Things To Do
in Manganam
Manganam is a small, green village in central Kerala, India, set amid paddy fields, coconut groves and rubber plantations near the towns of Kottayam and Changanassery. The area offers a quiet, rural Kerala experience with easy access to backwaters, local markets and century-old churches and temples that reflect the region's mixed cultural heritage. Visitors enjoy slow-paced village life, boat rides on peaceful waterways and authentic home-cooked cuisine.
Manganam is best for travelers seeking nature, culture and a low-key base for exploring central Kerala away from large tourist crowds.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a peaceful walk through Manganam's lush green fields, as the sun rises and casts a golden glow over the landscape. Visit local farms to learn about traditional farming practices and connect with local villagers who are warm and welcoming. Take a moment to enjoy some freshly brewed tea at a roadside stall, indulging in the local ambiance.
In the afternoon, head towards the renowned St. Thomas Church, famous for its historical significance and beautiful architecture. Take a guided tour to delve deeper into the history of the church and its role in the community. Afterward, savor a traditional Kerala lunch at a nearby eatery, feasting on flavors of local cuisine.
As the sun sets, unwind with a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Meenachchi River, where you can listen to the sounds of nature mingling with the laughter of children at play. Consider visiting a local artisan workshop to witness the craft of traditional Kerala art and perhaps even try your hand at creating something unique. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at a rooftop restaurant offering panoramic views of the village and surrounding scenery.
Begin your morning rejuvenated with an Ayurvedic massage at one of the local wellness centers, known for their organic and natural treatments. Following your treatment, take a nature walk through the nearby forests, where you can breathe in the fresh air and admire the indigenous flora and fauna. A local guide may accompany you, sharing insights about the medicinal plants and herbs that thrive in the region.
After a refreshing morning, enjoy a leisurely lunch featuring the famous Kerala Sadya - a traditional feast served on a banana leaf. Once you’re energized, embark on a boat ride through the backwaters, witnessing the serene beauty of the landscape and the peaceful lifestyle of the local fishermen. Feel the gentle breeze as you glide through the waters, a perfect way to soak in the tranquility that Manganam has to offer.
As twilight descends, find yourself at a local cultural performance where you can witness traditional dances such as Kathakali or Mohiniaattam. Engage with the performers after the show to learn more about the significance of these art forms in Kerala's history. Wind down your day with an intimate dinner at your accommodation, savoring the flavors of authentic Kerala delicacies.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| ☕Tea/coffee and snack | $0.30-1.50 |
| 🚕Short taxi/auto-rickshaw ride | $1-5 |
| 🛏️Budget guesthouse/homestay per night | $10-30 |
| 🍺Beer at a bar/restaurant | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Lush rural landscapes, backwaters and authentic village experiences
- Lower tourist density — peaceful and relaxing
- Proximity to central Kerala towns for day trips
- Affordable food, accommodation and activities
- Limited nightlife and few tourist facilities within the village
- Public transport can be infrequent — a vehicle or driver is helpful
- Monsoon rains can disrupt travel plans
- Fewer specialized healthcare or shopping options locally
- "നമസ്കാരം (Namaskaram)" - Hello / Greetings
- "എന്താണ് ഇത്? (Entāṇ it?)" - What is this?
- "നന്ദി (Nandi)" - Thank you
- "ക്ഷമിക്കണം (Kshamikkanam)" - Sorry / Excuse me
- "ഈ വില എത്രയാണ്? (Ee vila ethra aanu?)" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Manganam
Visit one of these nice places.
Calm waterways lined with coconut palms and small fishing boats — ideal at dawn and dusk for reflective water and rural activity shots.
Expansive green rice paddies with farmers at work, narrow shaded lanes and traditional Kerala houses provide great rural portraits and landscape compositions.
Architectural details, festival decorations and evening rituals make for evocative cultural photography (ask permission before photographing people during prayer).
If you take a day trip to nearby hill areas, you'll find misty viewpoints, tea gardens and rolling grasslands that contrast with the flat backwaters.
Food in Manganam
Manganam Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pearl spot fish marinated, wrapped in banana leaf and grilled — common in nearby backwater eateries and homestays.
Must-Try!
Soft fermented rice pancakes paired with a mild coconut-based vegetable or chicken stew — widely available for breakfast.
Steamed rice cake with spiced black chickpea curry — a hearty, traditional breakfast or snack.
An elaborate vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf with many side dishes, typically available at festivals or by arrangement at local homes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small-town market selling fresh vegetables, fish, coconuts and spices — great for buying ingredients and trying freshly made snacks like banana fritters (pazham pori) and vadas.
A larger market in the nearby town where you can find a wider selection of spices, sweets, tea stalls and street-food vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress conservatively when visiting religious sites — cover shoulders and knees. Removing footwear before entering temples and some homes is customary.
Ask permission before photographing people during worship. Be mindful of fasting days or special rituals if you visit temples or churches.
A simple 'Namaskaram' (Malayalam greeting) or 'Hello' and a smile go a long way in village communities.
Hosts often offer food or tea — accepting a small portion is polite. If you can't eat something, a gentle, respectful refusal is acceptable.
Safety
Tipping in Manganam
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Small tips (₹20–200) for porters, guides and drivers are common; round up bills at restaurants or offer a 5–10% tip for good service in private eateries.
Cash (Indian rupees) is widely used in villages; ATMs are available in nearby towns. Mobile payment apps (UPI, Paytm) and card acceptance exist in larger businesses, but always carry cash for markets, small shops and boat operators.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid from March to May with daytime temperatures often high; mornings and late afternoons are best for outdoor activities. Stay hydrated, wear light clothes and plan indoor or water-based activities for midday.
Southwest monsoon (June–September) brings heavy rains and lush scenery — excellent for greenery and lower tourist numbers but boat trips and some trails may be disrupted. Carry rain gear and be prepared for occasional local flooding on low-lying roads.
November to February offers the most pleasant weather — cooler nights, lower humidity and sunny days, ideal for sightseeing, walks and outdoor photography.
Manganam at Night
Hiking in Manganam
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A nearby hill station with pine forests, rolling meadows and short trekking routes ideal for day hikes and panoramic views — accessible by a couple of hours' drive.
Higher-elevation trails and tea estate walks in the central Kerala highlands offer cool-weather hikes and scenic viewpoints within a reasonable day-trip distance.
Gentle, lowland walks along riverbanks and through paddy fields around Manganam are ideal for easy hikes, photography and observing rural life.
Airports
How to reach Manganam by plane.
The nearest major international airport serving central Kerala with domestic and international connections; typically a 1.5–2.5 hour drive depending on traffic and exact location, followed by road transfer to Manganam.
Further south, serves domestic and international flights; travel time to Manganam is longer (generally 3–4+ hours by road) and best if combining visits to southern Kerala.
There are no immediate local airports; smaller regional flight options are limited, so most visitors use Cochin as the main gateway.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents are Malayalis who speak Malayalam and maintain local cultural traditions.
A mix of Hindus, Christians (including Syrian Christian traditions) and Muslims live in the region, contributing to varied festivals, cuisine and architecture.
Many households are involved in rubber, paddy and coconut cultivation; agriculture shapes daily rhythms and local economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Kerala — local matches and informal games in fields are common and a focal community activity.
Football (soccer) has a strong following, with youngsters and school teams playing in open grounds.
Volleyball, kabaddi and other traditional games are often seen at village festivals and school events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Manganam.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are plentiful: rice, lentils, vegetable curries, dosas and idlis. Specify 'no ghee' or 'no onion/garlic' if you follow stricter practices; homestays and restaurants usually accommodate with advance notice.
Many dishes are naturally vegan (rice, sambar, certain curries), but clarify about coconut oil, ghee, and hidden dairy. Ask cooks directly — they are generally helpful.
Rice-based cuisine makes it easy to eat gluten-free, but be cautious with processed snacks and breads (like parotta) that contain wheat.
Seafood is common; if allergic, emphasize restrictions and choose vegetarian establishments or dishes labeled 'veg'.