Things To Do
in Mānikkal
Mānikkal sits in the Western Ghats foothills where emerald tea estates meet misty forests and winding rivers. The village exudes Kerala's laid-back charm, with spice-scented air and colorful, closely spaced houses. Visitors enjoy slow-paced exploration—from temple fairs to viewpoint hikes—against a backdrop of fragrant coffee and coconut.
Warm local hospitality and vibrant markets make Mānikkal a memorable escape in rural Kerala.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the ancient temples of Mānikkal, where you can soak in the rich architectural heritage. As the sun rises, the serene atmosphere makes it a perfect time for meditation or quiet reflection in the temple gardens. Enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast at a local eatery, sampling dishes like idli and dosa.
After breakfast, take a guided tour of the local market, where vibrant colors and aromas will captivate your senses. Engage with local artisans showcasing their crafts, and perhaps pick up a unique souvenir. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a rooftop café, overlooking the bustling streets below.
As dusk approaches, experience a cultural performance at a nearby auditorium, featuring traditional dance and music. The rhythmic beats and graceful movements will immerse you in the local culture. End your day with a stroll along the quiet lanes, where you can savor a sweet treat from a local vendor.
Rise early for a refreshing trek in the lush hills surrounding Mānikkal, where nature greets you with vibrant flora and fauna. The crisp morning air is invigorating, making it an ideal time to connect with nature. Spot various bird species and enjoy the peaceful sounds of the forest as you hike along scenic trails.
After reaching a picturesque viewpoint, unwind with a packed picnic lunch, taking in the panoramic views of the valleys below. The afternoon can be spent exploring hidden waterfalls and natural pools, perfect for a refreshing dip. Capture the beauty of the landscape with your camera, as the sunlight filters through the trees.
Return to Mānikkal as the sun sets, casting a golden hue over the hills. Relax at your accommodation, perhaps enjoying a cup of chai while reflecting on your adventurous day. For dinner, indulge in a meal featuring local cuisine, with flavors that highlight the region's rich culinary traditions.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🚕Taxi 1 km | $0.20-0.50 |
| 🍺Local beer (0.5L) | $1-2 |
| 🏨Lodging per night (mid-range hotel) | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic landscapes and relaxed pace
- Rich cultural experiences and warm hospitality
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Some routes can be steep and foggy in certain seasons
- "Namaskaaram" - Hello
- "Ente peru [Name] aanu." - My name is [Name].
- "Dayavayi English-il parayoo." - Please speak in English.
- "Nandi" - Thank you
- "Ningal Malayalam samsikkumo?" - Do you speak Malayalam?
Places to Visit in Mānikkal
Visit one of these nice places.
Mist rising over neat tea terraces creates a painterly landscape perfect for wide-angle shots.
Panoramic view of the valley and distant hills, ideal for sunset silhouettes or sunrise photos.
Intricate wood and stone carvings make for characterful portrait and detail shots.
Close-ups of peppers, cloves, turmeric, and dried spices give vivid color and texture.
Traditional boats, fishermen, and daytime reflections provide reflective compositions.
A short trail leads to a forest-fringed waterfall with mossy boulders and spray.
Food in Mānikkal
Mānikkal Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed rice flour cylinders served with black chickpea curry; a classic Kerala breakfast or light meal.
Must-Try!
Soft, lace-edged pancakes paired with a fragrant vegetable or meat stew.
Coconut-milk based fish curry, typically made with fresh catch from nearby waters.
Thin, crispy fried banana slices, a popular snack and market purchase.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market brimming with spices, fresh coconuts, jackfruit, and sizzling street snacks like banana fritters and fritter stalls.
Cluster of stalls offering kadala curry, roasted peanuts, plantain chips, and coconut-based drinks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Namaskaaram or a polite hello; a small bow with hands in palms is common in formal settings.
Dress modestly in temples and sacred sites; remove shoes before entering homes or temples; photography may be restricted.
Take off shoes when entering homes and many religious spaces; carry a clean pair of socks if needed.
Safety
Tipping in Mānikkal
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary for good service, typically 5-10% at smaller eateries if a service charge isn’t included; round up for drivers and guides.
Cash is widely accepted, with many places taking cards or UPI. Mobile payments are common in towns; carry some cash for rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with high humidity; carry water, hats, and sunscreen. Evenings cool slightly; expect clear skies and hazy mornings.
June to September brings heavy rain and lush greenery; landslides can occur on steeper routes; pack rain gear and waterproof footwear; some roads may be slippery.
December to February offers milder temperatures and comfortable days; cool evenings and occasional mist; great for outdoor hikes.
Mānikkal at Night
Hiking in Mānikkal
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular day hike through forest and tea gardens with a lake at the base of the peak; permits may be required.
Scenic ridge walk with lush forests, tea groves, and sweeping ocean views on clear days.
Dense Western Ghats trails with rich biodiversity; permits required and weather can be challenging.
Airports
How to reach Mānikkal by plane.
Regional hub for international and domestic flights; typically a 60-90 minute drive to Mānikkal depending on traffic.
Kerala's southern gateway; farther from Mānikkal but accessible by road and rail for longer trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Malayalam-speaking with Hindu, Christian, and Muslim communities living in rural and small urban centers.
An increasing number of domestic travelers and occasional international visitors seeking rural Kerala experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched across Kerala; casual games occur in parks and schools.
Popular in towns and communities; weekend matches are common.
Traditional Kerala martial art and cultural demonstrations at festivals and centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mānikkal.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Kerala cuisine is very vegetarian-friendly. Look for sadyas or vegetarian thalis; request no meat or fish and prefer coconut oil rather than ghee when possible.