Things To Do
in Adukam
Adukam is a quiet town perched in a Kerala-inspired landscape where coconut groves meet calm backwaters. The streets are lined with wooden houses, spice-scented markets, and welcoming locals who share stories over fragrant tea. Visitors can savor coconut-based curries, fresh seafood, and slow-paced riverfront strolls at sunset.
With a friendly, small-town vibe and easy access to nature, Adukam feels like a doorstep to Kerala’s heart and soul.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
You’ll arrive in Adukam by morning and be warmly greeted by a local host who carries refreshing masala chai. After settling into your homestay among emerald rice paddies, take a guided stroll through the village lanes to absorb the tranquil atmosphere. Your senses will come alive with the aroma of spices and the gentle rhythm of daily life.
Enjoy a traditional South Indian lunch prepared by your hosts. Then, explore the nearby market filled with colorful textiles, handcrafted jewelry and aromatic spices. Chat with artisans and sample local street snacks as you wander through bustling stalls.
As the sun sets, join a cooking demonstration where you learn to roll your own dosas and prepare coconut chutney. Later, sit around a bonfire in the garden while storytellers recount ancient legends of the region. End your evening with a soothing Ayurvedic massage to unwind before tomorrow’s adventures.
Wake up to bird song and head to the centuries-old Sri Adi Keshava Temple perched on a hilltop. Explore the intricate stone carvings and ornate gopurams while your guide explains temple rituals. Offer a fresh jasmine garland at the sanctum and witness devotees chanting sacred hymns.
Venture to the lesser-known rock temple nestled among ancient boulders and marvel at its monolithic sculptures. Pause for a picnic under a banyan tree, savoring homemade banana fritters and fresh coconut water. Engage in a brief meditation session in a quiet shrine carved into the rock face.
Return to town and attend an evening aarti ceremony at the main temple, watching oil lamps dance in the twilight. Stroll through the temple courtyard as the air fills with incense and devotional music. Conclude the day by sampling kheer and payasam served by temple volunteers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night (budget) | $20-40 |
| 🚌Local transport day pass | $2-6 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $1-3 |
| 🛍Snacks or fruit | $1-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and a relaxed pace
- Rich coconut and spice flavors with fresh seafood
- Beautiful backwaters and scenic hill views
- Accessible and easy to navigate for first-time visitors
- Limited nightlife compared to big cities
- Monsoon season can disrupt plans
- Some roads are narrow and winding
- Fewer luxury options in a small town
- "Namaskaaram" - Hello
- "Ente peru [Your Name] aanu." - My name is [Your Name].
- "Nanni" - Thank you
- "Dayavayi" - Please
- "Sughamano?" - How are you?
Places to Visit in Adukam
Visit one of these nice places.
A tranquil stretch where early mist lifts off the water, creating a soft, mirrored dawn ideal for silhouettes and reflections.
A charming, weathered bridge with warm light and fishing boat activity; perfect for candid shots and long exposures.
Terraced hillsides and distant hillsides with a patchwork of green; a great spot for panoramic landscape photography.
Coastal vantage with waves, boats, and dramatic skies at dusk; ideal for sea-scape shots.
Food in Adukam
Adukam Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed cylindrical rice cake served with a spiced black chickpea curry; a classic breakfast or light meal in Adukam.
Must-Try!
A soft, lace-edged pancake paired with a coconut milk-based vegetable stew; light yet satisfying.
Tangy, coconut-rich curry made with fresh river or coastal fish, best enjoyed with hot steamed rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A sensory maze of spices, coconuts, fresh fish, and tropical fruit—great for sampling and picking up souvenirs.
Popular spots for quick bites like fried banana snacks and local street foods in the late afternoon.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and hands in prayer position (Namaste). Remove shoes before entering homes or temples unless told otherwise.
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites; photography rules vary—respect posted signs.
Always seek consent before capturing locals, especially in sacred or private spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Adukam
Ensure a smooth experience
In casual eateries, small tips (around 5-10% of the bill) are appreciated if service is good. In upper-end restaurants, 10% is common; for street vendors and markets, rounding up is often sufficient.
Cash is widely accepted; many places also accept cards and digital wallets (UPI, wallets like Paytm, Google Pay). Always have small change for street vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with temperatures often in the 30s C (around 86–95 F). Stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and seek shade during peak sun hours; early mornings are ideal for outdoor activities.
Heavy rains and strong humidity from June to September. Pleasant for lush scenery but carry rain gear and plan flexible outdoor plans. Roads can be slick; use caution when driving.
Milder temperatures and lower humidity, with cool mornings and comfortable days. Ideal for trekking and long walks; evenings can be chilly, so bring a light jacket.
Adukam at Night
Hiking in Adukam
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic walk through spice plantations with viewpoints over the valley.
Moderate trail along the backwater rim offering sunset vistas.
Dense, half-day forest hike suitable for capable hikers.
Airports
How to reach Adukam by plane.
Approximately 120–140 km by road; serves domestic and some international flights.
Around 60–90 km away; well-connected domestically and internationally.
Farther south but accessible by road or rail; good for broader international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Malayalam-speaking with rich cultural and religious diversity.
Agricultural and fishing communities form a large part of the local economy.
Frequent visitors and traders during market seasons and harvest periods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in parks and schools; local matches on weekends.
Frequently played in community centers and clubs.
Youth leagues and informal evening games are common.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Adukam.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer abundant coconut-based curries, thoran (stir-fried vegetables with coconut), and sambar. When ordering, ask for Tamil/Malayalam terms like 'vinanda var' to request no meat; opt for vegetable curries and lentil-based dishes.