December is one of the best months to travel around Bangalore. The monsoon is over, the weather is cool and pleasant, and the countryside is green. With Christmas and New Year around the corner, it is also the perfect time for a short break.
Here are 10 weekend getaways from Bangalore in December that you can reach within roughly 3 to 7 hours by road.
Quick List: Top 10 Weekend Getaways from Bangalore in December
- Coorg (about 250 km)
- Chikmagalur (about 245 km)
- Ooty (about 270 km)
- Hampi (about 340 km)
- Gokarna (about 480 km)
- Wayanad (about 280 km)
- Sakleshpur (about 220 km)
- Pondicherry (about 310 km)
- Kabini (about 210 km)
- Yercaud (about 230 km)
1. Coorg (about 250 km)
Coorg, the Scotland of India, is famous for coffee plantations, misty hills and waterfalls like Abbey Falls. December brings cool mornings and clear afternoons.
Stay at a homestay to enjoy authentic Kodava food like pandi curry and akki roti.
2. Chikmagalur (about 245 km)
Chikmagalur offers Mullayanagiri, Karnataka’s highest peak, plus Baba Budangiri and endless coffee estates.
December is ideal for the Mullayanagiri trek with clear sunrise views.
3. Ooty (about 270 km)
Ooty’s botanical garden, toy train and tea gardens look magical in December. Nights can get quite cold, so pack warm layers.
Combine with Coonoor for a quieter experience.
4. Hampi (about 340 km)
The UNESCO-listed ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire are best explored in winter when the sun is gentle. Watch sunset from Hemakuta Hill.
Rent a bicycle or scooter to explore the vast heritage site.
5. Gokarna (about 480 km)
For a beach weekend, Gokarna offers Om Beach, Kudle Beach and Half Moon Beach without Goa’s crowds.
Take an overnight bus or train to make the most of the weekend.
6. Wayanad (about 280 km)
Wayanad in Kerala has Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam and Chembra Peak. December’s dry weather is great for treks.
Treehouse stays are a unique experience here.
7. Sakleshpur (about 220 km)
Sakleshpur is an offbeat hill town with Manjarabad Fort and the Green Route railway trail.
It is far less crowded than Coorg and perfect for a peaceful break.
8. Pondicherry (about 310 km)
French Quarter streets, cafés, Auroville and Paradise Beach make Pondicherry a lovely December getaway, especially around Christmas.
Book stays early as December is peak season.
9. Kabini (about 210 km)
Kabini is one of South India’s best wildlife spots, known for elephants, leopards and the rare black panther.
December safaris offer cool weather and good sightings.
10. Yercaud (about 230 km)
Yercaud in Tamil Nadu is an affordable hill station with Yercaud Lake, Pagoda Point and coffee estates.
Great budget option for families and college groups.
Bonus Tip
Christmas and New Year weekends fill up fast. Book homestays and resorts at least three to four weeks in advance, and leave Bangalore before 6 AM to avoid city traffic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best place to visit near Bangalore in December?
Coorg, Chikmagalur and Ooty are the most popular December getaways from Bangalore because of their cool weather and green landscapes.
Is December a good time to visit Hampi?
Yes. December has pleasant, dry weather, which makes it one of the best months to explore Hampi’s ruins.
Which beach is closest to Bangalore for a weekend?
Pondicherry is one of the closest beach destinations, followed by Gokarna for a quieter coastal escape.
Final Thoughts
Whether you love coffee estates, wildlife, beaches or history, there is a perfect weekend getaway from Bangalore in December. Pick one destination, book early and enjoy the best weather of the year away from city traffic.