Things To Do
in Kottangara
Kottangara is a tranquil Kerala town tucked between coconut groves and winding waterways. It offers a slow-paced, hospitable experience rooted in traditional Malayali culture and daily markets. The town serves as a gateway to backwaters, nearby hill views, and coastal glimpses within easy reach.
Visitors can soak in authentic rural Kerala life while sampling flavorful local cuisine and watching timeless rituals unfold along the streets.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the ancient sacred groves that surround Kottangara. These lush areas are rich in biodiversity and are home to numerous plant species, some of which are endemic to the region. Spend the morning walking through these serene woods, absorbing the tranquil sounds of nature and the spiritual significance of this protected land.
After a refreshing lunch at a local eatery, head to the nearby waterfalls for a dip in the cool waters. The cascading falls offer a perfect backdrop for a relaxing afternoon, where you can enjoy a picnic or simply bask in the beauty of your surroundings. Don't forget to take a few photos to capture the stunning scenery.
As the sun sets, return to Kottangara and explore the local market, where you can find handcrafted goods and delicious street food. Engage with the friendly vendors, sampling local specialties such as banana chips and spicy snacks. Conclude your evening with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Begin your day by visiting the historic temples in Kottangara, each showcasing unique architectural styles and rich traditions. Observe local rituals and ceremonies, allowing you to connect with the spiritual essence of the community. Take your time to appreciate the intricate carvings and vibrant murals that depict ancient tales.
After enjoying a traditional meal at a nearby restaurant, participate in a local workshop on traditional art forms, such as mural painting or pottery. This hands-on experience will provide insight into the skill and creativity of local artisans, allowing you to create your own piece of art to take home. Spend the afternoon engaging with the artists and learning about their techniques.
As night falls, attend a cultural performance featuring local music and dance, which often takes place in open-air venues. Immerse yourself in the rhythmic beats and colorful costumes that tell stories of the region's heritage. After the performance, enjoy a cup of chai at a nearby tea stall, reflecting on the day's experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚗Local transportation (short ride) | $1-3 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $0.5-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-30 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs and snacks | $3-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Laid-back pace and authentic Kerala experience
- Rich backwater scenery and easy access to nature
- Delicious, diverse local cuisine with vegetarian and seafood options
- Friendly locals and strong cultural traditions
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Smaller town amenities compared to major cities
- Seasonal monsoon can affect travel plans and road conditions
- "Namaskaaram" - Hello / Greetings
- "Nanni" - Thank you
- "Sukhamano?" - Are you well? / How are you?
- "Ente peru [your name] aanu" - My name is [your name]
- "Vandi tharamo?" - May I have a ride? / Can you take me there?
- "Vendi kazhikkunnath enta? (or) Evide?" - Where is this place? / Where is the restroom?
Places to Visit in Kottangara
Visit one of these nice places.
A calm riverside spot perfect for early-morning light, reflections on the water, and silhouettes of boats.
Colorful stalls, textures, and human activity offering candid street photography subjects.
Architectural details, intricate carvings, and ceremonies (where permitted) capture the spiritual atmosphere.
Wooden jetty and working boats along the backwaters provide moody tones at golden hour.
Panoramic scene of the town and surrounding palm fronds with a soft horizon.
Food in Kottangara
Kottangara Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy fried pearl spot fish marinated with spices and lime, best enjoyed with lemon rice or steamed rice at coastal-adjacent eateries.
Must-Try!
Steamed rice cake (puttu) served with black chickpeas curry, a quintessential Kerala breakfast or light meal.
Tangy coconut-based fish curry made with tamarind and curry leaves; pairs perfectly with plain steamed rice.
A mixed-vegetable curry cooked in coconut oil and coconut, a staple of Kerala vegetarian meals.
Soft-rimmed pancake-like bread (appam) served with a rich, mildly spiced coconut milk stew of vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant daily market selling fresh vegetables, spices, herbs, and local snacks; great for people-watching and photography.
A narrow market street offering fresh spices, dried coconut, and regional snacks; sample a quick banana fritter or roasted chickpeas from street vendors.
Seasonal stalls along the canal where you can try fried fish, plantain chips, and fresh coconut water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting temples; cover shoulders and knees, remove shoes at temple entrances, and seek permission before entering or taking photos.
A respectful Namaste (palms together) is common; address elders with courtesy and use polite language when asking for directions.
Public displays of affection are typically avoided in rural areas; be mindful of local customs during festivals and ceremonies.
Safety
Tipping in Kottangara
Ensure a smooth experience
In sit-down restaurants, a 5-10% tip is appreciated if service charge isn’t included. For cafe or street food, small change or rounding up is common. Tour guides and drivers may expect tips at the end of services.
Cash (INR) is widely accepted; many places also accept cards and mobile wallet apps. Keep smaller denominations handy for markets and rickshaws.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
February to May brings heat and high humidity; plan early-morning activities and stay hydrated. Expect cooler evenings; carry sun protection and lightweight breathable clothing.
June to September brings frequent rains and lush greens; roads can be slippery; carry a compact rain jacket, umbrella, and waterproof bag for electronics. Backwaters look exceptionally photogenic with rain clouds.
October to February offers mild temperatures and comfortable humidity; ideal for outdoor exploration and photography. Occasional cold fronts may make mornings chilly.
Kottangara at Night
Hiking in Kottangara
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails and gentle slopes offering rainforest ambiance, birdlife, and scenic overlooks; suitable for easy treks and nature photography.
Part of the Western Ghats fringe with shaded trails and streams; brings cooler air and forest scenery.
Combination of waterway and coastal ridge trails offering panoramic views and a taste of coastal ecosystem.
Airports
How to reach Kottangara by plane.
Approximately 70-100 km from Kottangara; major gateway with domestic and international connections. Access by road or rail to connect to local towns.
Approximately 150-180 km away; serves many international and domestic flights. Useful for travelers combining Kerala coast and backwater visits.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant in the region with Malayalam as the primary language; diverse religious groups include Hindus, Muslims, and Christians.
A mix of domestic travelers and seasonal workers attracted by spice markets and backwater tourism.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in schools and local grounds; casual matches often organized in the evenings.
Common across parks and community grounds; informal leagues can be found in larger nearby towns.
Seasonal water sport events that showcase teamwork and local boat designs; best observed during festival periods or in nearby waterways.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kottangara.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Kerala has abundant vegetarian options like avial, sambhar, avial, and the classic banana-based snacks. Many fish-free dishes are available; inform staff about spice levels and coconut oil usage if needed.