December is one of the most popular months to explore Kerala, a beautiful destination known for its green tea plantations, peaceful backwaters, wildlife, beaches, and rich cultural heritage. From the misty hills of Munnar to the houseboats of Alleppey and the wildlife experiences of Thekkady, Kerala offers a memorable holiday for families, couples, honeymooners, and groups.
If you are searching for Kerala tour packages for December 2026, this guide will help you choose the best destinations, plan a day-wise itinerary, estimate your travel budget, and prepare for a year-end holiday.
December falls within Kerala’s popular winter travel season, with generally favourable conditions for sightseeing across many regions. However, weather can vary by location, and the Christmas and New Year period often brings higher prices and greater demand for hotels and houseboats.
Why Visit Kerala in December 2026?
Kerala is a great choice for travellers who want a combination of relaxation, nature, sightseeing, and cultural experiences in one trip.
Here are some reasons to plan a Kerala holiday in December:
- Pleasant sightseeing weather: Many destinations are suitable for outdoor sightseeing, although coastal areas can be warm and hill stations cooler.
- Beautiful hill stations: Enjoy tea gardens, mountain viewpoints, waterfalls, and scenic drives around Munnar.
- Backwater experiences: Stay on a traditional houseboat in Alleppey or explore the peaceful waterways of Kumarakom.
- Wildlife and nature: Discover the forests, spice plantations, and nature experiences around Thekkady.
- Festive atmosphere: Experience Christmas celebrations and seasonal events, particularly around Kochi.
- Family and honeymoon options: Choose from comfortable resorts, private transfers, romantic stays, and sightseeing packages.
Important: The last week of December is especially popular. If you plan to travel between 24 December 2026 and 2 January 2027, confirm hotel, houseboat, transport, and festive supplement charges before booking.
Best Places to Visit in Kerala in December 2026
1. Munnar – Tea Gardens, Hills and Scenic Viewpoints
Munnar is one of the most popular destinations included in Kerala holiday packages. Located in the Western Ghats, it is known for rolling tea plantations, mountain roads, cool evenings, and picturesque viewpoints.
December is an appealing time to explore the hills, but temperatures can drop significantly at night. Carry warm clothing, especially if you plan early-morning sightseeing.
Top attractions in Munnar:
- Mattupetty Dam
- Echo Point
- Kundala Lake
- Tea Museum
- Top Station, subject to road and weather conditions
- Eravikulam National Park, subject to operating schedules
Ideal stay: 2 nights
Best for: Honeymoon couples, families, photographers, and nature lovers.
2. Thekkady – Wildlife, Spice Plantations and Nature
Thekkady is known for the Periyar region, forest landscapes, spice plantations, and nature-based activities. It is a good addition to a Kerala itinerary for travellers who want more than beaches and hill stations.
Top experiences in Thekkady:
- Periyar Lake boat rides, subject to availability
- Guided nature activities offered by authorised operators
- Spice plantation visits
- Local cultural performances
- Shopping for spices and regional products
Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, so treat a safari or boat excursion as a nature experience rather than a promise to see particular animals.
Ideal stay: 1 night
Best for: Families, nature enthusiasts, and couples.
3. Alleppey – Backwaters and Houseboat Stays
Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is famous for its interconnected canals, palm-lined waterways, paddy fields, and traditional houseboats. A houseboat stay is one of the most memorable experiences to include in a Kerala tour package.
Travellers can choose between a daytime cruise and an overnight stay, depending on their itinerary and budget.
Top experiences in Alleppey:
- Overnight houseboat stay
- Backwater cruise
- Traditional Kerala meals
- Village and canal-side views
- Alleppey Beach
- Relaxing time at a waterfront resort
Ideal stay: 1 night
Best for: Honeymoon couples, families, and travellers looking for a relaxing holiday.
4. Kochi – Heritage, Culture and Christmas Celebrations
Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a convenient gateway for many Kerala itineraries. It combines historic streets, waterfront scenery, cultural attractions, cafés, and shopping.
December is also a festive period in Kochi, with Christmas events and the Cochin Carnival season around Fort Kochi. Check official event announcements for the confirmed 2026 programme.
Top places to explore:
- Fort Kochi
- Chinese fishing nets
- Mattancherry Palace
- Jew Town
- St. Francis Church
- Marine Drive
- Local markets and cafés
Ideal stay: 1 night, or longer if you prefer a relaxed city break.
Best for: Families, culture lovers, couples, and first-time visitors.
5. Kanyakumari – A Scenic Extension to Your Kerala Holiday
Although Kanyakumari is in Tamil Nadu, it can be included in a longer South India itinerary alongside Kerala’s southern destinations. It is known for its coastal views, monuments, and the meeting of three water bodies traditionally associated with the region.
Top attractions:
- Vivekananda Rock Memorial
- Thiruvalluvar Statue, subject to access and operating conditions
- Kanyakumari Beach
- Bhagavathy Amman Temple
- Sunrise and sunset viewpoints
Allow extra travel time when adding Kanyakumari to a Kerala itinerary, especially if your trip also includes Munnar and Thekkady.
Ideal stay: 1 night
Best for: Families, pilgrims, and travellers planning a longer South India tour.
Best Kerala Tour Itineraries for December 2026
Choose an itinerary according to your available holiday time. Travel durations below are suggestions; actual driving times depend on traffic, weather, road conditions, and hotel locations.
Kerala 4 Nights / 5 Days Package
Route: Kochi – Munnar – Alleppey – Kochi
- Day 1: Arrive at Kochi Airport or railway station and transfer to Munnar. Check in and relax.
- Day 2: Explore Munnar, including tea plantations, Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, and other suitable local attractions.
- Day 3: Travel to Alleppey and enjoy a backwater experience. Check in to your houseboat or hotel.
- Day 4: Enjoy a relaxed morning and travel back towards Kochi. Explore Fort Kochi if time permits.
- Day 5: Breakfast and departure from Kochi.
Suitable for: Couples, families, and travellers with limited holidays.
Kerala 5 Nights / 6 Days Package
Route: Kochi – Munnar – Thekkady – Alleppey – Kochi
- Day 1: Arrival at Kochi and transfer to Munnar.
- Day 2: Munnar sightseeing, including tea gardens, viewpoints, and local attractions.
- Day 3: Transfer to Thekkady and visit a spice plantation or book an available nature activity.
- Day 4: Transfer to Alleppey and enjoy a backwater cruise or houseboat stay.
- Day 5: Travel to Kochi and explore Fort Kochi or nearby attractions.
- Day 6: Departure from Kochi.
Suitable for: First-time visitors, families, honeymooners, and small groups.
Kerala 6 Nights / 7 Days with Kanyakumari
Route: Kochi – Munnar – Thekkady – Alleppey – Kovalam – Kanyakumari
- Day 1: Arrive at Kochi and transfer to Munnar.
- Day 2: Explore Munnar’s tea plantations and viewpoints.
- Day 3: Transfer to Thekkady and enjoy local sightseeing.
- Day 4: Travel to Alleppey and experience the backwaters.
- Day 5: Transfer towards Kovalam and relax by the coast.
- Day 6: Travel to Kanyakumari and visit major attractions, subject to available time.
- Day 7: Departure from the appropriate airport or railway station, depending on your booking.
Planning note: This route covers a lot of ground. Confirm the departure point before booking and consider an additional night if you want a less rushed holiday.
Kerala Tour Package Prices for December 2026
The cost of a Kerala tour depends on the hotel category, number of travellers, room-sharing arrangements, transport, meals, sightseeing, and houseboat selection.
The following are indicative land-package planning estimates per person, not confirmed offers. Flights and peak-date supplements may be extra. December prices can increase considerably around Christmas and New Year. Current package listings also show substantial differences between hotel categories and trip durations.
No-Cost EMI Available+2
| Package type | Duration | Estimated price per person |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Kerala tour | 4N/5D | ₹14,000–₹22,000 |
| Standard Kerala tour | 5N/6D | ₹20,000–₹35,000 |
| Premium Kerala holiday | 5N/6D | ₹35,000–₹60,000+ |
| Kerala family tour | 6N/7D | ₹28,000–₹50,000+ |
| Kerala with Kanyakumari | 6N/7D | ₹30,000–₹55,000+ |
| Luxury houseboat and resort holiday | 5N/6D | ₹45,000–₹80,000+ |
Actual quotations may be higher for 24 December–2 January travel, luxury hotels, private houseboats, and larger vehicles. Confirm whether GST, entry tickets, meals, parking, and driver allowances are included.
What Is Included in a Kerala Tour Package?
Package inclusions vary by operator, so always confirm the final itinerary and quotation in writing.
Common inclusions may include:
- Hotel accommodation on a twin- or triple-sharing basis
- Daily breakfast, with other meals depending on the package
- Private vehicle for transfers and sightseeing
- Airport or railway station pickup and drop
- One houseboat stay, if specified
- Sightseeing according to the itinerary
- Driver charges and applicable vehicle expenses
Common exclusions may include:
- Flights or train tickets
- Lunches and dinners not specified
- Entry fees and optional activities
- Personal expenses and tips
- Special Christmas or New Year dinners
- Travel insurance
- Any additional service not mentioned in the quotation
Travel Tips for Kerala in December 2026
1. Book Hotels and Houseboats in Advance
December is a busy travel period, particularly during the last week of the month. Reserve your preferred accommodation early and verify the exact room or houseboat category.
2. Pack for Both Hills and Coastal Areas
Munnar can be chilly at night, while Kochi and Alleppey are usually warmer. Carry light cotton clothing, a jacket, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
3. Plan Your Route Carefully
Hill roads and transfers between Munnar, Thekkady, Alleppey, and Kochi take time. Avoid adding too many destinations to a short trip, and confirm the expected driving time with your operator.
4. Confirm Houseboat Details
Ask about the boat category, air-conditioning hours, meals, boarding time, cruise schedule, and overnight arrangements. Verify whether the quoted rate is per boat or per person.
5. Check Weather and Activity Availability
December is generally favourable for sightseeing, but conditions can change. Check local weather, road conditions, and official opening information for parks and attractions shortly before travel.
6. Compare the Complete Package Cost
Do not select a package based only on its starting price. Compare accommodation standards, vehicle type, meals, sightseeing, exclusions, cancellation terms, and festive surcharges.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kerala Tour Packages for December 2026
Is December a good time to visit Kerala?
Yes. December is part of Kerala’s popular winter travel season, with generally favourable conditions for sightseeing in many areas. Hill stations can be cool, while coastal destinations are warmer. It is also a busy period, so advance booking is recommended.
Department of Tourism+1
How many days are enough for a Kerala trip?
Four to five days can cover Munnar and Alleppey with a limited amount of sightseeing. Five to six days gives you time for Kochi, Munnar, Thekkady, and Alleppey. Consider seven days or more if you want to add a beach destination or Kanyakumari.
What is the approximate cost of a Kerala tour in December?
A basic land package may start around ₹14,000–₹22,000 per person for 4 nights and 5 days, while standard and premium packages can cost more. These are estimates only; festive dates, flights, and hotel choices can change the final price significantly.
Is Kerala suitable for a family holiday?
Yes. Kerala offers family-friendly resorts, hill stations, backwater experiences, cultural attractions, and nature activities. Choose suitable travel durations and accommodation based on the ages and needs of your family members.
Is Kerala suitable for a honeymoon in December?
Yes. Couples can combine Munnar’s scenic hills, a private houseboat experience in Alleppey, and a comfortable resort stay. Book early for Christmas and New Year dates.
Should I book a houseboat in Alleppey in advance?
Advance booking is advisable, particularly for the Christmas and New Year period. Confirm the boat category, meals, air-conditioning arrangements, timings, and cancellation conditions before paying.
Can I include Kanyakumari in a Kerala tour?
Yes. Kanyakumari can be added to a longer South India itinerary, often alongside Kerala’s southern coastal destinations. Since it is in Tamil Nadu, confirm the route and final departure city when planning the package.
Conclusion
Kerala is a strong choice for a December 2026 holiday, combining scenic hill stations, wildlife experiences, traditional houseboats, cultural attractions, and relaxing beaches. Whether you choose a short Munnar–Alleppey getaway or a longer route covering Kochi, Thekkady, and Kanyakumari, planning the itinerary around your budget and travel dates will help you make the most of your trip.
Compare accommodation options, check what your package includes, and book popular services early for the festive period. A well-planned Kerala holiday can offer a rewarding mix of relaxation, sightseeing, and memorable experiences.
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