Looking for Christmas vibes?
From the lights of Brigade Road to the misty hills of Coorg, here is how to celebrate Christmas 2025 in Karnataka.
The Chill is Finally Here
You know it’s officially Christmas 2025 season in Karnataka when the ceiling fans are finally switched off, and the early morning joggers in Cubbon Park are sporting earmuffs. It is mid-December 2025, and the state has transformed. While the world often looks to the snowy West for “traditional” Christmas vibes, we know that nothing quite beats the electric energy of Bengaluru in December or the serene, misty mornings of Coorg this time of year.
If you are planning how to spend the long weekend (or just looking for the best plum cake in town), here is your guide to soaking in the festive spirit across the state.
Bengaluru: The City of Lights
Let’s be honest – you cannot talk about Christmas in Karnataka without mentioning Brigade Road and MG Road. It is a rite of passage.
This year, the illumination seems to have gone a notch higher. Walking down Brigade Road right now feels like walking inside a kaleidoscope. It’s crowded, yes, but that’s part of the charm. The collective “oohs” and “aahs” as the lights flicker on, the buskers near Church Street, and the sheer joy of people wearing Santa hats – it’s a vibe you won’t find anywhere else.
Pro Tip: Ditch the car. Take the Namma Metro to MG Road or Church Street. The traffic is legendary, but not in a good way. Walk the stretch, grab a hot chocolate, and just people-watch.
The Old-World Charm: Midnight Mass & Heritage
Beyond the commercial glitter, Karnataka holds a deep, historic connection to the festival.
St. Mary’s Basilica, Shivajinagar
The Gothic architecture looks ethereal during the midnight mass. The sea of candles and the sound of hymns echoing off the old stone walls is a grounding experience.
St. Philomena’s Cathedral, Mysuru
If you are up for a drive, head to Mysuru. The Neo-Gothic towers of St. Philomena’s are mesmerizing, especially when lit up. It feels less like a city visit and more like stepping back in time.
Mangaluru’s Coastal Christmas: On the coast, Christmas is different. It’s about the ‘Kuswar’ (traditional sweets), the community feasts, and the beautiful, whitewashed churches of Mangaluru and Udupi decked out in stars.
The “Cake” Debate
Ask a Bengalurean where to get the best rich plum cake, and you will start a war. But that’s the fun of it. Whether you are a loyalist of the legendary Thom’s Bakery in Fraser Town, a fan of the old-school charm of Albert Bakery, or you prefer the colonial nostalgia of Koshy’s, the aroma of soaked fruit and spice is everywhere right now.
Don’t miss: If you are traveling towards Mattancherry or even local heritage spots, look out for home bakers selling ‘Kuswar’. The rose cookies and kidiyo are addictive.
Escaping the City?
If the city lights aren’t your thing and you want a “Silent Night” literally, December is the peak season for our hill stations.
Coorg (Kodagu):
The coffee plantations are cool, misty, and perfect for a fireplace setting. Many homestays host intimate Christmas dinners with local pork pandi curry and wine.
Chikmagalur
Perfect for a chilly trek followed by a warm campfire.
Kabini
If you want to trade reindeer for elephants, the Kabini backwaters are lush and green right now.
A Note to Our Visitors
As we celebrate, let’s keep it sustainable. Karnataka is home to sensitive eco-zones. If you are visiting our hills or beaches this December 25th, please carry your trash back with you. The best gift we can give the state is keeping it clean.
Merry Christmas!
Whether you are attending the midnight mass, partying in Indiranagar, or just curling up with a book and a blanket in Belagavi, we wish you a festive season filled with warmth and joy.
See you on the streets of Namma Karnataka!