From Beaches to Hills: Best Places to Visit in
December in South India
South India has breathtaking scenery, pristine beaches, hill stations, and heritage all open their doors to welcome winters when this part of India meets with the winter knock. There are fog-bound mornings in the western ghats and sun kissed beaches on the Arabian Sea, so December is the best month to see the southern beaches of India. Be it the honeymoon trip, family trip or the single trip, this is how you make your winter trip memorable with the best places to visit in December in South India which are going to leave you with the memories of a lifetime.
1. Alleppey, Kerala – Backwater Bliss
Alleppey is known as the Venice of the East and it is a dreamy escape in December. Having cooler temperatures and a clear sky, it is the best way to glide in the calm backwaters in one of the traditional houseboats. There is a refreshing breeze and golden sunsets during this season of the year that only contribute to the beauty of the town thus making it the best destination during a romantic getaway, alone trip or a family vacation. This beautiful town has coconut groves, paddy fields and busy village life. It is also among the best tourist places to visit in December in South India, particularly those ones who need a peaceful and restful place.
Things to Do in Alleppey:
- Vembanad lake houseboat cruise
- Go to Alappuzha Beach and to the lighthouse
- Visit the bird sanctuary at Kumarakom
- Go to a Kathakali show or an Ayurvedic massage
2. Ooty, Tamil Nadu – The Queen of the Nilgiris
In December, Ooty becomes a foggy paradise. It is settled in the Nilgiri Hills and provides a comfortable stay comprised of breezy air, misty mornings, and picturesque views. Around a beautiful tea garden and surrounded by towering pine forest and eucalyptus trees, Ooty is one of the most romantic and refreshing best places to visit in winter in South India to have a warm cuddle around a hearth, walk through the impeccable gardens, or simply gaze at the magnificent mountains. With its scenic charm and delightful climate, Ooty also ranks among the best sightseeing places in South India, attracting nature lovers and honeymooners alike.
Things to Do in Ooty:
- Take the Nilgiri Mountain Railway
- Take a stroll through Ooty Botanical Gardens
- Ride on boats in Ooty Lake
- Take a trip to Doddabetta Peak and Tea Museum
3. Coorg, Karnataka – The Scotland of India
The view is spectacular, with its green sceneries and coffee plantations, in December. It is a great place to take treks and leisurely walks as the cool breeze and the aroma of coffee only add to the nature of this hill station. Not only is Coorg one of the best places to visit in December in South India, but it is also one of the best places to visit for couples in India. Its calm atmosphere, comfortable weather, and romantic places make it ideal to a relaxing vacation with your loved one.
Things to Do in Coorg:
- Take a trip to Abbey Falls and Raja Seat
- Trek in Tadiandamol Peak
- Visit coffee farms
- Visit Dubare Elephant Camp
4. Andaman and Nicobar Islands – Tropical Winter Paradise
If you are looking for warm sandy beaches and crystal clear waters in winter, Andaman and Nicobar Islands will provide you with just that. Soothing and clear waters and sunny days make this archipelago one of the best places to visit in December in South India by water lovers, scuba divers, and the lovers of history. Choosing an Andaman and Nicobar holiday package would guarantee you a taste of everything; the exciting water sports in Havelock Island, the calmness in fringe beaches and heritage tours. It is one of the places where natural beauty and history blend with bucket-list activities to make it a lifetime experience.
Things to Do in Andaman:
- Scuba diving and snorkeling of Havelock Island
- Radhanagar Beach at Sunset
- Visit the Cellular jail in Port Blair
- Riding on glass bottom boats and walking on the sea
5. Pondicherry (Puducherry) – French Vibes with Coastal Charm
Pondicherry becomes festive in December as the cool winds blow and the vibes of culture cure. It has the best places to visit South India in December and one of the most recognizable locations is the rich colonial structures, the French cafes, and the spiritual settlements such as an Auroville city, which are aspects of Pondicherry that can help to cool the traveler as well as give him the experience of discovering new places. Better connectivity and availability of flights to Pondicherry ensure that this coastal retreat is now more accessible than ever before making it a perfect year end destination to combine the relaxed beach life and culture attracted to this oceanic resort.
Things to Do in Pondicherry:
- Promenade and Paradise Beach walk on the beach
- Street shopping and cafe hopping at White Town
- Tour in Auroville and Aurobindo Ashram
- Explore French churches and museums
6. Kumarakom, Kerala – Lakeside Serenity
Kumarakom is a quiet little village, set amidst palm-fringed backwaters and meandering canals. With coconut palms that sway in the breeze, luxurious paddy fields, and shimmering canals, this small village promises a close identification with nature and the typical life of Kerala. The calm beat of the backwaters, the sweet chant of exotic birds, and the smell of fresh earth after a morning rain all form a relaxing ambiance that magically attracts travelers who need restorative and relaxation. December has cool weather that is relaxing, and thus it is included among the best places to visit in winter in South India by honeymooners and bird lovers.
Things to Do in Kumarakom:
- Bird watching at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
- Ride in houseboats in Vembanad Lake
- Take a tour to Pathiramanal Island
- Experience Kerala food at a resort alongside the lakeside
7. Wayanad, Kerala – Nature Meets History
A mesmerising landscape in winter is formed by the lush forests, waterfalls and spice plantations of Wayanad. December has the perfect weather to travel and sightsee making it one of the best places to visit in December in South India. Through its endearing combination of natural splendor, cultural history, and serene resorts, it is also a tourist attraction featured in most Kerala holiday packages.
Things to Do in Wayanad:
- Visit Chembra peak and the heart shaped lake by trekking
- Visit Edakkal Caves and Banasura Sagar dam
- Go to Soochipara and Meenmutty waterfalls
- Spend your time in a treehouse resort
8. Chikmagalur, Karnataka – Coffee Land of India
Chikmagalur is known to be a winter resort having vast coffee plantations and misty hills. Located on the slopes of the Western Ghats, it is a beautiful hill station, having dense forests and panoramic scenery, with the smell of coffee hovering around coffee plantations on its outskirts. With mild winds and refreshing air, December has very good weather, making it among the best places to visit in December in South India for a calming and fragrant vacation.
Things to Do in Chikmagalur:
- Waterfall trails at Jhari and Hebbe Falls
- Coffee tasting and walks in the plantations
- Go to the Mullayanagiri Peak
- Trek to Baba Budangiri Hills
9. Kabini, Karnataka – Wild and Wonderful
Kabini provides breathtaking wildlife escapades to individuals who are in love with nature. This area is characterized by biodiversity and is positioned on the banks of Kabini River, thus forming a significant section of Nyagarhole National Park. Kabini has rich biodiversity, and mist covered forests, along with the backwaters, which makes it one of the best places to visit in South India during winter as it offers jungle experiences, photography and pronounces moments of sheer, natural beauty.
Things to Do in Kabini:
- Nagarhole tiger reserve in jungle safari
- Boat ride in Kabini River
- Nature photography and Birdwatching
- Stay at eco-luxury resorts in the forest
10. Kovalam, Kerala – The Beach Town with a Glow
Kovalam is the sun-and-sand location of Kerala with crescent beaches and calm waters. It is best to take advantage of the beach fun, surfing and wellness treatment during the winter months, as the weather is fantastic and not too warm. It is one of the best places to visit in South India in December because one can combine relaxation with water sports and enjoy Ayurveda therapies, or simply chill out along the Arabian Sea with breath-taking views of the sunset.
Things to Do in Kovalam:
- Go to Lighthouse Beach and Hawa Beach
- Go surfing and catamarans
- Have Ayurvedic massages and yoga retreats
- Lighthouse Sunset scenes
11. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu – Nature’s Gift
Kodaikanal can be characterized by cool winds and misty woods in December. Located in the upper Palani hills, hidden in mist and serene atmosphere, this beautiful hill town is also known as the princess of Hill stations. Fresh winter air only adds to the feeling of traveling through its beautiful landscapes, and it is perfect to have a quiet stroll, boating, and relaxing in hillside cottages. It is one of the best places to visit in December in South India to experience the perfect blend of serenity, natural beauty and romanticism.
Things to Do in Kodaikanal:
- Kodaikanal Lake boating
- Take a stroll at the Coaker walk
- Go to Pillar rocks and Bear Shola Falls
- Visit Pine Forests and Bryant park
12. Coonoor, Tamil Nadu – The Calm Cousin of Ooty
Coonoor is less commercial and more quaint, and fits a peaceful tea garden vacation. It is situated in the Nilgiri hills, which make a serene getaway, with early mornings of mist, low-lying hills, and coloniality. With its calm beauty, chilly weather and breathtaking views making it one of the best places to visit in December in South India. It also has a serene setting, which coupled with natural beauty and heritage value, makes one of the best places to visit in winter in South India.
Things to Do in Coonoor:
- Visit Sim’s Park and Dolphin’s Nose Viewpoint
- Travel on the Ooty Nilgiri Toy Train
- Trek through tea gardens
- Get acquainted with heritage bungalows and bakeries
Conclusion
Be it seeking tranquility, soul or scenic adventures, these are some of the best places to visit in December in South India. Backwaters, beaches, hills and heritage towns each have their own little something. Allow the chilly air in December to drive you to a winter that will never be forgotten. Each destination is a story waiting to unfold—filled with warmth, wonder, and winter charm.
Don’t just dream it—travel it. Let European Travel turn your December getaway into a beautifully crafted adventure. With handpicked experiences and hassle-free planning, they’ll make sure your winter escape is more than just a trip—it’s a memory in the making.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Is December a good time to visit South India?
Yes, December is one of the best times to visit South India. It has cool, pleasant weather which is ideal to visit beaches, hill stations and wildlife Sanctuaries. It is very good in sightseeing, nature walks, rides in house boats and adventure too. During the pleasant weather of December; one can have the best and comfortable travel experience, right from the quiet backwater of Alleppey to the chilly hills of Ooty.
2. What are some beautiful and best places to visit in December in South India?
South India has quite a number of beautiful destinations to visit in December, which include:
- Alleppey – for houseboats and backwaters
- Ooty and Kodaikanal – for scenic mountain views
- Andaman and Nicobar Islands – for crystal-clear beaches
- Coorg and Wayanad – for coffee estates and waterfalls
- Pondicherry – for French architecture and coastal charm
All these destinations are natural beauty with a signature culture touch, thus making them among the most beautiful spots to visit in South India in winter.
3. Which are the most adventurous places in South India for a December trip?
South India is the best place to go to, during December month, in case you seek thrill and adventure:
- Wayanad – trekking to Chembra Peak and exploring Edakkal Caves
- Kabini – jungle safaris and wildlife spotting
- Chikmagalur – hill treks and waterfall trails
- Andaman Islands – scuba diving, snorkeling, and sea walking
These are a few of the best adventurous hubs in South India where you can indulge in activities full of adrenaline in the cool weather of December.
4. What are the most famous hill stations in South India to visit in winter?
Known hill stations in South India are Ooty, Kodaikanal, Coorg, Coonoor and Chikmagalur because of their cold climate, beautiful sceneries and misty views.
5. Which beach destinations are ideal in South India during December?
Kovalam, Varkala, and Gokarna are some of the best places to visit in December in South India by a beach lover. It is also favourable weather, the sea is not excited and the sunsets are fabulous.
6. Are there family-friendly destinations to visit in December in South India?
Yes, Alleppey, Kumarakom, Ooty, Kodaikanal and Pondicherry are among the best places to visit in December in South India for family-friendly vacation.
One Response