5-Day Kerala Itinerary for December: Munnar, Thekkady and Alleppey
Plan the Perfect Winter Getaway with Paradise Holidays
December is one of the best months to explore Kerala. The weather stays cool, the hills look fresh after the monsoon and the festive charm adds a beautiful vibe across the state. If you are searching for a simple and perfect Kerala itinerary for December, this guide helps you plan a smooth and memorable holiday.
With customisable Kerala tour packages by Paradise Holidays, you can explore Munnar, Thekkady and Alleppey in just five days—without rushing and without stress. If you want to explore more winter trip options, you can also check our blog on Best Kerala Tour Packages for New Year 2026 for more ideas.
Why Visit Kerala in December?
Comfortable Weather
December brings misty mornings, sunny afternoons and cool nights. Munnar stays foggy and fresh, Thekkady feels pleasant and Alleppey has a soft breeze flowing through the backwaters.
Festive Vibes Everywhere
Kerala looks colourful in December. Christmas decorations, lights, church events and New Year celebrations make the whole month lively and joyful.
Best Time for Outdoor Activities
Wildlife safaris, tea garden walks, boating and trekking are all more enjoyable during December because of the perfect climate. For more travel inspiration, you can also read our detailed Kerala winter guide Best Places to Visit in December in Kerala.
Your 5-Day Kerala Itinerary for December
This itinerary covers Kerala’s three best destinations—Munnar, Thekkady and Alleppey. It is suitable for families, couples and even solo travellers.
Day 1: Arrival in Kochi and Transfer to Munnar
Arrive at Kochi Airport or Railway Station
Your 5-day trip begins with a warm welcome in Kochi. Paradise Holidays will arrange your pickup and your scenic drive to Munnar begins.
Waterfalls to Visit on the Way
The Kochi–Munnar route is incredibly beautiful, and you can stop at:
- Cheeyappara Waterfalls
- Valara Waterfalls
- Spice plantation viewpoints
If you love scenic drives, you may also enjoy reading our blog Kerala Monsoon Road Trip Highlights which connects beautifully with Kerala tour packages.
Check-In and Relax
Once you reach Munnar, check in at your hotel. Take a short walk or simply enjoy the misty climate and the smell of fresh tea leaves.
Day 2: Full-Day Sightseeing in Munnar
December is the best time to enjoy Munnar’s endless tea plantations, rolling hills and cool breeze.
Places to Visit in Munnar
Eravikulam National Park
Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, this park offers breathtaking views of Western Ghats mountains.
Tea Museum
A must-visit spot where you can learn how tea is processed and discover Munnar’s tea plantation history.
Mattupetty Dam
A peaceful location perfect for boating, photography and enjoying the fresh mountain air.
Echo Point
A fun stop where your voice echoes back from the mountains.
Kundala Lake
A calm lake surrounded by lush hills. Pedal boating is a popular activity here.
If you want more December travel ideas, our blog Why You Should Tour Kerala During Monsoon also gives great insights into seasonal beauty.
Evening at the Resort
Return to your resort for a cozy December evening. This is the perfect time to enjoy hot tea with cool mist around you.
Day 3: Munnar to Thekkady
Drive Through Scenic Plantations
After breakfast, begin your journey to Thekkady. The route is lined with cardamom, pepper and spice plantations.
Visit a Spice Plantation
Take a guided spice plantation tour and learn how Kerala’s aromatic spices are grown.
Explore Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Depending on your interest, you can choose:
- Boating in Periyar Lake
- Nature walk
- Bamboo rafting
- Wildlife spotting
If you enjoy wildlife experiences, our blog Exploring Thekkady’s Adventurous Activities will help you explore more options connected to Kerala tour packages.
Optional Cultural Shows
- Kathakali dance performance
- Kalaripayattu martial arts show
Overnight Stay in Thekkady
Relax in the peaceful forest surroundings.
Day 4: Thekkady to Alleppey – Houseboat Experience
Drive to Alleppey
Leave Thekkady after breakfast and enjoy the change in scenery as hills turn into paddy fields and water canals.
Check-In to Your Houseboat
Paradise Holidays offers clean, beautiful and comfortable houseboats.
What to Expect on the Houseboat
- Traditional Kerala lunch
- Cruise through narrow canals
- Views of coconut trees, paddy fields and village life
- Sunset over the backwaters
For more backwater options, you can check our blog Alleppey vs Kumarakom – Which Backwater is Better? which is also helpful for Kerala tour packages.
A December night on the houseboat is magical because of the cool wind and calm surroundings.
Day 5: Departure from Kochi
Return Journey
Enjoy breakfast on the houseboat, check out and begin your drive back to Kochi.
If Time Permits, Visit Kochi Attractions
- Fort Kochi streets and cafes
- Marine Drive walkway
- Mattancherry Palace
Your beautiful 5-day Kerala December trip ends here.
Tips for a Smooth December Trip
- Book Early: December is peak season. Booking Kerala tour packages early gives you better hotel and houseboat options.
- Carry Light Winter Clothes: A jacket or sweater is enough for Munnar and Thekkady nights.
- Keep Your Camera Ready: December light is perfect for photography.
- Try Kerala Food: Appam, fish curry, prawns roast, sadya and banana chips are must-try dishes.
Why Choose Paradise Holidays?
Paradise Holidays offers:
- Comfortable stays
- Customisable Kerala tour packages
- Smooth transportation
- Friendly staff
- Professional planning from start to finish
Whether you are a family, couple or group, you’ll enjoy a hassle-free and memorable holiday.
Come Explore Kerala in December
A Kerala itinerary for December is filled with misty mornings, wildlife adventures and peaceful backwater sunsets. This 5-day plan covering Munnar, Thekkady and Alleppey brings together the best experiences of the season.
With Paradise Holidays taking care of every detail, all you need to do is arrive, relax and soak in the beauty of God’s Own Country.
FAQ
Is December a good time to visit Kerala?
Yes, December is one of the best months to visit Kerala because of cool climate, festive celebrations and perfect conditions for outdoor activities. Most Kerala tour packages are designed specially for December travellers.
Which destinations are best for a 5-day December trip?
Munnar, Thekkady and Alleppey are the best combination for a 5-day itinerary because they offer hills, wildlife and backwaters in one trip.
Are houseboats available in December?
Yes. However, December is peak season, so it is best to book your houseboat early through Kerala tour packages.
Is December crowded in Kerala?
Popular destinations like Munnar and Kochi get crowded. But backwaters and Thekkady remain comfortable for travellers.
Can this itinerary be customised?
Yes. Paradise Holidays offers fully customisable Kerala tour packages where you can adjust destinations, hotels, activities and the number of days.