Things To Do
in Tonakkal
Tonakkal is a green village in Kerala's Malabar region, where winding lanes thread through coconut groves and spice gardens. It sits at the foothills of the Western Ghats, surrounded by terraced fields, rivers, and tranquil backwaters. Life here centers on markets, temple rituals, and traditional crafts such as coir weaving and spice processing.
Visitors come for a relaxed tempo, flavorful coastal cuisine, and easy access to hill-country hikes and water-based channels.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local eatery, savoring traditional South Indian dishes like idli and dosa. After your meal, take a stroll through the village to immerse yourself in daily life, watching locals engage in farming and handicrafts. Capture the colorful scenes with your camera as you interact with friendly villagers, providing a glimpse into Tonakkal's rich culture.
Visit a nearby temple to understand the spiritual aspect of the region, where you can witness rituals and perhaps even participate in a local ceremony. Enjoy a simple lunch with a family, experiencing home-cooked meals that showcase regional flavors. A leisurely walk in the fields or along the river will allow you to connect with nature and appreciate the stunning landscape.
As the sun sets, head back to the village to enjoy an outdoor communal dinner with local families, sharing stories over delicious regional dishes. The starry sky offers an enchanting backdrop as children play and adults share tales of tradition and folklore. Wrap up your day around a bonfire, listening to local music and experiencing the warmth of community.
Awake early and embark on a guided trek through the lush forests surrounding Tonakkal, breathing in the fresh air and marveling at the diverse flora and fauna. Spot unique bird species and listen to the sounds of nature as you navigate through scenic trails. The morning is perfect for photography enthusiasts eager to capture the untouched beauty of the wilderness.
Return to the village for a hearty lunch, then head out to a nearby wildlife sanctuary for an afternoon of exploration. Engage in a guided safari or walking tour to observe wildlife in their natural habitats, with opportunities to see uncommon species. The afternoon will provide ample thrills as you learn about conservation efforts in the area.
Conclude your day with a sunset picnic at a viewpoint overlooking the sanctuary, where you can share your adventures and reflect on the day's discoveries. Settle in as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. Gather your thoughts while listening to the tranquil sounds of nature, creating a memorable end to an exciting day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🚗Local transportation (one-way ride) | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or guesthouse (per night) | $15-40 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at a cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich natural beauty and tranquil pace
- Access to spice plantations, backwaters, and hill country
- Delicious, coconut-forward Kerala cuisine
- Warm, welcoming locals and authentic village experiences
- Accessible day trips to nearby towns and natural highlights
- Limited nightlife compared to big cities
- Humid and rainy seasons can disrupt outdoor plans
- Rural areas may have limited English proficiency
- Smaller-scale tourist infrastructure in peak seasons
- "Namaskaaram" - Hello
- "Sugamano?" - How are you?
- "Nanni" - Thank you
- "Enikku oru taxi venda" - I would like a taxi
- "Enente peru [name] aanu" - My name is [name]
Places to Visit in Tonakkal
Visit one of these nice places.
Misty mornings along the calm river with palm-fringed banks and soft light—perfect for serene landscape shots.
Intricate wood-and-stone architecture with carved pillars and ceremonial courtyards; best captured during festival lighting or early quiet hours.
Iconic palm-lined shores and reflective water, ideal for golden-hour photography.
Narrow, shaded lanes lined with pepper vines, cinnamon trees, and bright green undergrowth.
Traditional looms and ropes in practice; a glimpse into craft and texture for gritty, cultural shots.
Food in Tonakkal
Tonakkal Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant coconut-based fish curry, made with fresh river or sea fish, curry leaves, and tamarind notes.
Must-Try!
Tapioca (kappa) paired with a spicy fish curry—a classic Malabar staple.
Steamed rice cakes (puttu) served with a spiced black chickpea curry, a popular breakfast or light meal.
Pearl spot fish wrapped in banana leaf with spices and coconut, roasted to a tender finish.
Rich, roasted-spice beef curry often enjoyed with rice or appam in Malabar households.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively daily market brimming with fresh fish, vegetables, spices, and street snacks like banana chips and vadakkal fries. Great place to observe daily life and taste small bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering temples, and avoid pointing feet toward sacred areas. Seek permission before taking photos of ceremonies or people.
Greet with Namaste and use both hands when presenting or receiving items. Speak softly in public and respect local dress codes and private spaces.
Ask before photographing individuals or rituals; some ceremonies may prohibit photography.
Safety
Tipping in Tonakkal
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, rounding up bills or leaving 5–10% for good service is common; hotel staff and guides often appreciate small tips at the end of a service.
Cash remains widely accepted, while many places also accept cards and Indian digital wallets (UPI, Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm). Some rural shops may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to May brings heat and humidity; mornings are best for outdoor activities. Stay hydrated, wear lightweight clothing, and seek shade during peak sun hours. Fresh seafood and cooling drinks are widely available.
June to September delivers heavy rainfall and lush greenery; expect slippery paths and flexible plans. Pack a reliable rain jacket, waterproof footwear, and be prepared for occasional road slowdowns due to flooding or landslides in hill areas.
October to February offers cooler, comfortable days with mild evenings. This is a pleasant time for hikes, temple visits, and backwater excursions without the intense heat.
Tonakkal at Night
Hiking in Tonakkal
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate hikes through forested slopes with viewpoints over terraced fields and distant towns.
Seasonal paths through rice paddies that offer reflective, low-intensity treks around sunset.
Airports
How to reach Tonakkal by plane.
Located in Mattanur, Kannur district; serves domestic and some international flights; about 50–60 km from Tonakkal by road.
Calicut International Airport; major domestic connectivity with some international routes; roughly 110–130 km from Tonakkal by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Major local population speaking Malayalam, with a mix of Hindu, Muslim, and Christian communities living together in the area.
A steady stream of domestic and international visitors seeking culture, nature, and spice heritage.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools and local grounds; weekend matches are common.
Popular on beaches and in town leagues; community clubs organize regular games.
Common in homes and community centers; easy for visitors to join during evenings.
Cultural demonstrations and training centers highlight traditional Kerala martial arts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tonakkal.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; look for dishes like avial, thoran, olan, and olan-based meals made with coconut. If you avoid onion and garlic, politely ask for traditional satvik preparations and confirm ingredients.