11 Best Places to Visit in South India in December 2024: How to Reach, Where to Stay, Homestays
As the scorching summer heat descends, the idea of a cool and refreshing getaway becomes more and more enticing. While South India may be known for its sweltering temperatures, it is also home to some of the most picturesque and captivating destinations, offering respite from the blazing sun. With its verdant hills, tranquil backwaters, and rich cultural heritage, South India boasts a plethora of options for a perfect winter vacation in India. Keep reading to know more about the best places to visit in South India.
As you embark on a journey to explore the best places to visit in India in December, you’ll find yourself amidst a delightful blend of nature, history, and culture. Whether it’s looking for the famous Ooty toy train bookings or heading to the charming French town of Pondicherry, the serene backwaters of Alleppey or the ancient temples of Mahabalipuram, each place and hill station in South India has its own unique charm that is sure to leave you spellbound.
The beauty of South India lies not only in its diverse and stunning landscapes, but also in the warmth and hospitality of its people. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to embark upon a journey to the best places to visit in India in May with family. For those of you asking where should you go for winter vacation in India – an unforgettable experience to the land of the Southern sun awaits you!
South India in December and January through March offers a distinct experience, more so as this region prepares for the onset of the monsoon showers. Here are some of the most popularly loved places to visit and hill stations in South India.
In this Blog
Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Among the most popular winter vacation places in Tamil Nadu, Ooty is a charming hill station known for its scenic landscapes and tea plantations. Kodaikanal and Ooty, are both famous hill stations for honeymoon in Tamil Nadu, however, those who enjoy higher altitudes must opt for Ooty’s verdant hills.
How to reach Ooty
By Road: The nearest major city to Ooty is Coimbatore, which is approximately 85 km away. There are regular bus services from Coimbatore to Ooty, and you can also hire a taxi or a self-drive car to reach Ooty. The journey from Coimbatore to Ooty takes around 3-4 hours, and the best way to enjoy Ooty weather in May.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Ooty is Mettupalayam, which is approximately 47 km away. There are regular trains from Chennai, Coimbatore, and Bangalore to Mettupalayam. From Mettupalayam, you can take the Ooty toy train, which is a popular tourist attraction to explore the hill stations of South India. The Ooty toy train journey takes around 5 hours.
By Air: The nearest airport to Ooty is Coimbatore International Airport, which is approximately 100 km away. There are regular flights from major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Mumbai to Coimbatore. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to enjoy climate in Ooty in May and June.
Best Time to Visit Ooty:
October to June, December to February
Key Tourist Places in Ooty:
Ooty Lake, Doddabetta Peak, Botanical Gardens
Temperature/Weather in Ooty:
Pleasant and cool year-round, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. Avoid the monsoon season (July to September) due to heavy rainfall and potential landslides
Bonus: Ooty homestays for family – Here are some of the best places to stay in Ooty.
Coorg & Madikeri, Karnataka
Among the most popular winter holiday places in India, Coorg is a common favourite. The best season to go to Coorg is late September to June, where the hill station offers stunning views of the Western Ghats, widely popular for its coffee plantations, waterfalls, and wildlife. Once here, make sure to visit its largest and most beautiful town, Madikeri.
How to reach Coorg
By Road: The nearest major city is Mysore, which is approximately 118 km away from Coorg. There are regular bus services from Mysore to Coorg, and you can also hire a taxi or a self-drive car to reach Coorg. The journey from Mysore to Coorg takes around 3-4 hours.
By Train: The best way to enjoy Coorg weather in May is by taking the train. The nearest railway station to Coorg is Mysore Railway Station, which is approximately 110 km away. There are regular trains from major cities like Bangalore, Chennai, and Mumbai to Mysore. From Mysore, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Coorg.
By Air: The nearest airport to Coorg is Kannur International Airport, which is approximately 91 km away. There are regular flights from major cities like Bangalore, Chennai, and Mumbai to Kannur. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Coorg.
By Taxi: You can also hire a taxi directly from Bangalore or Mysore to Coorg. It takes around 6-7 hours from Bangalore to Coorg and around 3-4 hours from Mysore to reach your Coorg homestay.
Best Time to Visit Coorg:
October to March
Key Tourist Places in Coorg:
Abbey Falls, Madikeri Fort, Coffee plantations, Nagarhole National Park
Temperature/Weather in Coorg:
Mild and pleasant throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The monsoon season (June to September) sees heavy rainfall, making the region lush and green.
Bonus: Homestays in Coorg – Here are some of the best places to stay in Coorg.
Munnar, Kerala
Munnar is a popular hill station located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, famous for its tea plantations, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries. Munnar weather and breathtaking views make it a popular winter destination in India. The pleasant Kerala weather in May makes for another excuse to visit this hill station.
How to reach Munnar
By Road: The nearest major city is Cochin, which is approximately 130 km away from Munnar. There are regular bus services from Cochin to Munnar, and you can also hire a taxi or a self-drive car to reach Munnar. The journey from Cochin to Munnar takes around 4-5 hours.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Munnar is Aluva Railway Station, which is approximately 110 km away. There are regular trains from major cities like Bangalore, Chennai, and Mumbai to Aluva. From Aluva, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Munnar.
By Air: The nearest airport to Munnar is Cochin International Airport, which is approximately 110 km away. There are regular flights from major cities like Bangalore, Chennai, and Mumbai to Cochin. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Munnar.
By Taxi: You can also hire a taxi directly from Cochin to Munnar. It takes around 4-5 hours from Cochin to Munnar.
Best Time to Visit Munnar:
September to March
Key Tourist Places in Munnar:
Eravikulam National Park, Anamudi Peak, Tea plantations
Temperature/Weather in Munnar:
Cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. Monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rainfall, enhancing the scenic beauty but may hinder outdoor activities.
Bonus: Munnar homestays – Here are some of the best places to stay in Munnar.
Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Another underrated beautiful hill station in South India, Kodaikanal is one of the most famous places in India to visit in May and June. The cool and pleasant weather of Kodaikanal, trekking trails, and boating in the serene lake makes it an irresistible winter holiday destination in South India.
How to reach Kodaikanal
By Road: Kodaikanal is well-connected by road to nearby cities and towns and is the best way to enjoy Kodaikanal temperature in May and June. The nearest major city is Madurai, which is approximately 120 km away from Kodaikanal. There are regular bus services from Madurai to Kodaikanal, and you can also hire a taxi or a self-drive car to reach Kodaikanal. The journey from Madurai to Kodaikanal takes around 3-4 hours.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Kodaikanal is Kodai Road Railway Station, which is approximately 80 km away. There are regular trains from major cities like Chennai, Coimbatore, and Bangalore to Kodai Road Railway Station. From the railway station, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Kodaikanal.
By Air: The nearest airport to Kodaikanal is Madurai International Airport, which is approximately 120 km away. There are regular flights from major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Mumbai to Madurai. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kodaikanal.
By Taxi: You can also hire a taxi directly from Madurai to Kodaikanal. It takes around 3-4 hours from Madurai to Kodaikanal.
Best Time to Visit Kodaikanal:
October to December, February to June
Key Tourist Places in Kodaikanal:
Kodaikanal Lake, Coaker’s Walk, Bryant Park
Temperature/Weather in Kodaikanal:
Mild and cool throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 20°C. Avoid the monsoon season (July to September) due to heavy rainfall.
Bonus: Kodaikanal homestays – Here are some of the best places to stay in Kodaikanal.
Hampi, Karnataka
Hampi, located in the northern part of the Indian state of Karnataka, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular tourist destination, known for its ancient temples and ruins. It’s a great place to explore the rich history and architecture of South India.
How to reach Hampi
By Road: Hampi is well-connected by road to nearby cities and towns. The nearest major city is Hospet, which is approximately 13 km away from Hampi. There are regular bus services from Hospet to Hampi, and you can also hire a taxi or a self-drive car to reach Hampi. The journey from Hospet to Hampi takes around 30 minutes.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Hampi is Hospet Railway Station, which is approximately 13 km away. There are regular trains from major cities like Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Mumbai to Hospet Railway Station. From the railway station, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Hampi.
By Air: The nearest airport to Hampi is Jindal Vijaynagar Airport, which is approximately 37 km away. However, this airport is currently not operational, and the nearest major airport is the Hubli Airport, which is approximately 160 km away. There are regular flights from major cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, and Hyderabad to Hubli Airport. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Hampi.
By Taxi: You can also hire a taxi directly from Hospet or Hubli to reach Hampi. It takes around 30 minutes from Hospet and around 4 hours from Hubli to reach Hampi.
Best Time to Visit Hampi:
October to February
Key Tourist Places in Hampi:
Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple, Royal Enclosure
Temperature/Weather in Hampi:
Warm and dry, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 35°C. Summers can be extremely hot, reaching up to 40°C.
Bonus: Hampi homestays – Here are some of the best places to stay in Hampi.
Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu
Pondicherry, also known as Puducherry, is a charming coastal town located in the southern part of India, famous for its beaches, cafes, and unique architecture. It’s a great place to relax, enjoy the sea breeze and Pondicherry weather.
How to reach Pondicherry
By Road: Pondicherry is well-connected to nearby cities and towns through a network of well-maintained roads. You can hire a taxi or a self-drive car from cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Trichy to reach Pondicherry. There are also regular bus services from cities like Chennai and Bangalore to Pondicherry.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Pondicherry is Villupuram Railway Station, which is approximately 37 km away. There are regular trains from major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Delhi to Villupuram Railway Station. From the railway station, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Pondicherry.
By Air: The nearest airport to Pondicherry is the Chennai International Airport, which is approximately 135 km away. There are regular flights from major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore to Chennai International Airport. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Pondicherry.
By Taxi: You can also hire a taxi directly from Chennai or Bangalore to reach Pondicherry. It takes around 3-4 hours from Chennai and around 6-7 hours from Bangalore to reach Pondicherry.
Best Time to Visit Pondicherry:
October to March
Key Tourist Places in Pondicherry:
Promenade Beach, Auroville, French Quarter
Temperature/Weather in Pondicherry:
Tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 32°C. Summers (April to June) are hot and humid, while the monsoon (July to September) brings moderate to heavy rainfall. Pondicherry in December is a blessing in disguise.
Bonus: Pondicherry homestays – Here are some of the best places to stay in Pondicherry.
Alleppey, Kerala
Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is among the most popular babymoon destinations in South India. It is a coastal town located in the southern part of Kerala, popularly known for its backwaters and houseboats and all the relaxation it brings. It’s a perfect place to unwind and enjoy the tranquil beauty of southern hills.
How to reach Alleppey
By Road: Alleppey is well-connected to nearby cities and towns through a network of well-maintained roads. You can hire a taxi or a self-drive car from cities like Kochi, Trivandrum, and Kozhikode to reach Alleppey. There are also regular bus services from cities like Kochi and Trivandrum to Alleppey.
By Train: Alleppey has its own railway station, which is well-connected to major cities like Kochi, Trivandrum, and Kozhikode. There are also direct trains from cities like Chennai and Bangalore to Alleppey Railway Station.
By Air: The nearest airport to Alleppey is the Cochin International Airport, which is approximately 75 km away. There are regular flights from major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore to Cochin International Airport. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Alleppey.
By Water: Alleppey is also famous for its backwaters, and you can reach here by taking a boat or a houseboat from nearby towns like Kumarakom or Kollam. It is a unique and picturesque way to reach Alleppey.
Best Time to Visit Alleppey:
November to February
Key Tourist Places in Alleppey:
Backwaters, Alappuzha Beach, Houseboats
Temperature/Weather in Alleppey:
Warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 17°C to 35°C. The monsoon season (June to September) sees heavy rainfall, which can affect backwater cruises.
Bonus: Alleppey homestays – Here are some of the best places to stay in Alleppey.
Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu
Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, is a historic town known for its ancient temples and rock-cut sculptures. It’s a great place to explore the rich cultural heritage of South India.
How to reach Mahabalipuram
By Road: Mahabalipuram is well-connected to nearby cities and towns through a network of well-maintained roads. You can hire a taxi or a self-drive car from cities like Chennai, Pondicherry, and Kanchipuram to reach Mahabalipuram. There are also regular bus services from cities like Chennai and Pondicherry to Mahabalipuram.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Mahabalipuram is Chengalpattu Railway Station, which is approximately 30 km away. There are regular trains from major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Coimbatore to Chengalpattu Railway Station. From the railway station, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Mahabalipuram.
By Air: The nearest airport to Mahabalipuram is the Chennai International Airport, which is approximately 60 km away. There are regular flights from major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore to Chennai International Airport. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Mahabalipuram.
Best Time to Visit Mahabalipuram:
November to February
Key Tourist Places in Mahabalipuram:
Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, Arjuna’s Penance
Temperature/Weather in Mahabalipuram:
Warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. Summers (March to May) can be very hot and humid, while the monsoon season (June to September) brings moderate rainfall.
Bonus: Homestays in Mahabalipuram – Here are some of the best places to stay in Mahabalipuram.
Wayanad, Kerala
The misty mountains of Wayanad offer a perfect getaway for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and peace seekers. Among the best places for winter vacation in India, Wayanad is home to several indigenous tribes, biodiversity, cultural heritage, and spice plantations, making it a must-visit hill station in South India.
How to reach Wayanad
By Road: Wayanad is well-connected to nearby cities and towns through a network of well-maintained roads. To make the most of the Wayanad weather, you can hire a taxi or a self-drive car from cities like Kochi, Kozhikode, and Bangalore to reach Wayanad. There are also regular bus services from cities like Kochi, Kozhikode, and Bangalore to Wayanad.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Wayanad is Kozhikode Railway Station, which is approximately 110 km away. There are regular trains from major cities like Kochi, Trivandrum, and Chennai to Kozhikode Railway Station. From the railway station, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Wayanad.
By Air: The nearest airport to Wayanad is the Calicut International Airport, which is approximately 95 km away. There are regular flights from major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore to Calicut International Airport. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Wayanad’s tourist places.
Best Time to Visit Wayanad:
October to May
Key Tourist Places in Wayanad:
Edakkal Caves, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Chembra Peak
Temperature/Weather in Wayanad:
Cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. The monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rainfall, enhancing the natural beauty but possibly disrupting outdoor activities.
Bonus: Wayanad homestays – Here are some of the best places to stay in Wayanad.
Coonoor, Tamil Nadu
Nestled in the Nilgiris Hills, offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys, Coonoor is among the best hill stations in South India, popularly renowned for its desirous tea and among the best places for family vacation in India. While South India’s tourist places are widely renowned for this green landscapes, it is Coonoor that truly brings it to life.
How to reach Coonoor
By Road: Coonoor is well-connected to nearby cities and towns through a network of well-maintained roads. To enjoy Coonoor temperatures at its best, you can hire a taxi or a self-drive car from cities like Coimbatore, Ooty, and Bangalore to reach Coonoor. There are also regular bus services from cities like Coimbatore and Ooty to Coonoor.
By Train: Coonoor has its own railway station, which is well-connected to major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Coimbatore, and Mysore. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, also runs through Coonoor, offering a scenic and memorable train journey through the hills.
By Air: The nearest airport to Coonoor is the Coimbatore International Airport, which is approximately 80 km away. There are regular flights from major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore to Coimbatore International Airport. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Coonoor.
Best Time to Visit Coonoor:
October to March
Key Tourist Places in Coonoor:
Sim’s Park, Dolphin’s Nose, Tea gardens
Temperature/Weather in Coonoor:
Cool and pleasant year-round, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. Avoid the monsoon season (July to September) due to heavy rainfall.
Bonus: Conoor homestays – Here are some of the best places to stay in Coonoor.
Kumarakom, Kerala
Kumarakom is a picturesque village located in the Kottayam district of Kerala, famous for its serene backwaters, bird sanctuary, and traditional houseboats. The backwaters of Kumarakom are a network of lagoons, canals, and lakes that offer a unique and tranquil experience to tourists.
How to reach Kumarakom
By Air: The nearest airport to Kumarakom is the Cochin International Airport, which is approximately 75 km away. There are regular flights from major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore to Cochin International Airport. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kumarakom.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Kumarakom is the Kottayam Railway Station, which is approximately 16 km away. There are regular trains from major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Delhi to Kottayam Railway Station. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kumarakom.
By Road: Kumarakom is well-connected to nearby cities and towns through a network of well-maintained roads. You can hire a taxi or a self-drive car from cities like Cochin, Kottayam, and Trivandrum to reach Kumarakom. There are also regular bus services from cities like Cochin and Kottayam to Kumarakom.
While South India continues to be a must-visit destination round the year, it is a popular favourite between April to September. As the heat dwindles closer to June, it is time to welcome monsoons in South India region. The monsoons bring life to the arid plains and transform South India into a verdant paradise. The Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are particularly enchanting during this time, with mist-covered mountains, gushing waterfalls, and emerald valleys.
5 Compelling Reasons to Visit South India During Monsoons
Here’s a quick look at why you must visit South India during the monsoon months this year:
- Unbelievably beautiful lush green landscapes – Places like Munnar and Wayanad in Kerala, Coorg in Karnataka, and Ooty in Tamil Nadu make for the best places to visit in monsoons in South India, offering breathtaking vistas and ample opportunities to connect with nature’s splendour.
- Majestic waterfalls – Among the most popular waterfalls to visit in South India during monsoons, Jog Falls in Karnataka, Athirapally Falls in Kerala, and Courtallam Falls in Tamil Nadu are just a few of the cascades that showcase nature’s raw power and create awe-inspiring spectacles.
- Backwaters and Houseboats: Kerala’s famous backwaters, including Alleppey and Kumarakom, become even more captivating during the monsoons. The interconnected network of canals and lakes is replenished with rainwater, offering a tranquil and serene ambiance.
- Ayurvedic rejuvenation – Destinations like Kerala’s Ayurvedic resorts, such as Kovalam and Varkala, offer a true blend of ayurvedic treatments and wellness retreats that South India is most famous for.
- Wildlife encounters: The monsoon season presents an excellent opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts to explore South India’s national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. The Periyar Tiger Reserve in Kerala, Bandipur National Park in Karnataka, and Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu are teeming with life during this time. Witnessing elephants, tigers, deer, and an array of bird species thriving in their natural habitats is an unforgettable experience for nature lovers.
If these reasons aren’t compelling enough, we’re sure our private villas and homestays in South India will lure you in. Take a quick look at the places to visit in South India during monsoons.
