Things To Do
in Chariyakulam
Chariyakulam is a small town set in the Western Ghats, where emerald hills meet winding rivers and patchwork tea and spice estates. The village blends traditional Kerala and Tamil influences with a welcoming local culture. Narrow lanes wind past temples, markets, and coffee huts, revealing a quiet tempo of rural life.
Visitors come for scenic vistas, gentle trails, and authentic, home-cooked meals.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a refreshing walk around the picturesque Chariyakulam Lake, where the morning mist dances over the water's surface. Enjoy the tranquility as you spot local birds and listen to the gentle rustle of leaves. Stop by a nearby café for a traditional South Indian breakfast, savoring dishes like idli and sambar.
After breakfast, embark on a boat ride across the lake, absorbing the serene beauty that surrounds you. Engage with local fishermen and learn about their daily routines while enjoying the panoramic views of the lush landscape. As the sun reaches its peak, find a shaded spot to relax and enjoy a packed lunch by the lakeside.
As the sun begins to set, take a leisurely stroll along the lakeshore, watching the vibrant colors of dusk reflect on the water. Visit a local craft market to pick up unique handmade souvenirs and experience the local culture firsthand. Wrap up the evening at a lakeside restaurant, indulging in regional delicacies while listening to traditional music.
Start your day with a visit to the ancient temples scattered around Chariyakulam, where intricate architecture tells stories of the past. Engage with local guides who passionately share the history and significance of each site. Take your time to admire the beautiful carvings and the peaceful ambiance that envelops these sacred spaces.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy lunch at a local eatery, sampling regional dishes that showcase the rich flavors of the area. Following lunch, visit a nearby museum that houses artifacts and exhibits detailing the region's cultural heritage. Participate in a workshop where you can learn traditional crafts or local art forms.
As evening approaches, attend a cultural performance showcasing local music and dance, immersing yourself in the vibrant traditions of Chariyakulam. Engage with local performers and gain insight into the stories behind their art. Conclude the day with a quiet dinner at a traditional restaurant, relishing the flavors of authentic Indian cuisine.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚲Local transit (bus/auto rickshaw) per day | $2-6 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel (per night) | $25-50 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🎟️Attraction entry | $2-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural Kerala/Tamil-influenced culture
- Stunning hill and tea-estate scenery
- Fewer crowds compared to major cities
- Affodable living costs and homestay experiences
- Limited nightlife and nightlife venues
- Rural infrastructure can be basic
- Transport between attractions may require planning and time
- "Namaskaaram" - Hello
- "Sughamano?" - Are you well?
- "Dayavayi" - Please
- "Nanni" - Thank you
- "Vandane" - Excuse me / Pardon me
- "Enikku sahayam vendi" - I need help
Places to Visit in Chariyakulam
Visit one of these nice places.
Calm waterways with reflections of coconut palms and traditional houseboats at sunrise.
Terraced hillsides with misty mornings and golden afternoon light.
Ancient architecture with intricate carvings set in the hillside village.
Panoramic view over the hills and patchwork fields as the sun dips behind the ridge.
Food in Chariyakulam
Chariyakulam Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A iconic local dish where freshwater fish is slow-cooked in spices and wrapped in a banana leaf.
Must-Try!
Pink-meat fish curry simmered in coconut milk with tamarind and spices.
Fermented rice pancakes served with a creamy vegetable or chicken stew.
A sumptuous, multi-dish vegetarian platter showcasing curried vegetables, pulses, and pickles.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling morning market with fresh produce, spices, banana chips, and tropical fruits.
Stalls selling pepper, cardamom, cloves, turmeric, and fresh coconut.
Crunchy snacks and tropical fruit treats ideal for on-the-go snacking.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Namaste or a polite nod; remove shoes before entering homes and many temples.
Dress modestly; avoid touching sacred objects; ask permission before taking photos in religious spaces.
Ask permission if people are in frame; do not photograph private ceremonies without consent.
Safety
Tipping in Chariyakulam
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not compulsory; 5-10% in restaurants; small tips for guides and porters.
Cash is widely accepted; digital payments (UPI, cards) are common in towns and tourist spots.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid, with temperatures often in the 30s°C; carry water, sunscreen, and light clothing.
Heavy rains (June–September) bring lush greenery but slippery trails; pack a rain jacket and waterproof footwear.
Milder days and cool evenings (around 15–25°C), ideal for outdoor walks and photography.
Chariyakulam at Night
Hiking in Chariyakulam
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic hikes through tea gardens with valley views and chances to spot birds.
Popular challenging hike with panoramic views, best done early morning.
Easy to moderate forest walk around a scenic lake near the hillside town.
Airports
How to reach Chariyakulam by plane.
Major international hub about a few hours’ drive from the Western Ghats region; connects to domestic destinations and international routes.
Also known as Karipur, serves northern Kerala and nearby regions; good for arrivals from major Indian hubs.
A convenient option toward the eastern side of the Western Ghats; well-connected to many Indian cities.
Northern Kerala gateway with expanding domestic and limited international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Core community members; many households work on spice and tea estates.
Communities engaged in river and canal-based livelihoods.
Young students and older residents who contribute to small businesses and homestays.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, played in local grounds and schools.
Common in villages; informal matches in open fields.
Indoor and outdoor games in community centers and homestays.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chariyakulam.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places offer a wide range of vegetarian dishes like avial, sambar, thoran, and vegetable curries; specify no fish when needed.