Are you planning for the Kerala winter tour in your holiday? Before you choose any winter package, it is important for you to learn about best places you should visit in Kerala during winter. In this article, you will learn about some of the best places and its unique attractions. Here we go!

Why Winter Is the Best Time to Visit Kerala?

Winter is the most preferred season to explore Kerala because the weather remains cool, pleasant, and comfortable for sightseeing. Unlike summer, you can travel without feeling tired, and unlike monsoon, you don’t have to worry about heavy rains. Winter enhances the beauty of hill stations, beaches, wildlife sanctuaries, and backwaters, making Kerala a perfect peaceful getaway.

Winter Climate in Kerala (November to February):

• Temperature ranges between 18°C to 30°C
• Ideal for outdoor activities like trekking, boating, wildlife safari, and beach walks
• Best season for festivals, honeymoon trips, and family vacations

14 Best Tourist Places to Visit in Kerala in Winter:

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Kerala is one of the most beautiful states in India, offers lots of magnificent charms to its visitors. It has a pleasant and equable environment throughout the year because it lies close to the sea. Kerala can be best enjoyed during all season but winter is considered as the best season to plan your Kerala vacation tour by considering the climate. In Kerala, winter starts with the end of northeast monsoons, i.e. end of November and it lasts till the middle of February. During this time, travelers love exploring the winter places in Kerala, as the cool weather enhances the beauty of hill stations, backwaters, and serene landscapes.

The temperature is low during winter, but the weather is never too chilly. This will be a best time to enjoy yourself on the beaches, indulge in a picnic, and witness some of the more interesting colorful festivals. This is a peak tourist season of the state so it is advised to plan early and book hotels or package in advance. For those seeking hidden gems, Kerala has plenty of attractions in Kerala to visit but make sure to go to the below listed wonderful places for a trip to Kerala:

1. Munnar Hill Station:

Munnar is called as the Kashmir of South India, located at an altitude of around 1500 m-1600 m above the sea level. It is among the offbeat places in Kerala to visit in winter. This Munnar hill station is blessed with several natural beauties that are really worth visiting.

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This is a most desirous location for the photographers because they will get several picture-taking moments at Munnar. You will find plenty of places to stay in Munnar but choosing the right one can improve your experience. It is well-known as a tea town because its visitors can enjoy the endless beauty of tea plantations that are spread throughout the Munnar.

The exotic species of flora and fauna, extravagant valleys and mountains will surely enthrall your journey to Munnar. This hill station is considered as a perfect honeymoon destination because it creates the environment that every couple is looking for and provides the complete treasure of their Honeymoon. The breathtaking beauty of Munnar creates a heaven of peace and tranquility. Because of its pleasant climate and romantic ambiance, Munnar is also counted among the Kerala places to visit in February, making it an ideal winter getaway for nature lovers and honeymooners.

Why Visit Munnar in Winter	Misty mornings and fog-covered tea gardens. Comfortable weather for trekking and sightseeing. Best season for photography and honeymoon trips.
Ideal Duration of Stay in Munnar	2 to 3 days
Best Winter Experiences in Munnar	Morning walk through tea plantations Visiting viewpoints during sunrise Enjoying hot tea in cold weather
Stay Options	Munnar Tea Hills Resort, The Tall Trees Resorts, Bellmount Resorts

The main attractions around Munnar include:

A) Eravikulam National Park:

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Eravikulam National Park is one of the ideal places to visit in Kerala in winter season to witness the biodiversity of high elevation ecosystem. It is located along the Western Ghats in the district Idukki and nearly 15 km north of Munnar. Eravikulam National Park is the largest and the first national park in Kerala, administered by the Kerala Department of Forest and Wildlife. The climate is greatly influenced by south-western monsoon. This park is usually closed during the early months of the year and the private vehicles are also not allowed here. Eravikulam National Park is under the consideration of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee to be called as a World Heritage Site.

Location	Kannan Devan Hills, Kerala, India
Timings	7:00 am to 4:00 pm
Entry Fee	Rs 200 per person

B) Anamudi:

This is an ideal place for the trekking lovers as tourists are also allowed to go on foot up to Anamudi. It is a 2,695 m high mountain, covered with evergreen forests and inhabited by widespread flora and fauna. This is a highest point in India outside the Himalayan Mountain Range. When we talk about Kerala places to visit, Anamudi should surely be a part of it. Anamudi is called as the highest point in South India, found in the southern region of Eravikulam National Park and 13 kms away from Munnar.

Location	Kannan Devan Hills, Kerala, 685561, India
Trekking Difficulty	Moderately challenging
Ticket Price	No Entry Fee

Read More: Most Beautiful National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries in Kerala

C) Tata Tea Museum:

The museum is situated at the Nallathanni Estate of Tata Tea in Munnar, the majestic view and the greenery makes it a part of the amazing places to visit in Kerala in November. This worth visiting museum has a heritage of its own due to amazing tea plantations. This Museum covers various machineries, curios, and photographs. The origin and growth of tea plantation is a most important reason of its high crowd, but honeymooners can also enjoy their honeymoon. At the Tata Tea Museum, tourists can avail the true natural beauty, long nature walks, romance, drives and much more.

Location	KDHP House, NH 49, Nullatanni, Munnar, Kerala 685612, India
Timings	9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Ticket Price	Rs 150 per person (Adults), Rs 50 per person (Children)

Read More: 11 Perfect Tourist Places to Visit in Munnar You Shouldn’t Miss on Your Trip

2. Alappuzha Backwaters:

Alappuzha is an important backwater tourist center that attracts several thousands of foreign tourists each year. Alappuzha is well-known for the boat races, houseboats, fishes, lakes, coir products, and many more. Backwaters are always considered as a best destination for the honeymoon couples. The Houseboat ride on the lovely backwaters makes it a perfect Honeymoon Destination.

Winter is about to start in Kerala so make sure to pack all the stuffs to save your body from cold air in Backwaters. Make sure you include 1 night houseboat stay in your Kerala winter package itinerary as it is once in a life time experience you should have and undoubtedly one of the best place to visit in Kerala in January.

Location	Punnamada, Kottankulangara, Alappuzha, Kerala 688006, India
Stay Options	Punnamada Resort, Palmgrove Lake Resort, Uday Backwater Resort
Why Visit Alappuzha in Winter	Cool breeze makes houseboat stay more comfortable Best season for peaceful backwater cruising
Ideal Duration of Stay	1 night in houseboat or 2 days
Best Winter Experiences	Sunset from houseboat Village canoe ride Local seafood tasting

Read More: 12 Best Places to Visit in Alleppey with Family for 1-2 Days

3. Vagamon Hill Station:

Vagamon hill station is located in Kottayam, Idukki border of Kerala. This is one of the most beautiful hill stations in throughout Kerala. The climate is generally cool with the temperature ranging between 10 and 23 °C because it is located above the sea level, at the height of about 1100 meters. This is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Kerala and often recognized as the Scotland of Asia. The adventurous paragliding is another significant charm of Vagamon.

The four days paragliding festival of vagamon is one of the most famous events of the world, organized by the Adventure Sports and Sustainable Tourism Academy. This festival gives an opportunity to fly high like a bird in the open sky. This will be an ideal place for cheap adventure and trekking lovers and making it one of the famous tourist spots in Kerala to visit. The alluring beauty of Vagamon hill station attracts large number of tourists from all over the world.

Tourist Attractions	Marmala Waterfalls, Vagamon Meadows
Stay Options	Vagamon Vagashore, Zostel Vagamon, Green Palace Residency
Why Vagamon Is Best in Winter	Cool temperatures ideal for paragliding. Clear views of meadows and valleys.
Ideal Duration	2 days
Best Winter Experiences	Paragliding festival Nature walks and trekking

4. Cochin:

Kochi, formerly known as Cochin, located in Ernakulam district. This is one of the important seaports in India. The district Ernakulam offers a wide choice for recreation and shopping. So if you are a shopping-freak or look some recreation place, then this will be a perfect choice for you. Kochi is a top name among the places to visit in Kerala and February.

The year-end carnival is organized during. It is the time for beach football, bike races, and fire displays that makes the whole city come alive. The cool weather stays till February, making it the coldest places in Kerala to visit in February as well. Cochin is remarked by an Italian tourist as, if china is an ideal place to earn money, then Cochin is an ideal place to spend it. This place offers lots of attractions to its visitors. There are also some of the popular historical places in Kerala that tourists don’t want to miss during their visit.

Why Visit Kochi in Winter	Pleasant weather for sightseeing Famous December carnival celebrations
Ideal Duration	2 days
Best Winter Experiences	Fort Kochi walking tour Shopping at Jew Town Watching cultural performances
Stay Options	Grand Hotel, The Renai Cochin, Hotel Cochin Legacy

The main tourist attractions around Cochin include:

A) Fort Kochi:

The eventful history of Fort Kochi began with the major flood in AD 1341. After that this land is recognized as one of the finest natural harbors in the world. Now it became the first European Township in India and well, it surely is one of the best places in Kerala to visit.

Location	Kochi, Kerala, India
Timings	10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Ticket Price	No entry fee

B) Jewish Synagogue:

The beautiful structure of Jewish synagogue was built in Jew Town in 1568 and is one of the best Kerala tourist places to visit. The impressive furnishing is decorated with the splendid Chinese tiles and Belgian Chandeliers. This place of worship attracts large number of devotees as well as tourists from all over the world.

Location	Synagogue Ln, Jew Town, Kappalandimukku, Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala 682002, India
Timings	10:00 am to 6:00 pm (Saturday Closed)
Ticket Price	Rs 5 to Rs 10 per person

5. Wayanad in Winter:

Wayanad came into existence on 1st November, 1980 by figuring out areas from the districts Kozhikode and Kannur. It is a 12th district in the state Kerala. Earlier, Wayanad was recognized as Mayakshetra known as the Maya’s Land and thereafter it was evolved into Mayanad and finally it was called as Wayanad. It is often known as The Lands of Paddy Fields.

Srees Tours & Travels offers various low-budget & custom Kerala Tour Packages for different Kerala attractions. It is also listed amongst the best tourist places in Kerala because of ‘Karthigai,’ the festival of lights, which is celebrated here during this month. It is also among the best places to visit in Kerala in January because of the tranquil beauty of the heart-shaped lake and the gushing waters of Meenmutty Falls and they spring up at their best in January.

Tourist Attractions	Lakkidi View Point, Edakkal Caves, Soochipara Waterfalls, Kanthanpara Waterfalls
Stay Options	Himadri Retreat Resort, Hiliya Resort, Wayanad Fort Resort
Why Wayanad Is Special in Winter	Waterfalls at their best Cool weather for forest exploration
Ideal Duration	3 days
Best Winter Experiences	Cave exploration Wildlife spotting Waterfall visits

6. Nelliyampathy Hills:

The height of the Nelliyampathy hill ranges from 467m to 1572m. The majestic beauty of Nelliyampathy will certainly give you a heavenly pleasure. The privately owned hotels and resorts are located at the various points. This is one of the most loved destinations for adventure-seekers. To reach this destination, one needs to take the road, starting from Nenmara that go on the Pothundy Dam. Hill Stations are the perfect places to visit in Kerala during winter season. Such places can be visited in any season by the tourists as they are always a beautify experience.

Location	Nelliyampathy Rd, Sitargundu Estate, Kollengode South, Kerala 678508, India
Timings	9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Ticket Price	No entry fee
Stay Options	Hill Valley Farm House, Cotsvilla Resort, Coffee Valley Resort
Best Winter Experience	Scenic drive through forest roads Peaceful stay in hill resorts

Read More: Kerala Sightseeing – Top 10 Relaxing & Fun Activities to do in Kerala

7. Idukki Hill Station:

The Idukki hill station is one of the most popular hill stations in Kerala, situated on the paranomic heights of the Western Ghats. This hill station is blessed with several natural beauties, spice plantations and various architecturally perfect monuments. This hill station is covered by three rivers, i.e. Periyar, Thodupuzhyar, and Thalayar. At Idduki, tourists can avail natural landscapes, elephant rides and a wide range of mountain treks.

Tourist Attractions	Idukki Dam, Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary
Stay Options	Misty wind valley Resort, Misty Lake Resorts, Dreams Cottages
Ideal Duration	2 days
Best Winter Experiences	Dam visit & Wildlife photography

8. Poovar Backwater:

It is also recognized as a honeymoon paradise. Poovar is a small coastal village, located at the southern tip of the district Trivandrum. This village is adorned by the beautiful beach that attracts large number of tourists. Tourists can also avail the beautiful combination of lake, river, sea and beach. The beautiful backwaters and sandy beach really make it a natural wonderland.

Location	Near Rto Check Post, Poovar, Kulathoor, Kerala 695506, India
Timings	6:00 am to 5:30 pm
Ticket Price	Starting from INR 1,500
Stay Options	Phoenix Island Resort, Leela Backwaters inn, Kayaloram resort
Why Visit Poovar in Winter	Calm backwaters & Less humidity

9. Kumarakom in Winter:

It is an incredibly beautiful paradise, loaded with mangrove forest, emerald green paddy fields and coconut groves. The picturesque waterways and canals are embellished with beautiful white lilies. Tourists can enjoy ample of traditional country crafts, boats and canoes which will stay long in your heart. Kumarakom is one of the must visit places in the state Kerala and best for the honeymooners.

The breathtaking scenery of the winters makes it one of the best places to visit in Kerala in November. Sail around the amazing Vembanad Lake in the cool breeze in a pretty houseboat while you watch the flight of migratory birds. This beautiful and memorable experience makes it one of the top choices of the couples as places to visit in Kerala for honeymoon. The bird sanctuary and the Pathiramanal Island ensure to be joyful as well.

Tourist Attractions	Kumarakom Craft Museum, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
Stay Options	Lake Palace Family Resort, Paradise Resorts, Kumarakom Heritage Resort & Ayurveda
Ideal Duration	2 days
Best Winter Experiences	Bird watching & Houseboat stay

10. Cherai Beach in Winter:

This beautiful beach is found on the north-end of the Vypin Island, Kochi. This is an ideal destination for swimming. This amazing sandy beach offers various luscious green coconuts, paddy fields and creates a beautiful combination of sea and backwaters. Weather conditions in Kerala is pleasant in every season so tourists can visit this paradise in any season.

Kerala covers lots of beautiful charms in every corner, but these are some must visit destinations in Kerala, that one can’t miss in their Kerala journey during winters.

Location	Vypin, Kochi, Kerala, India
Timings	9:00 am to 6:00 pm
Ticket Price	No entry fee
Stay Options	Renai Blue Waters, Baywatch Beach Homes, Edassery Sealine Villas Stay
Why Visit Cherai in Winter	Best swimming conditions & Pleasant beach weather

11. Thekkady in Winter:

Thekkady is considered one of the best Kerala sightseeing places to visit in winter because the nature is in full bloom here at this time of the month. Among the tourist spots to visit in Thekkady, the Periyar National Park continues to be the key attraction. When you are looking for budget-friendly activities to try out in Thekkady, keep the jungle safari in the national park on that list. From gaurs, sambars, lion-tailed macaques, to boars and leopards, Periyar’s rich animal life makes it worth visiting.

When you are in Thekkady, you must also check out the Thekkady Lake which is very beautiful. Make sure you check out the Garudanthookam festival that is held in the Kali temples here. These places make Thekkady one of the best Kerala places to visit as well. Also, do not forget to pack in some authentic spices for home from the spice market at Kumily village.

Tourist Attractions	Elephant Junction Thekkady, Thekkady Rose Park, Periyar National Park
Stay Options	Abad Green Forest, Greenwoods Resort Thekkady, Avadale Thekkady
Best Winter Experiences	Jungle safari & Spice plantation visit

12. Kovalam in Winter:

Kovalam is also one of the preferred places to visit in Kerala in January and December. There are beach carnivals held in full glory here during the winter months. If you have chosen Kovalam as one of the places to visit in Kerala, then make sure that you stay to watch the New Year’s celebration. From basking in the Sun to getting relaxing Ayurvedic treatments, Kovalam will truly soothe your senses.

The key attractions of the place are the Light House Beach, Hawah Beach, and Samudra Beach, which are must-visit places on a trip to Kerala. The beach is crescent shaped and there is lighthouse on the southern part of it. You will get a breathtaking view of the city, along with the Vizhinjam Mosque, from the lighthouse. The beaches, with their serenity and deep blue waters, are quite a sight during the moonlit nights.

Tourist Attractions	Kovalam Beach, Vizhinjam LightHouse, Samudra Beach Park
Stay Options	Hotel Beach Florra Inn, The Neelakanta, Sagara Beach Resort
Best Winter Experiences	Beach carnival & Ayurvedic massage

13. Thiruvananthapuram:

Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of the state, is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Kerala if you want to enjoy the Christmas fervor at its fullest. It is the perfect spot if you are looking to go beyond the maddening bustle of the city in your list. Known as one of the cleanest cities of the country, the city is also known for the idyllic beaches and rich cultural heritage.

The best time to explore the city is during the winters. The winters are also the time for shopping extravaganza and the International film festival of the state. While in Thiruvananthapuram, visit Padmanabhaswamy and Attukal Temple, Napier Museum, Kowdiar Palace, and Thiruvananthapuram Zoo.

Tourist Attractions	Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram Zoo
Stay Options	Vivin Luxury Suites, Orange Valley Homestay, Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel
Why Visit in Winter	Festival season & Best weather for sightseeing

Read More: 10 Famous Temples of Kerala to Visit with Family for a Spiritual Kerala Trip Experience

14. Varkala:

Varkala is a town in Kerala, known for its fabulous cliffs overseeing the Arabian Sea and its unspoiled beaches. It is a popular destination for both relaxation and spiritual hunts, offering attractions like Varkala Beach, also known as Papanasam Beach, where visitors believe the waters have blessed significance. The town is also home to the ancient Janardhana Swamy Temple and Sivagiri Mutt, adding a spiritual charm to its natural beauty. With yoga centers, cafes, and scenic views, Varkala is a perfect mixture of tranquility and cultural richness.

Tourist Attractions	Varkala Beach, Janardana Swami temple, Sivagiri Mutt, Kappil Beach
Stay Options	Clafouti Beach Resort, Elixir Cliff Beach Resort, La Maison Varkala
Why Varkala Is Best in Winter	Pleasant cliff-side weather Ideal for yoga and relaxation

Image Courtesy: Flickr.com

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