Things To Do
in Aruvikkara
Aruvikkara is a tranquil village on the outskirts of Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala, set along the Karamana River near an historic dam. The dam creates a scenic reservoir surrounded by lush green hills and forests, a favorite for short boat rides and nature photography. It serves as an ideal day-trip from the city, combining water views, temple visits, and peaceful countryside vibes.
The climate is tropical, with a distinct monsoon pattern, making winter the most comfortable time to visit for outdoor activities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing visit to the Aruvikkara Dam, where the serene waters and lush surroundings will invigorate your spirit. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the dam and take in the breathtaking views of the nearby hills and lush greenery. Don’t forget to capture some beautiful photographs to cherish these moments.
Savor a traditional South Indian lunch at a local eatery, experiencing the authentic flavors of the region. Afterward, embark on a guided trek in the nearby forests, where you can spot local wildlife and enjoy the tranquility of nature. The afternoon sun filtering through the trees creates a magical atmosphere, perfect for unwinding.
Return to the dam as the sun begins to set, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple. Enjoy a peaceful evening by the water, perhaps indulging in some local snacks sold by vendors nearby. Conclude your day with a small prayer at the nearby temple, embracing the spiritual calm of the place.
After breakfast, head out to Punarjani Traditional Village, a cultural hub that showcases authentic Kerala village life. Participate in a classic traditional art form like Theyyam or Kathakali, which will immerse you in the rich heritage of the region. The engaging performances and enchanting stories will leave you in awe.
After the cultural experience, enjoy a sumptuous Kerala thali for lunch featuring diverse dishes that tantalize your taste buds. Post-lunch, engage in a friendly cooking class where you can learn to prepare popular local dishes using fresh ingredients. This interactive experience will deepen your appreciation for Kerala’s culinary traditions.
Spend a relaxing evening exploring the village on foot, where you can interact with locals and enjoy their hospitality. As dusk falls, pack a picnic and settle down near a scenic spot to enjoy the balmy evening, filled with laughter and stories. End the night with a campfire, surrounded by the stars and the sounds of nature.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍚Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🍛Three-course meal for two | $20-35 |
| ☕️Coffee/tea at cafe | $1-3 |
| 🥥Snack or street food | $1-4 |
| 🚗Local transportation (one-way) | $0.5-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful, less crowded than major cities
- Rich natural scenery and easy day trips from the city
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Some rural roads can be rough and weather-dependent
- "Namaskaram" - Hello
- "Ente peru [name] aanu." - My name is [name].
- "Sukhamundo?" - Are you well?
- "Nanni" - Thank you
- "English samsarikkoo?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Aruvikkara
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic dam and reservoir with surrounding green hills; ideal for sunrise and golden-hour shots.
Lush riverside scenery with boats and abundant vegetation for wide-angle compositions.
Waterfront and backwaters offering reflective water scenes and sunsets.
Additional vantage points nearby that showcase expansive water surfaces and forest backdrops.
Food in Aruvikkara
Aruvikkara Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed rice cake cylinders served with black chickpea curry; a quintessential Kerala breakfast option.
Must-Try!
A soft, fluffy pancake paired with a coconut milk stew or a tangy fish curry for a satisfying meal.
Coconut-based curry featuring fresh river or sea fish, spiced with curry leaves and tamarind.
Vegetable medleys cooked with coconut and curry leaves; a staple side in Kerala meals.
Crispy snacks and fried ripe plantains commonly found in markets and along streets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market offering spices, fish, fruits, and street foods; great for sampling local flavors.
Casual roadside stalls selling chai, banana chips, roasted peanuts, and fresh coconut water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes before temple entry, and follow local customs; seek permission before photographing religious ceremonies.
A Malayalam greeting like Namaskaram is appreciated; handshakes are common in urban areas.
Respect personal space; keep noise to a minimum in sacred sites; tipping for service is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Aruvikkara
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary for service staff in hotels and guided tours; around 5-10% is typical in mid-range to upscale places; smaller establishments may not expect tips.
Cash is widely accepted; cards and digital wallets are common in hotels and larger restaurants; carry smaller denominations for markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid days (March–May); carry water, wear hats, and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Heavy rains (June–September) bring lush landscapes but can affect road conditions; plan for extra travel time and rain gear.
Pleasant and mild (October–February); ideal for outdoor activities, hiking, and photography.
Aruvikkara at Night
Hiking in Aruvikkara
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic Western Ghats hill station with easy to moderate trekking options, about 60-70 km from Aruvikkara.
Forest trails and eco-tourism routes near Thenmala suitable for day trips.
Short to moderate hikes around the sanctuary with wildlife-spotting opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Aruvikkara by plane.
Main gateway to the region; roughly a 1-2 hour drive to Aruvikkara depending on traffic.
Nedumbassery airport in Kochi; a longer option for international or domestic flights; about 3-5 hours by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Hindu, Christian, and Muslim communities; high literacy and rich cultural traditions.
Visiting from other Indian states and abroad for nature, culture, and heritage sites.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular recreational and community sport across Kerala.
Common in schools and local clubs; informal games are widespread.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aruvikkara.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Kerala offers abundant vegetarian options such as avial, thoran, olan, sambar, rasam, and coconut-free preparations if needed.