Things To Do
in Perungulam
Perungulam is a small rural village in southern Tamil Nadu, India, known for its large pond (the name literally means "big tank") and traditional agrarian lifestyle. The settlement is characterized by paddy fields, coconut groves, a few local temples and a close-knit community where Tamil culture and festivals are central to daily life. Visitors will find a slow pace, friendly villagers, and easy access to larger towns and coastline within a short drive.
Perungulam is a good base for simple village experiences, birdwatching around water bodies, and short trips to nearby natural and cultural sites.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Perungulam and check into your accommodation. Spend your morning settling into the serene environment that this quaint village offers, surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast at a local eatery for a perfect start to your journey.
Take a stroll around the village, visiting local markets and witnessing daily life. You can engage with friendly locals, who can share stories and insights about the culture of Perungulam. Don't forget to visit the local temple, which is often a hub of activity and spirituality in the afternoons.
As the sun sets, enjoy a quiet evening walk by the nearby lake. The tranquil atmosphere is perfect for reflection, and you might spot some local wildlife. End your day with a hearty dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the authentic flavors of Tamil cuisine.
Start your day early with a guided trek through the nearby hills. Witness the stunning sunrise and breathe in the fresh mountain air amidst beautiful landscapes. Capture breathtaking photographs of the rolling hills and lush vegetation.
Return to the village for a traditional lunch, featuring local delicacies. Afterward, spend the afternoon birdwatching, as this region is home to a variety of species, making it a haven for bird enthusiasts. Relax in a shady spot or enjoy some outdoor games with the locals.
Join a cooking class hosted by a local family, where you can learn to prepare authentic dishes. Share stories and laughter while cooking, and build connections with your hosts. Savor the meal you've prepared together, surrounded by good company and a cheerful ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $10-20 |
| 🚌Local bus fare (short) | $0.10-0.50 |
| 🚕Auto-rickshaw/taxi short ride | $0.50-3 |
| 💧Bottled water (1.5L) | $0.30-0.70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural Tamil Nadu experience with friendly locals
- Quiet, walkable village with good opportunities for photography and birdwatching
- Easy access to nearby coastal towns and regional cultural sites
- Affordable food and accommodation options
- Limited tourist infrastructure and few formal accommodations
- Restricted nightlife and entertainment options within the village
- Seasonal rains can make some rural roads difficult
- Limited English usage—basic Tamil phrases help
- "Vanakkam" - Hello / Greetings
- "Nandri" - Thank you
- "Eppadi-irukkinga?" - How are you?
- "Sari / Sariyaa?" - Okay / Is it okay?
- "Oru glass-thaan, dayavu-sei" - One glass please (useful for ordering water/drinks)
- "Enakku allergy undu" - I have an allergy
Places to Visit in Perungulam
Visit one of these nice places.
Photograph reflections, local life at the water's edge, and waterbirds—best during sunrise and late afternoon for soft light.
Expansive green fields and palm-lined lanes offer classic rural Tamil landscapes, especially photogenic during planting and harvest seasons.
Village temples with colorful decorations, processions and rituals provide cultural photo opportunities—always ask permission before photographing people during rituals.
If you drive to a nearby coastal village, you’ll find dramatic fishing scenes, early morning boat launches and wide sandy beaches good for sunrise shots.
Food in Perungulam
Perungulam Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed rice-and-urad-dal cakes served with sambar (lentil stew) and chutney — a ubiquitous breakfast; find excellent versions at local tea shops and small eateries.
Must-Try!
A savory rice-and-lentil dish seasoned with black pepper and ghee, typically available for breakfast in many village eateries and during the Pongal festival.
Coastal-style tamarind and spice-based fish curry common in the region; best tried in nearby coastal villages and seafood restaurants in larger towns.
Small pan-fried dumplings made from idli/dosa batter; often sold at morning stalls and tea shops.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small weekly market in the nearby town where vendors sell fresh produce, spices, snacks and prepared foods; try vadai, bajji (fried fritters) and fresh tropical fruits when in season.
Scattered roadside stalls offering strong filter coffee or chai and light breakfast items—great for mingling with locals and grabbing quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting temples, remove shoes before entering and follow any temple-specific rules; photography may be restricted in sanctums.
A simple 'Vanakkam' (Tamil greeting) and a smile go a long way. Use the right hand for giving and receiving items; avoid public displays of affection.
If invited into a home, accept small offerings politely and try a little of what’s offered; it’s customary to eat with your right hand if sharing a traditional meal.
Show deference to elders; address older people with respectful terms and follow local cues in conversation.
Safety
Tipping in Perungulam
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is modest: round up small bills for tea/porters, leave 5–10% in restaurants if service is good (not always expected in small village eateries). For drivers and guides, a small token at the end of service is appreciated.
Cash (Indian rupees) is king in Perungulam—carry small denominations. Some shops in nearby towns may accept mobile payments (UPI) or cards, but expect limited card acceptance in village stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Summers (March–May) are hot and humid; expect daytime temperatures to be high and mid-day to feel oppressive. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon, stay hydrated and wear sun protection.
The southwest and northeast monsoons bring rains between June–September and October–December, with heavier showers at times; some roads and rural tracks can become muddy or temporarily impassable. The landscape is lush and birdlife increases—carry rain gear and flexible travel plans.
November–February are the most pleasant months with milder temperatures and lower humidity; ideal for outdoor exploration, walks and photography during comfortable daylight hours.
Perungulam at Night
Hiking in Perungulam
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short walking routes around the tank, through paddy fields and along irrigation channels—easy, scenic village hikes suitable for most fitness levels.
If you drive to the coast, stroll along beaches and fishing hamlets for low-effort walks and photographic opportunities at sunrise and sunset.
For more serious hiking, forest reserves and hill-country such as the Kalakad-Mundanthurai area are accessible by a longer drive and offer marked trails, waterfalls and rich biodiversity—best arranged through guided day trips from nearby towns.
Airports
How to reach Perungulam by plane.
The closest airport that handles domestic flights; useful for reaching the district quickly before a short road transfer to Perungulam.
A larger regional airport with more frequent domestic connections; from here expect a longer drive by road to reach Perungulam but more flight options.
Other regional airports offer broader connections; travel time by road will be longer but can be an option depending on flight availability.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority community engaged in agriculture, temple-centered cultural life and local trades.
Small communities present in the region with their own places of worship and local traditions, contributing to cultural diversity.
Many households are smallholder farmers or involved in coastal fishing in nearby villages—livelihoods shape daily rhythms and seasonal work patterns.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport across villages and towns—children and adults play in open fields and school grounds regularly.
Traditional team sports like kabaddi and recreational volleyball are often played at school and village levels, especially during festivals and tournaments.
Occasional rural sports and cultural competitions are organized during festivals—these can include folk games and athletic contests.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Perungulam.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available (idli, dosa, pongal, vegetable curries); ask for 'sattvik' or explain food preferences in Tamil for purity concerns. South Indian restaurants usually have clear vegetarian menus.
Many dishes are rice and vegetable based, but ghee and dairy are common; specify 'no ghee/no butter/no curd' or request coconut oil preparations when possible.
Rice-based staples make it relatively easy to avoid gluten, but be cautious with snacks and sweets that may contain wheat; ask about ingredients at small stalls.
Carry a translation card for allergies in Tamil and be cautious with street food; cross-contamination is possible in small kitchens.