Things To Do
in Kunnatnād
Kunnatnād is a coastal town in Kerala's Malabar region, where emerald coconut groves meet tranquil backwaters and winding lanes. The town blends traditional temples, spice markets, and family-run eateries with a budding eco-tourism scene centered on hill plantations and river cruises. Local cuisine leans on coconut, fish, and farm-fresh produce, served in vibrant markets and seaside cafés.
Visitors enjoy a relaxed pace, scenic boat rides, and performances that showcase Kerala's rich cultural heritage.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a serene houseboat ride through the picturesque backwaters of Kunnatnād, where you can admire the tranquil waters surrounded by lush greenery. As the sun rises, enjoy a traditional Kerala breakfast on board, featuring local delicacies like puttu and appam. Take in the sights of vibrant village life along the banks, watching fishermen cast their nets and locals going about their morning routines.
After your boat ride, disembark and visit a nearby village to experience the rich culture of Kunnatnād. Participate in a cooking class where you will learn to prepare authentic Kerala dishes using fresh, local ingredients. As the afternoon sun shines bright, stroll through the village, interacting with friendly locals and exploring their craft shops.
Conclude your day with a visit to the local temple, where you can witness the evening aarti ceremony, which is a beautiful and spiritual experience. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a waterfront restaurant, savoring fresh seafood and local specialties. As the stars begin to twinkle in the night sky, take a peaceful walk along the water’s edge, reflecting on your day.
Start your day by visiting the renowned Kunnatnād heritage museum, which showcases the rich history and culture of the region. As you wander through the exhibits, listen to the stories of the local artisans and the significance of their crafts. Immerse yourself in the vibrant displays of traditional attire and ancient artifacts that narrate the tales of Kunnatnād's past.
Next, head to a local art gallery where contemporary artists display their works inspired by Kunnatnād's landscapes and culture. Engage with the artists during a workshop where you can create your own piece of art to take home as a memory. As the afternoon progresses, enjoy a traditional lunch at a local eatery, sampling signature dishes like karimeen pollichathu.
In the evening, attend a Kathakali performance, a traditional dance-drama known for its elaborate costumes and expressive storytelling. Witness the intricate makeup process before the show and learn about the significance of the various characters. After the performance, indulge in a late-night snack at a nearby street food stall, savoring the flavors of Kerala.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🧺Groceries for 1 week (local staples) | $15-40 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $40-80 |
| 🚌Local transport (one-way ticket) | $0.5-1.5 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich spice markets and coastal scenery
- Friendly locals and strong cuisine culture
- Relaxed pace with accessible backwaters and hills
- Good value for money in many guesthouses and eateries
- Limited nightlife and some services may be basic outside town centers
- Monsoon travel can be challenging due to rain and flooding
- Connectivity can vary in remote hillside areas
- Tourist infrastructure is developing, so plan ahead for certain activities
- "Namaskaaram" - Hello
- "Nanni" - Thank you
- "Dayavayi" - Please
- "Ente peru ____ aanu" - My name is ____
- "Kuthichu evide?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Kunnatnād
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide river views with golden hour light reflecting off the water; ideal for silhouette portraits against palm trees.
Colorful stalls, wafting spice aromas, and early-morning hues provide vivid, candid market photography.
Rolling green hills and coffee plantations offer misty morning backdrops and panoramic landscape shots.
Tranquil water features, traditional architecture, and ritual scenes provide culturally rich photographs.
Food in Kunnatnād
Kunnatnād Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tangy coconut-based fish curry made with fresh river or coastal fish, often served with rice or chapati.
Must-Try!
Steamed rice cake (puttu) paired with a spiced black chickpea curry, a classic breakfast or light meal.
A lacy fermented pancake served with a coconut-milk vegetable stew; light, fragrant, and popular for dinner.
Boiled tapioca served with a tangy fish curry, a comforting staple in coastal Kerala households.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can taste fresh jackfruit, turmeric, pepper, and coconut treats, with small stalls offering roadside snacks.
A coastal market near the pier where you can sample grilled sardines, fried fish packets, and tamarind-based chutneys.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting temples; remove shoes outside sacred spaces and respect quiet areas.
A respectful Namaste with folded hands is common; avoid loud behavior in public spaces near religious sites.
Ask before photographing people or private ceremonies; certain temples or events may disallow photography.
Safety
Tipping in Kunnatnād
Ensure a smooth experience
In modest establishments, a small tip (5-10% or round up the bill) is appreciated. For guide or driver services, a tip at the end of the day is common.
Cash is widely accepted, with cards and mobile wallets (UPI, Google Pay, Paytm) increasingly common in towns. Small vendors may prefer cash; carry local currency for markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid days with occasional sea breezes. Hydration is essential; plan outdoor activities early morning or late afternoon.
Heavy rains from June to September bring lush greenery but can disrupt travel; carry lightweight rain gear and waterproof footwear.
Milder temperatures and lower humidity; ideal for outdoor excursions and backwater cruises without intense heat.
Pleasant temperatures with flowering trees and spice plantation tours; great for photography and short hikes.
Kunnatnād at Night
Hiking in Kunnatnād
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic route through tropical forest, coffee plantations, and viewpoints; suitable for day hikes with a guide.
Short, rewarding trek offering panoramic views of the coast and inland valleys; ideal for sunrise photography.
Airports
How to reach Kunnatnād by plane.
Nearest major airport with domestic and limited international flights; typically reached by road from Kunnatnād in about 1.5–2.5 hours depending on traffic.
Second close option with broader domestic connections; convenient for travelers coming from or via northern Kerala.
Useful for connections via Tamil Nadu and neighboring states; typically a longer drive from Kunnatnād but a viable alternative.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant community speaking Malayalam and following diverse religious practices.
Multi-religious society with mosques and churches alongside Hindu temples.
Visitors drawn to spice markets, backwaters, and hill plantations; many speak basic English and some Hindi or Tamil.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed and played at local grounds; many families encourage informal matches on weekends.
Popular in schools and community teams, with casual matches near markets and beaches.
Traditional sport seen at community centers and festivals; good for fitness and local culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kunnatnād.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in most eateries; ask for ‘vegetarian thali’ or ask for dishes without fish, eggs, or shrimp. Many curries use coconut milk and vegetables; request oil-light preparations if needed.