Things To Do
in Pārakadavu
Pārakadavu is a coastal Kerala town framed by palm-fringed shores and a lively fishing port. Its markets hum with spice aromas, coconut oil stalls, and backwater boats gliding by in the distance. The town blends traditional temple life with a friendly seaside vibe, making it easy to wander its narrow lanes and waterfront promenades.
Visitors can savor Malabari flavors, catch a sunset over the sea, and observe daily life along the harbor.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely walk through the scenic village of Pārakadavu, where you can interact with locals and learn about their daily life. Visit the ancient temples adorned with intricate carvings, soaking in the spiritual ambiance. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local eatery to fuel your day's adventures.
In the afternoon, embark on a canoe ride through the backwaters, witnessing the stunning landscape and vibrant avian life that thrives in the region. Stop by a fishing village to understand traditional fishing techniques and perhaps join in a friendly fishing competition. Capture the essence of rural life as you savor a freshly caught fish dish for lunch.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot by the water to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Experience the local culture by attending a folk dance performance that showcases the art and history of the area. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner featuring an array of Kerala's famous dishes.
After breakfast, set out to explore the stunning waterfalls near Pārakadavu, such as the Athirappilly Falls, often referred to as the 'Niagara of India.' The cool mist from the falls will refresh you as you trek through the lush greenery to reach them. Capture breathtaking photographs and revel in the serene atmosphere.
Enjoy a picnic lunch by the waterfalls, surrounded by the sounds of nature and the beauty of cascading water. Spend the afternoon frolicking in the natural pools that form at the base of the falls, a perfect way to cool off on a warm day. For those seeking adventure, opt for a guided hike to explore the surrounding hills.
Return to Pārakadavu for a quiet evening where you can relax and get lost in the stunning sunset views. Visit a local tea shop to sip on refreshing masala chai while engaging in conversations with villagers. Wrap up the night with a casual dinner, sampling more of the authentic dishes you’ve come to love.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍛Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (3-5 km) | $2-6 |
| 🛍️Local handicraft souvenir | $3-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich coastal cuisine and fresh seafood
- Relaxed pace of life with friendly locals
- Beautiful backwaters and palm-fringed scenery
- Accessible day trips to spice gardens and hills
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Occasional monsoon flooding can disrupt travel
- Smaller medical facilities in town; need to travel for certain treatments
- "Namaskaaram" - Hello
- "Nanni" - Thank you
- "Ente peru [Name] aanu" - My name is [Name]
- "Dayavayi sahayam cheyyamo?" - Please help me?
- "Ithu enth parayunnu?" - What is this?
Places to Visit in Pārakadavu
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light over boats and nets, with silhouettes of fishermen and distant temple spires.
Panoramic coastal views during golden hour; watch ships drift past the horizon.
Calm water lined with palm trees and village homesteads; ideal for reflections and long exposure.
A scenic drive or cycle path bordered by tall palms leading toward the sea.
Colorful processions and intricate traditional attire, best photographed with respect and permission.
Food in Pārakadavu
Pārakadavu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pearl spot fish marinated in spices and wrapped in banana leaf, then pan-fried; a seafood specialty of the region.
Must-Try!
Steamed cylinders of ground rice layered with grated coconut, served with a spicy black chickpea curry.
A fluffy, lacy pancake paired with coconut milk–based vegetable or chicken stew.
A tangy coconut-based fish curry enriched with curry leaves and tamarind.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Early-morning stalls selling fresh seafood, spices, and coconut oil; great for sampling small bites and watching daily commerce.
A string of beachfront shacks offering quick bites like vada, banana chips, jackfruit chips, and grilled fish skewers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering sanctums, and ask permission before photographing worshipers.
A gentle Namaste is preferred; use the right hand for giving and receiving; avoid public displays of affection in busy areas.
Cover shoulders and knees in religious sites; be mindful around fisherfolk and during temple processions.
Safety
Tipping in Pārakadavu
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 5-10% tip is common if service charge is not included. For smaller cafes and stalls, rounding up the bill is appreciated. Porters and guides may receive small tips in cash.
Cash is widely accepted, with ATMs available in town. Cards are increasingly accepted at hotels and larger restaurants; mobile wallets and UPI are common for digital payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with occasional sea breezes; stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and protect against sun exposure. Beach activities are best earlier in the day.
Frequent and heavy rain, lush landscapes, and elevated humidity. Roads can flood in low-lying areas; carry a compact umbrella and waterproof gear.
Moderate daytime temperatures with cooler evenings; comfortable for outdoor exploration, especially along the coast.
Pārakadavu at Night
Hiking in Pārakadavu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate hikes offering panoramic views of valleys and coffee spice gardens.
Accessible ridge walk with early-morning vistas and cooler air, suitable for a half-day adventure.
Airports
How to reach Pārakadavu by plane.
Major international and domestic hub; road and rail connections to Pārakadavu, typically a few hours away depending on route and traffic.
Regional hub offering domestic and limited international flights; useful for quicker access from northern Kerala regions.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant language and culture, with strong coastal and agrarian roots.
Active in harbor economy, often exchanging stories and crafts with visitors.
Contribute to the local economy, bringing diverse food and goods to markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched, with informal matches across towns and club leagues.
Popular on beaches and in schools; local clubs organize small tournaments.
Canoe races tied to festival seasons; a culturally significant water sport in the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pārakadavu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many vegetarian options are available; look for dal, avial, olan, erissery, and curry-based dishes with rice or roti. Communicate spice levels and ask for oil-free preparations if needed.
Request coconut oil or vegetable oil, opt for dal, curry greens, and vegetable curries; avoid ghee and dairy-heavy preparations.
Rice-based dishes like puttu and appam served with dal or veggie curries are typically gluten-free; confirm no wheat-based thickeners in sauces.