Things To Do
in Shertallai
Shertallai is a small coastal village in Kerala's Kollam region, tucked between the Arabian Sea and the Ashtamudi backwaters. The area is characterized by fishing communities, swaying coconut palms, and quiet lanes that reveal traditional Kerala life. Visitors enjoy easy access to backwater cruises, fresh seafood, and nearby wetlands that attract waterbirds.
Shertallai is low-key and ideal for travelers seeking nature, photography, and a slower pace away from major tourist hubs.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a walk through the picturesque lanes of Shertallai, where centuries-old architecture tells the story of the town's rich cultural heritage. Visit the historic St. Thomas Church, known for its stunning stained glass windows and tranquil atmosphere. Enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast at a local eatery, savoring dishes like idli and sambar.
Spend your afternoon visiting the ancient temples scattered throughout Shertallai, including the revered Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple. Engage with the local artisans as they demonstrate traditional crafts, offering a glimpse into the region's artistic legacy. Take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Vembanad Lake, absorbing the serene beauty of the water and its surrounding greenery.
As dusk approaches, find a cozy spot at a lakeside café to watch the sunset over Vembanad Lake, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. Relish a dinner of fresh Kerala seafood while enjoying live music that showcases local culture. End your day with a leisurely walk through the bustling local market, where you can shop for handicrafts and spices.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before boarding a traditional houseboat for a unique exploration of the Kerala backwaters. Glide through the tranquil waters, surrounded by lush greenery and coconut groves, as you witness the daily life of local fishermen and farmers on the banks. Enjoy the gentle breeze and the sounds of nature as your houseboat captain shares insights about the region's ecology.
After a delightful lunch on board, continue your backwater journey, stopping at small villages to experience local culture firsthand. Interact with friendly villagers, watch them engage in traditional fishing methods, and learn about the cultivation of rice in the surrounding paddy fields. Capture beautiful photographs of the scenic vistas that unfold at every turn.
As the sun begins to set, the houseboat will anchor in a serene spot, offering you the chance to unwind on deck. Enjoy a freshly prepared dinner onboard, featuring local specialties such as fish curry and appam. Conclude your day by stargazing over the calm waters, surrounded by the sounds of nature.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍛Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range) | $12-25 |
| 🚕Short taxi/autocab ride | $1-5 |
| 🚌Local bus ride | $0.20-0.80 |
| 🏨Budget guesthouse / homestay (per night) | $10-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful coastal and backwater scenery ideal for relaxation and photography
- Fresh seafood and authentic Kerala cuisine
- Friendly local communities and opportunities to experience traditional life
- Proximity to backwaters and nearby natural attractions like Thenmala and Munroe Island
- Limited nightlife and fewer tourist amenities compared with bigger cities
- Monsoon rains can disrupt travel and outdoor plans (June–September)
- Fewer luxury accommodation options directly in the village
- Language barrier for those who don't speak Malayalam in smaller shops and rural areas
- "Namaskaram" - Hello / Greetings
- "Nanni" - Thank you
- "Sukhamano?" - Are you well? / How are you?
- "Ivide evideya? (ഇവിടെ എവിടെയാണ്?)" - Where is it?
- "Enikku ... venam" - I want ...
Places to Visit in Shertallai
Visit one of these nice places.
Expansive waterways with houseboats, reflections, and early-morning mist — excellent for golden-hour and birdlife photography.
A quiet shoreline perfect for sunrise/sunset silhouettes, fishing boats, and coastal scenes with coconut palms.
Capture colorful traditional fishing boats, nets, fishermen at work, and the rhythm of daily coastal life.
Close-up shots of daily life, toddy shops, roadside shrines, and textured rural architecture.
Food in Shertallai
Shertallai Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pearl spot fish marinated and wrapped in banana leaf, grilled or pan-fried; commonly found at local seafood eateries and homestays.
Must-Try!
Tangy, coconut-based fish curry typically served with red rice or appam; available at most family-run restaurants.
Steamed rice-flour cylinders (puttu) paired with spiced black-chickpea curry — a popular breakfast option in Kerala.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small local market near the coast selling fresh fish, coconut, greens and seasonal fruit; grab fried snacks and fresh coconut water from stalls.
In Kollam town (short drive away) you'll find broader street-food options such as dosa, idli, banana fritters, and local sweets—try the coastal fish fry at evening stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or conservative households; remove shoes and cover shoulders and knees.
A simple 'Namaskaram' with folded hands is polite; use the right hand for giving and receiving items.
Follow temple rules (no alcohol, separate areas for men/women in some places, photography restrictions) and ask before photographing worshippers.
Avoid public displays of affection and be mindful when discussing religion or politics; locals are generally friendly and open to conversation.
Safety
Tipping in Shertallai
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is modest: 5–10% in restaurants if service isn't included; small tips (₹20–50) for drivers, guides, or porters are appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash (Indian rupees) remains common in villages and markets; UPI and mobile wallets are widely used locally, and credit/debit cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants. Carry some cash for small vendors and ferry fares.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to May bring hot, humid weather; daytime temperatures rise and afternoons can be uncomfortable, so plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon and stay hydrated.
June to September sees heavy rains and strong breezes — the landscape is lush and beautiful but travel can be disrupted, and swimming is often unsafe due to currents.
October to February is the most pleasant time: cooler, drier weather ideal for boating, hiking nearby hills, and photography; book in advance around festival dates.
Shertallai at Night
Hiking in Shertallai
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Around an hour’s drive away, Thenmala offers well-marked trails, canopy walks and gentle hikes through reserved forest areas — family-friendly and scenic.
Low-elevation walks across narrow island tracks, mangrove edges and paddy fields offering views of rural backwater life; best done at low tide and with a local guide.
A prominent peak in the southern Western Ghats with restricted permits and scheduled trekking seasons; suited for experienced hikers seeking biodiversity and panoramic views.
Airports
How to reach Shertallai by plane.
Approximately 70–90 km south depending on route — the closest major airport with domestic and international flights; reachable by taxi or train to Kollam and then local transport.
Around 130–170 km to the north, depending on traffic — larger hub with many domestic and international connections; good option if flying from cities with better connections to the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population speaks Malayalam and practices Hinduism, Christianity or Islam with deep local cultural traditions.
Long-established coastal families whose livelihoods rely on fishing and related trades; important custodians of local maritime knowledge.
Residents involved in coconut farming, coir-making, spice processing and small enterprises that support village life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional snake-boat races held during Onam and festival seasons in Kerala; a vibrant local cultural spectacle in nearby backwaters.
The most widely played and followed sport across the region, with informal matches in village grounds and organized local leagues.
Popular at grassroots level; many youngsters play in coastal and village fields.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shertallai.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian food is widely available; order dosas, idlis, vegetable curries, and banana-based dishes. Specify 'no ghee' if you avoid animal fats and ask about fish-based gravies in mixed dishes.
Vegan options exist (rice, lentils, vegetable curries) but confirm the use of ghee or yogurt. Coconut oil is commonly used and is vegan-friendly.
Many local staples are naturally gluten-free (rice-based dishes, fish, coconut preparations); confirm wheat-based items like paniyaram or parotta before ordering.