Things To Do
in Nellipoyil

A vegetarian spread served on a banana leaf during festivals or at homestays—rice with sambar, avial, thoran, pickles and payasam; ask hosts for a smaller serving if you prefer. Great for experiencing traditional tastes.

Must-Try!

Steamed rice flour cylinders (puttu) served with spicy black chickpea curry—commonly available for breakfast at local eateries and tea shops.

Tangy, coconut-based curry made with fresh spices—more common in lowland Kerala but sometimes available in local restaurants near Nellipoyil.

Locally grown coffee prepared strong and sweet at roadside stalls and homestays; a good match for early-morning treks.

A small market where villagers sell fresh vegetables, spices, and occasional fish; try street snacks like banana chips, pazham pori (banana fritters) and fresh cut fruit.

Bigger weekly markets in nearby towns selling spices, coffee beans and local sweets—good places to buy pepper, cardamom and roast coffee.

Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or homes—shoulders and knees covered are advisable. In homestays, follow hosts' preferences; remove shoes before entering homes and religious sites.

A polite 'Namaskaram' or a slight nod is customary; show respect to elders and answer questions courteously. Public displays of affection are uncommon and frowned upon in rural areas.

If offered a meal at a home, accept with both hands and thank your host—finish what you take as leaving a lot may be considered wasteful. Be mindful of local dietary or religious restrictions.

Reasonable bargaining is acceptable in markets for spices and small goods; be polite and smile—haggling is part of the transaction but avoid hard bargaining at family-run stalls.

Tipping is modest and discretionary; at small eateries and homestays a small tip (50–200 INR) is appreciated but not mandatory. For guides and drivers, tip based on service—roughly 100–500 INR for day guides and drivers depending on duration and group size.

Cash (Indian Rupees) is king in Nellipoyil for small purchases, markets and homestays. Some guesthouses and larger establishments accept cards or UPI/mobile payments, but mobile connectivity can be patchy—carry sufficient cash for village expenses.

Warm to hot days in the lowlands but cooler in the hills—best for long daylight excursions, though mid-day can be hot. Carry sun protection and water; mornings and evenings are comfortable for hikes.

Heavy rains, swollen rivers and slippery trails—spectacular waterfalls and lush green scenery but some roads and trails may be closed. Avoid risky treks during storms and watch for landslip-prone stretches on ghat roads.

Clear skies, refreshed landscapes and pleasant temperatures—ideal time for trekking, birdwatching and photography. Higher demand for homestays during holiday periods.

Cool mornings and crisp air with blooming flora—good for outdoor activities and plantation visits; nights can be chilly at higher elevations.

Short to moderate hikes linking multiple cascades and viewpoints—well-suited for day trips, with some steeper sections and scenic river crossings.

A short trail leading to the Arippara falls and rocky river pools; ideal for photography and light trekking, but be cautious after heavy rains.

Longer treks into the Western Ghats ridges for experienced hikers—offers panoramic views, endemic flora and possible encounters with wildlife; typically arranged with local guides.

Gentle walks through coffee and spice plantations and village lanes—excellent for slower hikes, cultural observations and birdwatching.

Vegetarian cooking is widely available in Kerala; homestays and local restaurants can usually prepare pure vegetarian thalis and dosas. Mention 'no onion, no garlic' if you follow stricter diets—most hosts will accommodate if given prior notice.

Vegan options are possible (rice, vegetables, coconut-based dishes), but clarify at ordering since ghee or coconut oil may be used. Pack snacks if you have limited options at very small eateries.

Rice-based dishes like puttu and dosa are naturally gluten-free, but watch for cross-contamination in shared kitchens or when eating packaged items.

Peanuts and tree nuts may be present in spice mixes or sweets—carry allergy cards in Malayalam if you have severe allergies and inform hosts/restaurants.