Things To Do
in Mattathūr
Mattathur is a tranquil town tucked along Kerala's Malabar coast, where coconut palms sway over narrow lanes and slow-paced life unfolds beside rivers and paddy fields. The area blends agricultural charm with easy access to backwaters, temples, and markets that showcase Kerala's hospitality. Visitors discover a cuisine-rich landscape, friendly shopkeepers, and small-town rhythms that invite day trips to Kannur and the Western Ghats.
With its gateway feel and rural allure, Mattathur makes a comfortable base for exploring North Kerala's culture and coastline.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Mattathūr and settle into your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local cafe while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Take a stroll around the neighborhood to get your bearings and admire the stunning local architecture.
Visit the nearby temples, including the historic Vishnu Temple, and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the area. Engage with locals and perhaps participate in any ongoing rituals or celebrations. Grab a traditional lunch at a local eatery, savoring the flavors of South Indian cuisine.
As the sun sets, find a vantage point to appreciate the beautiful landscape. Attend a cultural event or performance if available, immersing yourself in the local traditions. Enjoy a hearty dinner at a popular restaurant, relishing the local delicacies.
Start your day early with a visit to the Mattathūr Wildlife Sanctuary. Take a guided nature walk to spot various species of flora and fauna, enjoying the tranquility of the forest. Breathe in the fresh air and capture the beautiful landscape with your camera.
Have a picnic lunch amidst nature, surrounded by the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves. Continue your exploration with a visit to the nearby lake, where you can engage in leisurely boating or photography. Experience the local rural life through a short visit to nearby villages.
Return to your accommodation to unwind and relax from the day's adventures. Dine at a nearby restaurant, trying out local fish dishes fresh from the lake. Cap off the evening with a peaceful walk to enjoy the starlit sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🥗Lunch for two (mid-range restaurant) | $12-20 |
| 🚕Taxi short ride | $2-6 |
| 📶Local SIM card | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic Kerala experience with friendly locals
- Rich culinary and backwater experiences
- Limited nightlife and high heat in summer
- Challenging transport options in rural areas
- "Namaskaaram" - Hello
- "Nandi" - Thank you
- "Ente peru [name] aanu" - My name is [name]
- "Sugamano?" - How are you?
- "Ningal English samsarikkan-aano?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Mattathūr
Visit one of these nice places.
A tranquil backwater network with palm-lined channels—perfect for dawn or golden-hour photography.
A pedestrian-friendly riverfront with boats, fishermen, and reflective water surfaces for candid and landscape shots.
Intricate carvings, woodwork, and stone architecture offering intimate detail shots; best with permission.
Broad horizons and silhouetted palms at sunset along the nearby coast for dramatic skies.
Food in Mattathūr
Mattathūr Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tangy, coconut-based fish curry that pairs beautifully with matta rice or appam.
Must-Try!
Steamed rice flour cylinders served with black chickpea curry—a classic breakfast or light meal.
Fermented rice pancake (appam) served with a creamy coconut milk-based stew.
Fragrant layered rice with tender meat or vegetables and warm spices—great with raita.
Pearl spot fish wrapped in banana leaf and grilled with spices for a signature Malabari dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market selling fresh coconuts, chilies, turmeric, curry leaves, and regional snacks; ideal for tasting local flavors.
Evening stalls offer banana chips, vadas, banana fritters, and hot chai near the river.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Namaste or a warm smile; addressing elders with respect is important.
Dress modestly in temples and rural areas; avoid revealing clothing when visiting religious sites.
Remove shoes before entering homes or certain religious spaces; avoid touching or pointing feet at people.
Ask for permission before photographing people or sensitive religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Mattathūr
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always included. In hotels and restaurants, 5–10% of the bill is common if service is good.
Cash is widely accepted; cards and digital wallets (UPI, wallets) are increasingly common in towns and larger establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March–May can be hot and humid. Stay hydrated, wear hats, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
June–September brings heavy rains and humidity. Backwaters look lush, but travel can be disrupted by storms; carry rain gear and plan indoor activities.
October–February offers pleasant weather with cooler mornings and comfortable daytime temperatures; ideal for outdoor exploring.
Mattathūr at Night
Hiking in Mattathūr
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular day hike through forest trails and tea estates with panoramic views from the summit.
Gentle forest trails with opportunities for wildlife spotting and scenic overlooks.
Airports
How to reach Mattathūr by plane.
Nearest major airport with domestic and some international connections; access to Mattathur via road or rail links.
Alternative regional airport in Kozhikode; good for connections to southern Indian cities and Gulf states; 2–3 hour drive to Mattathur.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant local population with strong cultural traditions.
Communities along rivers and coast engaged in fishing and fish processing.
People from other Indian states living in the area for work in markets, construction, and services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Kerala; local games and informal pitch sessions can be found in towns.
A common pastime, with matches and pickup games in school grounds and community spaces.
Common in schools and clubs, played on beach and indoor courts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mattathūr.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Kerala cuisine offers abundant vegetarian curries, dal, and veggie thalis; clearly request no fish or meat and look for coconut-based gravies.