Best Places to Visit in Kerala in December 2025
Visiting Kerala in December has become a preferred choice for many planning their 2025 winter holidays. December marks the start of Kerala’s pleasant season, when humidity reduces, daylight feels softer, and outdoor experiences become easier to enjoy for longer hours. What truly sets this month apart is how varied the state feels during winter. One can spend the morning on a beach, the afternoon on a backwater boat, and the evening in the hills, all without harsh weather conditions.
Many guides speak about Kerala’s beauty, but the Best Places to Visit in Kerala in December 2025 stand out for their winter-specific charm. December brings unique bird movements along the wetlands, seasonal food traditions in the hills, calm sea stretches along the coast, and cultural events in towns. For those reading about Kerala online, much of the information tends to be repetitive. This blog offers insights that highlight what places actually feel like in December, what changes, what becomes more accessible, and what visitors can uniquely experience only during this month.
In this Blog
Weather in Kerala in December 2025
Understanding the weather in Kerala in December helps plan effectively. December brings mild mornings, pleasant afternoons, and comfortable nights.
Temperature and Climate Patterns
- Coastal regions such as Varkala, Kannur, and Kovalam record temperatures between 22°C and 30°C.
- Hill regions such as Munnar, Wayanad, and Thekkady usually range between 12°C and 22°C.
- Backwaters around Alleppey and Kumarakom experience light breezes and pleasant evenings.
Why December Weather Feels Special
The receding monsoon leaves behind clear skies, brighter mornings and fresh surroundings. December sunlight feels gentler, making it easier to walk through heritage streets, spend hours by the backwaters, or enjoy longer beach days.
Many winter visitors mention that they can step out early and stay outdoors till late evening without discomfort. This quality makes December ideal for outdoor sightseeing, wildlife activities, long drives, and cultural events.
Best Places to Visit in Kerala in December 2025
Below are meaningful insights into the Best Places to Visit in Kerala in December 2025, focusing on unique seasonal aspects rather than generic descriptions.
1. Munnar – Hill Stations in Kerala in Winter at Their Finest
Munnar remains one of the most popular Hill stations in Kerala in winter, but December gives it a distinct character.
What Makes Munnar Unique in December
- Tea estates become active with winter plucking cycles. Visitors can observe the leaf-sorting process in factories.
- The early morning light brings a gentle glow across the tea slopes, making viewpoints particularly pleasant.
- Seasonal vegetables like hill tomatoes, carrots, and beans reach their flavour peak, influencing local dishes.
Things to Do in Munnar
- Walk through the tea gardens during the morning hours.
- Visit tea factories conducting winter tasting sessions.
- Stop at local farms to try seasonal produce.
- Spend quiet evenings at viewpoints where December visibility remains clear.
Staying in a Villa in Munnar
Choosing a villa in Munnar during winter can be rewarding for those who enjoy slow mornings and fresh air. Many villas are built on slopes, offering open deck seating for winter sunrises.
2. Alleppey – Seasonal Backwater Calmness
Alleppey is known for its backwaters, but December gives the region a special atmosphere.
What Makes Alleppey Special in December 2025
- Calm waters and steady breezes make houseboat stays extremely comfortable.
- Migratory birds can be spotted along canals, especially during early morning boat rides.
- Local households prepare winter dishes using tapioca, pearl spot fish and jackfruit flour, giving visitors access to authentic seasonal food.
Things to Do in Alleppey
- Houseboat cruises during sunrise or sunset.
- Traditional canoe rides along narrow water channels.
- Visiting coir workshops where local artisans work on handwoven mats and ropes.
Villa in Alleppey
A villa in Alleppey usually includes open courtyards and waterfront sit-outs, ideal for December evenings.
3. Kochi – Cultural Events and December Streets
Kochi becomes one of the most dynamic places to visit in Kochi in December due to cultural celebrations and events.
What Stands Out in December 2025
- Kochi hosts major art events during winter, attracting artists from across the world.
- Heritage streets look particularly pleasant in December sunlight, making walking tours ideal.
- The waterfront remains active, with long promenades suitable for evening strolls.
Things to Do in Kochi
- Art exhibitions and gallery walks.
- Chinese fishing nets viewing during sunset.
- Heritage café visits and spice markets.
- Evening strolls along the Fort Kochi waterfront.
Villa in Kochi
A villa in Kochi often reflects colonial-era architecture, with open verandas and traditional flooring that stays cool during the day.
4. Wayanad – Peaceful Hill District with Winter Comfort
Wayanad is another top choice among Hill stations in Kerala in winter, offering a mix of nature, heritage, and cultural experiences.
December Uniqueness
- Forest routes feel refreshing with winter air.
- Heritage spots such as Edakkal Caves gain clear visibility.
- Many spice plantations begin their winter processing cycles, allowing visitors to observe pepper drying and cardamom sorting.
Things to Do in Wayanad
- Visit the heritage caves.
- Join winter spice walks.
- Spend evenings at viewpoints with wide open skies.
- Visit local farms to learn about seasonal produce.
Villa in Wayanad
Staying in a villa in Wayanad often includes hillside seating, spacious balconies, and nature-focused architecture.
5. Varkala – One of the Best Beaches in Kerala for Winter
Varkala is widely considered among the best beaches in Kerala, but its December charm feels different from other times of the year.
Why Varkala Is Special in December
- Cliffs create a natural viewpoint, and December visibility enhances coastal views.
- The sea remains relatively calm, making mornings suitable for long walks.
- Local cafés introduce seasonal seafood menus during winter.
Things to Do in Varkala
- Cliff-top sunrise views.
- Long beach walks.
- Visit handicraft shops run by local communities.
- Evening cafés with live acoustic sessions.
6. Kumarakom – Wetland Life in Winter
Kumarakom is an important wetland zone and becomes exceptionally lively in December.
What Makes Kumarakom Unique in 2025
- Migratory birds arrive in large numbers, making the bird sanctuary a major attraction.
- December waters stay calm, ideal for boat rides across Vembanad Lake.
- Traditional Christmas festivities in nearby villages add charm to evening outings.
Things to Do in Kumarakom
- Birdwatching during early mornings.
- Long boat rides along the lake.
- Local spice and toddy-making experiences.
- Visiting village homesteads for seasonal dishes.
7. Thekkady – Winter Forest Routes
Thekkady stands apart for its wildlife experiences, which feel especially rewarding in winter.
Why December Works Well
- Mild temperatures make outdoor activities comfortable for longer durations.
- Boat rides on Periyar Lake present clearer views of the shoreline.
- Spice plantations conduct winter tours explaining drying and grinding methods.
Things to Do in Thekkady
- Forest boat rides.
- Nature walks organised by local communities.
- Spice farm visits.
- Evening cultural performances.
8. Kannur – Coastal Culture and Calendar Traditions
Kannur is home to unique cultural practices that gain importance in winter.
December Highlights
- Local ritualistic performances often begin around this period.
- Long coastlines such as Payyambalam remain pleasant for evening walks.
- Handloom villages offer winter weaving demonstrations.
Things to Do in Kannur
- Visit local cultural performances.
- Experience weaving villages.
- Spend time at calm beaches with wide open horizons.
Villa in Kannur
A villa in Kannur is usually close to long beaches or village areas, making it suitable for peaceful winter stays.
9. Kovalam – Gentle Sea and Long Winter Evenings
Kovalam continues to attract visitors as one of the best beaches in Kerala, but December provides a quieter, softer feel.
December Highlights
- The sea stays calm, making mornings ideal for shoreline walks.
- Lighthouse viewpoints provide wide coastal views under clear skies.
- Local seafood reaches its winter peak in freshness.
Things to Do in Kovalam
- Lighthouse visits.
- Beachside evening walks.
- Visit local seafood markets.
- Catamaran boat rides are managed by local fishermen.
Villa in Kovalam
A villa in Kovalam usually includes sea-facing balconies and open terraces.
10. Trivandrum – Heritage and Coastal Rhythm
Trivandrum mixes city comfort with coastal charm, becoming an interesting place to visit in Trivandrum during December.
What December Offers
- Cultural institutions host winter events and exhibitions.
- The coastline remains pleasant for evening outings.
- Temples and heritage museums experience lighter crowds in the early hours.
Things to Do in Trivandrum
- Visit museums and galleries.
- Enjoy coastal viewpoints.
- Attend winter cultural programs.
- Try regional winter dishes such as spiced rice soups.
Villa in Trivandrum
A villa in Trivandrum often includes modern amenities combined with traditional Kerala architecture.
Why Kerala in December 2025 Deserves a Place on Every Winter Itinerary
The Best Places to Visit in Kerala in December 2025 reflect the state’s diversity in winter. From peaceful beaches to refreshing hills, from lively cultural streets in Kochi to calm backwater routes in Alleppey, December brings out the best of Kerala’s natural rhythm. What makes the month special is the combination of mild weather, meaningful local experiences, and seasonal traditions that shape each region differently.
Whether someone wishes to stay in a villa in Kerala, experience busy art festivals, watch migratory birds, walk through tea gardens, try coastal winter dishes, or spend nights along the backwaters, Kerala in December makes all of it possible without rushing. With comfortable temperatures, clear horizons, and a calm seasonal atmosphere, the state offers a thoughtful and engaging winter holiday experience.
For December 2025, Kerala remains one of India’s most rewarding and memorable winter destinations.
Author Credits: Ruben Saha
