Things To Do
in Achankovil

Achankovil is a picturesque village located in the Kollam district of Kerala, India, surrounded by lush greenery and serene landscapes. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, particularly its ancient temples, and is a significant pilgrimage site for many. The Achankovil River flows through the region, adding to its natural beauty and charm.

Visitors can experience the tranquility of rural Kerala while indulging in the local traditions and cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Spiritual Heart of Achankovil
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the famous Achankovil Mahadeva Temple, known for its stunning architecture and spiritual ambiance.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a traditional Kerala meal at a local restaurant and then visit the nearby Kottarakkara Sree Muruga Temple, which is rich in history and culture.

evening
:

Take a peaceful stroll along the banks of the Achankovil River, enjoying the serene views and the sounds of nature.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Local Experiences
morning
:

Hike through the nearby forests to explore the biodiversity of the region and catch glimpses of local wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit a local market to experience the vibrant culture and buy handmade crafts and local produce.

evening
:

Relax at a local café, sipping on fresh coconut water or tea while enjoying the sunset views over the village.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$3-5
Cup of Tea/Coffee$0.50-1
🛒Local Produce (1kg)$1-2
🏨Budget Hotel (per night)$10-20
🚖Local Taxi Ride (5km)$2-3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and spiritual significance
  • Lush natural landscapes and serene environment
  • Delicious local cuisine and friendly locals
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options
  • Public transport can be infrequent
  • Language barrier for non-Malayalam speakers
  • "Namaskaram" - Hello
  • "Nanni" - Thank you
  • "Enikku malayalam ariyilla" - I do not know Malayalam
  • "Sukhamano?" - How are you?
  • "Paniyilla" - No problem

Places to Visit in Achankovil

Visit one of these nice places.

Achankovil River

Capture stunning sunset views along the river with lush greenery as a backdrop.

Achankovil Mahadeva Temple

The intricate architecture and serene environment of the temple offer great photography opportunities.

Local Market Scenes

The vibrant colors and bustling atmosphere of the local market provide excellent candid photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Achankovil

Achankovil offers a delightful array of local dishes that showcase the rich flavors of Kerala cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and traditional cooking methods.

Achankovil Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sadhya

A traditional feast served on a banana leaf, consisting of various vegetarian dishes, rice, and payasam.

Must-Try!

Karimeen Pollichathu

Pearl spot fish marinated in spices, wrapped in banana leaves and grilled to perfection.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Achankovil Market

A bustling local market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and street food stalls offering local snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Achankovil experiences a tropical climate, with three main seasons: a hot summer from March to May, a monsoon season from June to September, and a mild winter from December to February. Average temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C during summer, while winter temperatures can drop to around 15°C. The monsoon season brings heavy rains and cooling breezes, making the landscape lush and vibrant.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always greet and show respect to elders; it is a significant part of the local culture.

Dress Modestly

Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or religious sites.

Remove Shoes

It is customary to remove shoes before entering homes and places of worship.

Safety Guide

Safety

Achankovil is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to take common precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night and securing your belongings. Be cautious during the monsoon season due to slippery roads and potential flooding.

Tipping in Achankovil

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping in Restaurants

A tip of around 10% of the bill is appreciated in restaurants, though not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but digital payment methods like UPI and cards are increasingly common in larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (December - February)

Mild and pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer (March - May)

Hot and humid conditions; early morning and late evening outings are recommended.

Monsoon (June - September)

Heavy rainfall transforms the landscape into a lush paradise; it's perfect for nature lovers but be cautious of slippery roads.

Post-Monsoon (October - November)

Cooler temperatures and clear skies make this an excellent time for travel and exploration.

Nightlife Guide

Achankovil at Night

Achankovil has a calm and serene nightlife atmosphere, with most activities winding down by nightfall. There are a few local cafes and tea shops that stay open late, where you can enjoy tea and snacks while socializing with locals. Traditional music and dance performances occasionally take place, particularly during festival seasons, offering a glimpse into the local culture.

Hiking in Achankovil

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Munnar Trek

A scenic trek through tea plantations and rolling hills, located about 90 km from Achankovil.

Agasthyakoodam Trail

A challenging hike through the Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve, known for its rich biodiversity, located approximately 50 km from Achankovil.

Airports

How to reach Achankovil by plane.

Trivandrum International Airport (TRV)

Located approximately 70 km from Achankovil, this airport is the nearest major airport, offering domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Achankovil is relatively walkable, especially in the village center where amenities are concentrated. The streets are lined with shops, cafes, and local attractions, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas may have uneven terrain, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Farmers

The majority of the population consists of farmers who grow rice, coconut, and spices, contributing significantly to the local economy.

Pilgrims

Many visitors to Achankovil are pilgrims visiting the temples, especially during festival times, creating a vibrant community atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Cricket is immensely popular in the region, with local matches often played in open fields.

Kabbadi

A traditional team sport that is widely played in local communities, fostering teamwork and physical endurance.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Achankovil is generally light, with most travel done by auto-rickshaws and local taxis. Public transportation is available, but services may be infrequent, especially during off-peak hours. Roads are mostly well-maintained, but caution is needed during the monsoon season due to potential waterlogging.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Achankovil.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most local restaurants offer a variety of vegetarian dishes, catering to those with dietary restrictions.

Spice Levels

Kerala cuisine is known for its spices; it's advisable to specify your preference for spice levels when ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Achankovil are basic, with a few local clinics available for minor ailments. For more serious health issues, larger hospitals in Kollam city are recommended. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover India

Read more in our India 2025 Travel Guide.

India Travel Guide