Karnataka is a beautiful mix of different cultures, tastes, and stunning landscapes. It’s a place that captures your heart with its breathtaking views. December, with its cool air and festive mood, is the perfect time to see Karnataka at its best. This list offers the top 10 places to see in Karnataka in December, each one a treasure ready to explore. This guide is specially made for you to enjoy Karnataka’s beauty.
Weather Guide: Why Visit Karnataka in December?
December in Karnataka greets visitors with a serene climate, quite the departure from its usual tropical fervour. The monsoon’s retreat blesses the state with a fresh vibrancy, painting the landscapes in lush, lively hues Cities like Bengaluru and Mysore luxuriate in sun-kissed afternoons at a pleasant 22-28°C (72-82°F), while nighttime brings a refreshing coolness of 15-20°C (59-68°F). Coastal gems such as Mangalore and Udupi remain comfortably warm, 25-32°C (77-90°F), with soothing breezes mitigating the tropical humidity.
The hill stations of Karnataka are where the December weather truly delights. Coorg and Chikmagalur, being in the Western Ghats, have a cooler climate with day temperatures between 15-20°C (59-68°F) and can sometimes drop to as low as 10°C (50°F) during the night. This cool weather is perfect for enjoying the hot cups of local coffee and exploring the verdant surroundings.
A common feature across Karnataka in December is the clear blue skies, which allow for uninterrupted travel and exploration. It’s a month free of the torrential rains that can sometimes impede travel in the region, and the mild sunshine makes outdoor activities and sightseeing thoroughly enjoyable.
Top 10 Places to Visit in Karnataka in December:
1. Coorg
Nestled among the lush Western Ghats, Coorg, officially known as Kodagu, is a picture postcard that comes alive at every nook and corner. With its undulating hills, spice, and coffee plantations exuding a heady aroma, and a misty charm that blankets the landscape, Coorg is a heaven for nature lovers.
What makes it special in December? The winter month of December brings a refreshing coolness to this hilly retreat. It’s the perfect time to trek up to spots like Thadiyandamol or push through the foliage of Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary. The Abbey and Iruppu Falls roars with fresh monsoon feeds, presenting a magnificent sight. Meanwhile, the coffee plantations are abuzz with activity, with berries turning a ripe red, ready for harvest.
Things to Do:
- Visit Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat, and Madikeri Fort.
- Explore coffee plantations and learn about coffee processing.
- Take a trek to Tadiandamol or Brahmagiri peaks.
Activities: River rafting in Barapole, bird watching at Nagarhole, and tasting local Kodava cuisine.
Best Time to Visit: December offers cool weather, ideal for exploring outdoors.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport, approximately 140 km away. It is well-connected to major cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, and Chennai. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Coorg.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Mysore Junction, about 120 km away. Another option is Kannur Railway Station (Kerala), around 110 km from Coorg. Taxis and buses are readily available from these stations.
- By Road: Coorg is well-connected via NH275. Direct buses are available from Bangalore (250 km), Mysore (120 km), and Mangalore. Self-driving is also a great option as the roads are scenic and well-maintained.
2. Hampi
Once the epicenter of the Vijayanagar Empire, Hampi today stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its ruins telling tales of a bygone era. The landscape is studded with temples, ancient market streets, royal pavilions, bastions, royal platforms, treasury buildings, and remains of aquatic structures.
Why December? With the sun mellowing down, the stone surfaces of the ancient structures of Hampi no longer scorch but instead radiate a warm, welcoming glow. This is the time when the Hampi Utsav dazzles the city with performances, arts, and crafts that celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Karnataka.
Things to Do:
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple, and Lotus Mahal.
- Walk through the Royal Enclosure and Elephant Stables.
- Climb Matanga Hill for sunrise or sunset views.
Activities: Coracle rides on the Tungabhadra River and cycling tours around the ruins.
Best Time to Visit: December offers pleasant weather for sightseeing.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Hubli Airport, about 160 km away, with domestic flights from Bangalore, Mumbai, and Hyderabad. Bangalore International Airport (350 km) is another option for international travelers.
- By Train: The closest railway station is Hospet Junction, just 13 km from Hampi. Hospet is well-connected to Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Goa.
- By Road: Hampi is accessible by road via NH67. KSRTC buses connect Hospet and nearby cities, or you can hire a cab. Self-driving is another option for those who enjoy long road trips.
3. Gokarna
Gokarna is recognized as one of the top December holiday spots in South India, offering a serene coastal retreat with its peaceful beaches and relaxed ambiance, distinctly different from Goa’s lively beach scene. This destination uniquely combines spirituality with beach life, creating a harmonious and tranquil environment for visitors.
December charm: December marks the onset of the dry season in Gokarna, with clear skies and a cooler climate. The waters are perfect for a dip, and the beaches, particularly Om Beach with its unique om-shaped bend, are less crowded, giving you a more peaceful experience. The Mahabaleshwara Temple, a renowned Shiva shrine, sees less of a pilgrim rush in December, offering a more serene spiritual encounter.
Things to Do:
- Relax at beaches like Om Beach, Kudle Beach, and Paradise Beach.
- Visit Mahabaleshwar Temple for a spiritual experience.
- Trek along the scenic Gokarna Beach Trail.
Activities: Yoga retreats, beach camping, and water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.
Best Time to Visit: December provides sunny days and cooler nights, perfect for beach activities.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Goa’s Dabolim Airport, approximately 140 km away. From here, taxis or buses will take you to Gokarna.
- By Train: Gokarna Road Station is 10 km from the town and connects to major cities like Bangalore, Goa, and Mangalore. Ankola Railway Station (20 km) is another nearby option.
- By Road: Gokarna lies on NH66 and is well-connected to cities like Bangalore, Goa, and Mangalore. KSRTC buses frequently run to Gokarna, or you can drive along the scenic coastal route.
4. Mysore
Mysore, or Mysuru, is often synonymous with grandeur and opulence, thanks to the majestic Mysore Palace. The city is imbued with the aroma of sandalwood and the rustle of rich silk sarees.
December’s touch: As the chill sets in, the city lights up, not just figuratively but literally. The Mysore Palace is illuminated on weekends and public holidays, creating a spectacle not to be missed. The Mysore Zoo and Brindavan Gardens are at their lushest, offering lovely ambles amid blooming flowers and verdant trees.
Things to Do:
- Visit the grand Mysore Palace and Chamundi Hills.
- Stroll through Brindavan Gardens and Mysore Zoo.
- Explore the Mysore Sand Sculpture Museum.
Activities: Shopping for silk sarees and sandalwood products, and savoring Mysore Pak.
Best Time to Visit: December’s cool weather enhances the sightseeing experience.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Mysore Airport serves domestic flights from Bangalore. For international travelers, Bangalore International Airport is 170 km away, with excellent road and rail connectivity to Mysore.
- By Train: Mysore Junction is the main railway station and is connected to Bangalore, Chennai, and Hyderabad.
- By Road: NH275 connects Mysore to Bangalore and other cities. Frequent KSRTC buses, including luxury services, are available. Self-drive enthusiasts will enjoy the picturesque Bangalore-Mysore highway.
Mysore Package: 5 Nights 6 Days Mysore Ooty Kodaikanal Tour Itinerary
5. Chikmagalur
Serenity and scenery go hand in hand in Chikmagalur, the birthplace of coffee in India. This hill station is dotted with plantations that stretch over the horizon and mist-covered mountains.
In December: The winter air is filled with the crisp scent of coffee as you walk through the plantations. This is also a great time for bird watchers to spot exotic species as they migrate here. The trekking routes, especially to Mullayanagiri, the highest peak in Karnataka, are perfect during this cooler month.
Things to Do:
- Visit Mullayanagiri and Baba Budangiri peaks.
- Explore coffee estates and Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Enjoy the beauty of Hebbe and Jhari waterfalls.
Activities: Trekking, plantation stays, and coffee tasting tours.
Best Time to Visit: December’s crisp air and misty mornings make it a great time to explore.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Mangalore International Airport is the nearest, located about 150 km away. Taxis or buses can take you to Chikmagalur from the airport.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Kadur (40 km) or Hassan (60 km), connected to Bangalore and Mangalore. Taxis and local buses operate from these stations.
- By Road: Chikmagalur is accessible via NH173. Direct buses run from Bangalore (240 km), Mangalore, and Mysore. Driving through the Western Ghats offers a scenic experience.
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6. Badami, Aihole, and Pattadakal
The trio of Badami, Aihole, and Pattadakal is Karnataka’s showcase of ancient Indian rock-cut architecture. These sites house temples and structures that date back to the 5th and 8th centuries.
December perks: The climate is congenial for exploring these architectural marvels. The Badami cave temples with their intricate carvings and the Chalukyan architecture of Aihole and Pattadakal are more enjoyable when the sun is gentle, and the air is fresh.
Things to Do:
- Explore Badami’s rock-cut caves and Bhutanatha Temples.
- Visit Pattadakal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for Chalukyan architecture.
- Discover ancient temples at Aihole, known as the cradle of Indian temple architecture.
Activities: Photography, historical tours, and exploration of ancient inscriptions.
Best Time to Visit: December’s mild weather is perfect for outdoor exploration.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Hubli Airport, around 105 km away. Hubli has frequent flights to Bangalore, Mumbai, and Hyderabad.
- By Train: Badami Railway Station is the nearest station, located 5 km from the town, with regular trains from Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Mumbai.
- By Road: NH367 connects Badami to nearby cities. KSRTC buses and private cabs are convenient options from Hubli and Belgaum.
7. Udupi
Udupi is not just about its world-famous cuisine but also its centuries-old Krishna Temple which draws devotees from across the globe. The Malpe beach near Udupi is another attraction, known for its silvery sands and sunsets.
Why Udupi in December?
The Paryaya Festival, held every alternate year in January, starts prepping in December, and the festive vibes are in the air. It’s also a great time for temple visits and beach experiences as the weather is pleasant, enhancing the coastal delight.
Things to Do:
- Visit the famous Udupi Sri Krishna Temple.
- Relax at Malpe and Kaup beaches.
- Take a ferry to the serene St. Mary’s Island.
Activities: Boat rides, exploring backwaters, and tasting Udupi cuisine.
Best Time to Visit: December offers pleasant beach weather.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Mangalore International Airport, 60 km away, is the nearest airport. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Udupi.
- By Train: Udupi Railway Station is well-connected to Bangalore, Mumbai, and Goa via Konkan Railways.
- By Road: Udupi is located on NH66, making it easily accessible by road. Buses from Bangalore, Mangalore, and Goa are frequent and reliable.
8. Dandeli
Dandeli is the go-to place for adrenaline junkies with its offering of white-water rafting, kayaking, and other water sports on the Kali River.
December thrills: The river is brimming from the monsoon rains, making it perfect for rafting. The Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with the cooler temperatures making safaris a pleasant affair. Bird watching is particularly rewarding during this month as migratory birds flock in.
Things to Do:
- Go river rafting and kayaking in the Kali River.
- Visit Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary to spot hornbills and panthers.
- Explore Kavala Caves and Syntheri Rocks.
Activities: Trekking, ziplining, and camping.
Best Time to Visit: December provides ideal conditions for outdoor activities.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Hubli Airport, 70 km away, is the nearest option. From the airport, taxis are the most convenient way to reach Dandeli.
- By Train: Alnavar Junction, 35 km away, is the nearest railway station. It connects to Bangalore, Mumbai, and Pune.
- By Road: Dandeli is well-connected via NH52. KSRTC and private buses run frequently from Hubli, Belgaum, and Bangalore. Self-driving is popular among adventure seekers.
9. Nagarhole National Park
Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Nagarhole National Park is a wild canvas of thick jungles, meandering water bodies, and a significant tribal culture.
December in Nagarhole: It’s a fantastic time to go on wildlife safaris as animals are more active in the cool weather. The backwaters of the Kabini River offer stunning opportunities to spot elephants and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Things to Do:
- Embark on a safari to spot tigers, leopards, and elephants.
- Visit Kabini River for boat rides and birdwatching.
- Explore nearby tribal villages.
Activities: Wildlife photography and eco-tourism.
Best Time to Visit: December offers cooler weather, ideal for safaris.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Mysore Airport (96 km) is the nearest. Bangalore International Airport (236 km) is ideal for international travelers.
- By Train: Mysore Junction is the closest railway station, well-connected to Bangalore and other cities.
- By Road: Nagarhole is accessible via NH275 and NH766. Buses and taxis from Mysore are convenient options. Driving through the forest region is a scenic experience.
10. Belur and Halebidu
Belur and Halebidu are the remnants of the Hoysala Empire, known for their spectacular architecture. The intricacy of the carvings in the Chennakeshava Temple at Belur and the Hoysaleswara Temple at Halebidu are astonishing.
Why visit in December? With the winter season setting in, the stone structures are soothing to explore. The light of the winter sun adds a different dimension to the soapstone carvings, making them come alive in the soft sunlight.
Things to Do:
- Admire the intricate carvings of Chennakesava Temple in Belur.
- Visit Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu, known for its architectural brilliance.
- Explore nearby monuments and the archaeological museum.
Activities: Heritage walks and photography.
Best Time to Visit: December’s mild climate enhances the experience.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Mangalore International Airport is the nearest, located about 150 km away. Taxis and buses are available for onward travel.
- By Train: Hassan Railway Station, 37 km away, is the closest railhead, connecting to Bangalore and Mysore.
- By Road: Accessible via NH75, frequent buses and taxis are available from Hassan, Bangalore (220 km), and Mysore (150 km). Self-driving is a great option to explore nearby areas.
Check More Karnataka Travel by Month:
- Places to See in Karnataka in February
- Karnataka Visit in March for Best Places
- Places in Karnataka to Visit in July
- Karnataka Places to Visit in August
- Tourist Places Karnataka Visit in September
- Karnataka Destinations Visit in October
- Places to See in Karnataka in November
How to Reach Karnataka
Karnataka, with its varied landscapes and significant historical and cultural sites, is well-connected by air, road, and rail, facilitating easy access for travelers.
By Air:
- Bengaluru International Airport (BLR) is the largest and most well-connected airport in the state, offering both domestic and international flights.
- Mangalore International Airport (IXE) is another gateway to Karnataka, especially convenient for visitors heading to the coastal regions.
- Hubli Airport (HBX) and Belgaum Airport (IXG) cater to the northern parts of the state.
These hubs offer extensive connectivity, with a steady stream of flights from major cities worldwide, serviced by renowned airlines.
By Rail:
Karnataka’s vast railway grid links it seamlessly to the nation, featuring prominent stations such as:
- Bengaluru Railway Station (SBC)
- Mysuru Railway Station (MYS)
- Hubli Junction (UBL)
- Mangalore Central (MAQ)
These stations are served by numerous trains, including luxury services like the Golden Chariot which connects popular tourist destinations within Karnataka and Goa.
By Road:
Karnataka has a well-maintained network of national highways and state highways. Private and state-run buses connect major cities within Karnataka as well as neighbouring states. Driving enthusiasts can rent cars in major cities, with the route from Goa or Maharashtra to the Western Ghats offering breathtaking scenic views.
By Sea:
Though not commonly used for travel to Karnataka, the sea route is available for some cargo and limited passenger services. The New Mangalore Port is an international port that handles the state’s cargo traffic.
As the year wanes, Karnataka dons a festive robe, its destinations teeming with life yet offering tranquil moments. December could very well be the perfect month to explore this southern jewel of India, with every destination offering a unique experience, wrapped in the cool embrace of winter. Whether it’s for adventure, spirituality, nature, or history, Karnataka’s December canvas is vibrant and diverse, waiting to be experienced by every kind of traveller.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Why is December a good time to visit Karnataka?
The weather in Karnataka during December is pleasant, making it ideal for exploring hill stations, beaches, and historical sites.
2. What are the best hill stations to visit in Karnataka in December?
Coorg, Chikmagalur, and Kemmanagundi are perfect hill stations for a winter getaway.
3. Which wildlife sanctuaries are ideal to visit in December?
Nagarhole National Park, Bandipur National Park, and Bannerghatta Biological Park are great options for wildlife enthusiasts.
4. What are the must-visit heritage sites in Karnataka in December?
Hampi, Badami, Pattadakal, and Aihole are UNESCO World Heritage Sites showcasing ancient Indian architecture.
5. Are Karnataka beaches worth visiting in December?
Yes, beaches like Gokarna, Karwar, and Malpe are less crowded in December and have perfect weather for relaxation.
6. Which waterfalls are best to visit in December in Karnataka?
Jog Falls, Abbey Falls, and Shivanasamudra Falls are stunning in December due to the mild winter mist.
7. Can I visit coffee plantations in December?
Yes, December is a great time to explore coffee plantations in Coorg and Chikmagalur as the harvest season begins.
8. What are some unique festivals in Karnataka during December?
The Hampi Utsav and the Mysuru Winter Festival are popular events celebrated with cultural performances and exhibitions.
9. Is December a good time for trekking in Karnataka?
Yes, trekking trails like Kudremukh, Mullayanagiri, and Kumara Parvatha are ideal during December due to the cool weather.
10. What are some family-friendly places to visit in Karnataka in December?
Mysuru Palace, Lalbagh Botanical Gardens in Bengaluru, and the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary are great for families.
11. Are there any spiritual destinations to visit in December in Karnataka?
Shravanabelagola, Dharmasthala, and Gokarna are peaceful spiritual destinations perfect for December visits.
12. What should I pack for a trip to Karnataka in December?
Pack light woolens for hill stations, comfortable walking shoes, and sunscreen for exploring beaches and historical sites.
