Things To Do
in Sankaramangalam
Sankaramangalam is a quiet village in Kerala's Kollam district, set among coconut groves and quiet canals. The town acts as a gateway to coastal backwaters and rural Kerala life, with temples, mosques, and churches dotted along winding lanes. Visitors experience a languid pace, warm hospitality, and opportunities to sample traditional Kerala cuisine in homestays and family-run eateries.
Easy road connections from Kollam and Karunagappally make day trips to nearby beaches and hillside trails convenient.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Sankaramangalam and check into your accommodation. Explore the local surroundings and take in the serene environment of this coastal town. Enjoy a refreshing breakfast at a local eatery to kick start your journey.
Visit the beautiful temples scattered across the area, each showcasing unique architecture and historical significance. Engage with the friendly locals to learn more about their culture and traditions. Stop by a quaint café for a traditional South Indian lunch.
As the sun sets, stroll along the coastline and witness a breathtaking view of the sunset over the Arabian Sea. Enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant, indulging in fresh seafood and local delicacies. Reflect on your day while listening to the sound of the waves.
Start your day with a visit to the famous Sankaramangalam Temple, where you can participate in morning rituals. Admire the intricate carvings and the spiritual ambiance that fills the air. Afterward, grab a breakfast of idli and sambar from a nearby stall.
Visit a local market to experience the vibrant colors and smells of fresh produce and spices. Interact with vendors and try some traditional snacks as you meander through the bustling stalls. Spend the afternoon at a nearby art gallery showcasing regional art and craft.
Attend a cultural event or performance if available, featuring local music and dance. Savor a delightful dinner at a heritage restaurant known for its authentic local cuisine. Wind down your evening with a peaceful walk back to your accommodation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🚌Local transport (bus/auto) | $0.5-2 |
| 🛏️1-night budget guesthouse | $12-25 |
| 🍲Kerala lunch/dinner per person | $4-10 |
| ☕Tea or coffee at local stall | $0.5-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, friendly locals and a relaxed pace of life
- Rich Kerala cuisine and authentic village experiences
- Proximity to backwaters, beaches, and hills for day trips
- Affordable accommodation and accessible transport
- Limited nightlife and infrastructure in rural areas
- Heavy monsoon can disrupt travel plans
- Smaller selection of high-end dining and shopping nearby
- "Namaskaaram" - Hello
- "Nanni" - Thank you
- "Dayavayi cheythu" - Please
- "Ethra aayi ithu?" - How much is this?
- "Sukhamano?" - Are you well?
Places to Visit in Sankaramangalam
Visit one of these nice places.
Broad waterways with skiffs, framed by palms and silhouetted boats as the sun sinks.
Long avenues of coconut palms along quiet waterways—ideal for golden-hour silhouettes.
Shrines and village temples with ornate wooden doors and stone reliefs offering rich detail for photographers.
Food in Sankaramangalam
Sankaramangalam Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich fish curry with coconut milk and gentle spice, commonly served with rice or porotta.
Must-Try!
Steamed rice cakes paired with black chickpea curry, a staple breakfast in the region.
Fermented rice pancake with a coconut milk-based stew, often featuring vegetables or chicken.
A festive, multi-dish vegetarian meal served on a banana leaf, typically enjoyed during festivals and celebrations.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant local markets offering fresh fish, coconut, spices, and produce; ideal for sampling street snacks and bargaining for produce.
Coastal fish market where you can watch the daily catch and sample fried fish or fish curries at nearby stalls.
Family-run stalls selling crisp banana chips and other Kerala snacks along canals and village streets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local customs: cover shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites; remove shoes before entering homes or temples.
Greet with hands pressed together in Namaskaram; address elders with courtesy and avoid public confrontations.
Ask for permission before photographing people or interiors of sacred spaces; avoid flash in temples.
Safety
Tipping in Sankaramangalam
Ensure a smooth experience
Small tips (around 5–10%) are appreciated in eateries; rounding up fare for drivers and guides is common.
Cash is widely accepted; many places also take cards or mobile payments (UPI) in towns and larger shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid days (March–May) with occasional sea breeze; carry water, sun protection, and light clothing.
Heavy rainfall (June–September) with lush greens; be prepared for slippery paths and travel delays; lightweight rain gear is essential.
Milder temperatures (October–February) with comfortable daytime warmth and cool evenings; good for outdoor activities.
Sankaramangalam at Night
Hiking in Sankaramangalam
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest and hillside walks within reach of Kollam district offering scenic views and biodiversity.
Gentle forest paths with opportunities to glimpse wildlife and native flora; suitable for a day trip.
Airports
How to reach Sankaramangalam by plane.
Primary airport serving Kerala; about 90-100 km southeast; connected by road and rail to Kollam region.
Major international gateway in Kochi; roughly 180-200 km north of Sankaramangalam; good for connections to international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Malayali Hindus, Muslims, and Christians with a shared Malayalam-speaking culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Kerala, with local matches and informal games in villages.
Played in schools and community grounds, especially in the evenings.
Common in community centers and homestays; easy to join as a casual sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sankaramangalam.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Malayalam households often prepare a variety of vegetables and lentils in coconut milk; ask for the Sadya or thali options, and request coconut-free curries if needed.