Things To Do
in Mulavana
Mulavana, a coastal town in Kerala's Kollam district, sits along quiet backwaters and a network of rivers. Palms, rice paddies, and traditional lanes frame the town, where markets and small cafes mix with timeless charm. Visitors experience a relaxed pace, temple festivals, and fresh seafood caught daily from nearby lagoons.
Its proximity to the Western Ghats makes easy day trips to scenic hills, waterfalls, and spice plantations possible.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a serene walk along the pristine beaches of Mulavana, where the golden sands meet the gentle waves. As the sun rises, you can witness a vibrant sunrise, perfect for photography and meditation. Enjoy a fresh coconut water from a local vendor as you soak in the tranquility of the sea.
After lunch at a beachside café, head to the nearby fishing harbor to observe the local fishermen at work. You can also try your hand at fishing or take a boat ride to spot diverse marine life. The afternoon sun makes for a vibrant atmosphere filled with lively chatter and the gentle sound of the ocean.
As dusk approaches, find a cozy spot on the beach to watch the sun sink below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple. Enjoy a traditional Kerala-style dinner at a restaurant, indulging in local delicacies. End your day with a leisurely stroll on the beach, marveling at the stars above.
Begin your day with a visit to the Mulavana temple, experiencing the spiritual ambiance and intricate architecture of this sacred site. Capture the early morning rituals taking place, which provides insight into the local culture and traditions. Spend some time interacting with the locals who often gather here for prayer and community.
Post lunch, participate in an arts and crafts workshop offered by local artisans, where you can learn traditional skills like coir making or mural painting. This hands-on experience fosters connection with the villagers and appreciation for their crafts. The stories shared by these artists enhance your understanding of Mulavana's rich heritage.
As twilight sets in, attend a folklore music and dance performance organized by the community, showcasing the vibrant cultural tapestry of the region. You'll be captivated by the rhythmic beats and colorful costumes as the performers bring local myths to life. Conclude the night with a traditional feast served in the homes of welcoming locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| ☕Coffee at local cafe | $1-3 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚎Local transit day pass | $2-5 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel nightly | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich backwaters, coconut-forward cuisine, and friendly locals
- Accessible day trips to hills, waterfalls, and spice plantations
- Tourist crowds in peak season and monsoon travel can be challenging
- Limited nightlife and some infrastructure variability in rural areas
- "Namaskaram" - Hello
- "Nanni" - Thank you
- "Ente Peru [Name] aanu" - My name is [Name]
- "Ithu evide?" - Where is this?
- "Dayavu cheythu sahayikkamo?" - Could you please help me?
Places to Visit in Mulavana
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden hour along the backwaters with palm silhouettes and fishing boats.
A classic shot of bamboo boats and villagers going about daily life.
Expansive green fields reflecting the light after the monsoon.
Intricate carvings and murals that come alive during festivals.
Food in Mulavana
Mulavana Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tangy coconut milk curry with tamarind and spices, best enjoyed with rice or appam.
Must-Try!
Steamed rice cake with black chickpea curry, a staple breakfast or light meal.
Pearl spot fish marinated and slow-cooked in a banana leaf, a Kerala classic.
A mixed-vegetable curry in coconut and curry leaves, served with rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A compact market area where you can buy fresh spices, fruits, and tropical snacks; try roasted peanuts and banana chips from street stalls.
Early morning lanes by the river offering fresh fish fry, prawn curry, and traditional snacks like pazham pori.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, cover shoulders and knees for temples; remove shoes before entering homes or temples.
Greet with a polite Namaskaram; use a respectful tone with elders.
Ask before photographing people or religious ceremonies; avoid taking photos without permission.
Safety
Tipping in Mulavana
Ensure a smooth experience
Inexpensive eateries: round up the bill or leave 5–10%; mid-range to upscale service: 10–15% if satisfied; tip porters and drivers in INR.
Cash remains common, but UPI, debit/credit cards, and mobile wallets are increasingly accepted, especially in hotels and larger eateries.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with highs in the low-to-mid 30s Celsius; stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and seek shade.
June–September brings heavy rainfall and lush landscapes; travel can be disrupted by floods, carry rain gear and waterproof bags.
Cooler and more comfortable (25–28°C daytime), fewer mosquitoes; great for outdoor activities.
Mulavana at Night
Hiking in Mulavana
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails near Kollam with birdlife, viewpoints, and a small waterfall.
Western Ghats hill route with scenic viewpoints; a longer day hike from the area.
Airports
How to reach Mulavana by plane.
Located about 70–100 km away; connected to major Indian cities and international flights; taxi or bus transfer to Mulavana.
Also called Cochin International Airport, about 100–140 km away; good for international connections; road transfer via NH 66.
Kozhikode airport further north, broader international options; longer drive to Mulavana.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group, speaking Malayalam and practicing Kerala traditions.
Coastal communities involved in fishing and seafood trade.
Rural residents cultivating coconuts, rice, and spices.
People coming to Kerala for work in agriculture, hospitality, and construction.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Kerala; played informally in parks and local grounds.
Common on school grounds and local teams; weekend matches are common.
Indoor clubs and community centers host regular games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mulavana.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
There are plenty of vegetarian options—try Avial, Thoran, Olan, and coconut-based curries. When in doubt, ask for no fish sauce or meat.