Things To Do
in Attingal
Attingal is a historic town in Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram district, located inland northeast of the state capital. It sits amid river and canal networks that contribute to a lush, agrarian landscape and a relaxed pace of life. The town is known for its temples, bustling weekly markets, and as a gateway to nearby backwaters and hill stations.
With easy access to major routes and a friendly local vibe, Attingal makes a convenient base for exploring central Kerala.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a traditional Kerala breakfast at a local eatery, where you can savor dishes like puttu and kadala curry. After breakfast, visit the historic Attingal Palace, a beautifully preserved structure that offers a glimpse into the region's royal past. Enjoy the tranquil surroundings and take photographs of the intricate architecture and lush gardens.
Head to the nearby Kizhakkethil Temple, known for its vibrant festivals and stunning artwork. Spend the afternoon participating in the temple ceremonies and soaking in the spiritual atmosphere. As the sun begins its descent, stroll through the local markets, where you’ll find an array of spices, textiles, and handicrafts.
Wind down your day with a dinner at a waterfront restaurant, indulging in fresh seafood delicacies while enjoying the mesmerizing sunset over the backwaters. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the banks, where you can listen to the sounds of nature and reflect on the day's adventures. If you're lucky, you might catch a local music performance that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the area.
Wake up early and head to the nearby beach to catch the sunrise, where the golden hues reflecting off the water will take your breath away. Enjoy a refreshing swim or a long walk along the shoreline to feel the soft sand beneath your feet. Don't forget to grab some coconut water from a local vendor to keep you energized.
After a serene morning, make your way to the nearby hills for a hike through lush greenery and scenic vistas. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst nature, letting the sounds of chirping birds accompany your meal. The afternoon can also be spent visiting local farms to see firsthand the agricultural practices that sustain the region.
Return to Attingal in the evening and explore a local art gallery that features the works of regional artists. Take in the vibrant colors and unique styles that are representative of Kerala's art scene. For dinner, participate in a cooking class that introduces you to making classic Kerala dishes, culminating your experiential day with a homemade feast.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🚍Local transit (bus/taxi) within town | $0.50-3 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $0.30-1.50 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $25-60 |
| 🧭Local SIM card | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and warm, welcoming locals
- Relaxed pace of life with easy access to nature and history
- Smaller nightlife scene in Attingal itself
- Some services and facilities are limited compared with bigger cities
- "Namaskaaram" - Hello / Greetings
- "Nanni" - Thank you
- "Dayavayi" - Please
- "Ithu entha vil aanu?" - What is the price of this?
- "Enikku oru chaaya vendi" - I would like a cup of tea
Places to Visit in Attingal
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic ruins with a sense of place and views over surrounding greenery; best photographed at early morning or late afternoon light.
Coastal fort with colonial architecture and ocean backdrops; ideal for dramatic seascapes and sunrise photos.
Calm riverfront at dusk or dawn; long exposure works well to capture reflections and silhouettes.
Food in Attingal
Attingal Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tapioca served with a spicy fish curry; a coastal staple widely available at local eateries.
Must-Try!
Steamed rice flour cylinders paired with black chickpea curry; a popular breakfast or light meal.
Fermented rice pancake with a coconut milk-based vegetable or meat stew.
Pearl spot fish marinated with spices and cooked in banana leaves; a Kerala classic found in seaside spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market offering fresh vegetables, fish, spices, and everyday staples; great for tasting local produce.
Crispy fried banana snacks and other fried treats typical of Kerala street food.
Pazham pori (ripe plantain fritters) and other light bites commonly found near busy lanes and markets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly; remove shoes before entering temples; seek permission before photographing people, and respect locals’ rituals and timings.
A respectful Namaskaram (hand palms together) is common; avoid loud conversations in sacred spaces.
Public displays of affection are discouraged; keep noise to a minimum in residential and sacred areas.
Safety
Tipping in Attingal
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory. Small tips (about 10-15 INR or ~1-2 USD) to hotel porters, guides, and waitstaff are appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted; many places also accept cards and digital payments (UPI, Paytm, Google Pay). Carry some cash for markets and smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with temperatures often in the 30s°C; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, light clothing, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Heavy rains and humidity; check road conditions, carry a compact umbrella or rain jacket, and expect occasional flooding in low-lying areas.
Pleasant and mild mornings with warmer afternoons; ideal for outdoor sightseeing and photography.
Attingal at Night
Hiking in Attingal
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hill station with tea plantations and forest trails; offers moderate trekking and panoramic views within a couple of hours’ drive.
A higher-elevation trekking area in the Western Ghats; involves longer hikes and hill-forest scenery reachable with a day trip or overnight excursion from the broader Thiruvananthapuram area.
Airports
How to reach Attingal by plane.
Major international and domestic airport serving the region; about a 50-70 km drive from Attingal depending on route.
Nearby international airport located farther away; useful for longer trips across Kerala or India; approximately 180-200 km from Attingal.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Major community, culturally influential in local traditions and festivals.
Significant presence with mosques and traditional markets reflecting the community.
Another important demographic group with churches and community events nearby.
Longstanding occupational groups central to Attingal’s economy and daily life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched across Kerala, with local leagues and informal matches common in towns including Attingal.
Popular among youth and in schools; local pitches and informal games are common in the region.
A favored indoor/outdoor sport in community centers and homes.
Traditional boat races occur in Kerala’s backwaters; some nearby routes offer scenic opportunities for viewing or gentle paddling.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Attingal.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Kerala offers abundant vegetarian options (avial, thoran, olan, sambar, curries with coconut). Many restaurants can accommodate no onion/no garlic requests when indicated; look for temple-style eateries for stricter vegetarian needs.