Things To Do
in Erattukulakkada
Erattukulakkada is a quiet Kerala village nestled among coconut groves and calm backwaters. It sits along a coastal belt where traditional livelihoods like fishing and agriculture shape daily life. The area offers a glimpse of authentic rural Kerala, with simple temples, markets, and scenic waterways.
Visitors can experience a relaxed pace, warm hospitality, and easy access to nearby backwaters, beaches, and nature trails.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the ancient Sree Parthasarathy Temple, renowned for its intricate architecture and serene atmosphere. Engage with the local priests who share stories of the temple's rich history and significance in the community. Enjoy a traditional breakfast of puttu and kadala at a nearby eatery, savoring the flavors that define Kerala's cuisine.
After lunch, make your way to the nearby Sree Krishna Swamy Temple, where you can admire the stunning murals and sculptures that adorn the walls. Participate in a guided tour that delves into the history and cultural practices surrounding the temple. Conclude your afternoon with a stroll through the nearby village, interacting with artisans and learning about their crafts.
As the sun sets, head to a local café for a refreshing cup of Kerala's renowned filter coffee. Immerse yourself in the sounds of evening prayer chants echoing from the temples, providing a tranquil backdrop for reflection. Wind down your day by enjoying a traditional Kerala meal at a family-run restaurant, relishing the authentic flavors of the region.
Start your day early with a guided nature walk through the lush landscapes surrounding Erattukulakkada. Listen to the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves as you spot various species of flora and fauna unique to the region. Enjoy a packed breakfast in the heart of nature, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of Kerala's biodiversity.
Post-lunch, visit the nearby wildlife sanctuary, where you can embark on a safari to spot elephants, deer, and a plethora of exotic birds. Your guide will educate you about the local ecosystem and conservation efforts in place to protect this pristine environment. Take plenty of photos as you immerse yourself in the natural beauty that Kerala has to offer.
As dusk falls, return to your accommodation and freshen up before heading out to explore the local night market. Browse through stalls selling handmade crafts, spices, and traditional garments while sampling street food delicacies like vada and bhaji. End your evening with a cultural performance showcasing traditional dance forms of Kerala, providing insight into the region's artistic heritage.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🍛Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-35 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $3-6 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (1 night) | $20-40 |
| 🥥Fresh fruit or snack | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic Kerala experience away from overly touristy areas
- Accessible backwaters, beaches, and nature within short reach
- Limited nightlife and urban amenities compared to larger cities
- Occasionally variable transport options in rural areas
- "Namaskaaram" - Hello
- "Sugamano?" - How are you?
- "Ente peru [name] aanu." - My name is [name].
- "Dayavayi sahayikkumo?" - Could you please help me?
- "Nanni" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Erattukulakkada
Visit one of these nice places.
A iconic lighthouse with expansive sea views, especially striking at sunrise or sunset with silhouettes of fishing boats.
Wide backwater vistas with palm-fringed banks, perfect for wide-angle sunset shots and reflections on calm waters.
Long sandy shore lined with coconut palms; great for long exposure shots of waves and evening skies.
Serene lake surroundings with distant hills and migratory birds; ideal for tranquil landscape photography.
Historic waterfront setting with old architecture, piers, and occasional fishing activity to capture life by the sea.
Food in Erattukulakkada
Erattukulakkada Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tangy, coconut-rich curry made with fresh local fish, served with steamed rice.
Must-Try!
Asoft rice pancake paired with a fragrant vegetable or chicken stew, a Kerala staple often enjoyed for breakfast or dinner.
Iyam-based tapioca (kappa) served with a spicy, dry-fried fish (meen ulathiyathu) — a beloved coastal combination.
Crunchy snacks widely available at markets and roadside stalls, best enjoyed fresh.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling local market where you can sample fresh coconuts, banana chips, fish, and seasonal produce. Try street snacks from small stalls near the stalls before you shop.
An active market area with fruit stalls, spice racks, and quick bites; great for a quick, flavorful lunch on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples; remove shoes before entering holy spaces.
A polite Namaste with hands folded is appreciated; use the right hand for giving or receiving items when possible.
Always request permission before taking pictures of individuals or private spaces.
Public spaces and religious sites value calm behavior and minimal loudness in homes and communities.
Safety
Tipping in Erattukulakkada
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In nicer restaurants or for exceptional service, 5-10% is common if a service charge isn’t included.
Cash is widely accepted, with increasing use of cards and digital wallets (UPI, BHIM, Google Pay, PhonePe) in towns and tourist spots.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid days with occasional sea breezes; carry water, sunscreen, and light clothing. Afternoon showers are possible, so plan indoor activities or short trips during the late afternoon.
Heavy rainfall from June to September enhances green scenery and backwaters but can disrupt travel plans. Pack a rain jacket and waterproof footwear; backwaters are lush but may be slippery.
Milder temperatures and lower humidity make it the most comfortable time to explore, with pleasant evenings and comfortable daytime heat.
Erattukulakkada at Night
Hiking in Erattukulakkada
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails and gentle elevation through the Thenmala reserve, offering viewpoints, birdlife, and waterfall sights.
Shaded forest path leading to the popular Palaruvi waterfall; best after the monsoon when the falls are fuller.
Easy shoreline-to-waterway walk with vistas across Ashtamudi Lake and surrounding greenery.
Airports
How to reach Erattukulakkada by plane.
Major international gateway for the region; connect through domestic flights and international routes; typically about a 1.5–2.5 hour drive to the area depending on traffic.
Another major hub with extensive domestic and international services; longer drive to Erattukulakkada but an alternative option especially for certain destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The core resident community, primarily engaged in fishing, farming, and small-scale trade.
Visitors from other parts of India and Kerala diaspora drawn to backwaters, spice heritage, and coastal scenery.
Key groups shaping daily life and local economies, with strong traditions in agriculture and seafood processing.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Kerala, with local matches and informal games commonly played in schools and communities.
Widely enjoyed, with local clubs and pickup games along beaches and campuses.
Played on several coastal shores during dry seasons and holiday peaks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Erattukulakkada.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Kerala cuisine can be very vegetarian-friendly. Look for vegan oil-free preparations like appams with vegetable stews, or iconic thoran (stir-fried vegetables) plated with rice.
Rice-based dishes (like rice, appam without the coconut milk) are common. Ask for no asafoetida or wheat-based gravies.