Things To Do
in Alawandi

Crispy rice-and-lentil crepes served with a spicy potato filling or simple coconut chutney; widely available at breakfast stalls and casual eateries.

Must-Try!

Tangy, spiced curry made with locally caught fish or freshwater varieties—look for family-run restaurants or beachside stalls if nearby the coast or rivers.

A plate with multiple small dishes—dal, vegetable curries, rice, pickles and papad—for a balanced, hearty meal; common at mid-range and home-style restaurants.

Seasonal legume or chickpea preparations, fried snacks and savory bonda/pakora sold by street vendors—perfect for sampling while walking the market.

A once- or twice-weekly market where farmers sell produce, spices and homemade snacks—ideal for photographing colorful vegetables and trying seasonal fruits and fritters.

Evening tea and snack stalls serving dosas, samosas, sweets and chai; try the local fried snack and a cup of strong milk tea.

Wear modest clothing—covered shoulders and knees—especially when visiting temples or conservative villages. Women may prefer a scarf to cover shoulders while entering religious sites.

Remove shoes before entering homes and temples. Be respectful of religious symbols and avoid loud behavior in sacred spaces.

Use the right hand for giving and receiving food or money; the left hand is traditionally considered unclean.

Always ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially women and elders, and be mindful during rituals.

Tipping is modest and discretionary—round up small bills for rickshaw drivers, give 5–10% at restaurants if service is good, and offer a small tip to guides or porters. In smaller establishments tips are appreciated but not required.

Cash (Indian rupees) is the most widely accepted form, especially in markets and small eateries. Larger hotels and a few restaurants accept cards; mobile payments/UPI are increasingly common in towns—carry small notes for street purchases.

A significant portion of the population is engaged in agriculture—paddy, vegetable cultivation and small-scale farming form local livelihoods.

Market vendors, shopkeepers, craftsmen and service providers sustain town commerce and traditional crafts.

Many younger residents commute or move seasonally to larger cities for work; remittances and seasonal labor shape local dynamics.

A mix of religious groups typical to the region—community life centers on local temples, mosques or churches depending on the area, with festivals forming important social calendars.

Vegetarian food is widely available and often the default at many eateries; specify 'no onion, no garlic' if you follow specific variants and look for pure vegetarian restaurants for the safest options.

Vegan options are available but less labeled—ask for dishes without ghee, milk or yogurt; rice-and-vegetable preparations and many lentil dishes can be vegan if clarified.

Rice-based meals, dosas and many curries are naturally gluten-free, but cross-contamination is possible in street stalls—ask vendors and favor freshly made items.

Carry cards explaining allergies in the local language or Hindi; small eateries may not understand complex requirements, so opt for simpler dishes and pack snacks if necessary.