Things To Do
in Elanad

Elanad is a serene village located in the southern part of India, known for its lush green landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It offers a unique blend of traditional Kerala lifestyle and modern amenities, making it a perfect getaway for travelers seeking tranquility. The village is surrounded by beautiful backwaters and paddy fields, providing picturesque views that attract nature lovers and photographers alike.

Elanad is also well-connected to nearby cities, making it accessible for tourists exploring the region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Elanad
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and shop for traditional handicrafts.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby backwaters for a relaxing boat ride, enjoying the lush greenery and local wildlife.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a traditional Kerala meal at a local restaurant, followed by a stroll through the village to enjoy the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the local temple to witness morning rituals and experience the spiritual ambiance.

afternoon
:

Take a cooking class to learn how to prepare authentic Kerala dishes, followed by lunch with your newly learned recipes.

evening
:

Attend a Kathakali performance to immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture and traditions.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$3-5
🏨Budget Accommodation$15-30
🚕Local Taxi Ride$2-5
🥤Cup of Tea$0.50-1
🛍️Handicrafts Souvenir$5-10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural landscapes and tranquility.
  • Rich cultural experiences and delicious cuisine.
  • Affordable costs of living compared to urban areas.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent.
  • Language barrier can be challenging in rural areas.
  • "Namaste" - Hello
  • "Shukriya" - Thank you
  • "Aap kaise hain?" - How are you?
  • "Kya hai yeh?" - What is this?
  • "Kripya" - Please

Places to Visit in Elanad

Visit one of these nice places.

Elanad Backwaters

A serene spot perfect for capturing the beauty of the tranquil waters and lush surroundings.

Local Temples

The intricate architecture and vibrant colors of the temples provide excellent photographic opportunities.

Paddy Fields

The expansive green fields create a stunning landscape, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Elanad

Elanad offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing the unique flavors of Kerala cuisine that is rich in spices and fresh ingredients.

Elanad Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sadya

A traditional Kerala feast served on a banana leaf, featuring an array of vegetarian dishes.

Must-Try!

Appam

A soft and fluffy rice pancake served with coconut milk or vegetable stew.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Elanad Market

A bustling local market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and street food like vada and banana fritters.

Climate Guide

Weather

Elanad experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C (95°F). Winters are mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, revitalizing the landscape but limiting outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect Religious Practices

Always dress modestly when visiting temples and avoid taking photographs where prohibited.

Greetings

A simple 'Namaste' with folded hands is a common greeting; a smile goes a long way in showing respect.

Dining Etiquette

It is customary to eat with your right hand and to wash your hands before and after meals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Elanad is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas, keep valuables secure, and be cautious of scams. It's advisable to have travel insurance and know the local emergency numbers.

Tipping in Elanad

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip service staff around 10% in restaurants, though it is not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but digital payment methods like UPI and debit/credit cards are increasingly common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (December - February)

Mild temperatures and clear skies make this the best time to visit, ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer (March - May)

Hot and humid weather, with temperatures rising; early morning or late evening outings are recommended.

Monsoon (June - September)

Heavy rains transform the landscape into a lush paradise, but some outdoor activities may be limited.

Post-Monsoon (October - November)

Refreshing weather with occasional showers; a great time for photography and exploring the countryside.

Nightlife Guide

Elanad at Night

Elanad's nightlife is generally quiet, with a focus on local culture. You can find small gatherings at local cafés or attend cultural performances. For a more lively experience, nearby towns may offer bars and clubs that stay open late.

Hiking in Elanad

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Munnar Trails

Located about 100 km away, Munnar offers breathtaking views and well-marked trails through tea plantations and forested areas.

Parambikulam Tiger Reserve

Around 80 km from Elanad, this reserve features diverse wildlife and beautiful trekking paths, ideal for adventurous hikers.

Airports

How to reach Elanad by plane.

Cochin International Airport (COK)

Located about 70 km from Elanad, this is the nearest major airport, offering both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Elanad is a compact village, making it easy to explore on foot. Most attractions, markets, and restaurants are within walking distance, and the surrounding nature trails provide a pleasant walking experience. However, be mindful of uneven paths in rural areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Farmers

The majority of Elanad's population consists of farmers engaged in agriculture, particularly rice and spice cultivation.

Tourism Workers

A growing number of residents are involved in the tourism sector, providing services like hospitality and local tours.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Cricket is a passion in Elanad, with locals often playing matches in open fields and streets.

Football

Football is also popular, with community games frequently organized and local clubs participating in regional tournaments.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Elanad is generally light, with most local transport being two-wheeled vehicles or bicycles. Public transportation includes buses connecting to nearby towns, but services can be infrequent. Roads are usually well-maintained, but be cautious of potholes in rural areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Elanad.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants in Elanad offer a wide variety of vegetarian dishes, catering to dietary preferences.

Spice Levels

Dishes can be quite spicy; it's advisable to ask for milder options if you have a low tolerance for spice.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare facilities are available in Elanad, including small clinics and local pharmacies. For more serious medical needs, larger hospitals are located in nearby towns. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover India

Read more in our India 2025 Travel Guide.

India Travel Guide