Things To Do
in Changanācheri
Changanācheri is a picturesque town located in the Kottayam district of Kerala, India. Known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant festivals, it offers a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences. The town is surrounded by lush greenery, paddy fields, and serene backwaters, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
With its historical temples and active local community, Changanācheri is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the famous Changanācheri Sri Krishnaswamy Temple, known for its intricate architecture and spiritual ambiance.
After lunch, explore the local markets for traditional handicrafts and textiles. Visit the nearby St. Augustine's Church, an architectural marvel.
Enjoy a traditional Kerala meal at a local restaurant followed by a leisurely stroll along the backwaters.
Begin your day with a visit to the scenic Vaikom Lake, where you can enjoy bird watching and the beautiful sunrise.
Take a guided tour of the nearby paddy fields and learn about traditional farming practices, followed by a visit to a local tea plantation.
Wrap up your visit with a cultural show featuring traditional dance forms of Kerala, such as Kathakali or Mohiniyattam.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a local restaurant | $3-$5 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $1-$2 |
| 🚌Local bus fare | $0.30 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $10-$20 |
| 🚕Taxi fare (short ride) | $2-$3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant festivals.
- Beautiful natural landscapes and serene backwaters.
- Delicious local cuisine with various vegetarian options.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Language barrier for non-Malayalam speakers.
- Public transport can be infrequent and crowded.
- "Namaskaram" - Hello
- "Sukhamaano?" - How are you?
- "Nanni" - Thank you
- "Enikku vilichu tharu" - Please call me
- "Kaalam enna?" - What time is it?
Places to Visit in Changanācheri
Visit one of these nice places.
The intricate architecture and vibrant colors of the temple make for stunning photographs.
The serene waters and lush surroundings provide a perfect backdrop for landscape photography.
The Gothic architecture of the church is captivating and offers great photo opportunities.
Food in Changanācheri
Changanācheri Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Soft, rice-based pancakes served with a flavorful coconut stew, perfect for breakfast.
Must-Try!
Steamed rice cake served with black chickpeas curry, a traditional Kerala breakfast.
Spicy and tangy fish curry made with local fish and coconut milk.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling local market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and street food stalls.
Enjoy local snacks like banana chips, pazham pori (banana fritters), and spicy goli bajji.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When visiting temples or religious sites, wear conservative clothing.
Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people, especially in rural areas.
It is customary to remove shoes before entering homes and temples.
Safety
Tipping in Changanācheri
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. A small tip of 10% is common in restaurants.
Cash is widely accepted, but digital payments are becoming more common; carry both.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cool and dry weather makes it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Hot and humid; early morning or late evening visits are advisable.
Heavy rainfall; the landscape is lush, but be cautious of slippery roads.
Pleasant weather, ideal for exploring temples and local culture.
Changanācheri at Night
Hiking in Changanācheri
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful hill station about 130 km away, famous for its tea gardens and stunning views.
Located around 30 km away, offers scenic trails along the backwaters and bird sanctuary.
Airports
How to reach Changanācheri by plane.
The nearest major airport, located about 90 km from Changanācheri, offering both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant demographic group, known for their rich cultural traditions and festivals.
Visitors often come to explore the temples and natural beauty, contributing to the local economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in the region, with many local teams and matches held regularly.
Football is also widely played, especially among the youth, with local leagues and tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Changanācheri.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's good to ask for vegetarian-friendly places.
Kerala cuisine can be quite spicy; ask for milder versions if you prefer less heat.