Things To Do
in Pariyāram
Pariyāram is a quiet hill town in the Western Ghats where coffee and spice plantations carpet the landscape. Misty mornings give way to bright valleys and the scent of roasted beans. The town blends traditional Malnad culture with a growing eco-tourism scene, offering tranquil streets, colonial architecture, and lively markets.
Visitors come to slow down, savor fresh produce, and explore winding trails that cradle the forests.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the ancient Pariyaram Temple, known for its exquisite architecture and serene surroundings. As the sun rises, the temple grounds come alive with the sound of prayer bells and the aroma of incense wafting through the air. Spend some time meditating in the peaceful courtyard, absorbing the spiritual energy of this historic site.
After a leisurely lunch at a local eatery, head to the nearby Kottiyoor Temple, which is nestled in the lush green hills. The afternoon is perfect for exploring the temple complex, where you can admire intricate carvings and learn about the fascinating stories behind the deities. Don’t forget to capture the stunning views of the surrounding landscape, which provides a perfect backdrop for photography.
As the sun sets, return to Pariyaram and enjoy a traditional Kerala dinner at a local restaurant, where you can savor authentic dishes like appam and stew. After dinner, take a stroll through the charming village streets, where you can engage with friendly locals and learn more about their culture. The evening ends on a tranquil note, with the sounds of crickets and the distant rustle of leaves accompanying your walk.
Begin your day early with a guided nature walk through the lush forests surrounding Pariyaram, where you can breathe in the fresh air and listen to the sounds of nature. Your guide will point out various plant species and share interesting facts about the local ecosystem. Keep your eyes peeled for colorful birds like the Malabar Grey Hornbill and the endemic Nilgiri Wood Pigeon.
After your morning adventure, enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature, surrounded by the beauty of the forest. In the afternoon, continue exploring the area, visiting a nearby stream where you can relax and listen to the soothing sounds of water flowing over rocks. This is a great time to take photos or simply enjoy the tranquility that nature offers.
As dusk approaches, make your way back to town, and consider visiting a local tea estate for a refreshing cup of tea. Engage with the tea pickers and learn about the tea-making process while enjoying a stunning sunset view over the hills. Wind down your day with a cozy dinner at a homestay, where you can share stories with your hosts.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🥗Lunch for two in a mid-range restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🏨One-night budget hotel | $25-40 |
| 🚌Local transport for a day | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning hill scenery and coffee culture
- Warm, welcoming locals and relaxed pace of travel
- Affordable living and a sustainable tourism vibe
- Access to forest trails and wildlife viewing
- Limited nightlife and crowded tourist spots in peak season
- Monsoon road conditions can be challenging
- Some areas have limited English-speaking staff
- Medical facilities are basic in town; emergencies require travel
- "Namaskāra" - Hello
- "Nīvu hegiddīri?" - How are you?
- "Dayavittu ondu coffee koḍabahuda?" - Could you please give me a coffee?
- "Nannage sahāya mādiri" - Please help me
- "Yenu iddu?" - What is this?
- "Dhanyavāda" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Pariyāram
Visit one of these nice places.
A vantage point where early morning fog folds over coffee hills.
Ancient temples with carved granite and daily life unfolding around them.
Terraced coffee bushes with mist-washed mornings — ideal for close-ups and wide landscapes.
Ruins perched on a hill offering sunrise and sweeping valley views.
A short hike leads to a waterfall with a natural pool and rainbows on sunny days.
Food in Pariyāram
Pariyāram Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory pork curry from the Coorg region, often served with steamed rice or akki rotti.
Must-Try!
A fragrant curry featuring fresh bamboo shoots, coconut, and spices; best at spice farms or traditional Malnad homes.
Steamed rice with fresh coconut, accompanied by sannas (fermented rice cakes) served in farms and eateries.
A coconut-based sweet treat with jaggery and rice flour, commonly found in festive markets.
Hyacinth bean stew popular in winter, often served with rice and flatbreads.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for spices, fresh produce, and street snacks.
A market street offering roasted coffee beans, village snacks, and herbal tonics.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A respectful Namaste with joined palms is common; address elders politely with Mr./Ms.
Remove shoes before entering temples; dress modestly and offer a small donation.
Ask permission before photographing individuals or villages; avoid sensitive sites.
Safety
Tipping in Pariyāram
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated for good service in restaurants and hotels; 5-10% in mid to upscale places.
Cash is widely accepted; cards commonly accepted in larger establishments; digital wallets like PayTM, Google Pay, and PhonePe are popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
June to August is warm and humid; carry water, wear light clothing, and protect against insects.
June to September brings heavy rainfall; trails may be slippery and some roads may close; bring rain gear and sturdy boots.
October to February offers cool mornings and pleasant daytime temperatures; a light jacket is useful.
Pariyāram at Night
Hiking in Pariyāram
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coorgs highest peak offering panoramic valley views; a popular hike from Kumara on the northern edge of Coorg.
Forest trails through evergreen forests with wildlife and rich biodiversity.
Ridge trekking between Coorg and Wayanad, with sweeping landscapes and forest trails.
Airports
How to reach Pariyāram by plane.
A regional airport about 3-4 hours by road from Pariyāram, with domestic flights and some limited international connections.
A relatively new airport in northern Kerala, accessible by road through the Western Ghats in about 3-5 hours.
A major hub in Karnataka, roughly a 5-7 hour drive or a short domestic flight away depending on connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Kannada-speaking households with a mix of Kodava communities in the hills and migrant workers seasonally.
Domestic and international travelers attracted by nature and coffee culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Players and communities frequently organize informal games in local grounds.
Common in schools and village fields during weekends.
Popular indoor and outdoor activity in community centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pariyāram.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options abound; look for dal, veggie curries, and rice dishes; inform cooks about no meat or eggs.