Things To Do
in Kōdanād
Kodanad is a riverine hamlet in Kerala's Ernakulam district, perched along the scenic Periyar River. The village blends rural tranquility with easy access to Kochi's historic sights and backwater beauty. Visitors come to spot wildlife, enjoy boat rides, and experience Kerala's lush landscapes just a short drive from urban amenities.
With a tropical climate and gateways to the Western Ghats, Kodanad serves as a serene base for nature lovers and culture seekers alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the picturesque Kōdanād Elephant Training Centre, where you can witness majestic elephants being bathed and trained. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local eatery, sampling traditional Kerala dishes like puttu and kadala curry. Afterward, take a peaceful stroll along the banks of the Periyar River, absorbing the lush greenery and tranquil surroundings.
In the afternoon, visit the nearby Kōdanād Church, an architectural marvel that reflects the rich heritage of the region. After exploring the church, enjoy a local lunch at a family-run restaurant, where you can savor freshly caught fish and seasonal vegetables. Post-lunch, take a guided tour of the surrounding spice plantations, learning about the cultivation and processing of cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves.
As the sun sets, embark on a relaxing boat ride on the Periyar River, where you can spot local wildlife and enjoy the serene atmosphere. After the boat ride, head to a local café for dinner, indulging in traditional Kerala fish curry or vegetarian thali while enjoying live music. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk back to your accommodation, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of Kōdanād.
Kick off your adventure with an early morning trek in the Western Ghats, known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Guided by a local naturalist, explore the lush green hills, breathing in the fresh mountain air while spotting endemic flora and fauna. Stop for a mid-morning snack at a picturesque viewpoint, where you can take in breathtaking panoramic views of the valleys below.
After your trek, enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature, surrounded by the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves. Spend the afternoon visiting a local tea garden, where you can learn about the tea production process and sample some of the finest brews. Take your time wandering through the plantations, snapping photos of the beautiful rolling hills covered in tea bushes.
As evening approaches, return to Kōdanād and freshen up before heading out for dinner at a local restaurant specializing in Kerala cuisine. Try dishes like appam and stew, served with coconut chutney, while enjoying the warm hospitality of the locals. End your day with a cultural performance showcasing traditional Kerala dance forms, immersing yourself in the rich heritage of the region.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥗Local street food | $1-3 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (within town) | $4-8 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $40-90 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly estimate) | $20-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic riverfront and easy access to Kochi’s historic sights
- Affordably priced with a relaxed pace
- Rich Kerala cuisine and abundant coconut-based flavors
- Good base for nature excursions and backwater experiences
- Limited nightlife within Kodanad itself; more options in Kochi
- Some infrastructure and road quality can be variable in rural areas
- Weather can be hot and humid; monsoon season may disrupt outdoor plans
- "Namaskaaram" - Hello
- "Nanni" - Thank you
- "Dayavayi" - Please
- "Ningal English samsarikkunnu?" - Do you speak English?
- "Ethra vilunnu?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Kōdanād
Visit one of these nice places.
A wide-angle riverside point with palm-fringed banks and the Periyar’s broad flow, perfect for sunrise silhouettes.
Calm waters, bridges, and local life along the bank; ideal for long exposure and candid street photography.
Iconic silhouette shots against the golden hour with boats and fishermen at work.
Colonial-era architecture with colorful walls and ornate detailing; great for architectural framing.
A lively riverside promenade with boats, lights, and cityscape reflections for night photography.
Food in Kōdanād
Kōdanād Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spiced fish curry made with coconut milk, served with steaming white rice or appam.
Must-Try!
Boiled cassava root paired with fried fish; a classic coastal Kerala combination.
Fermented rice pancake with a creamy vegetable or chicken stew.
A mixed-vegetable curry with coconut and curry leaves, often eaten with rice.
Layered flatbread with a flavorful, lightly spiced beef curry; popular in regionals eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Laneway markets near Ernakulam where you can sample banana chips, roasted peanuts, fresh coconut water, and spicy savory snacks.
Evening stalls offering fried fish, tapioca chips, egg roast, and local sweets along the waterfront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly; remove footwear when entering temples. Ask permission before photographing people, especially in sacred spaces.
Greet with a polite Namaste. Use the right hand for handing objects and receiving items.
Avoid loud behavior in residential areas; respect local customs, especially during temple festivals or family gatherings.
Safety
Tipping in Kōdanād
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in larger restaurants (around 5-10%). In casual eateries and street stalls, rounding up the bill is common practice; wedding services and guided tours may expect a modest tip.
Cash is widely accepted in rural areas. Cards are common in hotels and larger restaurants, while digital wallets (UPI, wallets) are increasingly accepted in Kochi and tourist sites.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to May brings heat and high humidity. Carry sun protection, stay hydrated, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
June to September brings heavy rains and strong showers; roads may flood and trails can be slippery. Pack rain gear and plan flexible outdoor itineraries.
October to February offers cooler, more comfortable temperatures (pleasantly mild during the day). This is a ideal time for city walks and river trips.
Kōdanād at Night
Hiking in Kōdanād
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A combination of waterfall viewing and forest trails in the Western Ghats foothills; moderate hikes with lush scenery about a couple of hours from Kochi.
Airports
How to reach Kōdanād by plane.
Located at Nedumbassery, this major airport serves domestic and international flights and provides convenient access to Kochi and Kodanad via road or rail connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant community in the region, speaking Malayalam with Tamil and English as secondary languages in tourist areas.
Occasional visitors and workers from nearby states contribute to local markets and services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed across the region; local grounds host informal matches and community events.
A popular sport among youth and adults, with local clubs and street play in towns around Kochi.
Common in community centers and homes; a favorite for after-dinner recreation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kōdanād.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Kerala dishes are adaptable; request no fish or meat and choose dal-based curries, avial, and thoran. Opt for rice with sambar or avial for a balanced meal.
Choose dishes cooked with coconut oil and plant-based ingredients; confirm ghee usage and dairy in curries or desserts.
Many Kerala curries are gluten-free; request rice-based staples and avoid wheat-based rotis if needed.