Things To Do
in Shencottah
Shencottah is a scenic hill town in Tamil Nadu near the Kerala border, tucked in the Western Ghats. It serves as a gateway to lush tea estates, spice plantations, and forest trails. The town blends Tamil culture with Kerala influenced markets and cuisine.
Visitors come for cool climates, scenic drives, and easy access to nearby waterfalls and viewpoints.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Shencottah and settle into your accommodation. Take the morning to relax and soak in the peaceful ambiance of the town surrounded by rolling hills. A leisurely breakfast at a local café will get you energized for the adventures ahead.
Explore the vibrant local market where you can indulge in shopping for traditional textiles and handicrafts. Experience the culture of Shencottah through its delicious street food offerings. Visit nearby temples to appreciate the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Enjoy a calm evening by the riverbanks, where you can witness the stunning sunset reflecting off the water. Engage with locals over tea while learning more about their way of life. Return to your accommodation for a restful night.
Begin your day with an early morning trek to Agasthyakoodam, a part of the Western Ghats and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The trek is steep but rewarding, with mesmerizing views of lush greenery and exotic flora. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy amidst the mountains.
Continue your exploration of this biodiverse region, where you might spot some native wildlife, including rare birds and animals. Spend time taking photographs and appreciating the natural beauty surrounding you. Return to Shencottah and freshen up before the evening.
Indulge in a traditional Kerala dinner at a local restaurant, where you can savor authentic flavors. Share stories with fellow travelers and reflect on the day's journey. Wind down and appreciate the calm nights of Shencottah.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $1-2 |
| 🥗Lunch at casual restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room per night | $15-30 |
| 🍡Local street snack | $0.5-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic hill setting with cool climate
- Access to tea estates, spice plantations, and waterfalls
- Genuine small-town Tamil Nadu experience with Kerala influence
- Limited nightlife and fewer upscale dining options
- Public transport within town can be sparse and basic
- Major medical facilities require travel to larger towns
- "Vanakkam" - Hello
- "Nandri" - Thank you
- "Dayavittu" - Please / Kindly
- "Sollunga" - Please tell me / Speak
- "Enakku Tamil theriyum" - I know Tamil
- "Enna peru?" - What is your name?
Places to Visit in Shencottah
Visit one of these nice places.
Elevated spots offering sunset views over the surrounding hills and tea estates.
Lush cascades framed by tropical greenery; best photographed in the monsoon and late afternoon light.
Rows of vibrant green tea bushes with morning mist and ridge lines as backdrops.
Food in Shencottah
Shencottah Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant, tangy rice dish made with tamarind, curry leaves and peanuts, commonly served with sambar or rasam.
Must-Try!
A Kerala influenced mix of vegetables cooked in coconut and yogurt, typically served with rice.
Coastal fish curry with coconut, tamarind and spices, often enjoyed with steamed rice.
Fluffy rice pancake paired with a creamy vegetable stew, reflecting Kerala style influence.
A platter with rice, sambar, rasam, vegetables and a small curry, offering a complete meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering fresh produce, spices, and quick bites from street vendors.
Casual eateries and snack stalls along the road offering quick meals and chai.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering temples, and seek permission before photographing sacred spaces.
Greet with a polite Namaste or hello in Tamil; use the right hand for handing items when appropriate.
Be respectful in crowded markets and religious places; avoid loud behavior and public displays of affection.
Safety
Tipping in Shencottah
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is discretionary; 5-10% in mid-range restaurants for good service; not expected at street stalls.
Cash is widely used; cards accepted at larger establishments; digital wallets and UPI are common in towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry and warm days; carry water, sunscreen and light clothing. Evenings are cooler in the hills.
Heavy rainfall and lush landscapes; trails can be slippery; roads may be affected by flooding in some areas.
Cool mornings with comfortable daytime temperatures; ideal for hikes and outdoor listening to birdsong.
Shencottah at Night
Hiking in Shencottah
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible forest trails in the Western Ghats with opportunities for wildlife viewing; permits may be required.
Nearby hills offering scenic routes and waterfall viewpoints with moderate difficulty.
Gentle to moderate trails around the reservoir, good for a relaxed hike with lakeside views.
Airports
How to reach Shencottah by plane.
Major international airport in Thiruvananthapuram; good for international and domestic connections; roughly 150-180 km from Shencottah.
Large domestic hub with some international flights; about 150-180 km away; good for most travel needs.
Small domestic-focused airport serving the region; approximately 120-150 km away; convenient for certain routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority language is Tamil; a mix of rural farmers, plantation workers, and small-town residents.
Proximity to Kerala means some Malayali communities and cross-border family ties.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools and communities; local games and informal leagues are common.
Popular in open grounds and schools, especially on weekends.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shencottah.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; look for thalis or chables; ask for no fish or meat when ordering.