Things To Do
in Tennala
Tennala is a small town in Kerala characterized by lush green paddy fields, coconut groves and a relaxed pace of life typical of Kerala's rural belt. It serves as a quiet gateway to nearby backwaters, small hill ranges and cultural villages where traditional crafts and festivals are still practiced. The town's markets and roadside stalls offer fresh seafood, spices and regional snacks, while modest temples and mosques reflect the area's communal diversity.
Tennala is best for travelers looking for low-key nature outings, authentic local food and a glimpse of everyday Kerala life away from larger tourist hubs.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local eatery, where you can savor traditional South Indian dosas and filter coffee. Afterward, wander through the historic streets of Tennala, taking in the beautiful architecture from the colonial era. Don't forget to visit the local market, where you can find vibrant textiles and handcrafted goods.
After lunch at a quaint café, head to the Tennala Fort, an impressive structure that offers a glimpse into the area's rich history. Spend some time exploring the fort's surroundings and enjoy panoramic views of the landscape. As you stroll through the nearby gardens, keep an eye out for the diverse flora and fauna that call this area home.
In the evening, indulge in a local dinner at a restaurant known for its traditional Tamil cuisine. As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the riverbank, where you can observe the locals engaging in various evening activities. Conclude your day with a visit to a cultural performance, showcasing local music and dance traditions.
Begin your day with an energizing breakfast before setting out for the Tennala Hills, where nature awaits. The fresh air and scenic views will invigorate you as you hike along the well-marked trails, surrounded by lush greenery. Look out for unique bird species and other wildlife during your ascent to the hilltop.
After a fulfilling morning hike, enjoy a packed lunch at a scenic viewpoint, soaking in the breathtaking vistas of the valleys below. Spend the afternoon exploring the hidden waterfalls nearby, where you can dip your toes in the cool water and relax amidst nature's beauty. Capture the serene moments with your camera as you marvel at the tranquil surroundings.
As evening approaches, return to town and rejuvenate with a traditional herbal tea at a local café. Attend a cooking class where you can learn to prepare authentic Tamil dishes, guided by a local chef. Savor the fruits of your labor as you enjoy the dinner you prepared, surrounded by new friends.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍛Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| ☕Cup of coffee / tea | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🚕Short auto-rickshaw ride (2–5 km) | $0.50-2 |
| 🏨Budget guesthouse / homestay (per night) | $10-25 |
| 🛵Motorbike rental (daily) | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Lush rural landscapes, backwaters and authentic village life.
- Fresh seafood and traditional Kerala cuisine at local prices.
- Friendly locals and low tourist density—great for relaxed exploration.
- Good base for nearby nature areas and cultural experiences.
- Limited nightlife and fewer tourist amenities compared with big cities.
- Public transport options may be infrequent—reliance on taxis or private vehicles.
- Monsoon rains can disrupt plans and make some rural roads muddy or flooded.
- English may be less commonly spoken in small shops and households—basic Malayalam helps.
- "Namaskaram" - Hello / Greetings
- "Nanni" - Thank you
- "Evide aanu ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Ethra aanu ithu?" - How much does this cost?
- "Shauchalayam evide?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Sukhamano?" - Are you well? / How are you?
Places to Visit in Tennala
Visit one of these nice places.
Calm waterways lined with coconut palms and small fishing boats — excellent for golden-hour shots and reflection photos.
Sweeping green fields, narrow country lanes and traditional houses create classic rural Kerala compositions, especially after rain.
Architectural details, murals and festival processions (if visiting during a festival) provide vibrant cultural photography opportunities — always ask permission before photographing people.
Dynamic scenes of fishermen, colorful fish and market activity — great for candid documentary-style images.
Close-up shots of spices, rubber trees and plantation interiors, plus portrait opportunities with workers and artisans (with consent).
Food in Tennala
Tennala Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A festive vegetarian banquet served on a banana leaf with rice, sambar, olan, thoran and payasam — commonly available during festivals and sometimes at homestays.
Must-Try!
Soft, lacy rice pancakes paired with a mild coconut-based vegetable or chicken stew — a popular breakfast or evening meal.
Fresh coastal fish cooked in a tangy, spicy tamarind and coconut gravy — best tried at local seafood restaurants or family-run shacks.
Steamed rice flour cylinders (puttu) served with spiced black chickpea curry — a hearty regional breakfast.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling daily market selling fresh fish, vegetables, spices and snacks; try fried banana fritters (pazham pori), fresh-cut coconut pieces and local sweets from stall vendors.
Early-morning fish auctions and stalls where you can observe the catch of the day and sample simple grilled or curried seafood prepared nearby.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Wear modest clothing—cover shoulders and knees—especially when visiting religious sites or rural households.
Remove shoes before entering temples, mosques or some homes. Follow local rules about photography and dress in places of worship.
Offer and receive items with your right hand and avoid pointing with your feet; this is considered polite behavior.
Always request permission before taking portraits of locals, especially women and elders; a smile and a friendly greeting help.
Safety
Tipping in Tennala
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is modest: rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% in restaurants is appreciated but not mandatory. Tip drivers, guides and hotel staff small amounts for good service. In small shops and street stalls tipping is not expected.
Cash (Indian Rupees) is essential in smaller towns; digital payments via UPI apps (PhonePe, Google Pay) are common in Kerala. Credit/debit cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants but may not work at local stalls—carry small notes and coins.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
(March–May) Hot and humid with temperatures often in the high 20s–mid 30s °C (80s–90s °F). Days can be sweltering—plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon and stay hydrated.
(June–September) Heavy rains and lush scenery; travel can be disrupted by downpours and occasional flooding. This is the best time for dramatic green landscapes and fewer tourists, but boat and trekking options may be limited.
(October–February) Most pleasant period—cooler evenings, lower humidity and clear skies. Ideal for outdoor activities, photography and exploring nearby hills and wildlife areas.
Tennala at Night
Hiking in Tennala
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trek offering panoramic views of the Wayanad plateau and a heart-shaped lake—best attempted as a day trip if you’re prepared for several hours of uphill hiking (permit required).
Protected forest areas in the Western Ghats with biodiversity-rich trails and opportunities to see endemic flora and fauna; guided treks are recommended.
Walks through Nilambur’s teak and mixed forests provide shade, birdlife and insights into Kerala’s forest ecosystems—suitable for moderate hikes and nature walks.
A moderate hike culminating in prehistoric rock carvings and expansive views—combine cultural interest with a rewarding climb.
Airports
How to reach Tennala by plane.
The nearest major airport for many parts of northern Kerala—serves domestic and international flights. From the airport take a taxi or pre-arranged transfer; regional buses and trains connect to nearby towns.
Another accessible airport offering domestic and limited international services; it may be closer depending on which side of Tennala you are staying. Taxi or car hire are the most convenient transfers.
Larger international hub to the south with many flight options—expect a longer drive (several hours) but good ground transport links by train and road to reach Tennala.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population practices Hinduism, maintaining temples, festivals and traditional cultural practices.
A substantial Muslim community contributes to the town's cultural fabric, with mosques, cuisine variations and festivals.
Christian communities are also present, with local churches and community events adding to the area's diversity.
Many residents are involved in agriculture—rice, coconut, rubber and spice cultivation—shaping the local economy and landscape.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is widely played and followed in Kerala—local matches and school tournaments are common in towns and villages.
Cricket is a popular pastime across India and Tennala is no exception—informal street and field games are frequent among all age groups.
Community sports like volleyball, tug-of-war and local traditional games feature in school competitions and festival days.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tennala.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; specify 'no onion no garlic' if required and ask for plain rice, vegetable stews, pulses and coconut-based dishes which are common.
Many dishes can be adapted—rice-based items (appam, puttu) and vegetable preparations are often naturally gluten-free; communicate requirements clearly and be cautious with mixed gravies that may contain dairy.
Coconut and peanuts are common ingredients—inform cooks about allergies and prefer freshly prepared dishes from clean, reputable places.