to pack light cotton for the coast and a warm layer for the hills. Evenings in Munnar can dip close to 8 degrees.
Best Places to Visit in Kerala in December
1. Kochi
Kochi, the ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’, is a charming town in Kerala and the perfect blend of history and modernism. The city is loved for its balance of ancient architecture, historical monuments, and an old-world charm on one hand, and its shopping malls and rising skyscrapers on the other!
From exploring the vintage streets and Chinese Fishing Nets of Fort Kochi to taking a leisurely walk down Marine Drive, thereâs a lot that makes Kochi one of the most culture-rich places to visit in Kerala in December.
ALSO SEE – Top 15 Places To Visit In Kochi, Kerala
Sunny beaches, scenic backwaters, and mystifying palaces along with Keralaâs biggest elephant training center and one of Indiaâs oldest churches are the kind of marvels youâll get to experience on your visit to Kochi in December!
Kochi tourist places: Kodanad Training Centre, Church of Saint Francis, Marine Drive, Fort Kochi, Chinese Fishing Nets, Mattancherry Palace
Kochi weather in December: Sunny afternoons, balmy evenings, comfortably cool nights
Kochi nearest airport: Cochin International Airport
Kochi nearest railway station: Ernakulam Junction Railway Station
2. Munnar
December is one of the perfect times to experience Munnar. Here, the weather is cool and refreshing, the skies are clear, and the hills look lush green after the monsoon season. In Munnar, the tea estates appear vibrant this time, while the viewpoints offer clear landscapes. During this time, wildlife activities increase, and Eravikulam National Park is open for all, and the Nilgiri Tahr are frequently seen at the entrance. It is advised to carry a fleece or jacket along with you because the nights are cold.
Munnar tourist places: Attukal Waterfalls, Pothamedu View Point, Eravikulam National Park, Kundala Lake, TATA Tea Museum, Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, CSI Christ Church, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
Munnar weather in December: Year-round cool winds and fresh mountain breeze, cool days and cold nights, infrequent rainfall
Munnar nearest airport: Cochin International Airport (79 km)
Munnar nearest railway station: Aluva Railway Station (108 km)
ALSO SEE-Munnar in December: Top 11 Things to do for a tourist
3. Alleppey and the Backwaters
December is an ideal time to experience the backwaters. Here, the weather is vibrant and pleasant, and the waters are calm and clear.
You can drift through narrow canals is lined with the coconut groves, paddy fields, and quiet village homes. You can book a traditional Kettuvallam houseboat with an overnight stay, offering the most wonderful experience.
Alleppey tourist places: Pathiramanal Island, Alappuzha Beach, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Punnamada Lake, Marari Beach, Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple, St. Andrew’s Basilica, Alleppey Backwaters, Krishnapuram Palace
Alleppey nearest airport: Cochin International Airport (85 km)
Alleppey nearest railway station: Alappuzha Railway Station
ALSO SEE – Alleppey Or Kumarakom: Which Is Best For A Kerala Houseboat Cruise?
4. Thekkady and Periyar
December is considered the best time to visit Thekkady and Periyar. Here, the weather turns cool and dry, which creates the perfect conditions for exploring the forest and landscapes of the region, and the wildlife activity around the lake increases. Early morning rides include the best chance of spotting the elephants as well as spice plantations in December.
Thekkady tourist places: Periyar Tiger Reserve, Mangla Devi Temple, Odamade plantations, Murukkady, Vellaramkunnu, Chellarkovil village
Thekkady weather in December: Pleasantly warm days, cool nights, less humidity
Thekkady nearest airport: Madurai Airport (136 km)
Thekkady nearest railway station: Kottayam Railway Station (114 km)
ALSO SEE – 20 Best Things To Do In Thekkady
5. Wayanad
Wayanad is beautiful, quiet, green, and peaceful in the month of December.
December is considered one of the finest months for the Chembra peak trek. Here, the weather remains cool and pleasant, trails are clearer, and the surrounding hills stay green after the monsoon. You’ll be able to explore the most iconic heart-shaped lake near the summit. You must visit the Banasura Sagar Dam and Edakkal caves. Both are wonderful in the month of December.
Wayanad tourist places: Kanthanpara Waterfalls, Karapuzha Dam, Pookode & Karlad Lake, Edakkal Caves, 900 Kandi
Wayanad weather in December: Pleasantly misty, cool winds, dewy vegetation, infrequent rainfall
Wayanad nearest airport: Calicut International Airport (65 km)
Wayanad nearest railway station: Calicut Railway Station (62 km)
ALSO SEE – 15 Most Fascinating Places To Visit In Wayanad
6. Kozhikode
From its stunning countryside to serene beaches, lush valleys, wildlife sanctuaries, glimmering rivers, and historical attractions, Kozhikode is filled with enthralling sights for you to engage in!
Whether you visit its many medieval churches and temples, sail along the Dolphinâs Point, cruise its backwaters, or visit the ancient lighthouses, youâll end up having the time of your life in Kozhikode!
Once the most prominent center for trade for the Chinese, Arab, and East Africans, Kozhikode is now an integral part of Kerala tourism. Every experience you enjoy here will tell you why itâs one of the best places to visit in Kerala in December!
Kozhikode tourist places: Lokanarkavu Temple, Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary, Mananchira Square, Dolphinâs Point, Beypore Beach, Sarovaram Bio Park, Thikkoti Lighthouse, Kappad Beach, Kozhikode Beach
Kozhikode weather in December: Pleasant with cool nights and sea breeze
Nearest airport: Calicut International Airport (29 km)
Nearest railway station: Kozhikode Railway Station
ALSO SEE – 10 Best Beaches In Kerala (Updated)
7. Kovalam
Kovalam is a splendid beach town along the Arabian Sea on the outskirts of Trivandrum, the capital city of Kerala. Far from the Trivandrumâs busy city life, Kovalam is a quiet coastal area with tremendous natural beauty and tourist attractions to enjoy.
While thereâs a lot to experience here from Vizhinjam Sea Portâs sunset to delicious food, ancient Hindu temples, grand churches, and Ayurvedic wellness therapies, itâs actually Kovalamâs beaches that have landed it on the list of best places to visit in Kerala in December!
Its gorgeous trio of crescent beaches and rocky cliffs have earned it international fame! Since the 1930s, tourists from around the globe have been coming here for sunbathing, diving, swimming, herbal massages, catamaran cruising, and staying in its beach cottages.
ALSO SEE – Kovalam or Varkala : Which One is Better?
Kovalam tourist places: Kovalam Beach, Samudra Beach, Vizhinjam Lighthouse, Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, Padmanabhapuram Palace
Kovalam weather in December: Warm days, cool nights, cool sea breeze
Kovalam nearest airport: Trivandrum International Airport (10 km)
Kovalam nearest railway station: Thiruvananthapuram Central (16 km)
8. Vagamon
Unlike the popular hill stations of Munnar and Wayanad, Vagamon is an offbeat hill town with fewer crowds and untouched natural beauty. Tucked 1,100 feet above sea level, Vagamon is known for its tea plantations, verdant valleys, misty mountain peaks, stunning waterfalls, and dense pine forests.
It is among the best winter places in Kerala with several scenic tourist attractions and experiences that you can explore. From the dreamy Vagamon Pine Forest where popular movies have been shot to the lovely Marmala Waterfall ideal for trekking and swimming, Vagamon has it all!
Vagamon is the perfect place to visit if youâre looking for a relaxing and peaceful holiday where you can simply sit back and enjoy natureâs beautiful artwork!
Vagamon tourist places: Thangalpara, Murugan Hill, Karikadu View Point, Vagamon Pine Forest, Idukki Dam, Marmala Waterfalls, Uluppuni Top Station
Vagamon weather in December: Cool days and cold nights, fresh mountain breeze, infrequent rainfall
Vagamon nearest airport: Cochin International Airport (100 km)
Vagamon nearest railway station: Kuttikanam Railway Station (22 km)
9. Varkala
This seaside destination in Trivandrum is Keralaâs only town with 15-meter-high cliffs overlooking the coast and the Arabian Sea. In addition to its picturesque cliffs, Varkala owes its popularity to its fun-loving hippie population and laid-back lifestyle.
Tranquil beaches, serene lakes, lush green peaks, ancient temples, world-class Ayurveda resorts, and dramatic landscapes are only a few of the things that have made Varkala one of the most preferred places to visit in Kerala in December for every beach bum.
When in Varkala, you can engage in several activities like scuba diving, parasailing, jet skiing, yoga, Ayurvedic spa, and witnessing traditional Kathakali dance performances at the theatres and local festivals.
Varkala tourist places: Varkala Cliff, Varkala Beach, Anjengo Fort, Kappil Lake, Sivagiri Mutt, Janardana Swami Temple, Chilakoor Beach, Varkala Lighthouse
Varkala weather in December: Pleasantly warm days and cool nights, clear skies, ocean breeze
Varkala nearest airport: Trivandrum International Airport (55 km)
Varkala nearest railway station: Varkala-Sivagiri Railway Station (2 km)
ALSO SEE – Best Time To Visit Varkala
10. Bekal
If you are a beach person who also loves historical places, donât miss the town of Bekal! Among other things, this quaint town is famous for the Bekal Fort ruins located right on Bekal Beach.
Itâs one of the biggest forts in Kerala and a rare and spectacular sight that brings people here from all over the world! Sitting on the coastâs steep hills since 1650 AD, this fort is a stellar example of ancient architecture and offers stunning panoramas of the Arabian Sea!
Thatâs not all. Bekal is among the most exciting places to visit in Kerala in December for its array of tourist spots and unique festivals that travelers love to witness.
The most loved is the Kambala Buffalo Race celebrated in December where farmers race their buffaloes in knee-deep waters of paddy fields!
Bekal tourist places: Bekal Beach, Bekal Fort, Kodi Cliffs, Ananthapura Lake Temple, Chandragiri Fort, Kappil Beach, Anjaneya Temple, Malik Dinar Mosque
Bekal weather in December: Balmy days, comfortably cool nights, low rainfall
Bekal nearest airport: Mangalore Domestic Terminal (67 km)
Bekal nearest railway station: Kasaragod Railway Station (14 km)
Kerala in December â Unique Things to Do
December is not just about sightseeing in Kerala. The month brings pleasant weather, festive energy, calm backwaters, misty hills, and cultural celebrations. Here are some unique things to do in Kerala in December.
1. Celebrate Christmas in Fort Kochi
Fort Kochi is one of the best places to experience Christmas in Kerala. The colonial streets, old churches, cafes, and heritage homes are beautifully decorated during this time. You can attend midnight mass, walk through festive streets, visit Santa Cruz Basilica, and enjoy the Christmas atmosphere around Fort Kochi and Mattancherry.
2. Attend the Cochin Carnival
The Cochin Carnival is one of the biggest highlights of Kerala in December. Held in Fort Kochi, this vibrant event includes music, cultural performances, processions, games, art shows, and New Year celebrations. It is a great way to experience Keralaâs festive spirit and local culture.
3. Stay Overnight on a Houseboat in Alleppey
A houseboat stay in Alleppey feels extra special in December because the weather is pleasant and the backwaters are calm. You can cruise through narrow canals, watch village life along the banks, enjoy traditional Kerala meals, and spend a peaceful night on the water.
4. Watch the Sunrise Over Munnarâs Tea Gardens
Munnar is cool, fresh, and beautifully green in December. One of the most unique experiences here is waking up early to watch the sunrise over the tea plantations. The mist, rolling hills, and crisp morning air make it one of the most memorable moments of a Kerala trip.
5. Take a Boat Safari in Periyar
Thekkady and Periyar are excellent in December because the forest is pleasant and wildlife experiences become more enjoyable. A boat safari on Periyar Lake gives you a chance to spot elephants, deer, birds, and other wildlife near the water.
6. Enjoy Beach Sunsets in Varkala or Kovalam
Keralaâs beaches are at their best in December. The weather is sunny, the sea is calmer, and evenings are perfect for long beach walks. Varkala is ideal for cliffside cafes, yoga, and sunset views, while Kovalam is better for classic beach holidays and seaside resorts.
7. Try an Ayurveda Massage or Wellness Retreat
Decemberâs comfortable weather makes it a good time to enjoy Ayurveda therapies in Kerala. After sightseeing, trekking, or long drives, an Ayurveda massage can be a relaxing part of your trip. Kumarakom, Kovalam, Varkala, Thekkady, and Wayanad are popular places for wellness experiences.
8. Explore Spice Plantations in Thekkady
A spice plantation walk in Thekkady is a unique way to understand Keralaâs connection with cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Decemberâs cool weather makes these walks comfortable and enjoyable.
9. Go Trekking in Wayanad or Vagamon
For travellers who enjoy nature and adventure, December is a great month for trekking. Wayanad offers scenic trails, viewpoints, caves, waterfalls, and forest routes, while Vagamon is known for meadows, pine forests, and cool hill-station weather.
10. Watch a Kathakali or Kalaripayattu Performance
Keralaâs cultural performances are a great addition to a December itinerary. You can watch Kathakali, the classical dance-drama known for colourful costumes and expressive storytelling, or Kalaripayattu, Keralaâs traditional martial art. Kochi, Thekkady, and Munnar are popular places to attend these evening shows.
Events and Festivals in December
| Event | Where | When in December |
|---|---|---|
| Christmas celebrations | Fort Kochi, Thrissur, Kottayam | 24th and 25th December |
| Cochin Carnival | Fort Kochi | Last two weeks of December |
| New Year celebrations | Kochi, Kovalam, Munnar | 31st December |
| Chavakkad Beach Festival | Thrissur district | Mid-December |
| Winter carnivals and local festivals | Across Kerala | Throughout December |
The Cochin Carnival is the highlight of late December. Fort Kochi fills with art, music, processions, and the famous New Year parade. It is one of the most vibrant street events in South India.
ALSO SEE-Famous Kerala Festivals you should visit
Kerala Trip Cost in December
Kerala is more expensive in December than in the monsoon season because it is peak tourist season. Hotel rates, houseboat prices and flight fares usually rise during Christmas and New Year week.
Estimated Budget for a Kerala Trip in December
- Budget trip: Basic hotels, shared transport and limited activities.
- Mid-range trip: Good hotels, private cab, houseboat stay and sightseeing.
- Luxury trip: Premium resorts, private houseboat, curated experiences and wellness stays.
Planning Tips for December in Kerala
Book Early and Plan Smart
- Book houseboats at least 2 to 3 months in advance for December dates
- Christmas week and New Year week are the busiest, so book immediately
- Hotel rates are at their peak in December; compare options early
- Private car hire is recommended, as roads are busy in peak season
- For Fort Kochi during Carnival, book accommodation within walking distance from the venue
- Carry light cotton for the day and warm layers for hill station evenings
- Start each day early, popular spots fill up by mid-morning in December
Suggested 7-Day December Itinerary
7 Days in Kerala: December Edition
- Day 1 to 2: Kochi, Fort Kochi walk, Chinese fishing nets, Kathakali show
- Day 3: Drive to Munnar, stop at Cheeyappara Falls en route
- Day 4: Munnar, Eravikulam National Park, and tea estate walk
- Day 5: Drive to Thekkady, Periyar boat safari in the afternoon
- Day 6: Drive to Alleppey, board houseboat by noon for overnight cruise
- Day 7: Disembark, visit Kovalam beach, or fly home from Trivandrum
Frequently Asked Questions
Is December the best time to visit Kerala?
Yes, December is considered the best month to visit Kerala as the weather is perfect this time. All the tourist sites are open for visitors.
Is Kerala crowded in December?
Yes, Kerala is crowded in the last two weeks of December because it is the peak season, so it is advised to book your tickets for accommodations and houseboats in advance.
What should I pack for Kerala in December?
You can carry light cotton clothes for coastal areas for your comfort and keep warm clothes for Munnar and Wayanad. Carry good walking shoes and skincare to protect your skin from damage.
Is the Cochin Carnival worth attending?
Yes, it is worth attending in the last week of December. Fort Kochi is magical with Art installations, street performances, parades, and a spectacular New Year countdown you will experience.
How many days are needed for Kerala in December?
Seven to ten days is sufficient to cover the key highlights of Kerala. Whereas five days are possible for focusing on covering Kochi, Munnar, and the backwaters.
What is the water temperature for swimming in December?
It is around 27 to 29 degrees Celsius on the coast. During December, the seas are calm and ideal for swimmers to swim at Kovalam and Varkala.
Is Munnar worth visiting in December?
Yes, it is an ideal time to visit Munnar in December because it’s a peak season where skies are clear, the temperature is cool, and there is wonderful wildlife visibility. You will be able to explore this time.
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