Things To Do
in Payimattam
Payimattam is a small town in Kerala that sits near scenic backwaters and lush green landscapes. Its streets blend traditional village life with a few modern conveniences, making it easy to explore on foot. The town is known for palm-lined canals, spice plantations, and friendly locals who happily share stories about daily life.
From riverbank strolls to hill viewpoints, Payimattam offers a calm, authentic Kerala experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Touch down in Payimattam and settle into a traditional Kerala homestay surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy a warm welcome tea with local spices as your hosts introduce you to the estate’s history. Take a leisurely stroll through fragrant gardens, breathing in the fresh mountain air.
Join a guided tour of nearby rubber plantations to observe latex tapping techniques passed down through generations. Wander under the shade of tall rubber trees while your guide explains eco-friendly harvesting practices. Capture breathtaking photos of the plantation’s emerald canopy.
Dine on a bespoke Kerala feast featuring freshly caught fish and locally grown vegetables. Savor coconut-infused curries and homemade appam under a canopy of stars. Later, relax on the veranda and listen to traditional melodic chants drifting through the cool night air.
Rise with the sun and set off on a moderate trek through rolling rubber estates and pepper vines. Pause at shaded groves to learn how each tree is tapped for latex without harming the bark. Breathe in the crisp morning air as birdcalls echo through the foliage.
Visit the plantation’s small processing unit to see how raw latex is transformed into sheets and blocks. Engage in hands-on workshops where you can craft simple rubber souvenirs. Sample local snacks prepared from cassava and coconut.
Return to your homestay for a sunset yoga session on the lawn, guided by a local instructor. Relish a light dinner of steamed tapioca and spicy fish curry. End the evening around a bonfire, sharing stories and traditional folk songs.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| ☕Cup of coffee or tea | $0.5-2 |
| 🚕Local taxi or auto-rickshaw ride | $2-6 |
| 🛍️Small souvenir or handicraft | $3-12 |
| 🧭Local SIM data plan | $5-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm Kerala hospitality and scenic backwaters
- Relaxed pace of life and access to nature
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Occasional heavy rainfall during the monsoon
- "Namaskaram" - Hello
- "Nanni" - Thank you
- "Dayavayi" - Please
- "Ente peru [name]" - My name is [name]
- "Sari" - Okay
Places to Visit in Payimattam
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour reflections on the canal with palm-lined banks.
Glimpses of cardamom and pepper vines, ideal for landscape and macro shots.
Rustic locks and traditional boats create atmospheric compositions.
Panoramic views of surrounding hills and patchwork farmland.
Food in Payimattam
Payimattam Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Flaky fish cooked in a coconut-tomato gravy, served with steamed rice.
Must-Try!
A creamy coconut-based fish curry with spices, often enjoyed with appam or rice.
Steamed rice flour cylinders served with black chickpea curry, a classic breakfast.
Pearl spot fish wrapped in banana leaf and gently grilled for smoky notes.
A mixed-vegetable curry with coconut and curry leaves, bright and comforting.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market offering coconuts, spices, fresh fish, and tropical fruits; try fresh banana chips and shaved ice from street stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A respectful Namaskaram (folded hands) is common; use polite titles when addressing elders.
Remove shoes before entering temples; dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered); ask permission before taking photos.
Always ask for consent before photographing locals, especially children.
Safety
Tipping in Payimattam
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping around 5-10% in restaurants if service is good; rounds up for tuk-tuks and small cafes.
Cash is widely accepted; many places now accept cards and UPI-enabled payments; carry small denomination notes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with hazy mornings; carry water, sunscreen, and light clothing.
Heavy rainfall and high humidity; roads can be slick; pack rain gear and waterproof bags.
Mild temperatures and lower humidity; perfect for outdoor activities and photography.
Payimattam at Night
Hiking in Payimattam
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short, scenic hike to a waterfall in Kollam district with forested surroundings.
Forest trails and viewpoints within the Thenmala Reserve, ideal for a day hike.
Airports
How to reach Payimattam by plane.
Situated near Kochi, this is the major gateway for international and domestic flights; accessible by car or taxi from Payimattam.
A secondary option farther north with domestic flights; useful for regional travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Hindu, Muslim, and Christian communities; temples, mosques, and churches are common and neighboring towns reflect diverse traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools and parks; informal matches are common in evenings.
Popular in local leagues and youth clubs.
A common indoor/outdoor pastime in community centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Payimattam.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can rely on veg thalis, coconut-based curries, and fresh vegetables; look for vegetarian signage and request no fish or meat in curries.