Tropical India in Winter: 10 Warm Places To Travel in December to Ditch the Cold (2025 Updated)

While northern India wraps itself in woolens and fog during December, southern and coastal India shine bright under the golden sun. For those who love sunshine over sweaters, tropical India in winter is the perfect place to be. The warm winter getaways across the country invite travellers to trade snow for sand, and cold breezes for coconut palms swaying by the sea.

The charm of India’s tropical belt lies in its year-round warmth, but winter makes it even better. The humidity dips, the skies clear up, and beaches, backwaters, and island towns are at their best. This is when places like Goa, Kerala, the Andamans, and Puducherry become some of the best tropical destinations in December.

What sets these places apart is not just their weather but also their culture, cuisine, and character. Each destination brings something different – whether it’s the spice plantations of Wayanad, the French heritage of Puducherry, or the coral reefs of the Andamans.

Here’s a guide to 10 warm places to travel in December across India that are perfect for soaking up the sun, unwinding by the coast, and experiencing the country’s tropical side at its finest.

1. Goa – The Quintessential Warm Winter Getaway

Goa remains one of the best tropical destinations in December, and for good reason. The weather in Goa hovers between 25°C and 30°C, making it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or walking along the sandy stretches of Baga, Palolem, and Agonda.

But December in Goa is not just about the beaches. The state comes alive with Christmas and New Year celebrations, beach parties, and cultural festivals like the Goa Art and Literature Festival. The vibe is electric yet laid-back – uniquely Goan.

Things to do in Goa include dolphin spotting in the Arabian Sea, exploring old Portuguese churches in Panjim, visiting the spice farms in Ponda, and taking sunset cruises on the Mandovi River. For those looking for comfort and privacy, renting a villa in Goa near the coast is an excellent choice.

Best time to visit Goa: November to February

2. Kovalam, Kerala – Among the Best Sunny Places to Visit in December

Kovalam is a small coastal town near Thiruvananthapuram that beautifully combines Kerala’s natural charm with its relaxed seaside pace. The weather in Kovalam in December stays around 28°C, ideal for beachside walks and Ayurveda therapies.

What makes Kovalam special among warm winter getaways is its crescent-shaped beaches. Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, and Samudra Beach each have their own atmosphere, ranging from lively to peaceful.

Things to do in Kovalam include taking a catamaran ride with local fishermen, enjoying traditional seafood at beachside shacks, or getting a rejuvenating massage at one of the Ayurvedic resorts. For a comfortable stay, travellers can find a villa in Kovalam with ocean views and private pools.

Best time to visit Kovalam: November to March

3. Gokarna, Karnataka – A Peaceful Tropical Destination in December

For those who want the warmth of Goa without the crowds, Gokarna is a perfect alternative. Located on the Karnataka coast, Gokarna’s weather in December is pleasantly warm at around 27°C.

Gokarna is known for its mix of spirituality and beachside charm. The town has famous temples like Mahabaleshwar and scenic beaches like Om, Kudle, and Paradise. Each beach has its own character – some are ideal for yoga and meditation, while others are great for water sports.

Things to do in Gokarna include trekking between beaches, visiting the local markets for handmade crafts, and spending an evening watching the sunset from a seaside café. A villa in Gokarna makes for a perfect stay for those who prefer private, laid-back accommodation near the beach.

Best time to visit Gokarna: October to March

4. Varkala, Kerala – One of the Best Tropical Destinations in December

Varkala is Kerala’s only beach with dramatic cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea, making it one of the most scenic tropical destinations in December. The weather in Varkala remains around 28°C, perfect for outdoor activities.

What sets Varkala apart is its unique mix of spirituality and seaside calm. The ancient Janardhana Swamy Temple attracts pilgrims, while the cliffside cafés and yoga retreats attract global travellers.

Things to do in Varkala include swimming at Papanasam Beach, paragliding over the cliffs, and shopping for handicrafts along the cliff path. For those wanting a more private stay, a villa in Varkala along the cliffside provides both comfort and stunning views.

Best time to visit Varkala: November to February

5. Havelock Island, Andaman and Nicobar – A Dreamy Warm Weather Destination in December

For those looking for crystal-clear waters and coral reefs, Havelock Island is one of India’s finest warm winter getaways. The weather in Havelock Island in December is around 25°C with low humidity, making it perfect for beach activities.

This island is known for Radhanagar Beach, often ranked among Asia’s best. Snorkelling, scuba diving, and sea walking are among the things to do in Havelock Island that make it a top choice for marine lovers.

Visitors can also take boat trips to Elephant Beach or explore the local seafood cuisine.

Best time to visit Havelock Island: October to May

6. Puducherry – A French Flavour among Warm Winter Getaways

Puducherry, or Pondicherry, is one of the most distinctive and best tropical destinations in December thanks to its mix of French colonial architecture, Tamil heritage, and coastal charm. The weather in Puducherry during December ranges from 23°C to 28°C.

The city’s White Town area, with its mustard-coloured villas, cafés, and bougainvillea-lined streets, feels almost Mediterranean. Yet, traditional Tamil quarters nearby reflect the region’s local roots.

Things to do in Puducherry include walking or cycling through the French Quarter, visiting the Aurobindo Ashram, and enjoying quiet moments by the Promenade Beach. A villa in Puducherry in White Town or near Serenity Beach makes for an ideal stay.

Best time to visit Puducherry: October to February

7. Lakshadweep Islands – Hidden Tropical Destinations in December

Lakshadweep is a group of coral islands in the Arabian Sea, known for their turquoise lagoons and soft white sands. It’s one of India’s least crowded yet most pristine warm places to travel in December.

The weather in Lakshadweep stays steady around 27°C, perfect for water sports and relaxation. Agatti, Bangaram, and Kadmat are among the most visited islands.

Things to do in Lakshadweep include snorkelling, kayaking, and deep-sea diving to see coral reefs. The islands are ideal for those seeking privacy and unspoilt nature. For a luxurious stay, visitors can book a villa in Lakshadweep with direct access to the lagoon.

Best time to visit Lakshadweep: October to March

8. Alleppey, Kerala – The Backwater Warm Weather Destination in December

Known as the “Venice of the East”, Alleppey is one of the most unique tropical destinations in December. Instead of beaches, it’s famous for tranquil backwaters, houseboats, and palm-lined canals. The weather in Alleppey remains mild, around 26°C, ideal for houseboat stays.

Things to do in Alleppey include taking a houseboat cruise through Vembanad Lake, visiting local toddy shops, or watching the sunset over the paddy fields. A villa in Alleppey along the backwaters provides a peaceful and authentic Kerala experience.

Best time to visit Alleppey: November to February

9. Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu – Ancient Charm with Warm Winter Weather

Mahabalipuram, near Chennai, combines history with warmth. The weather in Mahabalipuram in December ranges between 24°C and 30°C, making it ideal for sightseeing.

This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its rock-cut temples and shore monuments, which date back to the Pallava dynasty. But Mahabalipuram is also a lively seaside town with local art, surf schools, and seafood cafés.

Things to do in Mahabalipuram include visiting the Shore Temple, the Five Rathas, and the Krishna’s Butter Ball, or taking a walk on the beach at sunrise. Staying in a villa in Mahabalipuram near the coast gives visitors a blend of comfort and culture.

Best time to visit Mahabalipuram: November to February

10. Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu – A Spiritual Warm Winter Getaway

Rameswaram is not only one of India’s holiest towns but also one of the best warm-weather destinations in December. With the weather in Rameswaram averaging 27°C, it is pleasant for both sightseeing and spiritual visits.

Apart from the famous Ramanathaswamy Temple, Rameswaram also boasts pristine beaches like Dhanushkodi, which is known for its surreal beauty and clear blue waters.

Things to do in Rameswaram include visiting the Pamban Bridge, watching sunrise at Agni Theertham, and enjoying local seafood. A villa in Rameswaram near the coast allows visitors to stay close to both spiritual and seaside experiences.

Best time to visit Rameswaram: November to February

Why Choose Tropical India in Winter?

Winter in India doesn’t always have to mean snow-capped mountains. The southern and coastal regions provide warmth, colour, and a unique rhythm of life that feels different from the rest of the country during this time.

Travellers can experience houseboats in Kerala, island life in the Andamans, French charm in Puducherry, or cultural festivals in Goa – all under perfect sunshine. It’s also the best time for outdoor activities like scuba diving, backwater cruises, and heritage walks, without the discomfort of summer humidity.

From the spice-scented hills of Kerala to the coral-fringed islands of the Andamans, tropical India in winter is a celebration of sunshine and diversity. Each of these warm winter getaways has its own rhythm – some are ideal for relaxation, others for cultural immersion, and a few for adventure.

For travellers planning to skip the chill and enjoy the warmth of the tropics, these 10 best tropical destinations in December promise golden sands, cultural experiences, and plenty of sunshine. Whether it’s staying in a cosy villa in Goa, a seaside retreat in Puducherry, or a houseboat in Alleppey, India’s tropical belt welcomes everyone looking to trade the cold for comfort.

In short, December is not a month to hide from winter – it’s the perfect time to embrace the sun, sea, and slow pace of warm places to travel in December across India.

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Author Credits: Ruben Saha