Things To Do
in Chūndal
Chūndal, a seaside town perched along Kerala's Malabar coast, blends lush coconut groves with a historic spice trade past. Narrow lanes wind past colorful shopfronts, centuries-old temples, and bustling morning markets trading cardamom, pepper, and dried fish. The town's fragrance of roasting spices and fresh coconut signals its coastal identity from miles away.
By evening the horizon glows gold as fishermen return with their haul and the town settles into a relaxed rhythm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a guided tour of the ancient temples that dot the landscape around Chūndal, rich with intricate carvings and historical significance. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local eatery, where freshly made parathas and sweet chai energize you for the adventures ahead. Take a leisurely walk through the small village streets, absorbing the vibrant atmosphere and the friendly nods from locals beginning their day.
After a fulfilling morning, head towards the serene lakes nearby for some peaceful kayaking, where the idyllic surroundings allow for a perfect escape. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the water, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature. As the sun begins to set, dive into the rich cultural heritage of Chūndal with a visit to a local craft market, picking up handmade souvenirs and interacting with artisans.
As night falls, savor a traditional dinner at a renowned local restaurant, sampling regional dishes that showcase the culinary depth of the area. Engage in storytelling with the locals who often gather to share tales of the past, creating a vivid connection to Chūndal's rich history. After dinner, take a stroll through the village to witness the calm beauty of the night sky, punctuated by the twinkling lights of the homes around you.
Begin with an invigorating trek through the surrounding hills, where the morning mist adds an enchanting layer to the breathtaking views. A hearty breakfast at a homestay provides the perfect fueling for the day ahead. Early risers might catch glimpses of Himalayan wildlife, making this experience truly unforgettable.
Embark on a nature walk, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who shares insights into the local flora and fauna. Visit a nearby village to interact with the locals and learn about their sustainable living practices. As the day unfolds, participate in a cooking workshop focused on traditional dishes, blending outdoor experiences with culinary education.
Gather around a bonfire with fellow travelers and locals, sharing stories and laughter under a starlit sky. Prepare a delicious meal using the skills acquired during the afternoon workshop, ensuring a personal connection to the cuisine. Wind down your day with soothing music or storytelling, enjoying the simple pleasures of life in Chūndal.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚕Local taxi ride | $1-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
| ☕Coffee at café | $1-2 |
| 🧊1L bottled water | $0.25-0.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Lush landscapes and coastline
- Rich spice heritage and friendly locals
- Delicious regional cuisine
- Humidity and heat in summer
- Limited metro-style nightlife and large-scale amenities
- "Namaskaaram" - Hello
- "Nanni" - Thank you
- "Dayavu cheythu" - Please
- "Ente peru [your name] aanu" - My name is [your name]
- "Swasthamaano?" - Are you well?
Places to Visit in Chūndal
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide horizon, silhouettes of palm trees, and fishing boats create dramatic sunset photography.
Weathered structure with trickling light and wave spray, ideal for maritime portraits and long exposures.
Green hillside and terraced fields rolling toward the coastline, perfect for panoramic shots.
Food in Chūndal
Chūndal Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pillowy steamed rice cake paired with spiced black chickpea curry, a breakfast staple found in many homes and cafés.
Must-Try!
Fermented rice pancake served with a creamy coconut fish curry or stew.
Tender tapioca pearls served with tangy onion-tomato fish curry.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively hub for fresh coconuts, jackfruit, spices, and dried fish; perfect for picking up ingredients or a quick snack.
A row of coastal snack stalls offering banana chips, roasted peanuts, and spicy fish fry.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A gentle bow with hands pressed together is a respectful welcome.
Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering temples; avoid loud behavior and never point feet at altars.
Seek permission before photography of people or private activities; use a polite tone.
Safety
Tipping in Chūndal
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tipping 5-10% is common if service is not included; small tips to hotel staff are appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted; cards are increasingly common; mobile wallets like Paytm and Google Pay are popular in towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent sea breezes; carry water, wear a hat, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings.
Heavy rainfall and high humidity; expect lush landscapes but slippery trails and strong seas.
Pleasant daytime temperatures in the low 30s C (around 86 F) and cooler evenings; great for outdoor exploring.
Chūndal at Night
Hiking in Chūndal
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Steep but rewarding hike with forest cover and viewpoints near Kalpetta in Wayanad.
Challenging but scenic Western Ghats trail with waterfalls and terraced plots.
Airports
How to reach Chūndal by plane.
Approximately 50-90 minutes from town by road; good connectivity to domestic and some international routes.
Major airport serving the region; access via state highways and buses.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Active in the harbor and coastal villages with distinctive dialects and seafood-centric cuisine.
Nearby farms cultivate coconuts, spices, and rice for local markets.
Visitors from across India and abroad blend with resident families in the town center.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely watched and played by locals and visitors alike.
Common in schools and local clubs; informal matches on beaches.
Traditional martial art practiced in cultural centers and demonstrations.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chūndal.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Kerala vegetarian options rely on bananas, coconuts, root vegetables, and legumes. Look for kadala curry made with chickpeas for protein.
Request no ghee or dairy in curries; opt for coconut milk-based preparations and vegetable thali.