Things To Do
in Puliyankunnu
Puliyankunnu is a verdant hill town in the western Ghats of Kerala, surrounded by coffee, tea, and spice estates. The air remains cool for much of the year, with mist often curling over terraced slopes at dawn. Life here moves at a gentle pace, with temple bells, bustling markets, and hillside tea shacks shaping the daily rhythm.
It serves as a gateway to nature and culture, offering scenic viewpoints, village homestays, and easy access to local wildlife and waterfalls.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a refreshing hike up to the nearby hills where you can enjoy panoramic views of the lush landscape. The cool morning breeze and the chirping of birds provide an ideal backdrop for photography and meditation. Don't forget to pack some light snacks to enjoy at the summit while soaking in the beauty around you.
After descending, indulge in a delicious local lunch at a nearby eatery, where you can sample authentic Kerala cuisine. Post-lunch, visit the local markets to experience the vibrant culture and pick up handicrafts and spices unique to the region. Engage with friendly locals to learn more about their traditions and lifestyle.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely stroll along the riverbanks, enjoying the serene atmosphere and the sparkling reflections on the water. Join a cultural performance featuring traditional music and dance to fully immerse yourself in the local heritage. Finish your night with a delightful dinner at a riverside restaurant, savoring the flavors of the local seafood.
Start your day by visiting the ancient temples of Puliyankunnu, where the intricate architecture and spiritual ambiance will leave you in awe. Engage with the local priests and learn about the history and significance of these sacred sites. Spend some time in meditation, appreciating the tranquility and spiritual energy of the surroundings.
For lunch, try a nearby restaurant that serves authentic Kerala meals, allowing you to taste the local delicacies. After lunch, head to the historical sites around Puliyankunnu, where you can immerse yourself in the local history and heritage. Visit the ancient forts and ruins, getting a glimpse of the region's past.
In the evening, attend a local festival or fair if one is taking place, experiencing the rich culture and traditions of the area. Enjoy traditional snacks sold by street vendors while taking in the festive atmosphere. As night falls, relax at your accommodation, reflecting on the day's experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🚆Local transport (short ride) | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-40 |
| ☕Coffee or tea in cafe | $1-3 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two in mid-range restaurant | $20-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and spiritual ambiance
- Scenic landscapes and pleasant, mild climate
- Limited nightlife infrastructure
- Monsoon travel can cause occasional delays
- "Namaskaaram" - Hello
- "Sugamano?" - How are you?
- "Enne peru [name] aanu" - My name is [name].
- "Nanni" - Thank you
- "Dayave cheythu" - Please / Excuse me
Places to Visit in Puliyankunnu
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic valley views with misty mornings and golden hour lighting.
Rolling green tea and spice gardens with terraced patterns and soft light.
Narrow water channels, traditional homes, and reflections during sunset.
Cascading water against dark rocks; best captured after the monsoon when flows are strong.
Food in Puliyankunnu
Puliyankunnu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fish curry cooked in coconut milk and tamarind, best enjoyed with matta rice.
Must-Try!
Steamed rice cake served with black chickpea curry; a classic breakfast or snack.
Rice pancake with a creamy coconut milk vegetable or chicken stew.
Pearl spot fish marinated with spices and coconut, wrapped in banana leaf and lightly fried.
Creamy curry of pumpkin or yam with lentils and coconut.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively morning market selling fresh spices, coconuts, bananas, and local tea leaves.
A small cluster of stalls offering herbs, roots, and Ayurvedic remedies; great for authentic snacks and thoughtful gifts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Namaste; dress modestly at religious sites; remove shoes before entering homes or temples; ask before photographing people.
Safety
Tipping in Puliyankunnu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping 5-10% in restaurants or rounding up taxi fares is common; small tips for guides or porters are appreciated but not obligatory.
Cash is widely accepted; many places now accept UPIs (PhonePe, Google Pay) and cards in hotels; ATMs are common in towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
From March to May, expect warm days and high humidity; stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and plan early-morning or late-evening activities.
June to September brings heavy rain and lush landscapes; trails can be slippery and some roads may be affected by flooding; carry a rain jacket and waterproof footwear.
October to February is cooler and drier; pleasant for outdoor walks and hilltop views, with cooler evenings requiring a light jacket.
Puliyankunnu at Night
Hiking in Puliyankunnu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Steep but rewarding hike through dense forest with a panoramic overlook.
Popular long trail known for its heart-shaped lake views; best in cooler months.
Airports
How to reach Puliyankunnu by plane.
Major international gateway; reachable by road in roughly 3-4 hours depending on traffic.
Smaller but growing airport to the north; approximately 2-3 hours away by road.
South Kerala airport offering international connections; longer drive.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority community with rich cultural traditions.
Coexisting communities with shared markets and festivals.
Smaller groups in surrounding hills contributing to regional crafts and traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in schools and local grounds.
Common on village fields and during regional tournaments.
A favorite in community centers and homes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Puliyankunnu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Kerala offers abundant vegetarian options; request no fish or meat and specify no onion/garlic if you follow a strict vegan or satvik diet.