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With its diverse landscapes and pleasant winter climate, South India is an ideal destination for travelers in December. From misty hill stations like Coorg and Munnar to serene beaches in Gokarna and Varkala, the region offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. Wildlife enthusiasts can explore Periyar National Park, while heritage lovers can visit Hampi’s ancient ruins. The backwaters of Kerala and the temple towns of Tamil Nadu, such as Madurai and Rameswaram, provide cultural richness. Whether you seek nature, history, or spirituality, places to visit in December in South India promise an unforgettable experience amidst cool, comfortable weather.
Top 10 Places To Visit In December In South India
Here are the places to visit in December in south India that offer misty hillscapes, serene beaches, historical wonders, and cultural experiences.
1. Munnar, Kerala
Photo: gaurav kumar / Wikimedia Commons
Munnar, a picturesque hill station in Kerala, is a perfect winter getaway with misty landscapes, lush tea gardens, and cascading waterfalls. December enhances its beauty with cool temperatures and a refreshing ambiance, ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Visit Eravikulam National Park to spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr or stroll through vast tea plantations. Enjoy the panoramic views from Top Station and witness the mesmerizing beauty of Attukal and Lakkam waterfalls.
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (110 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Aluva Railway Station (110 km)
2. Coorg, Karnataka
Photo: Paras Hazare / Unsplash
Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a charming hill station in Karnataka, offering a perfect mix of scenic beauty, coffee plantations, and cultural heritage. The weather in December is pleasantly cold, making it an excellent time to explore Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat, and Dubare Elephant Camp. Experience the breathtaking views from Mandalpatti Peak and take a spiritual retreat at Namdroling Monastery. Coffee lovers can visit coffee estates for a flavorful experience. Coorg is also a paradise for adventure seekers with activities like trekking, river rafting, and camping. The tranquil surroundings and cool climate make it an ideal winter retreat.
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (160 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Railway Station (120 km)
3. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Photo: Sreehari Devadas / Unsplash
Ooty, the “Queen of Hill Stations,” is a perfect December retreat with cool weather, mist-covered hills, and a refreshing ambiance. Nestled in the Nilgiri Hills, this charming destination offers lush tea estates, tranquil lakes, and mesmerizing viewpoints. A ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must for breathtaking scenic views. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful boat ride on Ooty Lake, explore the beautifully manicured Botanical Gardens, or admire the panoramic landscapes from Doddabetta Peak. The winter chill enhances the beauty of this hill station, making it an ideal spot for romantic getaways and family vacations.
Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport (90 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Udhagamandalam (Ooty) Railway Station
4. Wayanad, Kerala
Photo: Dhvani Patel / Unsplash
Wayanad, a serene hill district in Kerala, is an excellent destination to visit in December. Known for its lush greenery, waterfalls, and wildlife, Wayanad offers a peaceful retreat amidst nature. Explore Edakkal Caves to witness ancient rock carvings or take a safari in Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary to spot elephants and deer. The winter season enhances the charm of Banasura Sagar Dam and Meenmutty Waterfalls. The cool and misty weather makes trekking to Chembra Peak a delightful experience. With its unspoiled beauty, Wayanad is a must-visit for nature lovers.
Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport (100 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode Railway Station (100 km)
5. Hampi, Karnataka
Photo: Dey.sandip / Wikimedia Commons
Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a paradise for history lovers and explorers. The cool December weather makes it an ideal time to explore the stunning ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire. Visit the iconic Virupaksha Temple, witness the grandeur of the Stone Chariot, and explore the mesmerizing Vittala Temple complex. The Tungabhadra River adds a scenic charm, and the Matanga Hill offers breathtaking sunrise and sunset views. Hampi’s unique boulder-strewn landscape and rich history make it an unforgettable travel destination.
Nearest Airport: Hubli Airport (160 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Hospet Railway Station (13 km)
6. Gokarna, Karnataka
Photo: Siddhesh Mangela / Unsplash
Gokarna, a serene coastal town, is an excellent alternative to Goa for those seeking tranquility. The beaches—Om Beach, Kudle Beach, and Paradise Beach—offer stunning sunset views and a peaceful atmosphere. December’s pleasant weather makes it perfect for beach hikes and water activities like kayaking and surfing. Gokarna is also a spiritual hub, with the Mahabaleshwar Temple attracting pilgrims. Yana Caves, a short drive away, offer a fascinating trek amidst limestone formations. Whether for relaxation or adventure, Gokarna is an ideal winter beach destination.
Nearest Airport: Goa International Airport (140 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Gokarna Road Railway Station (10 km)
7. Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu
Photo: Ravivg5 / Wikimedia Commons
Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of India, is famous for its breathtaking sunrise and sunset views over the confluence of three seas. In December, the cool breeze enhances the experience of visiting the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and the Thiruvalluvar Statue. The Kanyakumari Beach, with its unique multi-colored sand, is a must-visit. Devotees can visit the ancient Kumari Amman Temple. A boat ride to Vivekananda Rock Memorial is an unforgettable experience. With its cultural and natural significance, Kanyakumari is a must-visit winter destination.
Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport (90 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kanyakumari Railway Station
8. Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
Rameswaram, a sacred pilgrimage site, is best visited in December when the cool weather enhances its spiritual and scenic charm. The Ramanathaswamy Temple, renowned for its intricately carved corridors and sacred 22 theerthams (holy water tanks), attracts thousands of devotees. Dhanushkodi, an abandoned ghost town, offers a mesmerizing blend of history and natural beauty with its pristine beaches and ruins. The iconic Pamban Bridge, India’s first sea bridge, provides stunning ocean views. Pilgrims take a holy dip at Agnitheertham before visiting the temple.
Nearest Airport: Madurai Airport (170 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Rameswaram Railway Station
9. Alleppey, Kerala
Photo: UnKknown Traveller / Unsplash
Alleppey, also known as the “Venice of the East,” is renowned for its enchanting backwaters and traditional houseboat cruises. December’s cool and pleasant weather enhances the experience of gliding through the serene waters, surrounded by lush green paddy fields and swaying coconut groves. A stay in a houseboat offers a unique blend of comfort and natural beauty, allowing visitors to witness the slow-paced charm of Kerala’s countryside. Apart from the backwaters, Alappuzha Beach is perfect for a relaxing evening, while the pristine Marari Beach provides a tranquil retreat. The town is also famous for its coir industry and vibrant local markets.
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (75 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Alappuzha Railway Station
10. Pondicherry
Photo: Deepak TL / Wikimedia Commons
Pondicherry, with its French colonial charm, serene beaches, and spiritual retreats, is a perfect destination to visit in December. The pleasant winter weather makes exploring the vibrant French Quarter, with its pastel-hued buildings and quaint cafés, a delightful experience. Visitors can relax at Promenade Beach, cycle around White Town, or seek tranquility at Auroville. The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Sri Aurobindo Ashram add a spiritual touch to the trip. The town’s fusion of Indian and French cultures, along with its unique cuisine and lively markets, makes Pondicherry an ideal winter getaway for every kind of traveler.
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (150 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Villupuram Railway Station (35 km)
Places to visit in December in south India is a traveler’s paradise, offering misty hill stations, pristine beaches, ancient temples, and serene backwaters. Whether you seek adventure in Wayanad, spirituality in Rameswaram, or relaxation in Alleppey, the region promises a perfect winter escape. With pleasant weather enhancing the experience, it’s the ideal time to explore these breathtaking destinations. Plan your trip with TripXL for a hassle-free experience, customized itineraries, and the best travel deals. Start your journey today and make unforgettable memories in South India this winter.
Cover Photo: Raman Choudhary / Unsplash
