Do you know which month is one of the best ones to visit and explore South India like never before? Yes, it’s none other than December! This is when the climate becomes cool and pleasant, and all the places to visit in December in South India become more beautiful and vivid. Be it the serene backwaters of Kerala, the ancient temples of Tamil Nadu or the green hills of Coorg and Ooty, everything looks fresh and green after the rains. It is the ideal season for road trips, beach walks, along nature stays. That being said, grab your bags and get ready to visit the most beautiful destinations in South India this December and have the best winter holiday ever!
Top 15 Places to Visit in December in South India
Explore these five amazing destinations that look their best during winter. These places to visit in December in South India are ideal for a peaceful holiday as the weather during this time is cool, the skies are clear, and the scenery is picture-perfect.
1. Coorg, Karnataka
The 'Scotland of India', Coorg has a certain magic about it in the month of December. The weather is cool and ranges between 10°C to 25°C, which makes it perfect for nature walks and coffee plantation tours. Mist rolls over the hills early in the mornings, and one can smell freshly brewed coffee wafting through the air. Abbey Falls, Dubare Elephant Camp and Raja's Seat are especially a sight to watch this time. The calm weather and scenic drive make Coorg one of the top places to visit in December in South India and a great winter getaway.
Location: Madikeri, Kodagu District, Karnataka
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fees: No entry fee for the region
2. Munnar, Kerala
Munnar is a land of dreams in the month of December. The temperature ranges from 10 to 15°C, which provides the ideal condition to explore the tea gardens, rolling hills and quiet valleys. Eravikulam National Park opens its gates, and you can see the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Early morning mist, stunning view at Top Station. The winter chill makes it ideal among the list of places in South India to visit in December for honeymooners and photography lovers. Every turn of the road leads to a new postcard-perfect scene.
Location: Idukki District, Kerala
Timings: Most attractions open from 6 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fees: Many free spots; parks charge ₹20-₹200 per person
3. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
December is one of the best times to visit Ooty when it's pleasant with misty weather and a cool breeze. The temperature during the day remains at 20°C and drops to about 8°C at night. You can enjoy a serene boat ride on the Ooty Lake, ride the Nilgiri Mountain Railway or visit the Botanical Gardens or other places to visit in Ooty. The hills have put up a fresh layer of green from the monsoon rains, and the climate will feel crisp. Ooty's calm atmosphere attracts the attention of families and couples alike and makes it one of the best places in South India to visit in December
Location: Nilgiris District, Tamil Nadu
Timings: Most viewpoints open from 8 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fees: ₹10-₹50 for parks and boating areas
4. Alleppey, Kerala
In December, the backwaters of Alleppey turn still and sparkling under clear skies. The cool, soothing temperature ranges from 20°C to 30°C and is ideal for houseboat stays and canoe rides. The canals are lined with coconut trees, and each turn brings a picture-postcard view into sight. Most tourists do not miss the evenings with sunset cruises or overnight houseboat tours across Vembanad Lake. The aroma of fresh seafood and the ripples across the water make it a favourite among the list of places to visit in South India during December for anyone who loves slow, peaceful travel.
Location: Alappuzha District, Kerala
Timings: Houseboats operate from 10 AM to 5 PM; overnight stays available
Entry Fees: Houseboat rent starts from ₹5,000 per night
5. Pondicherry
Pondicherry is best enjoyed in December when the weather is pleasant, with the temperature remaining around 23-28°C. The cool sea breeze makes it one of the best places to visit in South India during December for beach walks and cycling through French-style streets. The city glows with lights during Christmas and New Year celebrations. You can explore Auroville, relax at Paradise Beach or sip coffee at a seaside café. Thanks to the mix of Tamil and French culture that adds a unique charm, contributing a unique charm to every nook and corner. This makes Pondicherry one of the top places to visit in December in South India for winter getaways.
Location: Puducherry, Tamil Nadu Coast
Timings: Open all day; beaches are best from sunrise to sunset
Entry Fees: No city entry fee; small charges for museums
6. Wayanad, Kerala
Wayanad Tour Packages lets you explore Wayanad at its best when it is fresh and green in December, with cool temperatures between 18°C and 25°C. The misty hills, waterfalls and forest trails make it perfect for nature lovers. You can trek to Chembra Peak, visit Edakkal Caves or spot elephants at Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. Tea gardens spread across the hills look beautiful under winter sunlight. The calm weather and light fog add a dreamy touch, making Wayanad among Kerala's best winter destinations. That must be a reason why it is among the best places to visit in December in South India for nature seekers.
Location: Wayanad District, Kerala
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM for most attractions
Entry Fees: ₹20-₹200 for parks and sanctuaries
7. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
At about 8°C to 20°C, Kodaikanal Lake is serene during December with cool weather. Misty valleys, waterfalls and forest trails dot the town. You can enjoy boating on Kodaikanal Lake, walk through pine forests or visit the famous Pillar Rocks viewpoint. The streets smell of homemade chocolates; mornings are fresh and quiet. It is a nice place for honeymooners or anyone who wants a calm holiday away from city noise. For travellers exploring places to visit in December in South India, Kodaikanal should not be missed in their list.
Location: Dindigul District, Tamil Nadu
Timings: 7 AM to 7 PM for major sites
Entry Fees: ₹20-₹100 depending on attraction
8. Gokarna, Karnataka
A trip to Gokarna is perfect in December, if you love beaches and you are seeking a quieter vibe than Goa. The temperature during this period typically ranges from 20°C to 30°C and thus is ideal for swimming, yoga and sunsets. Om Beach and Kudle Beach are clean, calm and not as crowded. You can visit the Mahabaleshwar Temple or simply enjoy beach cafes serving up fresh seafood. Gokarna's mix of spirituality and laid-back beach life makes for a very peaceful winter getaway. Among the many places to visit in December in South India, Gokarna stands out because of its natural calmness.
Location: Uttara Kannada District, Karnataka
Timings: Beaches open all day; temples 6 AM to 8 PM
Entry Fees: Free entry to beaches; temples are free or donation-based
9. Hampi, Karnataka
Hampi sparks into life in December, when the temperature ranges from 15°C to 28°C. The UNESCO World Heritage site comprises ancient ruins, stone temples and rocky hills. There are plenty of things to do in Hampi, for example, you can explore Virupaksha Temple, climb up Matanga Hill for sunset or take a walk through the old bazaar streets. The cool breeze and golden sunlight make sightseeing easy and comfortable. Hampi combines history with adventure, appealing to travellers and photographers alike worldwide. This ancient town deserves a place among the best places to visit in December in South India.
Location: Vijayanagara District, Karnataka
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fees: ₹40 for Indians, ₹600 for foreigners (at main monuments)
10. Araku Valley, Andhra Pradesh
Araku Valley, located near Visakhapatnam, should not be missed as part of your December South India itinerary. The weather stays between 14°C and 22°C during this period, which is apt for a scenic train ride or a coffee estate tour. Among the things to do in Araku Valley, you can go for a visit to the Borra Caves, tribal art at the local museum or simply cuddle up amidst emerald hills. The valley does look extra beautiful at times after sunrise when the mist covers the forests. Its charm is something travellers looking for peaceful places to visit in December in South India would just love.
Location: Visakhapatnam District, Andhra Pradesh
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fees: Free; Borra Caves ₹40 for adults
11. Yercaud, Tamil Nadu
Yercaud in the Shevaroy Hills is serene and beautiful in December, keeping the temperatures between 13°C and 25°C. The perfect tranquil weather outdoors allows visitors to go on an exploration spree to explore the places to visit in Yercaud, such as Yercaud Lake, the vantage point of Lady’s Seat and Kiliyur Falls. The orange groves and the coffee estates do their part to add colour to the landscape. Unlike other hill stations, Yercaud is quiet and less crowded, making it apt for slow travel. In such cool evenings and foggy mornings, Yercaud is one of the best places to visit in South India in December for relaxation.
Location: Salem District, Tamil Nadu
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fees: Most attractions are free; small fees for boating and viewpoints
12. Varkala, Kerala
Varkala is a picturesque coastal town famous for its high cliffs that face the blue Arabian Sea. In December, the weather is pleasant, at 22°C to 30°C and the sunsets look really magical from the cliff cafes. You can swim, surf or just sit by the beach and watch the waves. The Papanasam Beach and Janardhana Swamy Temple are popular among the places to visit in Varkala. Calm air, clean beaches and fewer crowds make Varkala one of the most peaceful places to visit in December in South India.
Location: Thiruvananthapuram District, Kerala
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fees: Free entry to beaches and viewpoints
13. Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu
Mahabalipuram or Mamallapuram is a UNESCO World Heritage site with its rock temples and carvings from ancient times. In December, the weather cools down to 20°C-27°C, which is ideal for exploring the places to visit in Mahabalipuram along the seashore, such as Shore Temple and Arjuna's Penance. The sea breeze adds to the charm while one walks along the beach or tries fresh seafood at nearby cafes. This calm, historical spot should top the list of places to visit in December in South India for lovers of culture and photography.
Location: Chengalpattu District, Tamil Nadu
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fees: ₹40 for Indians, ₹600 for foreigners
14. Marayoor, Kerala
Marayoor is basically a secluded spot near Munnar, famous for its sandalwood forests and cane farms. During December, the weather ranges from 15°C to 25°C, therefore considered pleasant for sightseeing. You can see the ancient dolmens, take a walk along the forest trails and even visit the Marayoor Sandalwood Factory. This place is tranquil and full of greenery; quiet and peaceful, away from hustle-bustle. This destination, being quite offbeat, is among the best places to visit in Kerala you can pay a visit to in December if you are a nature lover or an explorer.
Location: Idukki District, Kerala
Timings: 7 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fees: Free entry
15. Yelagiri, Tamil Nadu
Small and serene, the hill station of Yelagiri is surrounded by orchards and a rose garden. During the month of December, the temperature ranges from 12 to 25°C, perfect for trekking and boating in the Punganur Lake. The Swamimalai Hills present a lovely view of the valley below. The slow pace of life and fresh mountain air will attract travellers who are searching for peace. If you are seeking for hill stations near OOt a quick weekend getaway, away from noise and chaos, Yelagiri happens to be an amazing option for places to visit in December in South India.
Location: Tirupattur District, Tamil Nadu
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fees: Free entry; boating ₹20-₹50
Conclusion
December turns South India into a land full of magic. The misty hills, quiet beaches and green valleys under clear blue skies make these places more beautiful and breathtaking than ever. Each one of the places to visit in December in South India have something that makes it stand apart- be it the coffee scent of Coorg, the silence of the backwaters of Alleppey or the antique beauty of Hampi. With the pleasant climate, travelling becomes easy and comfortable in December. Therefore, if you are planning for a winter trip, then pack your bags and explore these beautiful places in South India to have a holiday that you will never forget.
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