13 Best Places to Celebrate New Year 2026 in Kerala

New Year 2026 is at your doorsteps. You may aspire to celebrate the New Year at a special destination which will create memories for a lifetime. Have you decided where to welcome the new year? Why not pick Kerala? This is one of the best places to celebrate the New Year. What could be better than welcoming the big day near pristine beaches and crystal-clear water under the foggy and snowy skies? You will not be disappointed to pick Kerala as your New Year 2026 destination. This southern state of India is amazingly splendid. Moreover, it is a hot destination for the new year and hosts plenty of festivals while bidding farewell to the year. Be it attending the Cochin Carnival at Fort Kochi, witnessing the major New Year celebrations in Kochi or enjoying the warm campfire with soft music, Kerala is a carnival where you will find a mixture of modernity and tradition. There are also plenty of local events and celebrations that you can be a part of. If you are serious about celebrating the New Year 2026 in Kerala, having an idea about the places to be on the New Year Eve will be helpful. Knowing this, we have curated the top 13 places to explore. Check it out here.

Must-Visit Spots for New Year's Eve in Kerala

Every year, tens of thousands of tourists come to Kerala to explore its crystal-clear beaches, tranquil backwaters and beautiful floating houses. And you may experience the best charm of the state this new year. While Kerala is a year-around destination, the best time to explore the state is in the winter, from December to February. The New Year celebrations in Kerala are highly famous among locals and tourists as it is home to exotic beach party places including Munnar and Varkala. Also, if you are not a party animal and want to spend the last day of the year just sitting in the lap of nature and viewing the spectacular landscapes, Kerala has destinations for that as well. Celebrating the New Year 2026 in Kerala offers plenty of things to do depending upon your choices and desires. We don't think you will get such an exciting location as Kerala to bid farewell to 2026 amidst nature. Don't you feel the same way? Come to Kerala this New Year.

1. Kollam

If you want to experience the best New Year party in 2026, come to Kollam. You can experience an electrifying and lively New Year's Eve celebration here. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable night filled with extravagant countdown, live music, captivating performances, mesmerising fireworks displaysand a variety of food and drinks. Experience the vibrant celebration of New Year 2026 in Kollam with an astonishing NYE countdown, mesmerising fireworks and scrumptious dining. Hurry up! Don’t miss out on the major festivities.

Popular Hotels in Kollam:

• The Leela Ashtamudi, A Raviz Hotel
• The Quilon Beach Hotel & Convention Centre
• Fragrant Nature Backwater Resort & Ayurveda Spa
• D Fort Hotel Kollam
• Hotel All Season Kollam
• Nila Palace Kollam

Popular Restaurants in Kollam:

• Ramees Restaurant
• Fusion Table
• All Spice Kollam
• AR Capital Restaurant
• Le Delice

Major Attractions in Kollam:

• Thangassery Light House
• Mundakkal Beach
• Thangassery Breakwater Tourism
• Adventure Park, Kollam
• Kollam Beach

2. Wayanad

Include Wayanad in your bucket list to enjoy soft music and a warm campfire for a relaxing New Year's Eve in Kerala. Wayanad is a stunning district in Kerala where thousands of tourists come every year to celebrate the New Year. If you are bored of your monotonous work and looking for a perfect gateway during this New Year, Wayanad is our top recommendation. Also, Wayanad is among the astonishing places to visit in India as it is home to dense green woods, stunning waterfalls, rich vegetation and serene lakes. Also, you can attend one of the most famous New Year parties at some of the well-known resorts including Vythiri Village Resort and the Windflower Resort with your loved ones.

Popular Hotels in Wayanad:

• Kudajadri Drizzle - Best Wayanad Homestays
• Swastha Royal Villas
• Coffee Greens Resort Wayanad
• Caffeine Villas
• Himadri Retreat Resort Wayanad

Popular Restaurants in Wayanad:

• Wayanad Restaurant
• GReaT trails Wayanad by GRT Hotels
• 1980's A Nostalgic Restaurant
• Sruthi Restaurant

Major Attractions in Wayanad:

• Kottavayal Viewpoint
• Kurumbalakotta Mala
• Karapuzha Dam, Adventure Park & Garden
• Lakkidi Viewpoint

Suggested Read: Topmost Destinations to Celebrate New Year in India

3. Varkala

If you are searching for the best New Year 2026 party in Kerala, try exploring Varkala this time as it hosts major NYE festivities to provide an unforgettable experience. Varkala is famous for its amazing beach parties, dazzling lights and eternal bonfires to welcome the New Year 2026 in Kerala with full-on entertainment. How excited are you to celebrate the upcoming New Year 2026? Book the best and most affordable flights to Kerala to enjoy a great countdown in Varkala with a bang. Also, you can attend the best New Year events in Varkala during the night of 31st December and witness the major cultural performances showcasing the region’s cultural heritage, Shinkari Melam, Kathakali performances and Kalaripayattu.

Popular Hotels in Varkala:

• Clafouti Beach Resort
• Hill View Beach Resort
• Varkala Marine Palace
• Akhil Beach Resort Pvt Ltd.
• Nebo Hotel

Popular Restaurants in Varkala:

• An Elephant Eatery
• ABBA Restaurant & Everest German Bakery Varkala
• Cafe del Mar
• Gods Own Country Kitchen
• Darjeeling Cafe Varkala

Major Attractions in Varkala:

• Varkala Cliff Sea View Point
• Varkala cliff beach
• South Cliff Varkala Town
• Varkala North Beach
• South Cliff, Varkala Beach

Suggested Read: Places to Stay in Kerala: Find Your Best Swoon Worthy Space in the God’s Own Country

4. Kochi

Attending the Cochin Carnival in Kochi is one of the best things to do in India during the New Year. Cochin Carnival is a secular festival hosted every year in the last week of December in a multi-ethnic town, Kochi. Major New Year 2026 Parties in Kerala during the Cochin Carnival provide an array of sports events and competitions including bicycle races, beach bike races, swimming, boxing, wrestling and many more. Also, you can enjoy live music, special performances and a grand gala dinner to make the special occasion memorable for a lifetime. Don’t miss out on attending the most glamorous New Year party in Kochi 2026 with your favorite people. See you there during the New Year celebrations in Kochi.

Popular Hotels in Kochi:

• Le Maritime Kochi
• Holiday Inn Cochin, an IHG Hotel
• Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty
• Le Méridien Kochi
• Vivanta Ernakulam, Marine Drive

Popular Restaurants in Kochi:

• Rice Boat
• SkyGrill Fusion Tapas & Lounge
• Kochi Kitchen
• Fusion Bay
• Paragon | Lulu Mall, Kochi

Major Attractions in Kochi:

• Mattancherry Palace
• Vasco da Gama Square
• Rainbow Hanging Bridge
• Chinese Fishing Nets
• Indo-Portuguese Museum

Suggested Read: Nightlife in Kerala: Explore Nighttime Charm of Kerala

5. Munnar

If you are looking for a romantic destination to spend a soothing New Year's Eve in Kerala, Munnar is the desired place for you. Basically, Munnar is a paradise on Earth for those who want to experience the beauty of nature in the hills during New Year 2026 in Kerala. Its lush tea gardens and rich forests are well enough to relax your mind. Apart from these, there are picture-perfect beaches in Munnar that you shouldn't miss during your Kerala trip. Cherai Beach, Alleppey Beach and Marari Beach are some popular beaches in India to explore to enjoy the best New Year 2026 celebrations.

Popular Hotels in Munnar:

• Grand Plaza Munnar
• Hotel Emerald Inn
• Tea County Munnar
• Eastend Hotel
• Munnar Inn

Popular Restaurants in Munnar:

• Arabian Grills Munnar
• Parakkat Spice Merchant Restaurant – Munnar
• The Hornbill Restaurant by Blackberry Hills Munnar Nature Resort & Spa
• Al Buhari Restaurant
• Saravana Bhavan

Major Attractions in Munnar:

• Tea Plantation Munnar
• Kolukkumalai Tea Estate
• Tea Museum
• Mattupetty Dam
• Carmelagiri Elephant Park

Suggested Read: Shopping In Kerala, India: Mentor To Shop In God’s Own City

6. Vagamon

If you are a nature enthusiast and love exploring adventurous activities like paragliding and trekking during the New Year 2026 holiday, Vagamon in Kerala has something for you. As the countdown to 2026 begins, the mist-clad hillocks, rich vegetation and lush valleys of Vagamon come alive with the rhythm of festivities. Vagamon is a stunning hill station to enjoy a great New Year's Eve in Kerala. Here, you can experience jungle camping, trekking, bonfires and delicious food to welcome the year 2026 in a refreshing way. Don't forget to explore Vagamon this time to experience an electrifying nightlife in India.

Popular Hotels in Vagamon:

• Palette Hill View Resort Vagamon
• Vagamon Vagashore - Best Couple Friendly Resort in Vagamon
• Vagamon Hill Chimes
• Zostel Vagamon
• Pine Clough Vagamon

Popular Restaurants in Vagamon:

• Tabore Hills Resorts and Restaurant
• The Green House Restaurant
• Calicut Resto Restaurant
• Sebante Thattukada Homely Food
• Anoki Restaurant and Resorts

Major Attractions in Vagamon:

• Murugan Hill
• Thangalpara
• Vagamon Meadows
• Vagamon Adventure Park
• Karikadu View Point

Suggested Read: Honeymoon Places in Kerala: Romantic Retreats in God’s Own Country

7. Thiruvananthapuram

What could be better than visiting the popular temples like Attukal Bhagavathy Temple to start a fresh year with spirituality and positivity? If you are thinking the same, visit Thiruvananthapuram this year as it is one of the best New Year 2026 destinations in Kerala. Formerly known as Trivandrum,While you are in Thiruvananthapuram, you should also be part of the major celebrations and parties that are hosted at different hotels. Also, it is one of the most exciting and joyous places to visit in winter in India to explore its temples, beaches, houseboats and breathtaking landscapes.

Popular Hotels in Thiruvananthapuram:

• Windsor Rajadhani
• Hilton Garden Inn Trivandrum
• Hotel Highland
• Vivanta Thiruvananthapuram
• Hotel Dimora Thiruvananthapuram

Popular Restaurants in Thiruvananthapuram:

• Villa Maya
• Cafe Jade
• Paragon Restaurant
• Supreme Upper Crust
• O Café

Major Attractions in Thiruvananthapuram:

• Veli Lake Tourist Village
• Napier Museum
• Madavoorpara Ancient Rock-cut Shiva Temple
• Attukal Bhagavathy Temple
• Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Suggested Read: Famous Beaches In Kerala, India Perfect To Experience The Warmth Of Nature

8. Periyar

Another fabulous destination to celebrate the New Year 2026 in Kerala would be Periyar, the longest river and the national park surrounding it. This is a major tourist destination in Kerala and you may pick this as your New Year 2026 spot. This is a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts looking to ring in the New Year 2026 surrounded by lush forests and serene lakes. The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, renowned for its rich biodiversity, offers a tranquil escape to start the year. While on a stay here, you can take a boat ride on the Periyar Lake, spotting wildlife like elephants, tigers and various bird species.

Popular Hotels in Periyar:

• Hotel Crystals Cove
• Keys Prima by Lemon Tree Hotels
• Sterling Thekkady
• The Elephant Court
• Periyar Mountain Palace

Popular Restaurants in Periyar:

• Periyar Tiger Cafe Restaurant
• Radhas Homly Food & Homely Meals Kumily
• TUSKER CAF'E
• Thekkady Food Court
• Cafe Mango Tree Thekkady

Major Attractions in Periyar:

• Elephant Junction Thekkady
• Kadathanadan Kalari & Navarasa Kathakali Centre
• Periyar National Park Ticket Office
• Periyar Jeep Safari
• Periyar Explore Thekkady Jeep Safari

9. Thenmala

Pick Thenmala as your New Year 2026 destination in Kerala. This picturesque spot in Kollam district ids a hidden gem and is India’s first planned eco-tourism destination, Thenmala offers a range of activities including trekking, boating and visiting the scenic waterfalls. During New Year, the peaceful environment of Thenmala becomes even more magical, with special events, live music and majestical performances that embrace the traditional Kerala culture. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Thenmala promises an unforgettable start to the fresh year with its serene landscapes and eco-friendly charm.

Popular Hotels in Thenmala:

• Thenmala Heritage
• Kandamath Heritage Resort
• Hormuz Inn
• Thenmala Eco Friendly Hormuz Nest
• Hotel Meenakshi

Popular Restaurants in Thenmala:

• Naadans Restaurant (Mytheen's Kitchen)
• Jinkalaka A/C Multi-Cuisine Restaurant
• Family Restaurant
• Thenmala Garden Restaurant
• Ruchi Hotel & Restaurant

Major Attractions in Thenmala:

• Thenmala Eco Adventure Park
• Adventures Zone, Thenmala Ecotourism
• Leisure Zone and Sculpture Garden
• Thenmala Reservoir Boating Point
• Thenmala Dam

Tranquil Places for a Light Celebration of New Year 2026 in Kerala

Not all will love loud celebrations and those who are in Kerala may also look for quiet and calm places to enjoy the beautiful scenery sitting amidst the lap of nature. If you lie on the same list, we have something for you too. Kerala is home to breathtaking landscapes and lush green hills and is among the top places to visit in winter in India.

1. Alappuzha

Alappuzha is popular for its stunning beaches and natural lakes. While here for the New Year, enjoy a houseboat cruise with your special one and make it memorable for a lifetime. The city is nicknamed the “Venice of the East” and thousands of visitors come here annually to celebrate the New Year. Take an amazing houseboat cruise to have an immersive experience of Kerala's captivating and crystal-clear backwaters.

Popular Hotels in Alappuzha:

• Time Square Boutique Hotel
• Ramada by Wyndham Alleppey
• Alleppey Beach Resorts
• Royale Park
• Camelot Hotel

Popular Restaurants in Alappuzha:

• BayRoute Bistro
• Cassia Restaurant, Alappuzha
• Sea shore restaurant
• Eden Garden Restaurant
• Rice Boat pure vegetarian Restaurant

Major Things to do:

• Enjoying Alleppey Backwaters
• Visiting Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple
• Enjoying the Crustal-Clear Alappuzha Beach
• Experiencing Kathakali Dance

Suggested Read: Villas in Kerala - The Dream Holiday’s In God’s Own Place

2. Devikulam

Devikulam is a charming hill station and a hidden gem located in Kerala, India. Its rich tea gardens and lush vegetation are well enough to soothe your mind and release all your stress in one go. This is a perfect getaway for those who are looking for a quiet and relaxing New Year 2026 celebration in Kerala. Also, it’s a popular religious destination that attracts many visitors, especially Hindus who want to start their fresh year with some spirituality. Mariamman Temple, Mangalam Devi Temple and Ayyanar Temple, located in Devikulam, are some of the most prominent destinations for those who wish to learn more about Hindu mythology and mysticism.

Popular Hotels in Devikulam:

• Green Tea Hotel
• Pine Tree Munnar
• Mountain fog
• Las Palmas Hotel
• Joys Resorts

Popular Restaurants in Devikulam:

• Aiswarya Restaurant
• Decouthas Restaurant
• Cloud Castle Restaurant
• Hotel Kathir Oli
• Alibaba & 41 Dishes

Major Things to do:

• Exploring Tea and Spice Plantations
• Experiencing Thoovanam Falls
• Visiting Sita Devi Lake
• Touring around Eravikulam National Park

Suggested Read: Hotels in Kerala For A Splendid Staycation Amidst Luxury and Nature

3. Thekkady

If you are looking for a romantic as well as adventurous place to celebrate an extraordinary New Year 2026 in Kerala, Thekkady should be your choice. Here, you can explore natural and wildlife tours, rich cultural experiences and other interesting outdoor activities. Also, if you are a wildlife and nature lover and interested in learning more about lush greenery and rich flora and fauna, you should definitely visit Thekkady during this auspicious occasion. Also, you can enjoy major New Year activities here at some of the nearby destinations that are popular among tourists. What could be better than welcoming the fresh year amidst crystal-clear backwaters? Just imagine what type of view it is. It’s totally beyond your imagination.

Popular Hotels in Thekkady:

• Hotel Ambadi,Thekkady
• Woodnote Thekkady
• Hotel PepperVine Thekkady
• Hotel Elephant Route, Thekkady
• White Fort Thekkady

Popular Restaurants in Thekkady:

• Tusker Caf'e
• Periyar Tiger Cafe Restaurant
• Thekkady Cafe
• Gokul Veg Restaurant
• Hill View Cafe Thekkady Home Stay

Major Things to do:

• Touring around Elephant Junction
• Elephant Safari at Periyar National Park
• Experiencing the Unique Bamboo Rafting
• Enjoying a Boat Ride in Thekkady Lake

Suggested Read: Islands in Kerala Calling You To Witness Enchanting Beauty Of Nature

4. Kumarakom

Kumarakom is an iconic place to experience rich flora and fauna. Its misty Vembanad Lake, lush coconut forests and gorgeous backwaters have been one of the top choices among visitors, attracting many visitors around New Years' time who have a varied interest in nature. Spend time amidst the serene beauty and explore the lake on a boat cruise during your stay here. What could be more enchanting than to welcome the New Year 2026, relaxing on the laps of nature?

Popular Hotels in Kumarakom:

• Paradise Resorts Kumarakom
• Backwater Ripples
• Rhythm Kumarakom
• Kumarakom Lake Resort
• Gokulam Grand Resort and Spa Kumarakom

Popular Restaurants in Kumarakom:

• Ettukettu Specialty Restaurant - Kumarakom Lake Resort
• Vembanad, Kumarakom Lake Resort
• The Kumarakom Kitchen
• Karma Chakra - The Waterside Restaurant
• Kumarakom Kanthaari Family Restaurant

Major Things to do:

• Witnessing the Beauty of Aruvikuzhy Waterfall
• Experiencing Boating in Backwaters and Lakes
• Staying in a Houseboat for Entire Day and Night
• Exploring Vembanad Lake

New Year 2026 in Kerala is all about exploring stunning beaches, rich culture, beautiful scenery and vibrant party places along with mesmerising fireworks exhibitions. This stunning place attracts a large number of visitors from different parts of the world on this important occasion. Have you ever seen breathtaking natural landscapes or taken a joyous ride on a beautiful houseboat? What about experiencing the amazing Kathakali performances on New Year's Eve 2025? All these things can be done at one place and that’s none other than the amazing district of Kerala in India. Choose from the carefully crafted Kerala tour packages to enjoy the biggest celebration of the year with fun and thrill. Forget all your worries and create new memories by visiting Kerala this New Year.

New Year 2026 in Kerala - FAQ's