Tamil Nadu in December is even enchanting. The weather is comparatively cooler, and the green surroundings add charm to the atmosphere, and the festive season also boosts it up. Tamil Nadu not only has beautiful mountains for tourists but also has a famous temple for tourists.
If you are considering a trip to this southern beauty, then we have put together a list that will help you plan the 10 places to visit in Tamil Nadu in December. Get ready for an adventure!
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List of The Best Places to Visit In Tamil Nadu in December
There are various locations in the state of Tamil Nadu. However, if you are seeking some of the most popular places to visit in Tamil Nadu in December, you can use the list below to select the best for your next trip.
1. Ooty – The Queen of Hills
Ooty occupies a vast area, which has become a center for tourist attractions for many years due to beautiful views of the valley and the climate. Misty mornings and chilly evenings make this hill station extraordinarily beautiful in December.
Why Visit in December?
- It has a cool climate, which enables the tourists to go around the beautiful scenery in the area.
- Ooty is very quiet; therefore, you will be able to explore the town peacefully.
Key Attractions:
- Ooty Lake Boating and picnicking are more suitable for Ooty Lake.
- A vast display of plants and a 55-acre garden.
- Doddabetta Peak: The tallest point among all the hills of Nilgiri, and it has scenic beauty.
Things to Do:
- Go for a joy ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway.
- Take a look at Indian tea processing at the Ooty Tea Factory and taste the tea.
2. Kodaikanal – The Princess of Hill Stations
Kodaikanal is famous for its lakes and hills, which are dense with mist and forests. It is beautiful all year round, but especially during winter due to the December coolness and humidity.
Why Visit in December?
- The mornings are usually foggy, and the air is so crisp, especially when you are in the Mountains for relaxation.
- Some recreational activities might include trekking, cycling, etc.
Key Attractions:
- Kodaikanal Lake – A man-made lake with a beautiful backdrop of green trees surrounding the lake.
- Coaker’s Walk – A beautiful walking path amidst the beautiful scenery of the valley.
- Must-Know of the Day: Pillar Rocks – Standing stones that offer incredible views at the top.
Things to Do:
- Take a forest hike or do a nature trail.
- In Kodaikanal, take a boat ride in the Kodai Lake.
3. Chennai – The Cultural Capital
Tamil Nadu’s capital city, Chennai, is a fast-growing city with cultural values. Chennai is preferable in December because of the moderate climate; also, the month is famous for its Margazhi Music Festival.
Why Visit in December?
- You can also take a breath of fresh air from the Bay of Bengal.
- December is dedicated to music and carries out the Margazhi Music Festival, which is devoted to Carnatic Music and Dance.
Key Attractions:
- Marina Beach – The longest urban beach in India.
- Kapaleeshwarar Temple – A fine specimen of Dravidian architectural style.
- Fort St. George – The British constructed this fort during the colonial rule of the city.
Things to Do:
- Take a leisurely walk on Marina Beach, and you can have a perfect sunset to watch.
- Watch a Margazhi Festival and be a part of a classical music concert.
4. Madurai – The City of Temples
In terms of tourist attractions, Madurai is best known for the temple called Meenakshi Amman Temple. It is best to discover the city’s historical and cultural heritage outside the heat of December.
Why Visit in December?
- The warm weather does make visiting temples more enjoyable in the cooler seasons.
- Great cultural/ religious carnivals or fairs are celebrated in the city during this time of the year.
Key Attractions:
- Meenakshi Amman Temple – One of the biggest monuments with elaborate design.
- Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace: A palace that best exemplifies the intricate and grandeur of Indo-Saracenic architecture.
- Gandhism – Discover India’s freedom movement history.
Things to Do:
- Wander around the streets of Madurai as much as you can and taste the local food.
- Visit the temple in the evening when you get to see the beautiful lighting up of the temple.
5. Mahabalipuram – A UNESCO Heritage Site
Mahabalipuram is a coastal town in India that is renowned for its caves, sculptural friezes, and monuments. December is a great time to walk around the city and contemplate the architecture of this great coastal town.
Why Visit in December?
- The open-air monuments you can visit can be comfortably walked around.
- Coastal breeze also makes the experience even better.
Key Attractions:
- Shore Temple: This is another temple in the south of India, and it specializes in being over the sea.
- Five Rathas: The five holy buildings with the architectural design of the monolithic rock-cut temple.
- Arjuna’s Penance – A huge natural boulder with beautiful carving on it.
Things to Do:
- Visit the monuments carved out of the cliffside.
- Stroll along the sandy shore and feel the brise of the sea.
6. Rameswaram – A Spiritual Escape
Rameswaram is one of the most sacred places in India. The area is said to have been where Lord Rama created a bridge toward Lanka. The temple, with its deity Ramanathaswamy, tends to attract thousands of devotees all year round.
Why Visit in December?
- The weather is simply ideal for temple viewing and island strolling.
- December is relatively less humid than other months, which makes it ideal for outdoor activities.
Key Attractions:
- Ramanathaswamy Temple – This temple shows an annex-like corridor and magnificent sculptures.
- Pamban Bridge – The first sea bridge in India with an added beauty.
- Dhanushkodi – A Destination, a Place best suitable for Ghost where nature and tragedy go hand in hand.
Things to Do:
- Go for a swim in the 22 holy tanks at the Ramanathaswamy Temple.
- Pamban Bridge can be visited, and a shot walk near the bridge will allow witnessing breathtaking scenes on the ocean side.
7. Pondicherry – French Colonial Charm
Pondicherry or Puducherry is a perfect amalgamation of French and Indian architecture. December destination, it is really pleasant there, and the beautiful beaches will attract visitors to the spot.
Why Visit in December?
- The air is cool due to the sea breezes, making it the best time to have a beach vacation.
- Christmas and the New Year are impressively celebrated in Pondicherry.
Key Attractions:
- Auroville – A model or experimental town that is supposed to conduct the way of life for a nation in the future.
- Promenade Beach – A nice walk in the morning and the evening stroll.
- French Quarter – Popular area characterized by colonial structures and traditionally built roads.
Things to Do:
- Traveling to Auroville would enable one to experience a different way of life.
- Have an incredible journey and wander through New Orleans’ most famous district – the French Quarter.
- Sleep on exquisite sand and watch as the sun sets down.
8. Yercaud – The Jewel of the South
Yercaud is a picturesque hill station famous for its gardens of coffee plantations, beautiful natural forests, and cool climatic conditions. It is situated at Shevaroy Hills, and compared to other populated hill stations, it is relatively calm and unrestored.
Why Visit in December?
- It is that cool and misty climate that would make it such a serene hang-out.
- Yercaud is comparatively a better place as it is not very crowded and can provide a more personal touch.
Key Attractions:
- Yercaud Lake: For boating, it is surrounded by gardens and is eye candy.
- Pagoda Point – A vantage point where one can view the surrounding hills.
- Botanical Garden – This is a known place for lovers of delicate plants and flowers.
Things to Do:
- Tour the coffee plantation and taste the manufacturer’s coffee.
- This incorporates trekking all through the forested areas and having equal opportunity to admire the view.
9. Kanyakumari – The Southernmost Tip of India
Kanyakumari is the place where the union of the Indian Ocean, the Bay of Bengal, and the Arabian Sea lies. Best known for its daylight with beautiful sunrises and amazing sunsets, December is the best time to be there.
Why Visit in December?
- The climate is relatively warm and suitable for touring.
- December has good weather for observing the sunrise and sunset as the sky remains clear.
Key Attractions:
- Vivekananda Rock Memorial – A structure built in the physical form of a meditation hall, which is situated on a small island.
- Thiruvalluvar Statue – The statue of the noted Tamil poet and writer Thiruvalluvar standing 133-feets tall.
- Beaches – Kanyakumari Temple beach: Famous for its beauty and lively seafront.
Things to Do:
- Enjoy the beautiful sunrise and or sunset by the beach.
- Travel by ferry to the Vivekananda Rock Memorial.
10. Thanjavur – The Land of Temples and Art
Thanjavur is a cultural district famous for temples, arts, and architectural work. This city has a wealth of history and art and is one of the most famous places to go sightseeing in Tamil Nadu.
Why Visit in December?
- This makes it even more fun to take a tour of the city’s major temples and palaces in the cool December weather.
- The cultural festivals held in Thanjavur in the December season form part of the beauty of the city.
Key Attractions:
- Brihadeeswarar Temple – The famous temple is listed under UNESCO and is the largest temple in India.
- The Thanjavur Palace – An architectural wonder depicting the Tamil style of architecture and art.
- Saraswathi Mahal Library – One of the oldest libraries of Asia, with more than 1400 manuscripts.
Things to Do:
- Visit the Brihadeeswarar Temple and be amazed at the architecture.
- To learn about the history of Thanjavur, one must visit the palace museum.
The Bottom Line
Tamil Nadu has more to it than one can think of – from hill stations, Temple towns, and historical structures to metro cities. December is the best time to make the most of the state attractions because the weather is still cool and dry, which entices travelers. Cultural fests, Religious Yatras, Pilgrims, and Leisure tourists can choose Tamil Nadu as a place to spend their vacations.
So, gather your luggage and book Tamil Nadu Tour Packages to check out these 10 beautiful places in Tamil Nadu in December.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is December an appropriate time to visit Tamil Nadu?
Yes, December is a great time to visit Tamil Nadu. The weather is good, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Which are the most significant hill places to visit in Tamil Nadu around December?
Ooty, Kodaikanal, and Yercaud are the best hill stations to visit in December due to their cool weather and beautiful splendor.
What should I take for my December trip to Tamil Nadu?
Pack lightweight clothing for the day and warm layers for the evening, especially if you are visiting a hill station. It is also advisable to wear comfortable shoes and sunscreen.
Are there any big celebrations in Tamil Nadu during December?
Yes, the Margazhi Music Festival in Chennai is a prominent festival in December that honors Carnatic music and traditional dance.
How crowded are the tourist attractions in Tamil Nadu around December?
Popular destinations such as Ooty and Kodaikanal may get a moderate number of visitors, but they are often less crowded than during high tourist seasons.
Can I visit temples in Tamil Nadu in December?
Absolutely! The colder weather makes it an ideal time to explore temples in Tamil Nadu, like Madurai and Rameswaram.
Can I enjoy the beaches of Tamil Nadu in December?
Absolutely! Beaches in Chennai, Mahabalipuram, and Pondicherry are ideal during this season.
Is Rameswaram a suitable destination to travel in December?
Yes, Rameswaram provides good weather for temple visits and sightseeing in December.
What is the best way to travel between cities in Tamil Nadu?
The best way to travel is by train or vehicle, as Tamil Nadu has a well-developed road and rail network.
