New Delhi: South India’s winter, particularly December, brings clear skies, pleasant weather and a perfect backdrop for travel. As the monsoon retreats, hill stations, forest zones and backwater regions come alive with calm landscapes and soothing temperatures. Travellers can enjoy brighter days, light winter chills in higher altitudes and fresh natural scenery that feels different from the heavy heat of summer months. December also marks the beginning of the holiday travel season, so many destinations add a festive touch with cultural activities, local cuisine and outdoor experiences.

Beach lovers get clearer sunsets, while those travelling to the hills can explore scenic viewpoints or simply enjoy peaceful stays. From couples planning a quick holiday to families looking for relaxed gateways, the region offers options that suit every mood and budget. Here are the top destinations that stand out in December with unique experiences for a memorable year-end holiday.

Munnar was once a summer resort for British officers and is now famous for tea estates stretching across rolling hills.

• Things to do: Explore the Tea Museum, viewpoints like Top Station, Eravikulam National Park for Nilgiri tahr sightings, and nature trails.
• Connectivity: Cochin International Airport (110 km) and Aluva railway station (110 km). Good road links via NH-49.
• Travel tip: Early morning visits to plantations help avoid fog and crowds.

Wayanad holds prehistoric roots with evidence from ancient cave settlements. The region remains rich in tribal culture and forest reserves.

• Things to do: Visit Edakkal Caves, Chembra Peak, Meenmutty and Soochipara waterfalls, and wildlife safaris.
• Connectivity: Accessible by road via Calicut airport/railway.
• Travel tip: Carry comfortable shoes and avoid evening forest drives due to wildlife movement.

Known as the “Scotland of India”, Coorg is home to Kodava warrior culture and is popular for coffee and sacred river origins.

• Things to do: Explore Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat viewpoint, Talacauvery temple, and coffee plantation tours.
• Connectivity: The Nearest railway station is at Mysore (120 km). Mangalore and Bangalore airports are approximately. 140–287 km away. Road travel from Bangalore or Mysore via NH routes is common.
• Travel tip: Book plantation stays early, as December is peak tourist season.

For those seeking waterway leisure, Alleppey’s backwaters become especially inviting in December.

• Things to do: Cruise through calm canals and lagoons in a traditional houseboat, observe village life and go cycling, enjoy tranquil water views, and unwind amid palm-lined waterways.
• Connectivity: Accessible by road from major Kerala cities; nearest major rail/airport hub is Kochi, followed by road travel to Alleppey. Roads and infrastructure remain good year-round.
• Travel tip: Overnight houseboats require bookings around holidays.

Situated on Pamban Island, this sacred town is deep-rooted in Ramayana legends and coastal beauty.

• Things to do: Ramanathaswamy Temple with its long corridors, Pamban Bridge sea-view experience, Dhanushkodi ruins near the ocean, and beaches.
• Connectivity: Madurai Airport (approx 170 km). Frequent trains connect from major Tamil Nadu cities.
• Travel tip: Stay a night for temple rituals, cool sea breeze and sunrise views at Dhanushkodi.

A December trip to South India offers a mix of nature, calm and memory-making. Plan with the right connectivity and local guides to get the most out of these destinations.