Things To Do
in Kizhakkemanād
Kizhakkemanād is a small town in central Kerala characterized by lush paddy fields, coconut groves and a relaxed village atmosphere. The settlement blends traditional Malayali life with easy access to nearby historic towns and backwaters, making it a quiet base to explore the region. Local life revolves around temples, markets and seasonal festivals, which showcase Kerala’s music, dance and ritual arts.
Visitors will find friendly hospitality, comfortable local eateries and opportunities for short nature outings and cultural immersion.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey by visiting the historical ruins and temples in Kizhakkemanād. Engage in a guided tour to learn about the rich history and cultural significance of the area. Take time to appreciate the intricate architecture and serene surroundings.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local eatery, sampling traditional Kerala cuisine. Afterward, participate in a workshop focused on local handicrafts and arts, connecting with artisans and understanding their craft. This immersive experience allows you to appreciate the local culture more deeply.
As twilight descends, take a peaceful walk along the nearby backwaters. Witness the sunset painting the sky with vibrant hues while the sounds of nature surround you. Cap off the day with a sumptuous dinner at a waterfront restaurant.
Rise early and embark on a nature hike through the lush greenery surrounding Kizhakkemanād. The morning air is fresh, and the flora and fauna will captivate your senses. Keep your camera ready for the stunning views and wildlife encounters.
After your hike, return for a refreshing lunch at a quaint café. Spend the afternoon attempting kayaking in the serene waters, a perfect way to enjoy the scenic landscape while indulging in some adventure. This water activity will provide a fresh perspective of the area's beauty.
As evening approaches, attend a traditional dance performance in a nearby village. The vibrant colors and rhythmic movements will immerse you in the local culture. Reflect on your experiences over a cozy dinner with the locals, sharing stories and laughter.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍛Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a shop | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🛺Short auto rickshaw ride | $0.50-2 |
| 🚗Private driver/taxi (per hour) | $5-12 |
| 🏠Budget homestay or guesthouse (per night) | $10-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Lush rural landscapes, backwaters and authentic village life
- Friendly locals and accessible homestay experiences
- Good base to explore nearby heritage sites and coastal towns
- Lower prices and fewer tourists compared with major cities
- Limited nightlife and few high-end amenities locally
- Transport and services may be limited during monsoon season
- Fewer direct international connections; requires transfer at larger city
- Language and local customs may require sensitivity for some visitors
- "Namaskaram" - Hello / Greetings
- "Nanni" - Thank you
- "Ethra? (ഇത്ര?)" - How much?
- "Evide shauchalayam?" - Where is the restroom?
- "Ruchi undu" - It’s delicious
- "Sukham alle?" - Are you well?/How are you?
Places to Visit in Kizhakkemanād
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide-open fields with reflections in irrigation channels provide classic Kerala agricultural landscapes and soft morning light.
Ornate temple gateways, copper-clad roofs or old churches capture religious architecture and ritual life — photograph respectfully and ask before shooting people.
Narrow canals, houseboats and village life along the water make for evocative shots, especially during early morning or golden hour.
Dynamic scenes of fish auctions, drying nets and fishermen at work — best at dawn for authentic action.
Tall palms, shaded lanes and traditional houses offer picturesque frames for environmental portraits and landscape photos.
Food in Kizhakkemanād
Kizhakkemanād Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tamarind and coconut-based spicy fish curry served with steamed rice; best found at coastal restaurants and small local eateries.
Must-Try!
A ceremonial vegetarian banquet served on a banana leaf with many side dishes and payasam (sweet); available at festivals and some homestays or hotels on request.
Steamed rice-flour cylinders (puttu) paired with black chickpea curry — a popular breakfast available at local tea shops and breakfast stalls.
Lacy rice pancakes paired with coconut-milk-based vegetable or meat stew; common in local restaurants and homestays.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small morning markets selling spices, fresh fish, vegetables and snacks; try banana fritters, pazham pori (banana fry), and freshly squeezed coconut water.
If near the coast, early-morning fish auctions and stalls are vibrant — good for photographing the catch and sampling grilled fish or fish pakoras.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Remove shoes and cover shoulders/legs when entering temples or some homes. Dress modestly in public, especially at religious sites.
A polite 'Namaskaram' with folded hands is a common greeting; accept hospitality graciously and use your right hand for giving/receiving items or food.
Always ask permission before photographing people, ceremonies or inside religious buildings. Some areas may restrict photography.
During temple festivals, follow local guidance and seating arrangements; avoid interfering with rituals and maintain a respectful distance.
Safety
Tipping in Kizhakkemanād
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected in small towns. Round up taxi fares or add 10% in restaurants if there’s table service; leave small change for porters or housekeeping in homestays. For guides or boat drivers, a modest tip (a few dollars equivalent) is customary for good service.
Cash (Indian rupees) is widely used for markets, tuk-tuks and small shops. Debit/credit cards and mobile payments (UPI, Paytm) are accepted at larger restaurants and shops; carry cash for rural vendors and transport. ATMs are available in nearby towns, but may be sparse late at night.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to May brings hot, humid days with temperatures often in the high 20s–low 30s °C (80s–90s °F). Expect bright sun and occasional inland thunderstorms; ideal for early-morning activities and evening outings but carry water and sun protection.
June to September is the southwest monsoon — heavy rains, lush landscapes and some transport disruptions. Great for dramatic photography and fewer crowds, but plan for muddy trails and possible flooding; some attractions or boat services may run limited schedules.
October to February is cooler and pleasant with lower humidity and temperatures in the comfortable 20s °C (60s–70s °F). This is peak time for festivals, outdoor activities and sightseeing — book in advance for homestays or special events.
Kizhakkemanād at Night
Hiking in Kizhakkemanād
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy walks along the coast or through small mangrove patches for birdwatching and observing estuarine life; suitable for casual hikers and photographers.
A popular waterfall area and forested hills (if within reasonable driving distance) offering scenic viewpoints and short trails — check local driving times and trail conditions before going.
Longer drives lead to foothills of the Western Ghats for moderate hikes, waterfalls and wildlife viewing; best visited in the dry season and with a local guide.
Airports
How to reach Kizhakkemanād by plane.
The closest major international airport serving central Kerala with domestic and international flights; reachable by car or taxi in roughly 1–2 hours depending on traffic and exact location.
An option for some domestic/international routes to northern Kerala; typically farther away and used mostly if connections are convenient for your itinerary.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Malayalam-speaking residents who practice Hinduism, Christianity and Islam; family and village ties are strong, with many households involved in agriculture, fishing or small businesses.
Communities whose livelihoods center on coastal fishing, coir and paddy cultivation; they maintain many traditional skills and seasonal work patterns.
Shopkeepers, spice traders, handloom weavers and craftspersons who sell locally produced goods and sustain markets and tourism services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is widely played and followed in Kerala, with local clubs and school matches common in open fields.
Volleyball, kabaddi and traditional village games feature during festivals and community gatherings.
In the surrounding regions, snake boat races are a famed traditional sport during festival season and draw large local crowds.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kizhakkemanād.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian food is easy to find; temples, homes and many restaurants serve coconut-based vegetarian dishes. Confirm that no fish or meat broths are used; ask for ‘sattvic’ or strictly vegetarian if needed.
Many coconut-milk-based curries, vegetable dishes and rice preparations are naturally vegan — request no ghee or dairy when ordering. Street food may use butter or ghee, so check ingredients.
Rice-based dishes dominate, so gluten-free options are plentiful (rice, coconut dishes, most curries). Avoid wheat-based snacks like parotta unless you confirm ingredients.
Stick to freshly cooked foods, bottled water or filtered drinks, and busy stalls with high turnover to minimize stomach upset.