December’s when South India’s just chef’s kiss—cool air, beaches glowing, and festivals making every street feel alive. From Coorg’s coffee hills to Goa’s party sands, the best places to visit in December in South India got it all. Wanna roam Hampi’s old ruins? Or find peace in Rameswaram’s temples? Maybe trek Wayanad’s green trails? Coastal spots like Pondicherry and Alleppey steal hearts, while Munnar and Ooty are cozy as heck. Weather’s 10–30°C, perfect for adventures or chilling. Pack light for coasts, sweaters for hills, and get ready for a winter trip that’ll stick with you forever.
Best Places to visit in December in South India
1. Coorg, Karnataka
Coorg is located at the eastern slopes of Weshtern Ghats . This place is often rated as one of the top hill station destinations of India. Basically it’s an affluent hill station in India. This place has a perpetually misty landscape, and a popular plantation of coffee. Coorg is best for the nature lovers who want to explore nature to its depth. The beauty of Coorg lies with the lush greenery and hills covered with coffee, spice plantations.
Coorg is the best destination for all types of people whether the peace lovers , naturelovers , adventure enthusiasts, thrillers , foodies. That’s Why this is one of the best places to visit in December in South India ‘cause it’s chilly but not freezing, perfect for hiking or slurping spicy Kodava curry. The locals’ warmth makes it feel like home.
How to Reach: Fly to Mangalore (140 km) or Bangalore (260 km), then grab a cab or bus. Mysore’s train station (120 km) is your closest bet.
Weather: 15–25°C, crisp with foggy mornings.
Things to Do: Chase Abbey Falls’ splash, hike Tadiandamol’s trails, snoop through coffee fields, or raft Barapole’s wild waters.
Why Visit: It’s where you ditch city noise for nature’s quiet.
Travel Tip: Homestays get snatched up fast in December—book now.
2. Munnar, Kerala
Munnar is a popular hill station in God’s own country, Kerala. This is one of most popular destination for honeymoon couples in India. Here, we’ve listed some popular tourist places of Munnar, Kerala. Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Pothamedu View Point, Munnar Rose Garden, Tea Museum.
How to Reach: Fly to Cochin (110 km) or train to Aluva (100 km), then hop a taxi or bus.
Weather: 10–20°C, chilly with mist that hugs the hills.
Things to Do: Visit Eravikulam National Park, explore tea museums, trek to Anamudi Peak, and enjoy boating at Mattupetty Dam.
Why Visit: Munnar’s serene landscapes and biodiversity offer a peaceful escape.
Travel Tip: Carry warm clothing for chilly evenings.
3. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Ooty is a hill station in South India like no other, Ooty is also known as the ‘Queen of the Hills’. December brings a festive chill to Ooty, making it one of the best places to visit in December in South India. The high mountains covered with clouds, dense forests, grasslands and lakes and waterfalls add to the beauty of Ooty. In Ooty, you can explore wonderful places like Ooty Lake, Botanical Garden, Rose Garden, Doddabetta Peak and Pykara Waterfall. Apart from this, you can enjoy the toy train running in the mountains of Ooty.
How to Reach: Fly to Coimbatore (85 km) or train to Mettupalayam (40 km) for the toy train ride.
Weather: 5–15°C, cold with fog that sneaks in.
Things to Do: Explore Ooty Lake, visit Doddabetta Peak, stroll through the Rose Garden, and ride the Nilgiri toy train.
Why Visit: Ooty’s scenic beauty and tranquil vibe are ideal for families and couples.
Travel Tip: Pack an umbrella—rain can crash the party.
4. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Kodaikanal, the “Princess of Hill Stations,” is a serene retreat in Tamil Nadu, famous for its misty hills, and lakes. Kodaikanal’s crisp December weather enhances its romantic and peaceful ambiance, perfect for honeymooners and nature enthusiasts. Winter in Kodaikanal also brings seasonal blooms to Bryant Park, making it perfect for nature walks and photography. Travellers who want to get away amongst the cool hills then this is the Best Places to Visit in December in South India, the atmosphere of the holiday, along with pretty cottages.
How to Reach: Fly to Madurai (120 km) or train to Kodai Road (80 km), then cab or bus.
Weather: 8–18°C, cool with misty mornings.
Things to Do: Boat on Kodaikanal Lake, trek Dolphin’s Nose, gape at Pillar Rocks, or bike Coaker’s Walk.
Why Visit: It’s a quiet spot to hit reset.
Travel Tip: Ditch plastic to keep Kodai green.
5. Hampi, Karnataka
Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a historic marvel in Karnataka, known for its ancient ruins, temples, and boulder-strewn landscapes. he whole area is dotted with ancient temples built during the golden era of the Vijayanagar Empire. Stroll through the Vijayanagar Empire’s stunning monuments, like the Virupaksha Temple and Vittala Temple. Climb Matanga Hill for sunrise views and explore the royal Elephant Stables. With its unique boulder-strewn landscapes and historical treasures, Hampi offers a fascinating blend of history, culture, and spirituality, making it one best places to visit in December in South India in winter.
How to Reach: Fly to Hubli (140 km) or train to Hospet (13 km), then grab an auto or cab.
Weather: 15–28°C, warm and dry as a bone.
Things to Do: xplore Virupaksha Temple, visit Vittala Temple’s stone chariot, climb Matanga Hill, and enjoy coracle rides on the Tungabhadra River.
Why Visit: Hampi’s rich history and surreal landscapes captivate history buffs and photographers.
Travel Tip: Hire a local guide to understand Hampi’s historical significance.
6. Pondicherry
Pondicherry, with its French colonial charm and spiritual aura, is a delightful coastal town, that making it perfect to explore the French-inspired architecture and serene beaches. The lovely side streets of the French Quarter are filled with cafes and boutique shops. Auroville is another must-visit, known for its peace and unique community. December is also a festive month here, with Christmas celebrations that add a lively charm to Pondicherry, making it a captivating December destination in South India.
How to Reach: Fly to Chennai (150 km) or train to Villupuram (40 km), then cab or bus.
Weather: 20–28°C, warm with salty air.
Things to Do: Stroll Promenade Beach, hit Aurobindo Ashram, wander French streets, or chill at Auroville.
Why Visit: Pondicherry’s unique blend of cultures and serene beaches offers a refreshing getaway.
Travel Tip: Rent a scooter to explore the town comfortably.
7. Wayanad, Kerala
As one of the best places to visit in Kerala, Wayanad in December is a nature lover’s paradise as it has the perfect climate where greenery, soothing temperatures, and the presence of numerous animals. Wayanad offers pristine wildlife sanctuaries like Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot elephants and deer. While visiting one of the beautiful places in Kerala in December, take the time to see the Edakkal Caves with their petroglyphs and hike Chembra Peak for a view that includes a lake in the shape of a heart.
Wayanad also has many waterfalls such as Soochipara and Meenmutty. Winter’s refreshing climate enhances Wayanad’s natural beauty, making it one of the best places to visit in December in South India.
How to Reach: Fly to Kozhikode (100 km) or train to Kozhikode, then taxi or bus.
Weather: 15–24°C, fresh with morning mist.
Things to Do: CVisit Edakkal Caves, explore Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, trek to Chembra Peak, and see Soochipara Falls.
Why Visit: IWayanad’s untouched beauty and adventure opportunities are ideal for nature lovers.
Travel Tip: Carry insect repellent for forest treks.
Also Read: 15 Best Places to Visit in Monsoon for Couples [2025]
8. Gokarna, Karnataka
If you are planning to visit a beautiful and charming place in Karnataka in December, then you should reach Gokarna. Gokarna, located on the coast of the Arabian Sea, that acn may be make your trip even more beautiful.It is said about Gokarna that even Goa seems pale in front of its beauty. In Gokarna, you can explore wonderful places like Gokarna Beach, Lalguli Waterfall, Om Beach, Mahabaleshwar Temple and Yana Caves. Here you can enjoy adventure activities only. In December, the temperature of Gokarna remains between 22-32 °C.
How to Reach: Fly to Goa (150 km) or train to Gokarna Road, then auto or cab.
Weather: 20–30°C, sunny and warm.
Things to Do: Relax at Om Beach, visit Mahabaleshwar Temple, trek to Paradise Beach, and enjoy beachside cafes.
Why Visit: It’s peace with a sacred spark.
Travel Tip: Respect local customs when visiting temples.
9. Alleppey, Kerala
Alleppey’s backwaters are a maze of canals and palms—like a dream you don’t wanna wake from. Alleppey is most known as a honeymoon destination. That is why thousands of couples come here every year to visit. Alleppey is also known for its beauty as well as enchanting beaches. Here you can explore Alappuzha Beach, Marari Beach and Thampoli Beach. The temperature of Alleppey in December remains around 20-30 °C.
How to Reach: Fly to Cochin (75 km) or train to Alappuzha, then taxi or auto.
Weather: 22–30°C, balmy and sweet.
Things to Do: Cruise the backwaters, visit Alleppey Beach, explore Krishnapuram Palace, and attend local festivals.
Why Visit: Alleppey’s unique backwater experience is unforgettable and relaxing.
Travel Tip: Book houseboats early for cheap rates.
FAQs
- When’s the best time to hit South India?
December’s perfect—cool, comfy (10–30°C), great for beaches or treks. - Safe to travel solo?
Yup, spots like Goa and Munnar are super welcoming. Just stay sharp. - What do I pack for December?
Light stuff for coasts, sweaters for hills, and good shoes for walking. - Where’s the food scene at?
Hyderabad’s biryani, Madurai’s snacks, Kochi’s fish—my mouth’s watering already. - Can I do it on a budget?
Totally—Gokarna, Hampi, Yercaud have cheap stays and eats. - Easy to fly there?
Bangalore, Hyderabad have airports. Smaller spots use nearby ones like Cochin. - Any secret spots?
Chikmagalur, Yercaud, Gokarna—quiet, gorgeous, no tourist mobs.
Conclusion
South India in December is a treasure trove of experiences, from the misty hills of Munnar and Coorg to the sun-soaked beaches of Goa and Gokarna. Whether you’re a history buff exploring Hampi’s ruins, a spiritual seeker visiting Rameswaram, or a nature lover trekking in Wayanad, the best places to visit in December in South India cater to every traveler’s taste. The pleasant weather, vibrant festivals, and diverse landscapes make it an ideal time to explore this region. Plan your trip, pack wisely, and immerse yourself in the rich culture and natural beauty of South India’s winter charm!
