Things To Do
in Mathukumnel
Mathukumnel is a coastal-flanked town in Kerala where riverine waterways meet coconut-lined shores. The area blends slow-paced village life with a rich spice heritage and warm, welcoming communities. It serves as a quiet base for exploring backwaters, temples, and nearby Western Ghats viewpoints.
Visitors encounter Kerala’s hospitality, seafood flavors, and lush greenery at every turn.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Mathukumnel and settle into your accommodations. Spend the morning acclimatizing to the serene surroundings and enjoying a leisurely breakfast featuring local delicacies. Take a stroll along the picturesque trails surrounding your stay, soaking in the fresh air and vibrant flora.
Explore the nearby attractions, starting with the beautiful waterfalls that make this region famous. A guided tour can provide insights into the local ecosystem and history while you indulge in nature’s beauty. Stop for a picnic lunch at a scenic viewpoint, immersing yourself in the tranquility.
As the sun begins to set, head back to town to experience the local markets. Sample street food and shop for handmade crafts while engaging with the friendly locals. Wind down with a traditional dinner at a local eatery, savoring the rich flavors of Mathukumnel cuisine.
Embark on a guided nature trek through the lush forests surrounding Mathukumnel. Your trek guide will share knowledge about the indigenous flora and fauna, enriching your understanding of the ecology. Keep an eye out for unique wildlife, including various bird species and small mammals.
After a satisfying lunch, visit a nearby wildlife sanctuary where you can engage in bird watching or even a safari. The afternoon is perfect for capturing stunning photographs of the stunning landscapes and wildlife. Enjoy a leisurely hike, taking in the sounds and sights of nature.
After returning from your wildlife adventure, unwind at your accommodation. Consider enjoying a bonfire under the stars, sharing stories with fellow travelers. Reflect on the day’s experiences and anticipate more adventures to come.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $0.50-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-40 |
| 🚆Local transit (bus/taxi short ride) | $0.20-2 |
| 🥭Street snack or fruit | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Laid-back atmosphere and welcoming locals
- Rich spice and seafood cuisine
- Access to backwaters, beaches, and nearby Western Ghats
- Affordable travel and abundant nature experiences
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Seasonal monsoon travel can be challenging
- Public transport in rural areas can be irregular
- Heat and humidity outside the cool season
- "Namaskaaram" - Hello
- "Nanni" - Thank you
- "Dayavu cheythu" - Please
- "Kshamikkuka" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Ithu entha vilu?" - How much is this?
- "Ithu evide?" - Where is this?
- "Iniyal English samsaarikkunnu?" - Do you speak English?
- "Malayalath chila parayoo" - Could you speak a little Malayalam?
Places to Visit in Mathukumnel
Visit one of these nice places.
A tranquil overlook where calm waters reflect golden skies, ideal for wide-angle and silhouette shots.
Early-morning or late-afternoon light among swaying palms provides natural leading lines for landscape and lifestyle photography.
Quiet temple precincts offer intricate architecture and respectful compositions of daily rituals.
Old shophouses and colonial-era façades line narrow streets, perfect for moody street photography.
Food in Mathukumnel
Mathukumnel Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich fish curry in coconut milk with gentle spice, commonly enjoyed with rice or appam.
Must-Try!
Fragrant Malabar-style biryani made with long-grain rice, meat, and a blend of spices.
A mixed-vegetable curry flavored with coconut, curry leaves, and yogurt, usually served on banana leaf.
Tapioca (kappa) served with a tangy fish curry—comfort food in coastal Kerala.
Fermented rice pancake served with a creamy vegetable or chicken stew.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh catch and seafood stalls offering daily varieties; great for a morning stroll and tasting on the go.
A cluster of spice shops where you can sniff and sample malabar spices like black pepper, cloves, and cardamom.
Vendor carts offering fried banana fritters (pazham pori) and other quick bites along the waterfront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly and cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples; remove shoes before entering sacred spaces when required.
Greet with a polite Namaskaaram; use your right hand for giving and receiving; avoid pointing feet at people or sacred objects.
Be discreet in public spaces; respect quiet times and family-friendly settings; public displays of affection are uncommon in rural areas.
Safety
Tipping in Mathukumnel
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory. Leave around 5-10% in restaurants if service charge is not included; small tips for hotel staff and rickshaw drivers are appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted; many places also accept cards and mobile wallets (UPI, Google Pay, PhonePe). In rural areas, cash is more reliable, and some markets rely on local vendors who prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with light sea breezes; plan outdoor activities for early mornings and late afternoons; stay hydrated and wear sun protection.
Strong rains and lush greenery; mud and occasional flooding can affect travel plans; carry rain gear and waterproof footwear; backwater beauty peaks during this season.
Pleasant temperatures and lower humidity; comfortable for daytime sightseeing and outdoor hikes; occasional coastal fog near the shores.
Mathukumnel at Night
Hiking in Mathukumnel
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested ridge in Kasaragod district offering gentle to moderate treks and panoramic valley views.
Green, scenic ascent through tea and forest landscapes; famous viewpoint near Kalpetta (Malabar region).
Rugged hike near the Kerala–Tamil Nadu border with lush forests and scenic highland vistas.
Airports
How to reach Mathukumnel by plane.
A regional airport serving Kannur and surrounding areas; provides domestic and some international routes with taxi or bus connections to Mathukumnel.
Also known as Kozhikode Airport; a major gateway in northern Kerala with broader flight options and ground transport to the region.
A convenient alternative option to reach the Malabar coast; accessible by road and rail connections from nearby towns.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Malayali residents with a mix of Hindu, Muslim, and Christian communities; fishing and farming are common livelihoods.
Communities living along coastal areas with traditional livelihoods in fishing and boat building.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools and local clubs; casual matches frequent during evenings on open grounds.
Popular across generations; informal games at playgrounds and beaches during holidays.
Local fishing communities engage in sea-oriented activities and community games that reflect coastal culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mathukumnel.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Kerala vegetarian dishes are plant-forward with coconut oil flavors. Look for avial, thoran, olan, and kootu curries; request coconut oil substitution if needed and opt for banana leaf meals when available.