Located on the southern side of India on the Malabar coast, Kerala is one of the most picturesque cities of the lot. If you’re craving a getaway with lush greenery, relaxing beaches, and serene backwaters this place is your best bet! It will be your perfect getaway amidst all the hustle and bustle of the city life. Winter in Kerala is short-lived as the State is very warm almost all year. Kerala has it all under one roof: beaches, chilly weather, lush greeneries, culture, festivities, and most importantly the warmest souls. Here are a few suggestions on the best places to visit in Kerala in Winter.
Places to visit during winter in Kerala
Eravikulam National Park
Located in the region of Idukki along the Western Ghat, towards the north of Munnar is one of the biggest and the first national park here in Kerala, strictly administered by Kerala Department of Forest and Wildlife. The best place to visit during the winter in Kerala where you can witness the biodiversity of the State. You would find this park closed during the early month of the year, and private vehicles are prohibited inside the park. This national park is also listed under the World Heritage Site.
Anamudi
Meant for trek and nature lovers, this is a 2,695-meter mountain which is largely covered by vast greenery and a wide range of flora and fauna. This mountain range is known to be one of the most trek-worthy spots in India outside the Himalayan Mountains and is one of the highest points in entire South India. This range of mountain is found entirely in the southern region of Eravikulam National Park and is approximately about 13kms from Munnar.
Alappuzha
Famous for its backwaters and boathouse stays, this place is also very popularly known as the Venice Of The East. The best spot for honeymooners, this place has a lot of things to offer starting from boat rides, fresh sea-food, lakes, boat races, and many more. You can get a glimpse of the village life, the local culture, and Kerala’s true heritage. Undoubtedly you are bound to take full advantage of the weather as it will be very pleasant during the winter here. Alappuzha is definitely one of the best places to visit during winter in Kerala.
Idukki hill station
Surrounded by 3 serene beautiful rivers namely Periyar, Thodupuzha, and Thalayar set across the Western Ghats, this hill station is home to some of the most breathtaking mountain peaks, spice plantations and of course natural landscapes. You can consider taking treks here, or even hop on the back of an elephant and go for a ride.
Kumarakom
A real paradise that is tucked away in mangrove backwoods with paddy fields and a string of coconut trees, Kumarakom also happens to be a great honeymoon destination. Just picture waterways and canals with floating white lilies almost everywhere, sounds like you’d almost have the most romantic and serene ride right? Absolutely true. This place is the best one to visit during winter in Kerala where you can just take a cruise on the Vembanad Lake or stay at a boathouse. Among other attractions here are the Pathiramanal Island and the bird sanctuary that is also worth a visit during winter in Kerala.
Vagamon
It is situated in Kottayam, right above the sea level and the weather here is always around 10 to 23 °C. This hill station which is 1100 meters high above sea level, is the perfect place for thrill-seekers as the paragliding festival of Vagamon is one of the very famous ones across the world. This is your perfect chance to spread your wings and fly as high as a kite and witness the alluring beauty of the lush greenery. I would say you could visit this place in December for a great experience.
Kochi
Situated right in the heart of Ernakulam, also known as Cochin is one of the most important seaports not only in Kerala but in India. This place fits perfectly well if you’re looking for some recreational activities and shopping. The best time to visit here would be during December and February. But if you would like to be a part of festivities then attend the year-end carnival that happens during December, it will be a feast for your eyes!
Wayanad
Commonly known as The Land Of Paddy Fields, this beauty came to existence on 1st November in 1980. Discovered in between the districts Kozhikode and Kannur, it went up on the list of the best places to visit in Kerala during December due to the festival of lights – Karthigai. There’s a lot more than just lush green mountains here like the plantations, Meenmutty Falls, Chembra Peak and Edakkal caves.
Poovar island
Poovar is a honeymooner personalised paradise that is the most perfect small coastal village that you would kill for once you see how divine the place looks. Situated in the district of Trivandrum, this island is accessible only through water. You’d have to take a boat to reach this island, which is a perfect mix of beaches, lakes, backwaters and the sea. This island is a real blessing of mother nature. You can also stay in one of the floating houses here, and it will be one of a kind.
Thekkady
A full bloomer during winter, this place is a great combination of the wild and nature. Visit the Periyar National Park here, go on an exciting jungle safari and spot the wild among the beautiful thick forests. A wildlife boat ride right on the Thekkady lake would make it a great experience as well, or if you would want to dive a bit into the culture and tradition then you could attend the Garudan festival in Kali temples.
Suggested read: Top Places in Kerala – The Best of God’s Own Country
Pickyourtrail believes that you have realised that Kerala is a real wonder even during winters, and there is never a shortfall in the things you could do here even when it’s cold and wet. What are you waiting for? Start planning your winter getaway to this wonderland! For more information on the greatest tourist attractions in India, check out Pickyourtrail blogs page.