New Year In Kerala To Celebrate The Top Events And Places To Visit In 2025

Think of standing on a soft beach, with waves touching your feet, fireworks in the sky, and palm trees moving in the wind. That is how New Year in Kerala feels. It is different from busy places like Goa or Bangalore. Here, you get a mix of fun, culture, and nature.

Kerala has something for everyone. You can enjoy big parties, relax in peace, or spend time close to nature.

Table Of Content

Why Celebrate New Year in Kerala?

1. Natural Beauty: Kerala is a pleasant location with its beautiful backwaters and sun-kissed beaches, green hills and dense forests, all of which provide an ideal backdrop to the new year.
2. Diversity of Activities: You can attend beach parties, spend your time in a houseboat, hike in the hills, visit wildlife sanctuaries, or have an Ayurvedic spa in a retreat.
3. Ideal Weather: December to January: It is cool and dry weather, which makes the season ideal in terms of sightseeing, outdoor events, and walking.
4. Less Crowded: Kerala has a more laid-back atmosphere than other party cities. You do not get the feeling that you are crowded.
5. Friendly Locals: The locals in Kerala are hospitable and enjoyable, and that is why staying there is safe and memorable.

5 Best Kerala New Year Events To Attend In 2025

Here are some of the most happening parties and gigs you can attend in Kerala this New Year’s Eve. See what all they offer and take your pick from the top Kerala new year festival!

• Cochin Carnival
• Camp Above The Clouds In Vagamon
• Chorus Reflections 2.0 New Year Party
• New Year At Munroe Island
• New Year Eve At Cherai Beach

1. Cochin Carnival – A Fancy Extravaganza

Nothing less than a grand fair, the Cochin Carnival in Kochi personifies the true festive colours of the state. Hosted every year in the last week of December, the Kochi New Year party is celebrated grander. The Kerala New Year party during the Cochin Carnival includes various sports events and competitions. Some exciting events during the carnival include bicycle races, marathons, beach bike races, swimming, boxing, kayaking, wrestling and much more.

Dates: 25 Dec  – 1 Jan
Location: Fort Kochi, Kochi

Things to do: Cochin Carnival is a total visual delight. You can participate in the procession, visit the concerts, dance to the tunes of rocking music at the scenic beaches, or enjoy the grand gala dinner most of the hotels offer during the event.

Highlights: The colourful procession, unparalleled splendour of the event, and the burning of the Papaanji, which takes place precisely at midnight, are the significant highlights of Kochi’s New Year’s party.
Nearby attractions: Marine Drive in Kochi, Chinese fishing in the tranquil backwaters of Kochi, boating at Cherai Beach, and visiting Fort Kochi are some of the most popular things to do in Kochi.

How to reach Fort Kochi:

• By Air: The nearest airport to Fort Kochi is Cochin International Airport at 37 km.
• By Train: Ernakulam Junction is the nearest train station at 12 km.
• By Bus: We recommend you take a bus from Ernakulam Jetty to Fort Kochi for convenient and affordable travelling.

Also Read: Places To Visit In Kerala During Monsoon

2. Camp Above The Clouds In Vagamon

Get away from the maddening crowds and city chaos this New Year’s Eve. Wandering Ninjas is taking you and your travel buddies on a one-of-its-kind New Year party set high in the hills of Vagamon. It’s time to surrender to the peace and tranquillity of the lush Western Ghats and refreshingly welcome 2025! Ride to Vagamon, party under the stars and over the clouds, and enjoy inclusions like jungle camping, trekking, visiting waterfalls, bonfires, delicious meals, and relaxing in verdant meadows.

Location: Vagamon, Kerala
Dates: 31 Dec 
Timings: 12:30 PM (boarding time)
Highlights: Camping, trekking, bonfire

How to reach Vagamon:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport.
• By Train: The nearest railhead is at Kottayam, where you can get a taxi or bus for Vagamon.
• By Bus: You can get to Erattupetta or Kottayam, the nearest towns, and then a bus or taxi to cover the rest of the 25 km distance to Vagamon.

3. Chorus Reflections 2.0 New Year Party

With all that Chorus Reflections 2.0 promises to offer, it will surely be one of the biggest New Year parties in Kerala this year. Brace yourself for a night of fun and excitement at the famous and ultra-spacious HiLITE Mall in Kozhikode, as they bring you the best ways to end this year. Witness staggering performances like the Gowrey Lekshmi Live, take part in a Fashion Show, dance all night long, hear Bangalore’s top celebrity DJs perform before you, let your children have fun at the Kids Zone, and gorge on delicious food and drinks before the final countdown starts!

Location: HiLITE Mall, T1, G1003, Kozhikode Bypass, Kozhikode, Kerala
Dates: 31 Dec
Timings: 7 PM onwards
Highlights: Fashion Show, celebrity DJs, Kids Zone

How to reach Kozhikode:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Calicut International Airport.
• By Train: The nearest railhead is Kozhikode Railway Station, which is connected to all cities in Kerala and all major cities in India.
• By Bus: You will find regular buses from major cities like Mumbai, Chennai, Kochi, and Bangalore to Kozhikode.

Related Post: Best Places To Visit In Kerala

4. New Year At Munroe Island

Tucked near the calm and quiet village of Varkala, Munroe Island is the perfect destination for a peaceful New Year party under the blanket of stars and amid beautiful views all around. And we’re giving you just that! Here’s your chance to ring in New Year at the secluded yet stunning Munroe Island, where you’ll be able to enjoy everything from camping by the river, watching beautiful sunsets, relaxing on the empty beaches, gorging on fresh seafood from the nearby joints, kayaking through mangrove forests, and much more.

Location: Munroe Island, Varkala, Kerala
Dates: 29 Dec- 1 Jan
Timings: 3:30 PM onwards
Highlights: 

How to reach Varkala:

• By Air: The nearest airport is at Thiruvananthapuram.
• By Train: get on a train connecting Thiruvananthapuram to Ernakulam and get down at Varkala.
• By Bus: Many KSRTC buses from Thiruvananthapuram will get you to Varkala.
• Varkala to Munroe: Once you’re at Varkala, you can take a ferry to Munroe Island at a nominal cost.

5. New Year’s Eve At Cherai Beach

One of the picturesque destination to celebrate newyear in Kochi with your loved ones. Cherai Beach conducts the new year party on the last day of the year amidst palm trees endless ocean breeze and the Arabian sea along with cultural program and musical festival . It will surely give you a delightful experience to picture yourself near the crystal clear water. Have fun under the fairy lights with live music, food stalls, spectacular fireworks and fullon entertainment to welcome the new year on a complete blast. The beautiful reflection of lights on the sea waves and the vibrant atmosphere make Cherai beach one of the stunning beaches in Kochi to spend the last night of the year on a full swing. 

Location: Cherai village on Vypin Island
Dates: 31 december
Timings: mid night
Highlights: cultural program, fireworks, musical night, food stalls

How to reach Varkala:

• By air: Nedumbassery international airport is the nearest airport in Kochi to reach the Cherai Beach. It is also 22 km away from the beach from which you can board the taxi.
• By road: Goshree Bridge from the Ernakulam stretches across the backwaters makes it is easy to reach the Cherai beach. 
• By Train: Kochi has two railway station namely Ernakulam Town and the Ernakulam Junction that connects the southern part of India. You can reach to nearest station and take the personal taxi or bus. 

Related Post: Kerala In Summer

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1. Thekkady: Witness The Unspoiled Serenity

to enjoy a New Year celebration in Kerala than an exuberant boat ride along the Thekkady Lake, cocooned in the lap of Mother Nature? Blessed with glorious views of the mountains and a pleasant climate, Thekkady is undeniably the best place to celebrate New Year in Kerala. Thekkady offers many opportunities for tourists to experience a thrilling holiday with their loved ones. Thekkady is also one of the most romantic places in Kerala and a sought-after honeymoon destination. If you have been recently married, this is the perfect place to enjoy your honeymoon this New Year with your beloved better half.

Highlights: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Mangla Devi Temple, and avenue plantations around Murukkady, Odamade, and Vellaramkunnu are some of the major highlights you cannot afford to miss while celebrating the New Year in Kerala.
Things to do: You can either go on a jungle safari or enjoy a romantic walk along the plantations of coffee, pepper, and cardamom.
Nearby attractions: A boat ride along Thekkady Lake is popular here.

How to reach:

• By Air: Madurai airport is the closest domestic airport, at 136 km. The best way to reach Thekkady is to hire a cab from the airport.
• By Train: Kottayam railway station is the nearest, located 114 km away. You can either hire a cab from here or board a state-run bus.
• By Bus: One of the cheapest ways to reach Thekkady from Cochin, Trivandrum, and Kottayam is through state-run buses.

Related Post: 4 Days In Kerala

2. Munnar: A Lush Green Hill Station Flanked By Splendid Beauty

Embraced by green meadows, tropical flora and fauna, mist-covered hills, and breathtaking mountain ranges, Munnar is a perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts and the desired place to celebrate Kerala New Year 2025. While you are in Munnar for a holiday, do visit the Munnar Tea Museum to enrich your senses with the rich aroma of flavoured tea leaves. You can carry home different kinds of tea leaves, like cardamom and elaichi.

Highlights: Munnar is known for its unspoiled natural beauty characterized by a cool climate.
Things to do: Couples can enjoy a romantic walk alongside the tea plantations, Adventure lovers can visit the wildlife parks, whereas foodies can savour traditional Kerala dishes like Kairali thali, fish in Kerala curry, spicy chicken fry, appam, idli, and dosas.
Nearby attractions: Munnar Tea Museum, Eravikulam National Park, Anamudi Peak, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary and Mattupetty Dam are the top attractions.

How to reach:

• By Air: From Cochin International Airport, you can hire a cab to Munnar.
• By Train: Ernakulam is the nearest railway station to reach Munnar.
• By Bus: Plenty of state-run buses from Kerala and Tamil Nadu can reach Munnar.

3. Kumarakom: A Haven Replete With Luxurious Greenery

If you want to celebrate Kerala New Year at a fantastic location, head to the banks of Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom. Delight yourself here in the mystical beauty of nature. Ideal for all travellers, this heavenly paradise is famous for soul-soothing activities like boating, angling, strolling, and trekking.

Highlights: Different types of houseboats equipped with lavish amenities are a must-visit in Kumarakom.
Things to do: Bird watching, fishing, snake-boat racing, canoeing and cruising through the enchanting backwaters.
Nearby attractions: Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kumaran’s Akam Temple and Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall are a few nearby attractions.

How to reach:

• By Air: The Nearest airport is Kochi Airport; from there, you can hire a taxi or cab.
• By Train: You can board a train from Kottayam railway station.
• By Bus: Plenty of buses from all parts of Kerala can reach Kumarakom.

Related Post: Trekking In Kerala

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4. Ponmudi: Replenish Your Spirits With Hiking And Trekking

Perched at 100 meters above sea level, Ponmudi is a perfect hill station for the New Year celebration in Kerala. Exploring this beautiful hill station with your loved ones is undoubtedly the best things to do this New Year. Ponmudi is one of the safest places for trekking and long leisurely walks. The entire hill station is flanked by colourful cottages, long, wide roads lined with trees, green hills, and spice plantations.

Highlights: Calm and peaceful hill station blessed with picturesque views.
Things to do: Ponmudi is famous for Trekking and Hiking.
Nearby attractions: Agasthyarkoodam, Golden Valley, Meenmutty Waterfall, and Varkala are nearby attractions.

How to reach:

• By Air: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, located at 67 km, is the closest airport.
• By Train: Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station is 61 km away from Ponmudi.
• By Bus: Buses can be found from various parts of the city to reach Ponmudi.

5. Wayanad: For Absolute Peace

If you want to experience the best of New Year parties in India, head to Wayanad. Wayanad is an exquisite place for adventure lovers, home to Asiatic elephants, tigers, egrets, and leopards. Surrounded by the Western Ghats, this hill station experiences cold weather in December, making it a perfect retreat for a New Year party in Kerala.

Highlights: Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is the most visited place in Wayanad.
Things to do: Strolling in spice plantations, wildlife safari, and boat riding on bamboo boats.
Nearby attractions: Some of the nearby attractions include Ekkadal Caves, Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary, Pookot Lake, Lakkidi View Point, and Banasura Sagar Dam,

How to reach:

• By Air: Calicut Airport is the nearest, located 65 kms away from Wayanad.
• By Train: It takes only 2 hours from Kozhikode railway station to reach Wayanad.
• By Bus: Plenty of buses are available from cities like Mangalore, Kochi, and Trivandrum to reach this exquisite place.

Related Post: Kerala In June

6. Kannur: Best Beach Holiday Destination

Kannur is a must-visit place for Kerala New Year celebration, bordered by the mighty Eastern Ghats and a mighty sea. The serene ambience and the verdant palm plantations of this place make Kannur a top-notch holiday destination. Kannur is also appreciated for its surreal beaches and beautiful ancient temples.

Highlights: Kannur is home to some of the finest resorts and beaches, making it perfect for a relaxing vacation.
Things to do: Banana Boat Ride, Trekking at Paithalmala, Bike Trip, Wave Runner, and Boating
Nearby attractions: Payyambalam Beach, Thottada Beach, Arakkal Museum, Airoli Vadeswaram Maha Shiva Temple, Holy Trinity Cathedral

How to reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Calicut International Airport.
• By Train: Kannur is well-connected through many railway stations.
• By Bus: Regular buses are available from different parts of the city.

Related Post: Monsoon In June

7. Trivandrum- Rich Cultural Heritage And Scenic Vistas

Renowned as the “Evergreen City In India” it boasts about the historical and natural significance of the stunning temples. It is one of the amazing places in Kerala to celebrate New Year’s Eve. We welcome the new year with great zeal and vigour. The scenic vistas and rich cultural heritage are the key highlights of this place. However, visiting the temples and admiring the architecture are worth paying for. At the time of the New Year, the beauty of these temples and the city enhanced to the next level, which is one reason Trivandrum is India’s favoured pilgrim centre. Give a fresh start to the new year by paying homage to this holy city. There are various events like traditional dances, singing, and fireworks, which are held on the 31st of December. The party continues till all hail Happy New Year on 31st December at midnight.

Highlights: Trivandrum is known for its ancient temples, beaches and other attractions. 
Things to do: Singing, fireworks, shopping, seeking blessings at multiple temples, fireworks, star gazing etc. 
Nearby attractions: ree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kanakakunnu Palace

How to reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport
• By Train: It is well-connected through 20 railway stations. Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station is the largest one. 
• By Bus: Many buses are available from different parts of the city.

5 Best Places To Stay For Kerala New Year Celebration In 2025

The scenic backwaters of Kerala can be the first and most enticing choice, but the state has much more to offer. From luxury stays in the metropolis to Airbnb in quaint suburban regions, there are many amazing places that can make your New Year celebration a special retreat. 

1. Emarald Resort

Nestled on the banks of the Kunthi River, this mesmerizing resort is also a perfect New Year’s escape. It is located 15 kilometres from the city, surrounded by nature and a view from the room that is picture-perfect to wake up to. They offer the comfortable rooms, luxurious banquet halls and other services. A perfect resort in Kerala rich in opulant ambiance along with top notch accommodation and facilities. 

Location: Resort Road, Pulamanthole, Perintalmanna, Kerala 679323•097452 11211
Prices: INR 2800 onwards

Related Post: Temples In Kannur

2. The Garuda- Hotels And Resorts

The Garuda Hotel is popularly known in Kerala for its business-class luxury service, but it is a little-known fact that they can help you plan a perfect New Year weekend stay at their designed establishment. From comfortable rooms to an on-site multi-cuisine restaurant and pristine blue swimming pools to unwind after the celebrations, this is the place to be for your special weekend. 

Location: Kuruppam Rd, Kuruppam, Thekkinkadu Maidan, Thrissur, Kerala 680001
Prices: INR 3500 onwards

3. Eco Garden Resort

From a seasonal outdoor pool to a fitness centre, this retreat is nestled in a green corner of Kerala, where most travellers enjoy the serenity and peace for cultural and spiritual well-being. This is a popular activity during the New Year week, when people worldwide come here to reflect and participate in self-development routines after indulging in the festivities. 

Location: IV/290, Painkulam, Cheruthuruthi, Kerala 679531
Prices: INR 4300 onwards

Related Post: Top Honeymoon Destinations In Kerala

4. Tulsi Village Retreat

Located at the Kallarukutty village of Idukki, this place is more than a comfortable place to rest at night, it is a retreat designed to provide travelers with the perfect New Year experience in Kerala. The retreat is located in the central region, from where you can easily commute to resorts and pubs that boast some of the best parties in the state and return to the blissful surroundings that this stay provides. 

Location: Naikunnu (p.o, Kallarukutty, Adimali, Kerala 685561
Prices: INR 1900 onwards

5. Sterling Guruvayur

Located 5 km from Chavakkad Beach, Sterling Guruvayur is the place to be if you are looking for a stay that will cater to all your New Year wish lists. From flawless service to rooms with a beautiful view, Sterling Guruvayur is also popular for its special filter coffee, which shouldn’t be missed, especially the morning after the grand celebrations. 

Location: Mammiyur Junction Puthanpally PO, Guruvayur, Kerala 680103
Prices: INR 4200 onwards

How Locals Celebrate New Year in Kerala

• Urban regions are the places of parties and fireworks, and concerts.
• Christian communities have a midnight mass in churches.
• New year party Kerala style is hosted by resorts and hotels, which include buffet dinners, music and dancing.
• The most popular local festival: Burning of Pappanji at Fort Kochi.

Special activities during the New Year in Kerala

• Houseboat accommodation with cultural doublespike.
• Attend Kathakali/ Kalaripayattu performances.
• Canoe ride/ meditate on Jan 1 morning.
• Tours in the spice plantation and tea garden.
• Ayurvedic spa to get a clean start.
• Fireworks on beaches and backwaters taken at night.

New Year Travel Itinerary (5 Days)

Day 1: Reach Kochi, sightseeing of Fort Kochi, and cultural entertainment.

Day 2: 1st day Travel to Alleppey, overnight houseboat dinner and backwater cruise.

Day 3: Arrive at Varkala or Kovalam, spend the best New Year party in Kerala style on the beach.

Day 4: Yoga or meditation at sunrise, spa, relax on the beach or hills.

Day 5: Go to Munnar or Thekkady to walk in nature and have a peaceful conclusion.

Package Price (through TravelTriangle): Rs. 18,000- Rs. 35,000 /per head (inc. stay, transfers, meals).

New Year in Kerala Tips

• Reserve hotels and transportation in advance (it is high season in December).
• Bring light clothes and warm clothes in case of a hill.
• Only in licensed bars and hotels is alcohol available; some districts are dry.
• Adhere to local traditions, particularly around temples and churches.
• Choose eco-tourism: do not use plastic, take walking/cycling tours.
• There will be a few traffic congestion areas close to the beaches and other tourist attraction sites.

Top New Year Destinations in Kerala

• Luxury Resorts: Leela Kovalam ( INR 20000/night), Taj Kumarakom (INR 18000//night), Brunton Boatyard Kochi (INR 22000/night).
• Mid-Range: Raheem Residency Alleppey (a price of 6000 INR), Whispering Meadows Munnar (a price of 4000 INR).
• Budget/Backpacker: Zostel Varkala (Rs 800), Treehouses in Wayanad ( 8,000 -12,000 ).

Is Kerala Safe for New Year Travel?

Absolutely! Kerala is safe, clean, and family-friendly.

• Solo women travellers feel comfortable in tourist hubs.
• Families can enjoy safe resorts and activities.
• Couples can find romantic escapes.
• Book through trusted tour partners for a smooth experience.

Conclusion

New Year in Kerala 2025 promises much more than just a celebration – it offers a complete and unforgettable experience. Whether you are seeking lively beach parties, tranquil houseboat cruises through the backwaters, scenic hill treks, or cosy forest lodges, Kerala caters to every type of traveller. For some people, the turn of the New Year calls for a celebration of adventure and exploration. There’s nothing more exotic than travelling through the mesmerizing landscapes of Kerala and enjoying a staycation just before the big festivities, where they reflect and aspire for the opportunities that a new year brings. So, plan a trip to Kerala while you begin your countdown to bid farewell!

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Image Sources: Wikimedia Commons, Facebook, Pexels and Pixabay.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kerala New Year

Is the New Year celebrated widely in Kerala?

Yes, especially in Kochi, Varkala, Kovalam, and Alleppey.

What’s the weather like during the New Year in Kerala?

Cool and dry, 18°C–28°C, ideal for outdoor activities.

Are there beach parties in Kerala on New Year’s Eve?

Yes, Varkala and Kovalam host lively parties.

Is alcohol available during the New Year in Kerala?

Yes, but only in licensed hotels and bars.

What are peaceful ways to celebrate?

Houseboat stays, Ayurvedic spa retreats, and forest lodges.

Can families with kids enjoy the New Year in Kerala?

Yes, many resorts have family-friendly events, kids’ activities, and safe stays.

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