Rolling emerald tea gardens wrapped in morning mist, cool mountain air, and viewpoints that look like paintings: this is Munnar in December. If you are searching for the best places to visit in Munnar in December, you have picked the perfect month. The monsoon has washed the Western Ghats clean, the skies are mostly clear, and the hills glow in soft winter light.
Whether you are a honeymooner, a family on a holiday, a group of friends, or a solo traveller who simply wants quiet, Munnar delivers. In this guide we cover the top 10 places to visit, the December weather, a ready-made 3-day itinerary, where to stay, and answers to the questions travellers ask most.
December is also a wonderful time to explore other parts of the country. If you are planning a longer winter holiday, check out our guide to Best Places to Visit in India in December 2026 for more seasonal travel inspiration.
Why December Is a Great Time to Visit Munnar
December is peak season in Munnar, and for good reason. Days are pleasant, nights are chilly, and the hills are at their greenest after the rains. Sightseeing is comfortable all day long, and roads are in better shape than during the monsoon.
Another big plus is the festive mood. Christmas and New Year celebrations bring warmth to hotels, cafes, and resorts across Kerala’s high ranges. You can enjoy bonfires, live music evenings, and plenty of fresh tea and spices. Do note that this popularity means higher prices and crowds, so booking early is a smart move.
Munnar Weather in December
Expect a cool and comfortable climate. Daytime temperatures usually hover around 18 to 24°C, while nights can drop to single digits in higher areas. Early mornings in valleys such as Chundavurai and Sevenmallay can even see frost on cold days, which makes for magical photographs.
Mist usually covers the hills in the early morning and clears by mid-morning, so start your sightseeing early for the best views. Carry light woollens for the day and a proper jacket for evenings. Weather can vary year to year, so check the forecast a few days before you travel.
10 Best Places to Visit in Munnar in December
Here is our hand-picked list of Munnar tourist places that look especially beautiful in December.
1. Eravikulam National Park
Home to the endangered Nilgiri tahr, Eravikulam National Park is the top attraction in Munnar and a must-visit in December. Open grassy hills roll endlessly, and cool breezes make the short trek inside the park a delight. You are likely to spot tahrs grazing near the walkway, and the views of the surrounding peaks are superb.
The park is usually closed in the calving season, which falls in the early months of the year, so December is a safe time to visit. Tickets are often booked online and slots can fill up in peak season, so reserve ahead. Go early to avoid queues.
2. Top Station
At around 1,700 metres, Top Station is one of the highest points in Munnar and offers a sweeping view of the Western Ghats and the plains of Tamil Nadu. On clear December mornings the valley appears to float on a sea of clouds.
It sits on the Munnar to Kodaikanal road, so it is easy to combine with other sights. Travellers often visit at sunrise or early morning, when the air is crisp and the visibility is best. Carry a warm layer, as it can be windy and cold here.
3. Mattupetty Dam and Lake
Mattupetty Dam is a calm, picturesque reservoir ringed by grasslands and shola forests. It is a favourite with families because of the boating options, including speed boats and paddle boats, and the pleasant walks around the shore.
The cool December weather makes the boat ride even more enjoyable. Nearby you will find stalls selling tea, snacks, and fresh fruit. Visit in the morning or late afternoon when the light on the water is lovely, and keep your camera ready for reflections of the hills.
4. Kolukkumalai Tea Estate
Kolukkumalai is often described as one of the highest tea plantations in the world and is famous for its sunrise views. Getting there is part of the adventure: a rugged jeep ride over rocky tracks takes you to the viewpoint, and many travellers leave in the early hours to watch the sun rise over the hills.
December mornings here are cold, so dress warmly. The estate also lets you see how orthodox tea is made, and you can taste fresh brew right where it is grown. It is a highlight of any Munnar trip.
5. Tea Museum (Kannan Devan Tea Museum)
If tea is the soul of Munnar, the Tea Museum tells its story. Run by a well-known tea company, it displays vintage machinery, photographs, and exhibits that trace the history of tea cultivation in the region. You can also see how leaves are processed and sample freshly made tea.
It is a good indoor-outdoor stop that fits any time of day, and a great place to buy tea packs as souvenirs. Check opening hours before you go, as timings and weekly holidays can change.
6. Attukal Waterfalls
Located on the road to Pallivasal, Attukal Waterfalls cascades down rocky slopes surrounded by thick greenery and tea estates. After the monsoon the water flow remains healthy in December, giving visitors a lovely view without the dangerous conditions of the rainy season.
The surrounding trekking trails are popular with nature lovers. Wear shoes with a good grip, as rocks can be slippery, and avoid venturing close to the water edge. It is also a nice stop on the way to other sights nearby.
7. Echo Point
Echo Point is a charming spot beside a lake, known for its natural echo that bounces back from the surrounding hills when you shout. It is a fun stop for kids and a pleasant place for a short break with a cup of tea.
The setting is peaceful and the cool December breeze adds to the experience. It is close to Top Station and Mattupetty, so you can easily include it in a day of sightseeing. Boating facilities are sometimes available as well.
8. Pothamedu View Point
Pothamedu is a quieter alternative if you want sweeping views of tea, coffee, cardamom, and rubber plantations without big crowds. Its elevated position gives you a lovely panorama of the valley, particularly beautiful in the soft light of morning or evening.
The area is close to Munnar town, making it a convenient first or last stop of the day. Many resorts and homestays here offer plantation walks and spice garden visits, which makes Pothamedu a good base for a relaxed stay.
9. Anayirangal Dam and Lake
Surrounded by tea plantations on all sides, Anayirangal Dam offers an almost postcard-perfect landscape. The reservoir is calm and clear, and the road leading there passes some of the prettiest tea estates in the region.
It is less crowded than the more popular dams, which makes it ideal for photography and quiet walks. Boating is often available, and the nearby forest area is great for spotting birds. Visit in the afternoon when the light gently touches the hills.
10. Marayoor
Marayoor sits a little farther from Munnar and offers a very different landscape. It is known for natural sandalwood forests, jaggery making, and ancient dolmens, which are stone burial chambers linked to prehistoric times. The drier climate and open scenery contrast beautifully with the lush greenery of Munnar.
On the way you pass beautiful viewpoints and small waterfalls, making it a great day trip. Combine it with a visit to nearby attractions and local markets for fresh sugarcane and spices.
Perfect 3-Day Munnar Itinerary for December
Short on time? This simple plan covers the best of Munnar without rushing.
- Day 1: Arrive and check in, then visit Pothamedu View Point, the Tea Museum, and a tea estate walk. Enjoy an evening bonfire at your resort.
- Day 2: Start early with Eravikulam National Park, then continue to Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, and Top Station for sunset views.
- Day 3: Take a sunrise jeep ride to Kolukkumalai, return for breakfast, visit Attukal Waterfalls and Anayirangal Dam, and head home with a bag of fresh tea and spices.
If you have an extra day, add Marayoor and spend a slow morning at a plantation homestay.
Best Things to Do in Munnar in December
Beyond sightseeing, December offers plenty of experiences that make your trip memorable.
- Take a walk through a tea plantation and learn how tea is plucked.
- Try trekking at sunrise to watch mist clear over the valleys.
- Enjoy a jeep safari across rough hill tracks.
- Visit a spice garden for cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon.
- Taste traditional Kerala meals, including appam with stew and fresh fish curry.
- Relax with an Ayurvedic massage, perfect after a day of hill travel.
- Enjoy a campfire evening with music at your resort.
Where to Stay in Munnar in December
Because December is peak season, book your stay at least a few weeks ahead. Options range from budget homestays to luxury resorts with valley views.
Staying near Munnar town is convenient for food and transport, while plantation resorts around Chithirapuram, Pothamedu, and Devikulam offer more peaceful surroundings. Treehouses and tented stays are popular with couples and adventure lovers. Check that your stay has a heater or extra blankets, since nights can get quite cold.
How to Reach Munnar
Munnar is well connected by road. The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, roughly 110 km away, and the drive usually takes around four hours depending on traffic. The closest major railway stations are Aluva and Ernakulam, from where you can hire a taxi or take a bus. State buses and private taxis run regularly from Kochi, Madurai, and Coimbatore.
The final stretch of the road has many curves, so if you are prone to motion sickness, carry medicine and take breaks.
Travel Tips for Visiting Munnar in December
- Book hotels, taxis, and park tickets early because crowds are high.
- Start sightseeing early to enjoy clear views before the mist or crowds build.
- Pack light woollens, a warm jacket, comfortable shoes, and a rain cover just in case.
- Carry cash, as some remote areas have limited digital payment and network coverage.
- Respect wildlife rules and avoid littering in national parks and tea estates.
- Plan your driving in daylight as hill roads can be tricky at night.
Frequently Asked Questions About Munnar in December
Is December a good time to visit Munnar?
Yes, December is one of the best months for Munnar. The weather is cool, the skies are mostly clear, and all major attractions are open. It is also the peak tourist season, so expect crowds and higher prices.
How cold does Munnar get in December?
Days are pleasant, usually in the high teens to low twenties in degrees Celsius, while nights and early mornings can be very cold, especially in higher areas where temperatures can drop sharply and frost may appear.
How many days are enough for Munnar?
Three days are ideal to cover the main sights comfortably. If you want to include Marayoor, trekking, or a slow plantation stay, plan for four days.
Is Eravikulam National Park open in December?
Yes, it is generally open in December. The park closes during the calving season early in the year, so it is a good month to visit. Always check for the latest rules and book tickets in advance.
Is Munnar good for a honeymoon in December?
Absolutely. The cool weather, misty mornings, private resorts, and romantic viewpoints make Munnar a favourite with couples. Pick a plantation resort or treehouse for a more intimate stay.
What should I wear in Munnar in December?
Carry light woollens and a jacket for evenings, along with comfortable walking shoes. If you plan to visit Kolukkumalai or Top Station at sunrise, add a warm cap and gloves.
Do I need to book in advance for Munnar in December?
Yes. Hotels, taxis, and popular attractions fill up quickly around Christmas and New Year. Booking a few weeks ahead helps you get better rates and your preferred stay.
Final Thoughts
Munnar in December is a perfect blend of nature, calm, and festive cheer. From the grasslands of Eravikulam and the sunrise at Kolukkumalai to the quiet beauty of Anayirangal Dam and the cultural charm of Marayoor, there is something for every traveller. Plan early, start your days early, and give yourself time to simply sit with a cup of fresh tea and watch the mist roll over the hills.
Have you been to Munnar in winter, or are you planning your trip? Share your favourite spot in the comments, and explore our other December travel guides for more inspiration.
