Magical Christmas Destinations to Visit Across Kerala

During Christmas time, Kerala turns into a festive wonderland. Lit-up churches, busy markets, calm backwaters, and misty mountains all contribute to the December experience. With a mix of spirituality, culture, and nature, Kerala offers a unique adventure. Renting a self-drive car from IndusGo allows you to enjoy the festive spirit while exploring. Whether you need a car rental in Kerala, starting your journey from Kochi, or want to explore the backwaters in Kumarakom, IndusGo has flexible options for every holiday trip.

Kochi

Kochi hosts a wonderful Christmas celebration. The streets of Fort Kochi sparkle with colourful lights, paper buntings, and handmade decorations on Princess Street and Broadway. Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, St. Francis Church, and Holy Koonan Cross Church draw both Christians and tourists with their midnight masses and choir performances. In December, the Kochi-Muziris Biennale showcases contemporary art exhibitions in old warehouses, mixing culture with Christmas festivities. You can find both treats at bakeries and roadside eateries. A self-drive car from IndusGo Kochi makes it easy to get between churches, markets, and beautiful spots along Marine Drive.

Alleppey

Alleppey, referred to as the Venice of the East, is magical during the Christmas season. Famous houseboats glide over serene waters, reflecting glowing lights. St. Mary’s Basilica has carol services where visitors can listen to hymns and local festive music. Colourful Christmas markets near the boat jetty sell handmade ornaments, tasty Kerala snacks, and fragrant spices. Taking a detour to Kumarakom from Alleppey provides more scenic stops and photo opportunities along the backwaters. Travellers can explore nearby villages by bike or kayak. Using IndusGo’s self-drive service from Kochi makes it easy to visit several towns and return to Alleppey relaxed, balancing excitement with calm.

Munnar

Munnar has nice weather and endless tea plantations, making it a perfect spot for a refreshing holiday in December. The early morning mist covers the hills. The beautiful views of Echo Point and Mattupetty Dam create a magical atmosphere. Travellers can enjoy scenic drives, visit local tea factories, or check out waterfalls and viewpoints. Adventurous hikers will find trails that provide fresh winter air and stunning views. Driving along winding roads deep into the forest is incredibly relaxing when you choose a self-drive car from IndusGo, which ensures both convenience and freedom to explore Munnar’s hills, plantations, and serene natural beauty during the festive season.

Trivandrum

Trivandrum captivates visitors with its cultural and religious Christmas celebrations. The Lal Bahadur Shastri Stadium hosts concerts, shows, and Christmas carnivals in December. Churches like Santa Cruz and St. Joseph’s Cathedral glow with oil lamps and festive decorations. Markets along MG Road showcase plum cakes, roast meats, and Christmas sweets. Sunset views at Shanghumugham Beach and cultural visits to the Napier Museum add to the experience. Hiring a car saves travel time between beaches, historic sites, and markets, making for a hassle-free and immersive Christmas celebration.

Kumarakom

Christmas in Kumarakom is enchanting. Vembanad Lake shimmers with festive lights, and Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary becomes lively with migratory birds. Some resorts hold carol nights and festive meals featuring fish dishes. Visitors can enjoy long boat rides or explore traditional backwater villages along narrow canals. With IndusGo, it's simple to find smaller villages and lakeside attractions. Kumarakom promises a warm and enchanting Christmas experience for friends and families.

Wayanad

Wayanad’s hills and dense forests create a magical Christmas atmosphere. Visitors can hike and explore places like Edakkal Caves, Pookode Lake, and Chembra Peak. Scenic drives through tea and spice plantations fill the air with wonderful aromas. During Christmas, many resorts hold festive celebrations featuring traditional Kerala dishes. Adventurous travellers can trek and spot wildlife like elephants and birds. Renting a self-drive car from IndusGo makes it easy and safe to explore Wayanad. You can stop at viewpoints, waterfalls, and forest trails to enjoy a peaceful holiday.

Thekkady

Thekkady is a paradise for nature lovers. Take an early morning boat ride at Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary to see elephants, deer, and migratory birds. Visit spice plantations to view cardamom, cinnamon, and pepper up close. You can even participate in activities like harvesting or simply take in the aroma of fresh spices. During Christmas, many resorts host festive gatherings with music, dance, and special local dishes, creating a warm holiday atmosphere. You can also enjoy nature walks, trek through lush forests, or explore scenic viewpoints for great photo opportunities. Renting a self-drive car from IndusGo makes it simple to navigate forest roads, scenic trails, and nearby villages at your own pace. This combines adventure, nature, and festive joy for a truly magical holiday.

Varkala

The Varkala cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea create a fairy tale Christmas atmosphere. Papanasam Beach offers splendid sunsets and lovely spots for picnics along the shore. Enjoy relaxing walks along the shore. You can visit nearby villages to see local life and the traditional culture of Kerala. Local markets sell handmade souvenirs, Christmas treats, and traditional snacks. Cliffside cafes like Cafe del Mar and The Cliff Restaurant offer both local and international dishes along with views of the sea. Yoga retreats and wellness programs hold holiday events. The calm surroundings and beautiful scenery make Varkala an ideal spot to relax and celebrate Christmas by the sea.

Cherai

The Fort Kochi to Cherai Beach coastal drive throws in quite its share of sun-kissed sands, calming waves, and a deep cultural environment. Fort Kochi is dotted with beautiful art galleries, colonial architecture, and Christmas decorations. Cherai Beach is good for family outings, swimming, and photography. Snacks, souvenirs, and local Christmas recipes spread across stalls all over the site. With a self-drive car from IndusGo, you can easily visit both places and enjoy scenic drives with amazing sea views along this beautiful coast.

Kottayam

In Kottayam, the calm of the backwaters blends with the excitement of traditional Christmas. Midnight masses and carols at St. Andrew's Basilica create a festive atmosphere. The local markets are perfect for last-minute shopping for gifts, local sweets, or Christmas decorations. Visitors can relax on backwater rides and explore small villages, taking in the slow-paced heartland of Kerala. Several resorts host Christmas-themed parties and feasts. With a self-drive rental, you can enjoy a comfortable trip to Kottayam's cultural attractions.

Choose IndusGo for Your Christmas Trip

IndusGo's self-drive car rental makes spending Christmas in Kerala enjoyable and stress-free. Picture festive markets with beautiful routes and a chance for a relaxing nature getaway. Book in early December to enjoy those local Christmas delicacies and be part of the holiday charm. Kerala offers beauty, culture, and celebrations like no other place. From the lively markets of Kochi to the calm backwaters of Kumarakom and the misty hills of Wayanad, each spot offers a unique experience. With IndusGo self-drive rentals, your holiday remains flexible, safe, and memorable. Celebrate Christmas with scenic drives, cultural events, and cozy getaways. Kerala is ready to welcome you!

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