Kerala in December: Weather, Climate, Festivals, Things to Do, Advantages, Disadvantages and FAQs
December is one of the most enjoyable months to visit Kerala. The heavy monsoon has generally moved away, the weather becomes more comfortable, the skies are often clearer, and the state’s beaches, hill stations, backwaters and wildlife destinations become especially attractive.
But December in Kerala is not exactly the same everywhere.
The cool mountain air of Munnar is very different from the warm evenings of Kochi or the tropical climate of Kovalam. Northern Kerala has its own cultural calendar, while places such as Fort Kochi become lively with Christmas and New Year celebrations.
For travellers looking for a combination of pleasant weather, sightseeing, nature, beaches, backwaters, food and cultural experiences, December is one of the strongest months to consider.
Kerala Tourism describes December, January and February as generally pleasant and cool, although Kerala does not experience a traditional winter like northern India. Coastal and lowland areas remain relatively warm, while temperatures can fall considerably in the Western Ghats.
Why Visit Kerala in December?
December is popular because it offers a good balance between weather and sightseeing.
You can start your morning among the tea plantations of Munnar, spend an afternoon travelling through Kerala’s countryside, enjoy an evening on an Alleppey houseboat and finish your trip by relaxing on a beach in Kovalam.
The month is also special because Kerala enters the festive season.
Christmas decorations appear across towns and villages, churches conduct special services, streets are illuminated, bakeries prepare Christmas cakes and families gather for celebrations. In Fort Kochi, the famous Cochin Carnival brings additional colour to the final weeks of December and continues into New Year.
For many travellers, this combination of comfortable weather and festive atmosphere is what makes December particularly appealing.
Kerala Weather in December
Kerala has a tropical climate, so it is important not to expect the cold winter weather associated with places such as Delhi, Shimla or Kashmir.
Instead, December brings a more comfortable version of Kerala’s tropical climate.
The state has two major rainy seasons, with the southwest monsoon generally occurring from June/July and the northeast monsoon mainly affecting October and November. December therefore usually falls into a comparatively drier and more pleasant period.
Coastal Kerala
Places such as:
- Kochi
- Alleppey
- Kumarakom
- Kovalam
- Varkala
- Thiruvananthapuram
remain warm during the day.
The mornings and evenings are usually comfortable, while afternoons can still feel tropical.
For example, long-term IMD climate data for Thiruvananthapuram shows an average December maximum of around 32°C and minimum of around 22.6°C.
So, if you are visiting the Kerala coast in December, light cotton clothing is normally sufficient.
Munnar and the High Ranges
Munnar is a completely different experience.
Located high in the Western Ghats, Munnar enjoys a considerably cooler climate. Early mornings and nights can be genuinely cold, especially for travellers accustomed to the warmer coastal climate.
Kerala Tourism notes that high-altitude areas such as Munnar can experience very low winter temperatures, sometimes even approaching or falling below freezing.
Munnar’s surrounding high-altitude areas are particularly attractive in December because of the cool air, misty mornings and scenic tea-covered hills.
Pack a light jacket, sweater or warm layer if Munnar is part of your itinerary.
Thekkady
Thekkady is also cooler than the coastal areas because of its elevation and forested landscape.
December is a good time for:
- Wildlife experiences
- Nature walks
- Spice plantation visits
- Boating
- Scenic drives
- Exploring the Western Ghats
Early mornings and evenings can feel cool, so carrying a light jacket is recommended.
Alleppey and Kumarakom
The backwater region remains pleasantly tropical.
December is particularly attractive for a houseboat stay because you can spend several hours cruising through canals, villages, paddy fields and waterways without the intense heat associated with some summer days.
Kovalam and Varkala
For beach lovers, December is one of the most comfortable periods.
The weather is generally suitable for:
- Beach walks
- Relaxing by the sea
- Sunset views
- Swimming, subject to local sea conditions
- Ayurveda and wellness experiences
- Exploring nearby attractions
Is December a Good Time to Visit Kerala?
Yes. December is one of the best months to visit Kerala for most travellers.
Kerala Tourism itself identifies November to February as the peak period with pleasant weather.
However, the answer depends on what you want from the trip.
If your priority is:
Pleasant weather: December is excellent.
Munnar and hill stations: Excellent.
Beaches: Excellent.
Houseboat experience: Excellent.
Family holidays: Excellent.
Honeymoon: Excellent.
Christmas celebrations: Excellent.
New Year celebrations: Excellent.
Budget travel: December is less attractive because demand can push up hotel and travel prices.
Avoiding crowds: The first half of December may be easier than Christmas-New Year week.
December Festivals and Celebrations in Kerala
One of the biggest advantages of visiting Kerala in December is the opportunity to experience the state’s cultural and religious diversity.
1. Christmas in Kerala
Christmas is celebrated with great enthusiasm throughout Kerala.
You will see:
- Christmas stars hanging outside homes
- Illuminated streets
- Decorated churches
- Christmas trees
- Special church services
- Christmas cakes
- Family gatherings
- Carol singing
- Festive food
- Community celebrations
Kerala’s Christmas atmosphere is particularly beautiful in places with historic Christian communities such as Kochi, Kottayam, Ernakulam and parts of central Kerala.
Kerala Tourism describes December as a time when houses and streets are decorated with lights and stars and Christmas celebrations continue into the New Year period.
Why is Christmas in Kerala special?
It is not simply a religious celebration.
The festive atmosphere extends across communities, with families, restaurants, hotels, shopping areas and tourist destinations participating in the season.
For visitors, it is an opportunity to experience Kerala beyond its usual beaches and backwaters.
2. Cochin Carnival
If you are visiting Kochi during the final weeks of December, the Cochin Carnival in Fort Kochi can be one of the highlights of your trip.
The carnival is held during the latter part of December and culminates around New Year.
Activities associated with the carnival include:
- Cultural performances
- Music
- Food festivals
- Beach activities
- Sports
- Cycling
- Rallies
- Traditional arts
- Competitions
- Street decorations
- New Year celebrations
The famous burning of the giant Pappanji at midnight on December 31 is one of the carnival’s signature traditions, followed by the colourful New Year rally.
Why should tourists visit Fort Kochi during the carnival?
Because Fort Kochi already has a unique character.
Add colonial-era streets, Chinese fishing nets, old churches, cafés, art spaces, Christmas decorations and carnival celebrations, and the area becomes particularly lively during the final days of the year.
If you want to attend the New Year celebrations, book accommodation and transport well in advance.
3. Vaikathashtami
Vaikathashtami is an important temple festival associated with the Vaikom Mahadeva Temple in Kottayam.
The festival is known for:
- Temple rituals
- Processions
- Decorated elephants
- Traditional percussion music
- Cultural performances
- Large gatherings of devotees
For 2026, Kerala Tourism’s event calendar lists Vaikathashtami on 1 December 2026, although festival dates connected with traditional calendars should always be reconfirmed locally.
This is particularly interesting for travellers who want to experience Kerala’s temple traditions rather than simply visiting conventional tourist attractions.
4. Puthari Thiruvappana
Northern Kerala offers a completely different cultural experience.
Puthari Thiruvappana is celebrated at the Parassinikadavu Sree Muthappan Temple in Kannur.
The festival is associated with the harvest and features traditional rituals and Theyyam performances.
Kerala Tourism lists the 2026 festival for 2 December, while also noting that traditional festival dates can be subject to local customs.
For travellers interested in authentic Kerala culture, Kannur and the surrounding Malabar region can be especially rewarding in December.
5. Theyyam Season Begins in Northern Kerala
December is also significant for travellers interested in Theyyam.
Theyyam is one of Kerala’s most distinctive ritual art traditions and is particularly associated with the northern districts.
The performances combine:
- Elaborate costumes
- Face painting
- Traditional music
- Dance
- Rituals
- Local mythology
- Community traditions
Kerala Tourism notes that Theyyam festivals generally commence around December and continue into February.
If your main interest is cultural tourism, consider adding Kannur or Kasaragod instead of following only the traditional Kochi-Munnar-Alleppey-Kovalam route.
6. Sabarimala Pilgrimage Season
December is also part of the major Sabarimala pilgrimage season.
The pilgrimage season primarily runs from November to mid-January, with Mandalapooja and Makaravilakku being the major events of the season.
This has an important practical implication for tourists.
Some roads and destinations in central Kerala can experience considerably heavier traffic during the pilgrimage season, particularly around routes associated with Pathanamthitta, Pamba and Erumeli.
If you are planning a leisure holiday through Kerala during December, your travel operator should consider pilgrimage-related traffic while planning driving times.
Best Places to Visit in Kerala in December
Munnar
Munnar should be high on the list for anyone visiting Kerala in December.
Highlights include:
- Tea plantations
- Mattupetty Dam
- Echo Point
- Top Station
- Tea Museum
- Waterfalls
- Scenic mountain roads
- Wildlife and nature experiences
Munnar’s elevation gives it a cooler climate than the rest of Kerala, making it especially attractive during December.
Thekkady
Thekkady is ideal for travellers who enjoy nature and wildlife.
Popular experiences include:
- Periyar Lake boating
- Wildlife experiences
- Spice plantations
- Nature walks
- Local cultural activities
- Forest surroundings
December’s cooler conditions can make outdoor activities more comfortable.
Alleppey
Alleppey is synonymous with Kerala’s famous backwaters.
A December trip can include:
- Private houseboat stay
- Backwater cruising
- Village views
- Paddy fields
- Traditional Kerala food
- Sunrise and sunset views
For couples and families, an overnight houseboat can be one of the most memorable parts of a Kerala holiday.
Kumarakom
Kumarakom offers a more relaxed backwater experience.
It is suitable for travellers looking for:
- Luxury resorts
- Backwaters
- Birdwatching
- Ayurveda
- Peaceful surroundings
- Romantic stays
Kochi
Kochi combines history, culture and modern Kerala.
Don’t miss:
- Fort Kochi
- Chinese fishing nets
- St. Francis Church
- Mattancherry
- Jew Town
- Mattancherry Palace
- Local cafés
- Art galleries
- Harbour areas
December becomes even more interesting because of Christmas and Cochin Carnival activities.
Kovalam
Kovalam is ideal for ending a Kerala holiday.
After several days of sightseeing through the hills and backwaters, spending two nights near the beach can provide a much slower and more relaxed finish.
Varkala
Varkala is another excellent option for December.
The cliff overlooking the Arabian Sea gives the destination a distinctive character.
It is particularly suitable for:
- Couples
- Backpackers
- Wellness travellers
- Beach lovers
- Long-stay travellers
Advantages of Visiting Kerala in December
1. Pleasant Weather
The biggest advantage is the weather.
December avoids the peak heat of the hotter months while generally offering more comfortable sightseeing conditions.
2. Excellent for Family Holidays
Families can comfortably combine hill stations, wildlife, backwaters and beaches.
Children usually enjoy the variety because Kerala is not a destination based around only one type of attraction.
3. Great for Honeymoons
December is particularly attractive for honeymooners.
A combination such as:
Munnar + Thekkady + Alleppey + Kovalam
offers mountains, nature, a houseboat and beaches within one holiday.
4. Excellent for Houseboats
The backwaters are particularly enjoyable when the weather is comfortable.
You can spend more time outside on the deck instead of avoiding rain or excessive heat.
5. Christmas and New Year Atmosphere
If you enjoy festive travel, December provides something that other months cannot offer in the same way.
Christmas decorations and New Year celebrations add a different personality to destinations such as Kochi and Fort Kochi.
6. Good Outdoor Conditions
December is suitable for activities such as:
- Sightseeing
- Trekking
- Nature walks
- Wildlife experiences
- Plantation visits
- Photography
- Beach walks
- Backwater cruises
7. Green Landscapes
Even after the main monsoon period, Kerala retains much of its lush tropical character.
The combination of greenery, hills, waterways and relatively pleasant weather makes December particularly photogenic.
Disadvantages of Visiting Kerala in December
December is excellent, but it is not perfect.
1. Higher Prices
December is a peak travel period.
Hotels, resorts, houseboats and transportation can become more expensive, particularly around:
20 December to 5 January
Christmas and New Year dates can attract especially strong demand.
2. More Crowds
Popular attractions can become busy.
Expect more tourists at:
- Munnar
- Alleppey
- Thekkady
- Kovalam
- Fort Kochi
- Popular beaches
New Year celebrations can be particularly crowded.
3. Advance Booking Is Important
Last-minute bookings can become difficult during the Christmas-New Year period.
For families and larger groups, advance planning is strongly recommended.
4. Traffic Can Be Heavy
December is a busy tourism month.
Road traffic can increase around major tourist destinations, airports and cities.
Sabarimala pilgrimage traffic can also affect travel times in parts of central Kerala.
Therefore, a route that looks short on a map can sometimes take considerably longer than expected.
5. Munnar Can Be Very Cold for Some Travellers
People often assume Kerala is always hot.
That is not true in the high ranges.
Munnar and other Western Ghats destinations can become quite cold at night, and some high-altitude locations can experience very low temperatures.
Carry warm clothing if your itinerary includes the mountains.
What to Pack for Kerala in December
A practical packing list would include:
- Lightweight cotton clothes
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sandals
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Hat or cap
- Light jacket
- Sweater for Munnar
- Personal medicines
- Mosquito repellent
- Small umbrella
- Power bank
- Reusable water bottle
- Swimwear if staying at beach resorts
- Modest clothing for temples and religious sites
If you are travelling to Munnar, Thekkady or other high-altitude areas, add an extra warm layer.
Is Kerala in December Good for Honeymoon Couples?
Yes.
December is one of the most popular periods for Kerala honeymoon holidays because couples can combine several experiences without spending the entire holiday in one environment.
A typical honeymoon route could be:
2 Nights Munnar → 1 Night Thekkady → 1 Night Alleppey Houseboat → 2 Nights Kovalam
This gives couples:
- Mountain views
- Tea plantations
- Nature
- Wildlife
- A private houseboat experience
- Beaches
- Relaxation
For couples who prefer luxury, Kumarakom or a premium backwater resort can replace or complement the houseboat.
Is Kerala in December Good for Families?
Yes.
Families can choose a slower itinerary rather than trying to cover too many places.
For example:
Kochi → Munnar → Thekkady → Alleppey → Kovalam
works well for a first Kerala holiday.
Families with young children should avoid overly aggressive itineraries involving long daily drives.
It is usually better to spend two nights in major destinations than to change hotels every day.
Is December Good for a Kerala Houseboat?
Yes.
December is among the most popular periods for houseboat holidays.
However, demand is high.
If you specifically want a private houseboat, don’t wait until the last few days to book.
When comparing houseboats, check:
- Boat category
- Number of bedrooms
- Air-conditioning timings
- Meals included
- Check-in and check-out timings
- Cruise duration
- Route
- Safety arrangements
- Reviews
- Whether the boat is private or shared
Is Kerala Expensive in December?
It can be.
Kerala itself does not suddenly become expensive everywhere, but peak-season demand can increase the cost of accommodation and certain travel services.
The biggest price differences are usually noticeable around:
- Christmas
- New Year
- Premium resorts
- Luxury houseboats
- Popular beach destinations
- High-demand Munnar hotels
If budget is important, travelling in the first half of December can be more manageable than travelling around Christmas and New Year.
Should You Visit Kerala Before Christmas or During Christmas?
This depends on your priority.
Travel before Christmas
Better if you want:
- More manageable crowds
- Potentially better hotel availability
- A quieter holiday
- More flexibility in accommodation
Travel during Christmas
Better if you want:
- Christmas decorations
- Church celebrations
- Festive food
- Christmas atmosphere
- Cultural experiences
Travel around New Year
Better if you specifically want:
- Parties
- Fort Kochi celebrations
- Cochin Carnival
- Beach events
- New Year atmosphere
But this is also one of the busiest periods.
Kerala in December: Who Should Visit?
December is particularly suitable for:
Families: Excellent
Honeymoon couples: Excellent
Senior travellers: Good, provided the itinerary is comfortable
Nature lovers: Excellent
Beach lovers: Excellent
Wildlife enthusiasts: Excellent
Photography lovers: Excellent
Luxury travellers: Excellent, but book early
Budget travellers: Good if travelling early in December and booking ahead
Culture enthusiasts: Excellent, particularly if the itinerary includes Kochi, Kannur or temple festivals
Frequently Asked Questions About Kerala in December
1. Is December the best month to visit Kerala?
December is one of the best months, particularly for travellers who prefer comfortable weather and outdoor sightseeing. Kerala Tourism identifies November to February as the peak period because of pleasant weather.
However, “best” depends on your priorities. December is excellent for weather and sightseeing but not necessarily the cheapest month.
2. Does it rain in Kerala in December?
Rain is possible because Kerala is tropical, but December is generally considerably drier than the main monsoon periods.
Some locations can still experience occasional rainfall, so carrying a compact umbrella is sensible.
3. Is Kerala cold in December?
Most of Kerala is not cold.
Coastal destinations such as Kochi, Alleppey and Kovalam remain warm.
Munnar and other high-altitude locations are much cooler, particularly early in the morning and after sunset. Kerala Tourism notes that some high-range areas can even experience freezing temperatures.
4. What is the temperature in Kerala in December?
There is no single temperature for the whole state.
Coastal Kerala generally remains warm, while hill stations are much cooler.
As an example, long-term IMD data for Thiruvananthapuram shows an average December maximum of about 32°C and minimum of about 22.6°C.
Munnar can be significantly colder.
5. Is Munnar cold in December?
Yes.
Munnar is one of the coldest popular tourist destinations in Kerala during December.
Early mornings and nights can be quite chilly, so pack a sweater or jacket.
6. Should I carry woollen clothes to Kerala?
Carry light woollen or warm clothing if you are visiting Munnar, Wayanad, Vagamon or other high-altitude areas.
For Kochi, Alleppey and Kovalam, heavy winter clothing is generally unnecessary.
7. Is December good for a Kerala honeymoon?
Yes.
December offers pleasant conditions for a combination of Munnar, Thekkady, Alleppey and Kovalam.
It is particularly attractive for couples who want both cool mountain weather and warm beach weather in the same holiday.
8. Is December good for a family trip to Kerala?
Yes.
The weather is generally comfortable for sightseeing, and families can enjoy hill stations, wildlife, backwaters and beaches during one trip.
For families with young children, avoid packing too many destinations into a short itinerary.
9. Is Alleppey houseboat available in December?
Yes, but December is a high-demand period.
Private houseboats and better-quality boats can get booked well in advance, especially around Christmas and New Year.
10. Is Kerala crowded in December?
Yes, particularly during the second half of the month.
The Christmas-New Year period is considerably busier than early December.
Popular destinations such as Munnar, Alleppey, Thekkady, Kovalam and Fort Kochi can see increased tourist movement.
11. Is Kerala expensive during Christmas?
It can be more expensive than travelling during quieter periods.
Hotel rooms, resorts, houseboats and some transport services may cost more because of increased demand.
Early booking is the best way to control costs.
12. Is Kerala good for Christmas holidays?
Absolutely.
Christmas is celebrated widely throughout Kerala, with decorated streets, illuminated homes, church services, cakes, food and community celebrations.
Kochi and Fort Kochi can be particularly interesting during this period.
13. What is the Cochin Carnival?
The Cochin Carnival is a major annual celebration in Fort Kochi during the final part of December.
It includes cultural programmes, sports, food events, music, street decorations and New Year celebrations. The traditional Pappanji burning at midnight on December 31 is one of its best-known highlights.
14. Can I experience Theyyam in December?
Yes.
December marks the beginning of the main Theyyam season in northern Kerala, which generally continues into February.
Kannur and surrounding areas are among the best places to explore this traditional ritual art form.
Exact performance schedules should be checked locally before travelling.
15. Can I visit Sabarimala in December?
December falls within the main Sabarimala pilgrimage season.
The pilgrimage season generally extends from November to mid-January.
However, Sabarimala is primarily a religious pilgrimage destination, and visitors should understand the customs, crowd conditions and access arrangements before planning a visit.
16. Will Sabarimala traffic affect my Kerala holiday?
It can, depending on your route.
Traffic around Pathanamthitta, Pamba, Erumeli and connecting roads can become heavier during the pilgrimage season.
If you are travelling through central Kerala in December, allow additional travel time.
17. Which is better in December: Munnar or Wayanad?
Both are excellent, but they offer different experiences.
Choose Munnar if you want:
- Tea plantations
- High-altitude scenery
- Cooler weather
- Classic Kerala honeymoon experiences
Choose Wayanad if you want:
- Forests
- Waterfalls
- Wildlife
- Caves
- Tribal and rural experiences
- A quieter hill-station atmosphere
18. Is Kovalam good in December?
Yes.
Kovalam is one of Kerala’s popular beach destinations and December is generally a comfortable period for beach holidays.
It is particularly suitable for travellers who want to finish a Kerala tour with a few relaxed days by the Arabian Sea.
19. Is Varkala better than Kovalam?
That depends on your travel style.
Varkala is known for its dramatic cliff, beach atmosphere, cafés and relaxed traveller culture.
Kovalam has a more established resort environment and is often convenient for travellers combining a beach holiday with Thiruvananthapuram.
Both can work very well in December.
20. How many days are enough for Kerala in December?
For a first trip, 6 to 8 nights is a good starting point.
A 6-night itinerary can cover:
Munnar + Thekkady + Alleppey + Kovalam
An 8-night itinerary gives you more flexibility and allows you to add Kochi or another destination.
21. What is the best Kerala itinerary for December?
A classic itinerary is:
Kochi – Munnar – Thekkady – Alleppey – Kovalam
For 7 nights, one possible structure is:
1 Night Kochi
2 Nights Munnar
1 Night Thekkady
1 Night Alleppey Houseboat
2 Nights Kovalam
This route provides a balanced combination of culture, mountains, wildlife, backwaters and beaches.
22. Should I book Kerala in advance for December?
Yes.
If travelling during December, especially between Christmas and New Year, advance booking is strongly recommended.
This is particularly important for:
- Hotels
- Resorts
- Houseboats
- Premium rooms
- Airport transfers
- Private vehicles
Final Verdict: Is Kerala Worth Visiting in December?
Yes — for most travellers, December is an excellent time to visit Kerala.
The biggest attraction is the combination of comfortable weather, beautiful landscapes and a lively festive atmosphere.
You can experience cool mornings in Munnar, wildlife in Thekkady, peaceful backwaters in Alleppey, Christmas celebrations in Kochi and relaxing beach evenings in Kovalam — all during the same holiday.
The main disadvantages are higher prices, increased tourist traffic and the need to book popular hotels and houseboats early.
If you want a quieter and potentially more economical December holiday, consider travelling during the first half of December.
If your priority is Christmas and New Year celebrations, plan for the second half of December, especially Fort Kochi and other major tourist centres.
For travellers who want the best balance between sightseeing, weather and relaxation, a well-planned 6 to 8 night Kerala itinerary covering Munnar, Thekkady, Alleppey and Kovalam is an excellent choice.
Kerala in December is not about escaping to a cold winter destination. It is about enjoying a comfortable tropical winter — cool mountains, warm beaches, green landscapes, calm backwaters and a state preparing to celebrate Christmas and welcome another year.