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Places to Visit in Kerala in December

Perhaps one of the most sought after destination and a must feature in the places to visit in Kerala in December is Munnar which is a hill station located where the three streams of Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala meet. Munnar is known for its tea plantations, picture perfect town side and some of the best resorts ever known. The Neelakurini is found here in abundance especially once in 12 years when it bathes the hills in their blues.

The motley town is one of the most pursued destinations for honeymooners. There are some wonderfully different things you can do at your stay here like staying in a well-etched tree house, go camping and trekking, indulge in the pleasures of mountain biking, unravel yourself the hardships of rock climbing and Rappelling.

Munnar also has the option of embarking on a shikara ride along the pristine waters of the Kundala Lake. The Mattupetty dam also will not let you down because of the diverse watersports activities to keep you busy.

Must visit places: Eravikulam National park, Anamudi peak, Mattupetty dam, Echo point

Nearest railway station: 108 kms from Aluva

Nearest airport: Cochin International airport

The concept of sustainable tourism is helmed by the tourism authorities of Wayanad which is also known as the Green Paradise of Kerala. Green carpets seem to have been gifted by God to this delicate land of beauty and foliage.

Nestled amongst the deep mountains of the Western Ghats the town of Wayanad is bordering between God’s own country and Tamilnadu. The hypnotic land of traditions and flora is immersed in rich culture and history.

The mountain hikes, trekking on the natural outdoor trail, zip lining, night camping and bamboo rafting are considered the best activities here. The Chembra peak trek is thrilling and so is the cave hunting at the Edakkal caves. Tea estates are galore and walking on those estates can also be one of the engaging activities there. If you are up for a challenging voyage then visit the kuruva islands and the Wayanad wildlife sanctuary.

Must visit places: Chembra peak, Neelimala, Chethalayam, Banasura dam.

Nearest railway station: 62 km from Calicut station.

Nearest airport: 65 km from Calicut airport.

Playing in the laps of nature is Kumarakom manifested with some of the most breathtaking views you could ever witness. Kumarakom is a huddled like an island along the Vembanad Lake. For a certified bird watcher lover, the bird sanctuary promises a relishing ride discovering some of the lesser known migratory birds. Kumarakom can easily be touted as the paradise on Earth because of its captivating and alluring backwater rides.

Kumarakom was also featured in the National geographic as one of the locations that should be explored at least once in your lifetime. The weather is pleasurable and so would your backwater plunge in your house boats would be.

Throw yourself in the arms of nature, get yourself pampered with fresh cool breeze, and embark on the journey among the lush mangrove forests and pine trees bordered with lanky coconut trees. Do not miss the gorgeous landscapes and comforting backwater rides in this seventh heaven called Kumarakom.

Must visit places: travel around the Pathiramanal Island with the privy beaches and bird sanctuary. These places are surely to be ticked off from the roll of places to visit in Kerala in December. 

Nearest railway station: 13 kms from Kottayam.

Nearest airport: 94 kms from Cochin International airport

Extreme dense forests and rough mountain ranges is what describe the district of Idukki. The hill resort is best known for its European plantations, wildlife sanctuary and rubber plantations. The name Idukki implies a deep gorge in Malayalam because it is hidden between the verdant hills and rugged surroundings. 97% of Idukki is covered deep in intense forests and craggy mountains.

You can easily opt for going to Munnar also while you are on your visit here.If you are a tea connoisseur then do take a tour of the Nallathani tea museum which offers assorted tea drinking options and exotic tea leaves. You can also visit Mattupetty and take a boat tour to feel gratification.

Forest trekking and wildlife activities are a must do in this forest town. Extreme rainfall adds to the beauty of the jungle. While you are there do take a stroll in the local markets for varieties of tea and spices.

Must visit places: Periyar Tiger Reserve, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Eravikulam National Park, Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, Peermade, and Grampa.

Nearest railway station: 110 kms from Kottayam station.

Nearest airport: 132 km from Cochin Airport.

The land of prospects, Cochin is one of the most peaceful cities of Kerala. Blessed to have huge Chinese fishing nets and ancient synagogues and mosques, Kochi has presented a world of opportunities to travelers, explorers and traders alike. Kochi is considered a haven for art where skilled craftsmen present their crafted beauties. It is also considered a retreat for Kathakali lovers who can learn and observe the art at length.

The city exhibits the ubiquitous colonialism as we glide past the European churches. Over the years the concept of tourism has evolved here because art and ecological trips have been given prominence. While you are at one of the most happening places to visit in Kerala in December don’t forget to take the ferry ride and eco tour at Kumbalangi.

Travel lovers also can drive their way to Vypeen Island which is lined with exotic beaches. For art lovers, a visit to Muziris Biennale will present an amalgam of contemporary art and traditional culture.

Must visit places: Maritime Museum, Cochin spice Market, Fort Kochi ferry, Bolgatty Island Idamalayar dam

Nearest railway station: Ernakulum railway junction

Nearest airport: Cochin International airport

Thekkady is forever famous for its elephants, spices and hillocks offering you the best combination of wilderness and nature. The pictorial town is synonymous with the Periyar wildlife sanctuary which is the prime spot for tourists. The trails of the town are perfect for trekkers and mountain climbers alike. Numerous plantations of spices and tea encapsulate the area surrounded by the choicest of flora.

The Periyar tiger reserve also has many watch towers inside for you to enjoy wildlife at your comfort. Thekkady is surely an enchanting ride to the tranquil countryside and thick forests. The Mullaperiyar dam also poses as a great spot for bamboo rafting. You can also embark on the night trek in the boondocks of Periyar.

Must visit places: Tiger reserve, Chellarkovil, Mangala Devi temple and Spring Valley Mountain.

Nearest railway station: 110 km from Kottayam station.

Nearest airport: 190 and 140 km from Cochin and Madurai airports respectively.

Kozhikode also known as Calicut enthralls its visitors with luscious country-side, tranquil beaches, valleys and rivers with some notable historical attractions. You can explore the land of Kappad where Vasco Da Gama came on a trade undertaking in the year 1498. Get your money’s worth by visiting ancient temples and primeval churches.

Do not forget to go sailing at the Dolphin point and cruise in the backwaters with its charisma trickling down your mind and soul. If you have still not had enough then visit the antique light houses and aquarium for a refreshing break from the routine. Kozhikode has some interesting places to see in its circuit especially in December.

Must visit places: Lokanarkavu temple especially in December for its rituals and festivals, kappakkadavu beach, Kadalundi bird sanctuary, Thali temple, Krishna Menon’s museum, Dolphin’s point, Beypore, Thikkoti lighthouse, Kallai River and the Manachira Maidan Palace.

Nearest railway station: Kozhikode Station

Nearest airport: 29 kms from Calicut international airport

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Kerala is synonymous with beaches especially the venerable and the vaunted Kovalam. Decorated with three flanking falcate beaches, Kovalam has been the repository of visitors since a long time. Sea bathers and sun catchers will find an irresistible appeal in the beach due to its cove of tranquil waters. But don’t just bask in the beautiful December weather, get up for a swim, or go for those energizing herbal massages.

If that’s not enough then the special cultural programs and the Catamaran cruising is sure to awaken that vigor in you. The beach composite also has a string of budget cottages, health spa with massage centers along with a great shopping zone for the self-confessed shopaholics.

Must visit places: There are a host of other places near the beach that needs to be seen like the lighthouse beach, Samudra beach, the Kurumkal hummock and the Vizhinjam Mosque. This retreat should surely feature on your must visit places to visit in Kerala in December.

Nearest railway station: 16 kms from Thiruvananthapuram Central.

Nearest airport: 10 km from the Trivandrum International airport.

The moment you set your foot in Kerala, don’t give Cherai beach a miss. The beach land is extremely popular for exotic adventurous voyages and panoramic view. The Cherai Beach should surely be a priority inclusion in your list for best places to visit in Kerala in December because the cool winds coupled with beach will surely leave you flabbergasted.

The 15 kms shore is donned with several types of sea shells and green groves. Sunbathing and swimming are the most popular beach activities that will save you from the holler of loud city life.

Cherai is tantamount to mask lamps and walk away edges that make night walking extremely pleasurable. A perfect place for water sports this is a perfect family outing spot. This beach paradise is the perfect spot for holidaying and kite flying.

Must visit places: Paddy fields, Cherai Gowreeshwara Temple, Azheekkal Sree Varaha Temple, Munambam reak Water Point & Pallipuram Church

Nearest railway station: Cochin station

Nearest airport: Cochin airport

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The Hill station of Vagamon located in Idukki is one of the hidden ornaments of Kerala. The town has not been explored much by domestic and international tourists, which keeps the guarded town even more fun to explore. Some of the most popular activities to survey are paragliding, mountaineering and rock-climbing. The Thangal, Murugan, and Kurisumala are the famous hill brothers that challenge you to tread on it and discover its glory.

The land is bestowed with succulent greenery, tea plantations and pine forests that will mesmerize you and your partner. If you are with your partner, blame it on the magical vibes for tickling that romantic bone in you. The old-world charm surrounds the entire hilly area and your love for the place will keep calling you back.

Must visit places: Pine Hills, Kurisumala, Ashram, and Thangal Para to name a few.

Nearest railway station: 75 kms from Kottayam.

Nearest airport: 150 kms from Cochin International airport.

The lesser known Varkala is known for its natural fisheries and springs. The coastal town is blessed with divine beaches, forts, lighthouses and lakes. The amalgamation of the beauties makes this sleepy town a paradise on earth.

The unsullied breezy air, untouched beaches call you to engage in innumerable activities like paragliding and parasailing. The architecture of the various temples here will leave you spell bound. Varkala is a grand convergence of nature and culture.

This out of the ordinary destination is a must visit amongst different places to visit in Kerala in December. For bold and dynamic adventure lovers, this will be a welcome respite with immaculate beaches and compelling views that behold you. The quaint town also is one of the prominent places for Hindu pilgrims who can take their holy dips to sluice the body and soul. The charming hamlet is the only spot in India where steep cliffs and flat lands affix the Arabian Sea.

Must visit places: Varkala beach, Bekal Beach, Anjengo Lighthouse, Varkala cliff, Kappil Pozhi, Janardhansamy temple, Ponnumthuruthu Island.

Nearest railway station: 23 kms from Local railway station.

Nearest airport:  36 km away from Trivandrum International Airport.

Neliyampathy is truly a gem of Kerala that is unscathed and pristine. Located about 62 kms from Palakkad the feel of the town is rustic and bucolic. Every progressing step towards the town gives you some awe-inspiring views of the tea and coffee plantations sprawled across the outwards of the town.

The hill station has been concealed from the far cry of common tourist places and this chastity has been rewarding for its tourists who can’t just get enough of this silent beauty.

The most popular activity in the town is trekking especially to the Kesavan Para. You can also take some pictures in the tea and coffee plantations where you can stroll away to pleasure. The Poab’s estate also has in its display various dry spices that are authentic and fresh. You can also visit the Parambikulam wildlife sanctuary and take pleasure in the endorsed eco-tourism activities.

Must place to visit: Neliyampathy hills, Parambikulam wildlife sanctuary, Nenmara, Seetharkundu viewpoint.

Nearest railway station: Palakkad, about 56 km; Thrissur and 77 kms from Shoranur

Nearest airport: Coimbatore International Airport (Tamil Nadu), about 55 km from Palakkad

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