Things To Do
in Chemmanam
Chemmanam is a quiet village in Kerala's Ernakulam district, surrounded by lush paddy fields and coconut groves. It sits within easy reach of Kochi's urban amenities while preserving a slow, village-paced rhythm that invites relaxed exploration. The area blends traditional agriculture with a spice-trade heritage reflected in nearby markets and temples.
Visitors can enjoy simple Kerala flavors, scenic canal views, and easy access to the backwaters and Western Ghats foothills.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the charming streets of Chemmanam, where colonial architecture meets local culture. Visit the historic St. Michael's Church, admiring its intricate design and peaceful ambiance. Don't forget to stop by a local café for a traditional South Indian breakfast of idli and sambar.
After lunch, explore the local market, bustling with vendors selling fresh produce, spices, and handmade crafts. Engage with the friendly locals and maybe even pick up a souvenir or two. As the sun begins to set, take a leisurely walk around the nearby lake to soak in the serene atmosphere.
As evening falls, enjoy a dinner of traditional Kerala cuisine at a local restaurant, sampling dishes such as fish curry and appam. After dinner, join a cultural performance showcasing traditional Kathakali dance, which will give you a glimpse into the rich heritage of the region. Wind down with a stroll along the waterfront, enjoying the cool breeze and the twinkling lights of the town.
Begin your day with an early morning trek in the lush forests surrounding Chemmanam, where the sounds of chirping birds fill the air. Join a guided tour to spot diverse wildlife, including monkeys and colorful birds, while learning about the local ecosystem. Stop for a refreshing breakfast picnic amidst nature, taking in the breathtaking views.
Afterward, visit a nearby butterfly park, where you can marvel at the vibrant species fluttering around in a beautifully landscaped environment. Spend some time walking the nature trails, soaking in the sights and sounds of the forest. Finish your afternoon with a visit to a local spice plantation, learning about the spices that make Kerala famous.
As the sun sets, return to Chemmanam and enjoy a relaxing dinner at a restaurant that features a view of the mountains. Savor the flavors of freshly caught seafood seasoned with local spices. Cap off the evening with a leisurely stroll under the stars, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🥗Vegetarian thali or meal | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at a cafe | $1-2 |
| 🥥Fresh coconut water | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🛵Scooter rental (per day) | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful village atmosphere with easy access to backwaters and markets
- Rich Kerala cuisine and welcoming locals
- Limited nightlife within the village itself
- Some attractions require short trips to Kochi or Western Ghats, which adds travel time
- "Namaskaram" - Hello
- "Ente peru [name] aan." - My name is [name].
- "Dayaayi sahayam cheyyamo?" - Could you please help me?
- "Ningalude bhaasha Malayalam-aan?" - Do you speak Malayalam?
- "Vandi evide?" - Where is the transportation/tour start?
Places to Visit in Chemmanam
Visit one of these nice places.
A tranquil canal lined with palms and paddy fields, perfect for golden-hour reflections and silhouettes of local boats.
Iconic fishing nets against a pastel sky, with tethered boats and historic lanes in the background.
Intricate carvings, colorful courtyards, and ceremonial spaces that showcase Kerala’s temple artistry.
Expansive fields framed by coconut trees, ideal for wide landscapes and drone-friendly horizons (where permitted).
Food in Chemmanam
Chemmanam Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant fish curry cooked with coconut milk, tamarind, and spices, commonly served with steamed rice.
Must-Try!
Steamed rice powder cylinders (puttu) paired with black chickpea curry, a traditional breakfast or light meal.
Fermented rice pancake (appam) paired with a creamy coconut milk-based vegetable or chicken stew.
Boiled tapioca (kappa) served with spicy fish curry, a rustic coastal combination.
A mixed-vegetable curry loaded with coconut and curry leaves, usually served with rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market in Kochi where you can smell and compare a wide variety of spices, teas, and aromatic ingredients.
Bustling daytime market offering fresh produce, herbs, and local snacks; ideal for sampling street foods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly at religious sites; remove shoes before entering temples or homes; greet with a respectful Namaste; use your right hand for giving and receiving items; avoid pointing at people or sacred objects; ask permission before photographing locals.
Safety
Tipping in Chemmanam
Ensure a smooth experience
In casual dining, leaving 5-10% of the bill is customary if service was good. For hotel staff, a small thank-you tip is appreciated; in markets and for casual street vendors, rounding up is common. Tipping is discretionary and appreciated for extra service.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with daytime highs often in the 90s F (30s C); carry water, wear light clothing, and schedule outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons. Expect occasional dusty roads and clear skies.
Heavy rainfall and high humidity from June to September; lush greenery, but travel can be affected by rain and occasional floods. Pack a good rain jacket, waterproof footwear, and plan indoor activities or flexible schedules.
Pleasantly cool and comfortable with lower humidity (October to February); great for sightseeing and long walks. Some mist and brief drizzles can occur, especially in the mornings.
Chemmanam at Night
Hiking in Chemmanam
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Elevated, scenic trails in the Western Ghats near Munnar offering panoramic views and a chance to see endemic wildlife.
A challenging hillside trek through tea estates and misty landscapes, best for experienced hikers.
Diverse wildlife and dry forest trails with opportunities for nature walks and photography.
Airports
How to reach Chemmanam by plane.
Major international airport serving Kochi, with good road and rail links to Ernakulam and surrounding areas.
A regional hub north of Kochi; useful for broader Kerala travel and access to northern districts.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant local population with Hindu, Muslim, and Christian communities living in harmony; Malayalam is the regional language, with English widely understood in towns.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely followed sport across Kerala with local leagues and community matches.
Popular at schools, clubs, and informal gatherings; often accompanied by picnics and family events.
Common in community centers and homes, especially among families and youth.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chemmanam.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Kerala has abundant vegetarian options such as avial, thoran, sambar, and curries made with coconut milk. Many eateries label veg dishes clearly; look for thali setups or ask for a vegetarian thali. If you’re dining at temples or homestays, prasadams and meals are often vegetarian by tradition.