Kerala Tour Packages in December and January 2026: Weather, Festivals, Best Places & Travel Guide
If you are dreaming of a winter holiday filled with nature, culture and relaxing moments, then Kerala tour packages in December and January 2026 are the best choice. With cool weather, beautiful scenery and exciting festivals, it is the most popular season for travellers. Whether you choose hill stations, backwaters or beaches, Kerala tour packages during winter give you a complete experience.
For more detailed winter trip planning, also check our “5-Day Kerala Itinerary for December” .
1. Weather in December & January
Kerala enjoys one of the best winter climates in India. The temperature stays between 18°C and 28°C, making sightseeing comfortable throughout the day.
Why this season is perfect for Kerala tour packages
- Refreshing hill station climate
- Clear skies for houseboat cruises
- Pleasant beach weather
- Low humidity
- Easy wildlife spotting
This is why most travellers choose Kerala tour packages in December and January 2026, especially for family vacations and honeymoon trips.
2. Festivals You Can Experience in Winter
Winter months in Kerala are full of cultural celebrations.
Major festivals

- Cochin Carnival (Dec 20–Jan 1)
- Christmas & New Year events
- Sabarimala pilgrimage season (Jan)
- Local temple festivals
- Folk art and cultural performances
If you love culture, book Kerala tour packages around these dates to enjoy grand festivals and special events across the state.
For more cultural experiences, you can also read our internal blog: “Kerala Street Food Delights”.
3. Best Places to Visit in December & January
These destinations are winter favourites and are included in most Kerala tour packages in December and January 2026.
Munnar – Misty Winter Hills

Munnar looks magical in winter with foggy mornings and lush tea gardens.
Top things to do:
- Tea museum
- Eravikulam National Park
- Top Station view
- Waterfalls
You can also read our detailed Munnar 3-Day Itinerary to plan your winter trip better.
Thekkady – Wildlife & Adventure
Cool weather gives better chances of spotting elephants, deer, bison and rare birds.
This makes Thekkady a must-visit destination in many Kerala tour packages.
Do not miss:
- Periyar Lake boating
- Bamboo rafting
- Spices plantation visit
- Jeep safari
To explore Thekkady more deeply, you can check our full Thekkady Travel Guide.
🚤 Alleppey – Winter Backwater Experience

Alleppey is at its best during December and January with comfortable weather and calm backwaters.
Activities:
- Houseboat stay
- Canoe ride
- Village walk
- Sunset cruising
For more ideas about backwater activities, you can read our blog on Backwater Experiences in Alleppey.
🌆 Fort Kochi – Culture, Cafes & Art
A favourite destination for Christmas and New Year travellers.
If Fort Kochi is part of your plan, our Fort Kochi Travel Guide will help you explore all major attractions.
🌊 Kovalam & Varkala – Winter Beach Bliss
Perfect for a warm winter beach holiday included in many Kerala tour packages.
4. Houseboat Prices in December & January
Houseboat prices increase during peak season.
Approx. rates
- 1 Bedroom – ₹8,000 to ₹14,000
- 2 Bedroom – ₹12,000 to ₹18,000
- 3 Bedroom – ₹15,000 to ₹25,000
Booking early through verified Kerala tour packages ensures better rates.
5. Best Kerala Tour Packages for Winter
Here are the most booked itineraries for December & January:
✔ 3-Day Munnar Tour Package
If you want a short and refreshing hill-station holiday, you can read our complete Munnar 3-Day Itinerary to plan this trip more easily.
✔ 5-Day Munnar–Thekkady–Alleppey Tour Package
For a detailed winter plan covering hills, wildlife and backwaters, you can check our 5-Day Kerala Itinerary for December which fits perfectly for December–January travel.
✔ Kerala Houseboat & Culture Tour
If you love backwaters and slow travel, our blog on Backwater Experiences in Alleppey will help you understand houseboat routes and activities better.
✔ Kerala Food & Culture Tour
Food lovers can also explore our Kerala Street Food Delights blog to discover the best local flavors during your winter trip.
All these itineraries can be customised into premium Kerala tour packages in December and January 2026.
6. Travel Tips for Winter Trips to Kerala
- Book hotels & houseboats early
- Reserve Christmas & New Year stays in advance
- Carry light jackets for Munnar & Thekkady
- For beaches, carry sunscreen & sunglasses
- Choose trusted providers for Kerala tour packages
Conclusion
Kerala tour packages in December and January 2026 offer magical winter experiences—from Munnar’s misty mornings to Alleppey’s calm backwaters, Thekkady’s wildlife and Kochi’s festivals. Whether you’re planning a family trip, honeymoon or group holiday, Kerala delivers a beautiful winter escape.
FAQ Section
1. Is December a good month to book Kerala tour packages?
Yes. December is peak tourist season because of the pleasant climate, Christmas celebrations and the Cochin Carnival.
2. Are Kerala tour packages expensive in winter?
Prices may be slightly higher due to demand, especially for houseboats and resorts. Early booking helps secure better rates.
3. Is January colder than December in Kerala?
January is slightly cooler in hill stations like Munnar and Thekkady, but overall both months are perfect for travel.
4. Which destinations are best for winter Kerala tour packages?
Munnar, Thekkady, Alleppey, Kochi, Kovalam and Varkala are top choices.
5. Can families and senior travellers enjoy winter in Kerala?
Absolutely. Winter is the most comfortable time for sightseeing, making it ideal for families and senior-friendly Kerala tour packages.