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How to Experience the Newyear in Kerala

Updated: Nov 4


Experience New Year in Kerala
Experience New Year in Kerala

When considering How to experience the New Year in Kerala, you'll find many options that blend natural beauty, rich culture, and festive spirit. This enchanting destination offers everything from vibrant beach parties to serene backwater retreats. Whether you’re drawn to the lively atmosphere of Varkala’s coastline or the tranquil allure of Alleppey’s houseboats, Kerala has something to cater to every type of traveler.


Celebrate at the Beach – Varkala or Kovalam (How to Experience the Newyear in Kerala)

Varkala Cliff Kerala
Varkala Cliff Kerala

Discover How to experience the New Year in Kerala by celebrating in Varkala! Enjoy vibrant beach parties, indulge in local cuisine, and join the festivities as you welcome the New Year with stunning ocean views.

Why Go: Kerala’s beaches are famous for their beauty and vibrant New Year parties. Varkala and Kovalam have a lively beach culture, making them ideal for a coastal celebration with bonfires, music, and parties.

What to Do: Dance the night away on the sands, join locals and travelers in beachside festivities, and watch the sky light up with fireworks at midnight. Varkala’s cliffside cafes and Kovalam’s beachfront shacks are ideal spots to grab a drink, enjoy local seafood, and relax under the stars.


Houseboat Cruise in Alleppey Backwaters

(How to Experience the Newyear in Kerala)

Alleppey House Boat
Alleppey House Boat

Learn how to experience the New Year in Kerala by celebrating aboard a houseboat in Alleppey!

Why Go: Imagine gliding through serene backwaters under a starlit sky on New Year's Evening. Alleppey offers a peaceful yet memorable way to celebrate away from the crowd and surrounded by nature.

What to Do: Rent a houseboat overnight or join a New Year’s Eve cruise. Many houseboats offer special dinners, live music, and a midnight toast to ring in the New Year. Enjoy traditional Kerala food while drifting through the scenic backwaters.

Attend a New Year’s Eve Party in Kochi(How to Experience the Newyear in Kerala)

Newyear In Kochi
Newyear In Kochi

Explore How to experience the New Year in Kerala by celebrating in Kochi!

Why Go: Kochi is known for its lively New Year celebrations. The Cochin Carnival, a week-long festival, concludes on New Year's Eve with grand events, a fireworks display, and the ceremonial burning of a giant Pappanji (Santa Claus-like figure), symbolizing new beginnings.

What to Do: Join in the festivities at Fort Kochi, where locals and tourists gather for cultural performances, street parades, and fireworks. Attend a gala dinner at a luxury hotel or enjoy the city’s clubs and pubs for an unforgettable New Year’s bash.


Traditional Temple Visits – Sabarimala, Guruvayur, or Padmanabhaswamy(How to Experience the Newyear in Kerala)

Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Why Go: For a more spiritual way to start the New Year, Kerala’s ancient temples offer a serene and uplifting atmosphere. Beginning the New Year with a temple visit is a cherished tradition for many, and you can witness beautiful rituals, chanting, and vibrant temple decorations.

What to Do: Attend early morning prayers at one of the famous temples, like Guruvayur Temple or Padmanabhaswamy Temple. The Sabarimala pilgrimage peak during this season, adding a unique cultural experience. Remember to dress modestly and follow temple customs.

Explore the Hills of Munnar (Experience the New Year in Kerala)

Hills of Munnar
Hills of Munnar

Why Go: Munnar's misty hills offer a perfect winter getaway if you prefer a quiet, natural setting. The cool mountain air, tea plantations, and scenic beauty make it ideal for a peaceful New Year’s celebration.

What to Do: Spend New Year’s Eve at a hillside resort, enjoy a bonfire, and experience Munnar’s winter charm. Many resorts arrange special dinners, live music, and cozy campfires for the occasion. Don’t miss the early morning view of tea gardens and sunrise on New Year’s Day.

 Attend a Kathakali or Theyyam Performance(Experience the New Year in Kerala)

Kathakali
Kathakali

Why Go: Kerala is renowned for its classical dance-drama, Kathakali, and ritualistic performance art, Theyyam. New Year’s Eve is a great time to catch these traditional performances, often held in cultural centers or temples.

What to Do: Book tickets for a Kathakali performance in Kochi or Trivandrum, or visit the Malabar region to see a Theyyam show. These performances are a captivating way to immerse yourself in Kerala’s artistic heritage as you welcome the New Year.

Take a Wellness Retreat in Varkala or Kovalam

(Experience the New Year in Kerala)

Ayurvedic spa
Ayurvedic spa

Why Go: For a rejuvenating start to the New Year, Kerala’s wellness retreats and Ayurvedic spas offer relaxation and self-care. Many retreats offer packages with yoga sessions, Ayurvedic massages, and detox diets, helping you start the year feeling refreshed.

What to Do: Book a New Year’s wellness package that includes treatments like Abhyanga (oil massage) and Shirodhara (oil pour therapy). Yoga sessions by the beach at sunrise are a fantastic way to begin New Year’s Day in peace and harmony.

Join a Forest Stay in Thekkady(Experience the New Year in Kerala)

Thekkady
Thekkady

Why Go: Thekkady, nestled in the heart of Kerala’s forests, offers a more adventurous New Year experience for those who love wildlife and nature; celebrating in a forest lodge brings a tranquil, unique start to the New Year.

What to Do: Stay in an eco-resort or treehouse in Thekkady, take a jungle safari, and enjoy a campfire under the stars. Some resorts host New Year’s Eve dinners and night treks, allowing you to witness wildlife and nature at its finest.

Tips for Celebrating New Year in Kerala

Plan Ahead: Kerala is a popular destination for New Year, so book accommodations, houseboats, and tickets in advance.

Pack Accordingly: December is more relaxed, especially in hill stations like Munnar. Pack layers if you're visiting the mountains, and beach essentials for coastal areas.

Explore Local Cuisine: Try Kerala’s seasonal dishes, from seafood to traditional vegetarian meals, to savor authentic flavors during the festive season.

Respect Local Customs: Many celebrations, especially in temples, are deeply rooted in tradition. Be mindful of dress codes and cultural practices.

Conclusion

Whether you want a lively beach party, a peaceful temple visit, or a cozy mountain retreat, Kerala offers a variety of New Year’s experiences that suit every type of traveler. From vibrant city celebrations to serene natural settings, you’ll find countless ways to make your New Year unforgettable in this beautiful corner of India.


Join Asian Trails India for expertly crafted travel experiences that showcase the best of Kerala and beyond. With personalized itineraries, competitive pricing, and seamless trip planning, we specialize in creating memorable holidays, whether it's for honeymoons, family tours, or cultural explorations. Our local expertise, combined with a commitment to quality service, ensures a hassle-free and enriching journey.

For inquiries and bookings, please get in touch with Asian Trails India

Phone: +918593818585


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