Coldest places in South India offers some of the most refreshing and scenic destinations in the country, If you are looking to escape the scorching heat or simply break away from the routine of daily life. From serene hill stations like Munnar to mist-covered mountains in Ooty, South India is home to several cool-weather retreats that are ideal for both leisure, family and romantic getaways that allow you to relax, recharge, and reconnect with nature.
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But with so many beautiful locations to choose from, how do you decide where to go?
Your choice will depend on factors such as your travel preferences, available time, and budget.
To help you plan the perfect trip, this post highlights the top 10 coldest places to visit in South India—each offering a unique blend of natural beauty, pleasant climate, and unforgettable experiences.
Let’s explore your options.
Which Are the Coldest Places in South India for a Trip?
Although South India itself isn’t renowned for a cool climate, its hill stations promise a respite. They are at an elevation and are everyone’s preferred travel choice. Here are your choices for the coldest places in South India.
1. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Ooty (Udhagamandalam) in Tamil Nadu is a popular tourist attraction at an altitude of 2,240 m. The hill station’s lakes and gardens lend a tranquil experience to every visitor. It remains pleasant during the winter season, and has breathtaking sites to explore.
Attractions to Visit: Botanical Gardens, Doddabetta Peak, Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Dolphin Nose
Food to Try: Bisi bele bath, kaima idli, sambar and chutney, neer dosa
Places to Stay: Hotel Lakeview, Silent Valley Farm Resort, Gem Park
2. Munnar, Kerala
Munnar, a famous travel stop for Indians, becomes a sight to behold in winter. With a significant drop in temperature between December and February, the town in the Western Ghats is ideal for a getaway. However, the misty air isn’t the only special thing about this place. Munnar is also a sought-after choice for its plantations.
Attractions to Visit: Tea Plantations, Anamudi Peak, Eravikulam National Park, Echo Point, Carmelagiri Elephant Park
Food to Try: Puttu, kadala curry, Kerala sadya, karimeen pollichathu
Places to Stay: Tea Castle, The Valle, Hotel White House
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3. Lakkidi, Kerala
Have you heard of Lakkidi, a small town in Kerala? The hidden gem becomes a winter wonderland between December and February, with the temperature dropping up to 6 to 8 °C. The endless hilly roads, cloud-covered mountains, and hairpin bends make Lakkidi a traveller’s solace. It is also called the Gateway to Wayanad, as you can get a bird’s eye view of the district from this hilltop.
Attractions to Visit: Chelakkara, Lakkidi Viewpoint, Vennimala Shree Rama Lakshmana Peruman Temple, Pookot Lake
Food to Try: Puttu and kadala curry, beef fry, idiyappam, malabar biryani
Places to Stay: Misty Gate, Vythiri Greens, The Sanihara Hotel & Resort
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4. Agumbe, Shimoga
Agumbe is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, owing to its tropical evergreen forests and expansive biodiversity. The high-altitude village is enveloped by rainforests and mountains, promising tourists a hands-on experience of its natural glory. This place is also popularly known as the Cobra Capital due to the extensive number of cobras present here.
Attractions to Visit: Onake Abbi Falls, Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary, Kunchikal Falls, Jogigundi Falls, Gopala Krishna Temple
Food to Try: Godi surnali, cheppi surnali, arbi chips, akki roti, pani puri
Places to Stay: Malgudi Homestay, Tinton Adventure Resort, Dodda Mane
5. Coorg, Karnataka
Coorg is one of the coldest places in South India with waterfalls, landscapes, and a mystical magic everywhere. Known as the Scotland of India, the beauty of this rural district of Karnataka is not to be missed. You will find plantations everywhere, filling the air with an attractive tea and coffee aroma.
Attractions to Visit: Abbey Falls, Dubare Elephant Camp, Iruppu Falls, Raja’s Seat, plantations
Food to Try: Paputtu, pandi curry, kadambuttu, kootu curry, noolputtu
Places to Stay: Maurya Valley View, Purple Palms Resort and Spa, The Cliff Edge
ALSO SEE – Coorg Or Munnar-Which Is Better For A Trip
6. Yercaud, Tamil Nadu
Yercaud is an off-beat location in South India with pleasant weather and limited crowds. Anyone looking to escape the hustle and enjoy silence can visit this beautiful town in Tamil Nadu. Since it is a budget-friendly place, travellers often call Yercaud a poor man’s Ooty.
Attractions to Visit: Orange Orchards, Killiyur Falls, Shevaroy Temple, Lady’s Seat
Food to Try: Paysam, sweet pongal, parota, dosa, idli, upma
Places to Stay: Summer House Resort, TGI Star Holiday Resort, Cloud Residency
7. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Kodaikanal has a romantic vibe that makes it an ideal choice for honeymooners. The hill town is enveloped with dense forests, mystic mountains, and peaceful trail routes. These beautiful attractions have given the term “Princess of Hills” to the high-altitude town of Tamil Nadu. Not a lot of people know about the glory of Kodaikanal, making it a hidden gem, untamed by urbanisation.
Attractions to Visit: Pillar Rocks, Kodai Lake, Coaker’s Walk, Bryant Park, Kurinji Andavar Temple
Food to Try: Ghee roast dosa, kadala curry, Tamilian mutton biryani, nethili fry
Places to Stay: The Kodai Heaven, Sterling Kodai Valley, The Hamuse
8. Kotagiri, Karnataka
Kotagiri turns into one of the coldest places in South India during winter, attracting tourists from across the world. The small hill station in Karnataka has expansive tea plantations and a natural beauty that can melt anyone’s heart. It’s the perfect place for anyone looking for a quick getaway.
Attractions to Visit: Longwood Shola, Elk Falls, Rangaswamy Peak, Catherine Waterfalls, John Sullivan Memorial
Food to Try: Pala pazham, avare sambar, puffed thandu
Places to Stay: Lakshmi Retreat, Trilan Cottages, Twin Tree Mountain Resort
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9. Valparai, Tamil Nadu
Valparai is called the Seventh Heaven and is a winter lover’s destination. With a temperature drop between 15 and 5 °C, the hill station promises a pleasant and rejuvenating experience. It is also a renowned spot for trekking and wildlife exploration.
Attractions to Visit: Chinnar Kalar Falls, Birla Waterfalls, Anamalai Tiger Reserve, Grass Hills National Park
Food to Try: Valparai chai, puttu, fish curry, bamboo rice, uttapam, appam with coconut milk
Places to Stay: Maryland Homestay, Harris Holiday Inn, Sri Nandha Luxury Comfort
10. Wayanad, Kerala
Wayanad is a small yet gorgeous district in the South that promises the best experience during winter. Known for its dense forests, diverse plantations, and wildlife sanctuaries, the place promises the experience of a lifetime.
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Attractions to Visit: Chembra Peak, Edakkal Caves, Pookode Lake, Banasura Sagar Dam, Kuruvadweep
Food to Try: Beef fry, puttu, meen pollichathu, fish moilee, malabar biryani
Places to Stay: Taj Wayanad, Great Trails, Coffee Greens Resort
Why Coldest Places in South India are Perfect for Your Winter Vacation?
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We have discussed the coldest places in South India for your next visit. However, what makes this destination an ideal choice? Although the hill stations are humid for the majority of the year, the winter season turns them into a magical heaven. The different destinations with plantations, waterfalls, wildlife, and hiking routes cater to all kinds of travelers.
Here’s why South Indian districts should be on your bucket list for the next winter:
- Cool Weather: Escape from the summer heat as South India’s weather has a mild temperature and crisp air.
- Lovely Surroundings: There will be greenery, mystic mountains, and a soothing feeling everywhere you look.
- Multiple Attractions: The South Indian districts are more than their hilly slopes. They have plantations, cultural attractions, and wildlife to explore.
How to Travel in South India?
Travelling to your favorite destinations depends on what makes you feel comfortable and fits your budget. Here are the options to consider:
- By Flight: Flight is the best choice if you are coming from afar. It promised comfort and convenience.
- By Train: That’s a preferred choice for shorter distances, especially if you are searching for budget-friendly travel options.
- By Bus/Car: A Bus or car is perfect for inter-city travel or from a state that’s closer to your destination. It is economical, comfortable, and flexible.
