Things To Do
in Mattanūr
Mattanūr is a small, fast-growing town in Kannur district of Kerala, best known today for hosting the Kannur International Airport that links North Malabar with the rest of India and the Gulf. The town sits amid lush rubber and paddy landscapes and serves as a practical base for exploring coastal beaches, hill stations and traditional cultural performances in the region. Local life blends conservative Malayali traditions with influences from Gulf migration, resulting in vibrant festivals, food culture and community networks.
Visitors find a quiet, green setting with easy access to nearby attractions in Kannur district and the Western Ghats.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arrival in Mattanūr, you'll be greeted by the lush greenery and warm hospitality of the local people. After settling into your accommodation, take a leisurely stroll around the town to soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Don’t forget to visit local cafes for a hearty breakfast featuring regional delicacies.
In the afternoon, embark on a cultural exploration of the nearby temples, where you can admire traditional architecture and learn about local customs. Interact with the priests and locals to gain deeper insights into the religious significance of these sites. Later, enjoy a traditional Kerala meal at a local restaurant, experiencing the flavors of the region.
As the sun sets, head to a nearby park or riverside for a peaceful evening walk, taking in the beautiful twilight scenery. You may also find local musicians performing, providing a perfect backdrop for relaxation. Conclude your evening at a local tea shop, where you can savor a cup of chai while mingling with the townsfolk.
Start your day with a visit to the bustling local markets in Mattanūr, where colorful stalls brim with fresh produce, spices, and handmade crafts. Indulge in some shopping while interacting with friendly vendors who are eager to share their stories. Grab a light breakfast from a market stall, trying out some local snacks.
In the afternoon, visit a nearby artisanal workshop to observe craftsmen at work and learn about traditional handloom techniques. You can also purchase unique souvenirs to take home as mementos of your trip. Enjoy a casual lunch at a nearby eatery, sampling more of the local cuisine.
As dusk approaches, find a cozy spot near a coffee shop to unwind and reflect on your day’s adventures. Engage in conversation with locals or fellow travelers, exchanging travel tips and experiences. Before heading back to your accommodation, enjoy a leisurely night walk to absorb the vibrant nightlife of Mattanūr.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee/Tea at a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local bus fare | $0.20-1 |
| 🚕Short taxi/auto-rickshaw ride | $1.5-6 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $12-35 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Kannur International Airport—very convenient for travel
- Authentic Malabar cuisine and strong local culture
- Quiet, green landscapes and easy access to beaches and hills
- Good base for exploring northern Kerala and Western Ghats
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options within the town
- Public transportation can be infrequent late at night
- Monsoon rains can disrupt travel and outdoor plans
- Fewer high-end hotels and amenities directly in town
- "നമസ്കാരം (Namaskaram)" - Hello / Greetings
- "നന്ദി (Nandi)" - Thank you
- "ദയവ് ചെയ്ത് (Dayavu cheythu)" - Please
- "എവിടെ? (Evide?)" - Where?
- "എത്രയാണ്? (Ethra aanu?)" - How much is it?
- "സഹായിക്കുമോ? (Sahayikkumo?)" - Can you help?
- "ക്ഷമിക്കണം (Kshamikkanam)" - Sorry / Excuse me
Places to Visit in Mattanūr
Visit one of these nice places.
Modern architecture and open aprons provide opportunities for travel photography, sunrise/sunset captures, and shots of aircraft with the Western Ghats in the distance.
Scattered around Mattanūr, these agricultural landscapes offer green, layered scenes early morning or late afternoon when light is soft.
A hill station with panoramic views, sea-of-clouds scenes in certain seasons, and sunrise vistas—excellent for wide-angle landscape shots.
Temple festivals and mosque gatherings produce vivid cultural scenes; photograph architecture, ritual details and candid street life with respect and permission.
Food in Mattanūr
Mattanūr Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant, spiced rice and meat (or vegetable) biryani with mace and fried onions—available at family-run restaurants and biryani shops across the area.
Must-Try!
A tangy coconut-based curry using local fish and tamarind or kokum, commonly served with rice; best in coastal eateries and market stalls.
Thin rice flatbreads (pathiri) paired with spicy beef or chicken curry—a Malabar specialty popular at local Muslim bakeries and homes.
Steamed rice cylinders (puttu) served with black chickpea curry (kadala), a common breakfast at small shops and home-style restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A compact market area with fruit stalls, spice vendors and roadside chai stalls; try banana chips, fresh coconut water and small seafood fry stalls.
Bustling early-morning fish markets in Kannur where you can sample fresh fried fish and pick up spices or smoked fish varieties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly in public, especially when visiting religious sites—cover shoulders and knees. Traditional attire is common, and conservative clothing is appreciated.
Remove footwear before entering temples, mosques or some homes. Ask permission before photographing people in religious contexts or during rituals.
Use the right hand for exchanging items or food, greet elders respectfully, and avoid public displays of affection. A polite 'Namaskaram' or handshake is common.
Safety
Tipping in Mattanūr
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is modest and discretionary: small tips for hotel staff, Rs. 20–50 for porters or cleaners and rounding up for taxi drivers if service is good. Restaurants may not expect a tip if service charge is included.
Cash is widely used for small vendors and markets; debit/credit cards and UPI apps are commonly accepted at restaurants, larger shops and hotels. Keep small change for rickshaws and street food.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to May brings hot and humid days; inland areas can be warm while mornings may be pleasant. Stay hydrated, avoid heavy outdoor plans midday, and expect clear skies for photography.
June to September is the southwest monsoon—heavy rain, lively greenery and occasional road disruptions; many outdoor activities are limited but the landscape is lush and dramatic.
October to February is the most comfortable time—cooler temperatures, lower humidity, festival season and ideal conditions for sightseeing and hiking.
Mattanūr at Night
Hiking in Mattanūr
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular local hill trek offering panoramic views, gentle trails and an opportunity to see the sunrise or cloud inversions in season; suitable for day hikes.
Forested trails with chances to spot wildlife and birds; trails vary in difficulty and are best explored with a guide or during permitted hours.
Shorter routes and viewpoints in the nearby Western Ghats foothills provide scenic hikes and nature walks within an hour or two's drive.
Airports
How to reach Mattanūr by plane.
Located in Mattanūr itself, this modern airport is the most convenient gateway to the town with domestic and selected international flights; quick road access to local hotels and Kannur district attractions.
Approximately 2–3 hours' drive south depending on traffic; an alternative for some domestic and international routes.
To the north in Karnataka, roughly 3–4 hours away by road—useful for certain flight connections and as an alternate option.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population with temples, traditional festivals and agrarian lifestyles.
A prominent community in Malabar, influential in cuisine and cultural life; many families have ties to Gulf employment.
Present in the region with churches and community events contributing to the social fabric.
Workers from other Indian states as well as many families with members working in the Gulf shape the local economy and lifestyle.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is extremely popular in North Kerala with active local clubs, sevens football tournaments and strong community participation.
Cricket is widely played in schools, neighborhoods and open grounds; informal matches are a common pastime.
Traditional and community sports like volleyball and kabaddi are commonly played in village and school settings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mattanūr.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available—thali meals, dosas, idlis, appam and vegetable curries. Specify 'no onion no garlic' if needed (some restaurants will accommodate). Small eateries may not label ingredients, so ask staff if dishes are strictly vegetarian.
Coconut-based curries and rice dishes can be vegan-friendly; avoid items with ghee, curd, or hidden fish-based gravies. Gluten-free options centered on rice are common, but check about frying oil shared with gluten items.
Shellfish is prevalent—if you have seafood allergies, communicate clearly and prefer vegetarian or meat-only venues; carry translation of the allergy if you don't speak Malayalam.