December

Kerala in December at a Glance

December is one of the most rewarding months to visit Kerala. The monsoon has retreated, the air is crisp, and the landscapes—from emerald tea gardens to palm-lined backwaters—are at their photogenic best. Expect lively cultural calendars around Christmas and New Year, excellent wildlife and bird watching, and ideal beach and houseboat conditions.

• Weather: Pleasant and mostly dry; coastal highs around 29–31°C and lows 22–24°C; hills 10–20°C, colder at dawn.
• Vibe: Festive lights, heritage streets, outdoor dining, and arts events; peak season energy.
• Good for: Beaches, backwaters, culture, birding, tea and spice trails, Ayurveda, soft adventure.

Best Places to Visit in December

Fort Kochi and Mattancherry

Sea breeze, colonial-era streets, and a thriving arts scene make Fort Kochi a December star. Stroll past Chinese fishing nets at sunset, explore synagogues and spice markets in Mattancherry, and linger in cafes and galleries.

• Don’t miss: St. Francis Church, Santa Cruz Basilica, Paradesi Synagogue, street art walls.
• Tip: December often brings major arts events—book rooms early in Fort Kochi.

Munnar and the High Range (Idukki)

Cool mountain air, rolling tea estates, and misty mornings define Munnar in December. Trek viewpoints like Top Station, visit Eravikulam National Park to spot the Nilgiri tahr, and tour tea museums and factories.

• Expect: Chilly nights; pack layers. Clear skies for sunrise viewpoints.
• Nearby: Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary for dry-forest safaris and starry night skies.

Alappuzha (Alleppey) and Kumarakom Backwaters

December’s calm waters and balmy evenings are perfect for houseboat cruises. Glide along canals, watch paddy fields and coconut groves slip by, and savor Karimeen (pearl spot fish) and Syrian Christian cuisine.

• Experiences: Overnight houseboat, village canoe rides, toddy shop lunches.
• Birding: Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is busy with winter migratory species.

Thekkady and Periyar Tiger Reserve

Cool, mist-laced forests ring Periyar Lake in December. Jungle walks, bamboo rafting, and boat safaris offer sightings of elephants, gaur, and abundant birdlife. Spice plantations brim with aroma and activity.

• Activities: Nature walks with tribal guides, spice garden tours, Kathakali and Kalaripayattu shows.
• Tip: Reserve early morning and late-afternoon safari slots for best sightings.

Varkala and Kovalam Beaches

Cliff-fringed Varkala and crescent bays of Kovalam deliver golden sunsets and relaxed cafes. December seas are generally calmer, inviting for swimming and surf lessons, with lively holiday season nights.

• Best time: Early morning and late afternoon on the beach; midday for spa or cafe hopping.
• Wellness: Excellent time for rejuvenation therapies at reputable Ayurveda centers.

Wayanad and North Kerala

Waterfalls ease to gentler flows, trails dry out, and coffee pepper farms welcome visitors. Explore Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam, and shaded spice estates.

Kannur, Kasaragod, and Theyyam

December is prime Theyyam season in North Malabar. At sacred groves (kavus), powerful ritual performances unfold with drums, dance, and vibrant regalia—an unforgettable cultural window.

• Where: Around Kannur and Kasaragod; check local temple schedules.
• Nearby: Bekal Fort for sweeping coastal views and sunset photography.

December Festivals and Events in Kerala

Christmas and New Year

Kerala’s Christian communities light up towns and villages with stars, cribs, and carols. Attend midnight mass at historic churches in Kochi or Kottayam and enjoy festive delicacies like appam with stew and plum cake.

Cochin Carnival (Fort Kochi)

Usually running through the last week of December, this vibrant street carnival features parades, music, games, and the iconic New Year’s Eve burning of “Pappanji,” symbolizing renewal.

Kochi-Muziris Biennale (when scheduled)

Asia’s largest contemporary art biennale often opens in mid-December on its edition years, transforming Fort Kochi into an open-air gallery. Check official dates and venues before visiting.

International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK), Thiruvananthapuram

Typically held in December, IFFK draws cinephiles for global screenings, masterclasses, and lively debates. Tickets and passes sell fast.

Theyyam Season (North Malabar)

From roughly November to April, Theyyam ceremonies peak across Kannur and Kasaragod. December offers frequent performances—arrive early and be respectful of rituals and photography rules.

Sargaalaya International Arts and Crafts Festival (Iringal, Kozhikode district)

A sprawling craft fair usually scheduled in late December to early January, showcasing artisans, live demos, and performances. Great for authentic souvenirs.

Top Things to Do in December

Cruise the Backwaters on a Houseboat

• Choose: Private kettuvallam with onboard chef, or day cruise if short on time.
• Look for: Licensed operators, life jackets, clean kitchens, and waste management practices.

Tea and Spice Plantation Experiences

• Walk: Tea trails in Munnar, spice gardens in Thekkady, cardamom estates in Idukki.
• Taste: Freshly brewed Nilgiri tea, home-style curries scented with pepper and clove.

Wildlife and Bird Watching

• Hotspots: Periyar, Thattekad (Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary), Kumarakom wetlands.
• Season: Winter migrants flock in; carry binoculars and book guided walks.

Ayurveda and Wellness

• Popular: Abhyanga massages, shirodhara, short rejuvenation packages.
• Tip: Consult a qualified Ayurvedic physician; combine with light diet and yoga.

Western Ghats Hiking and Soft Adventure

• Trails: Meesapulimala (with permits), Chembra Peak (Wayanad), Top Station viewpoints.
• Safety: Start early, carry layers and water, and go with certified guides.

Culinary Trails and Cooking Classes

• Flavors: Syrian Christian roasts, Malabar biryani, seafood moilee, puttu-kadala.
• Do: Join a home-cooking workshop or a fish market-to-table tour in Kochi or Alleppey.

Suggested Itineraries

5-Day Classic Kerala (Cochin–Munnar–Backwaters)

• Day 1: Arrive Kochi; Fort Kochi heritage walk and Kathakali performance.
• Day 2–3: Munnar; tea estates, Eravikulam NP, Top Station sunrise.
• Day 4: Transfer to Alleppey; houseboat cruise and backwater sunset.
• Day 5: Morning canoe village tour; return to Kochi for departure.

7-Day Backwaters, Wildlife, and Beach

• Day 1: Kochi city and harbor cruise.
• Day 2: Alleppey houseboat.
• Day 3: Kumarakom bird sanctuary; lakeside resort.
• Day 4–5: Thekkady; Periyar walks, spice tour, cultural show.
• Day 6–7: Varkala or Kovalam; beach time, Ayurveda treatments, cliff cafes.

10-Day North-to-South Explorer

• Day 1–2: Kannur/Bekal; Theyyam and Bekal Fort.
• Day 3–4: Wayanad; Edakkal Caves, waterfalls, coffee estates.
• Day 5–6: Kochi; art galleries, Biennale (if on), Mattancherry.
• Day 7: Alleppey houseboat.
• Day 8–9: Munnar; tea trails, viewpoints.
• Day 10: Fly out from Kochi or head to beaches if extending.

Practical Travel Guide for December

Weather and What to Pack

• Clothing: Light cottons for the coast; warm layers for hill stations.
• Extras: Sunhat, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, comfortable walking shoes, light rain shell for an odd shower.
• Electronics: Power bank and universal adapter (Type D/M plugs; 230V).

Getting There and Around

• Airports: Kochi (COK), Thiruvananthapuram (TRV), Kozhikode/Calicut (CCJ).
• Rail: Well-connected coastal and inland routes; book in advance for December.
• Road: Car with driver is efficient for multi-stop itineraries; state buses connect major hubs.

Where to Stay

• Backwaters: Heritage homestays, lakeside resorts, or premium houseboats.
• Hills: Boutique plantation bungalows and eco-lodges.
• Beaches: Cliff-top stays in Varkala; Ayurvedic retreats in Kovalam.
• Note: December is peak—reserve early for best locations and rates.

Budget Snapshot

• Mid-range daily budget (per person): Accommodation, meals, local transport, and activities often average mid to upper mid-range in December due to peak demand.
• Save by: Booking early, choosing homestays, traveling by train between hubs, and opting for day cruises instead of premium houseboats.

Responsible Travel Tips

• Choose operators with eco-certifications; avoid single-use plastics on boats.
• Respect wildlife distances; no feeding or loud music in reserves.
• Dress modestly for temples and village visits; ask before photographing people.

Temple Etiquette and Cultural Notes

• Attire: Shoulders and knees covered; some temples restrict entry to non-Hindus—check locally.
• Footwear: Remove before entering temples and some homes.
• Festivals: Arrive early, follow local guidance, and keep aisles clear during processions.

Booking Tips for Peak Season

• Secure stays and trains 4–8 weeks in advance; longer for beachfront and Fort Kochi.
• Pre-book national park walks/boat safaris and New Year’s Eve dinners.
• Confirm festival schedules close to travel dates; event timings can change.

FAQs About Visiting Kerala in December

Is December a good time to visit Kerala?

Yes. Weather is generally sunny and dry, seas are calmer, and cultural events peak around Christmas and New Year. It’s one of the busiest months, so plan ahead.

Will it rain in December?

Showers are occasional, more likely in the far south early in the month. Carry a light rain jacket just in case.

Are houseboats safe in December?

Yes, conditions are typically favorable. Choose licensed operators, check safety gear, and avoid boats that play loud music or dump waste into the water.

What should I wear to a Christmas mass or festival?

Smart-casual and modest attire: covered shoulders and knees. A light shawl is handy for churches and cooler evenings in the hills.

Conclusion

With blue-sky days, festival sparkle, and welcoming waters, December casts Kerala in a golden light. Whether you’re drifting through quiet canals, tracing tea-scented hill paths, or joining the revelry in Fort Kochi, this is a month made for immersive, memory-rich travel. Plan early, travel thoughtfully, and let Kerala’s backwaters, beaches, forests, and festivals script a standout year-end escape.