Things To Do
in Ulliyeri
Ulliyeri is a small, quiet town in Kozhikode district of Kerala, surrounded by paddy fields, coconut groves and rural villages. It serves as a low-key gateway to nearby natural attractions in the Western Ghats and to the coastal city of Kozhikode (Calicut). Daily life is centered on agriculture, local markets and small shops, offering an authentic slice of Kerala village culture.
Visitors come for peaceful village walks, simple homestays and easy access to waterfalls, reservoirs and coastal areas within an hour's drive.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike along the lush green trails of the Western Ghats surrounding Ulliyeri, where the cool morning breeze invigorates your spirits. Take in the picturesque views of the valleys and streams as the sun rises, painting the landscape in vibrant colors. After working up an appetite, enjoy a traditional Kerala breakfast at a local homestay.
Spend your afternoon visiting the nearby temples, each showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region. Engage with locals to learn about their traditions and craftsmanship, potentially purchasing handmade artifacts as souvenirs. If time permits, take a leisurely walk through the quaint village streets, immersing yourself in the local way of life.
As the day winds down, find a cozy spot by a riverside or hillside to enjoy the stunning sunset over the mountains. Savor a delicious dinner featuring authentic Kerala cuisine, perhaps trying out the famous fish curry or ghee rice. Conclude your night with stories around a campfire, listening to local folklore shared by friendly residents.
Embark on a thrilling nature walk exploring the stunning biodiversity of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The morning sun casts a soft glow on the vibrant flora and fauna, providing ample opportunities for photography and birdwatching. Keep an eye out for exotic wildlife as you traverse through the trails, making it a memorable experience.
Return to Ulliyeri for a fulfilling lunch and then visit the local spice plantation to learn about the various spices cultivated in this tropical paradise. Participate in a guided tour, where you'll get to smell, touch, and taste the ingredients that make Kerala's cuisine so unique. Indulge in some yoga or meditation amidst the serene environment, rejuvenating your soul.
For the evening, plan a visit to a local market to experience the lively atmosphere and interact with vendors selling spices, crafts, and clothing. Afterward, enjoy a calm dinner at a local eatery, where you can relish freshly prepared seafood. Wind down your day with a walk under the starlit sky, reflecting on the day’s adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍛Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $1.50-4 |
| ☕Tea/coffee from a roadside shop | $0.20-0.70 |
| 🚕Short auto-rickshaw ride (within town) | $0.50-2 |
| 🛏️Budget guesthouse / homestay per night | $10-30 |
| 🎟️Local attraction entry or small boat ride | $1-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural Kerala experience with scenic landscapes and friendly locals
- Affordable travel costs and homestay options
- Easy access to Western Ghats attractions and Kozhikode’s coast
- Lush greenery, good birdwatching and nature opportunities
- Limited tourist infrastructure and nightlife within Ulliyeri itself
- Public transport can be infrequent for reaching some natural sites
- Monsoon season can disrupt plans and make some trails unsafe
- Fewer restaurant and shopping options compared with a city
- "Namaskaram (നമസ്കരം)" - Hello / Greetings
- "Sugamano? (സുഖമാണോ?)" - How are you?
- "Nanni (നന്ദി)" - Thank you
- "Evide? (എവിടെ?)" - Where?
- "Idhu enthu? (ഇത് എന്തു?)" - What is this?
- "Kshamikkanam (ക്ഷമിക്കണം)" - Excuse me / Sorry
Places to Visit in Ulliyeri
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide-open green expanses, especially photogenic at sunrise and during the post-monsoon rice-growing season; ideal for landscape and rural-life shots.
Water reflections, small islands and boat activity provide scenic compositions — best visited early morning or late afternoon.
Simple temple architecture, processions and daily rituals offer candid cultural photography opportunities (ask permission before close-up portraits).
A dramatic waterfall chain in the Western Ghats — offers dynamic nature shots, long-exposure opportunities and forested backdrops.
Food in Ulliyeri
Ulliyeri Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed rice flour cylinders (puttu) served with a spicy black chickpea (kadala) curry — a classic Kerala breakfast available in local tea shops and small restaurants.
Must-Try!
Tangy and spicy coconut-based fish curry made with tamarind or kokum; best at local seafood restaurants in nearby coastal towns and some Ulliyeri eateries.
Fermented rice pancake (appam) paired with a mild coconut-based vegetable or chicken stew — commonly found in homestays and breakfast spots.
Crispy fried banana chips and sugar-coated banana fritters (pazham pori) make popular snacks sold at markets and roadside stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A compact market where villagers sell fresh produce, spices, coconut products and snacks — great for fresh fruits, local bananas, and banana chips.
If you travel to Kozhikode, try seafood eateries, 'bhutta' (roasted corn), and bakeries famous for local sweets and halwa; the larger markets offer more street-food variety.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite 'Namaskaram' or a smile is common; show respect to elders and remove shoes before entering homes and temples.
Use the right hand for giving or receiving items and for eating; the left hand is considered unclean in traditional contexts.
Dress conservatively in public and when visiting religious sites — cover shoulders and knees; women may prefer wearing a kurta or long skirt in conservative settings.
Always ask before photographing people, especially in religious settings and private homes; many will agree but appreciate being asked.
Safety
Tipping in Ulliyeri
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not compulsory. Small tips for restaurant staff (round up the bill), drivers and local guides are common; in homestays a modest tip on departure is welcomed.
Cash (Indian Rupees) is widely used for small purchases. Digital payments (UPI apps like Google Pay/PhonePe, and Paytm) are commonly accepted in shops; credit/debit cards work at larger hotels and restaurants but may not be accepted at small stalls or rural vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with daytime temperatures often in the high 20s–mid 30s °C (80s–90s °F). Travel early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat; stay hydrated and wear lightweight, breathable clothing.
Heavy southwest monsoon brings frequent rain, lush scenery and dramatic skies; many rural roads can be muddy and some trails slippery. It's an excellent time for greenery and waterfalls, but expect interruptions to travel plans.
Pleasant and humid with clearer skies; this is one of the best times for outdoor activities, sightseeing and photography as landscapes remain green but rains taper off.
Mild and comfortable with cooler nights (low 20s °C / high 60s–low 70s °F). Ideal for sightseeing, markets and outdoor treks — light layers are sufficient in the evenings.
Ulliyeri at Night
Hiking in Ulliyeri
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A chain of waterfalls and short trekking routes in the Western Ghats offering scenic cascades and forested trails — best in or just after the monsoon season for full flow.
Moderate walks and birdwatching paths around the reservoir with opportunities for boat rides and lakeside photography.
Higher-elevation treks in the Western Ghats for longer hikes and panoramic views; access requires more planning and sometimes a local guide.
Forest tracks and reservoir-side walks in the Kozhikode district that offer wildlife viewing and quieter trekking away from crowds.
Airports
How to reach Ulliyeri by plane.
The closest major airport serving Kozhikode and surrounding areas; offers domestic flights across India and selected international connections. From Ulliyeri it's typically a 45–75 minute drive depending on traffic.
Located to the north of Kozhikode district; useful as an alternative for some domestic and international flights, generally a 1.5–2.5 hour drive from Ulliyeri.
Larger airport with extensive domestic and international connections; about a 3–4 hour drive, useful if combining trips across southern Kerala.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of the population practices Hinduism, with local temples playing community roles and traditional festivals observed.
Significant Muslim population in Kozhikode district with mosques and cultural traditions; Halal cuisine and festivals are part of local life.
Christian families and churches are present, contributing to the cultural diversity and local festivals.
Many residents are engaged in agriculture (paddy, coconut, banana), coir and small-scale trades — the backbone of village economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Kerala — local playgrounds and open fields host matches and children frequently play in the evenings.
Football has a strong following in parts of Kerala including Kozhikode; local tournaments and school-level matches are common.
Volleyball and traditional local games are played in village grounds; Kalaripayattu (martial art) is practiced culturally in the region though less visible in small towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ulliyeri.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; Kerala vegetarian dishes often use coconut, curry leaves and mustard. Ask for 'satham' (plain rice) and vegetable curries; many roadside eateries will accommodate.
Many dishes (plain rice, vegetable curries, coconut-based preparations) are naturally vegan, but confirm that ghee or dairy isn't used in preparations if avoiding dairy.
Seafood and meat sold at most eateries follow local supply; halal meat is commonly available in the region. Ask or look for Muslim-owned restaurants if you need halal certification.
Rice-based staples like puttu, appam and steamed rice are gluten-free; avoid wheat-based snacks unless specifically confirmed as millet or rice.