Things To Do
in Mundakkal
Mundakkal is a coastal village in Kerala known for its fishing heritage and scenic shoreline. Located near Kollam, it serves as a gateway to the backwaters of Ashtamudi and a hub for fresh seafood. The area blends traditional livelihoods with easy access to sandy beaches and tranquil canal views.
Visitors can soak in a laid-back coastal vibe enriched by welcoming locals and a cuisine deeply rooted in coconut and fish.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk along Mundakkal Beach, where the gentle sound of waves sets a serene backdrop. Enjoy the sunrise as it bathes the sky in hues of orange and pink, creating a picturesque start to your adventure. Stop by a local tea stall for a warm cup of chai and some freshly made snacks to fuel your morning.
After a leisurely morning, head to the local market to experience vibrant stalls filled with fruits, vegetables, and handicrafts unique to the region. Engage with friendly vendors and sample local delicacies such as banana chips and puttu. As the sun reaches its zenith, find a cozy spot to enjoy a traditional Kerala meal at a nearby restaurant, featuring dishes like fish curry and appam.
As the evening approaches, return to the beach to witness the stunning sunset over the Arabian Sea. Join locals who gather for evening strolls, and perhaps try your hand at fishing or beach volleyball. As night falls, indulge in some fresh seafood from beachside shacks while soaking in the tranquil ambiance.
Visit the ancient temples of Mundakkal, where the intricate architecture and serene surroundings offer a glimpse into the region's spiritual heritage. Participate in the morning rituals and listen to the melodious sounds of temple bells ringing. Engage with local devotees and learn about the significance of the festivals celebrated here.
After exploring the temples, head to a nearby art gallery showcasing traditional Kerala murals and crafts. Spend time interacting with local artists, who will share their stories and techniques behind their captivating works. Enjoy a light lunch at a nearby café, sampling local snacks while reflecting on the rich cultural experiences of the morning.
In the evening, attend a Kathakali performance, an exquisite traditional dance drama that tells stories from Indian epics through expressive gestures and vibrant costumes. Engage with the performers and gain insights into the intricate art form and its cultural significance. Conclude your day with a quiet dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Kerala cuisine.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| 🥤Bottle of water | $0.20-0.50 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $0.50-2 |
| 🚖Taxi ride (short trip) | $2-5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room (per night) | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich coastal cuisine and seafood
- Relaxed pace and scenic backwaters
- Proximity to Kollam’s markets and historic sites
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Seasonal seas and monsoon winds can affect plans
- Smaller scale than larger tourist hubs
- "Namaskaram" - Hello
- "Nanni" - Thank you
- "Dayavaayi" - Please
- "Ente peru [name] aanu" - My name is [name]
- "English samsaarikkamo?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Mundakkal
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide golden sands with colorful fishing boats, nets drying on the shore, and dramatic sunrise silhouettes.
Coastal vantage point offering expansive views of the Arabian Sea and the coastline—great for sunset shots.
Calm waterway lined with mangroves and traditional houseboats; ideal for reflections and birdlife photography.
Food in Mundakkal
Mundakkal Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy fried pearlspot, typically served with lemon and curry leaves; best enjoyed with steamed rice or rida-ladged coconut chutneys.
Must-Try!
Creamy fish curry cooked in coconut milk with spices; pairs beautifully with rice or appam.
Steamed rice cake (puttu) served with black chickpea curry; a quintessential Kerala breakfast staple.
Spiced beef curry fried with onions and curry leaves, served with flaky parotta.
Stir-fried broad beans with grated coconut; a common vegetarian side dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market offering fresh produce, seafood, banana chips, roasted snacks, and quick bites.
Early-morning market where you can watch fishermen bring in the catch and sample fresh seafood prepared on the spot.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Namaskaram (hands folded); modest dress in temples and religious sites; remove shoes where required.
Ask permission before photographing people or homes; avoid intrusive shots near homes or ceremonies; show courtesy around religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Mundakkal
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common but not mandatory; 5-10% in restaurants if service charge is not included; small tips for guides or drivers are appreciated.
Cash remains widely used; cards and digital wallets (UPI, Paytm, Google Pay) are increasingly accepted at larger establishments and hotels.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with highs in the mid-30s°C; carry water, wear lightweight clothing, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Heavy rainfall and strong seas; lush scenery but travel can be disrupted by rain and floods. Pack rain gear and monitor local advisories.
Pleasant temperatures with lower humidity; ideal for long outdoor walks, photography, and backwater tours.
Mundakkal at Night
Hiking in Mundakkal
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic, mostly flat route along the backwaters with birdlife and village views; suitable for easy day hikes.
Easy coastal walk with sea breeze and fishing boats; best experienced at sunrise or sunset.
Airports
How to reach Mundakkal by plane.
International and domestic connections; roughly 70-90 km from Mundakkal by road.
Major international airport; approximately 180 km away with extensive flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Longstanding families whose livelihoods center on the sea, with strong community networks.
Residents from surrounding rural areas who work in agriculture and related trades.
Young residents and craftspeople contributing to local culture and economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport across Kerala with informal games in neighborhoods and organized matches in towns.
Favored in schools and communities; local clubs and matches are common in larger towns nearby.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mundakkal.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available: dosas, idlis, avial, thoran, and coconut-based gravies. Request spice adjustments or coconut-free dishes if needed.