Quick Travel Consultant Answer
December is Kerala’s peak travel season, featuring cool mountain weather in Munnar (10°C–18°C), pleasant wildlife safaris in Periyar (Thekkady), calm backwaters in Alleppey, and grand Christmas-New Year carnivals in Fort Kochi.
Why Kerala is the Best Winter Escape for Mumbai Families
While North India battles severe winter fog and flight disruptions, Kerala offers picture-perfect weather across every terrain. You can climb into the cool, misty Western Ghats in Munnar, explore aromatic spice gardens and wildlife in Thekkady, and drift along tranquil palm-fringed lagoons in Alleppey—all within a comfortable 5-night itinerary.
For families in Mumbai, Thane, and Navi Mumbai, Kerala represents the ultimate wholesome holiday blending nature, wellness, and authentic South Indian hospitality.
Customized itineraries, verified 3★/4★ stays, dedicated private vehicle with chauffeur, and 24/7 on-trip assistance from Mumbai & pan-India.
Key Highlights of a December Kerala Holiday
1. **Munnar:** Visit Eravikulam National Park to spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, trek through Kolukkumalai tea plantation (world’s highest elevation), and visit Mattupetty Dam.
2. **Thekkady:** Periyar National Park boat safari on the lake to spot wild elephants, followed by an Ayurvedic spice garden walk and martial arts demonstration.
3. **Alleppey Houseboat:** Board a private, air-conditioned Kettuvallam with your personal chef preparing freshly caught Karimeen Pollichathu, Malabar chicken curry, and red rice.
4. **Fort Kochi:** Explore Jewish Synagogue, Dutch Palace, Chinese fishing nets, and the lively Cochin Carnival street parades.
Suggested 5 Nights / 6 Days December Itinerary
• **Day 1:** Arrive at Cochin Airport (COK), scenic 4-hour mountain drive to Munnar past Cheeyappara Waterfalls. • **Day 2:** Munnar tea gardens, Tea Museum, Mattupetty Dam, and Echo Point. • **Day 3:** Drive to Thekkady; afternoon spice plantation tour and evening Kalaripayattu performance. • **Day 4:** Morning Periyar Lake safari; drive to Alleppey, board luxury private houseboat for overnight backwater cruise. • **Day 5:** Disembark at Alleppey; transfer to Fort Kochi for heritage sightseeing and Cochin Carnival festivities. • **Day 6:** Souvenir shopping for spices and banana chips; transfer to Cochin Airport for return flight to Mumbai.
Do I need warm clothes for Kerala in December?
You will need a light sweater or fleece jacket for Munnar where morning and night temperatures drop to 10°C–14°C. Alleppey and Kochi require only light cottons.
What is the Cochin Carnival in late December?
Cochin Carnival is a vibrant annual cultural festival held in Fort Kochi celebrating Portuguese heritage with music, dance, sports, and a massive New Year midnight burning of the Pappanji effigy.
Are houseboats in Alleppey safe for young children and toddlers?
Yes, private luxury houseboats operate in calm inland canals with dedicated crew members and life jackets for all age groups.