Things To Do
in Cherupulasshēri

Cherupulasshēri is a tranquil Kerala village tucked along emerald backwaters and lush paddy fields. It sits near the edge of the Vembanad Lake, where coconut palms line the waterways and traditional houseboats drift by at a gentle pace. The community thrives on fishing, farming, and a network of small temples and markets that wake up with the sunrise.

Visitors come to slow down, savor coastal Kerala cuisine, and explore scenic waterways away from busier tourist hubs.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Cherupulasshēri's Scenic Temples
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the ancient St. Thomas Church, where you can admire its stunning architecture and tranquil surroundings. Engage with the local community as you witness morning prayers and rituals, immersing yourself in the spiritual atmosphere. Enjoy a traditional Kerala breakfast at a nearby café, savoring the flavors of puttu and kadala curry.

afternoon
:

Post-lunch, explore the historic Cherupulasshēri Mosque, renowned for its intricate woodwork and serene ambience. Take a leisurely walk through the local markets, experiencing the vibrant culture and sampling local snacks like banana chips and murukku. As the sun begins to set, find a cozy spot at a local tea shop to sip on a refreshing cup of chai while observing the lively interactions around you.

evening
:

End your day with a visit to the serene banks of the river, where you can enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature. As twilight descends, watch the sky transform into a canvas of colors while enjoying a simple meal from a nearby eatery. The evening culminates in a relaxed stroll through the village, allowing you to soak in the tranquil night ambiance.

day 2
Nature Walks and Eco-Tourism
morning
:

Awaken early for a guided nature walk through the lush green landscapes surrounding Cherupulasshēri, where you can observe diverse flora and fauna. Listen to the melodious calls of birds as you explore the trails, with knowledgeable guides sharing insights about the local ecosystem. Stop for a brief meditation session by a picturesque waterfall, connecting with nature and rejuvenating your spirit.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the greenery, featuring fresh, local produce that exemplifies Kerala's culinary delights. Afterward, visit an organic farm where you can learn about sustainable farming practices and even participate in some hands-on activities. This immersive experience will deepen your appreciation for the region's agricultural heritage and community.

evening
:

Return to Cherupulasshēri in the evening for a traditional Kerala dinner featuring a thali with an array of local dishes. Engage with local families over dinner, learning about their customs and daily lives. Conclude your day with a cultural showcase of local music and dance, immersing yourself in the rich heritage of Kerala.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$5-12
☕️Tea/coffee at local café$0.5-2
🚲Bike rental for a day$5-10
🧭Local handicraft item$3-15
🏨Budget hotel room per night$20-40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful, tranquil backwaters away from crowds
  • Rich Kerala cuisine and welcoming locals
  • Limited nightlife and few high-end amenities
  • Backwater boats can be weather-dependent
  • "Namaskaaram" - Hello
  • "Ente peru [Name] aanu." - My name is [Name].
  • "Sugham aanu?" - Are you well?
  • "Dayavayi sahayam cheyyamo?" - Could you please help me?
  • "Nanni" - Thank you

Places to Visit in Cherupulasshēri

Visit one of these nice places.

Vembanad Backwaters at Sunset

Expansive waterway with silhouettes of palm trees and traditional houseboats; golden hour lighting is ideal.

Cherupulasshēri Temple Archway

Architectural gateway with ornate carvings, framed by swaying palms and morning mist.

Coconut Palm Corridor by the Canal

Long, shaded canal-side lanes perfect for moody, tropical photography.

Traditional Houseboat Marina

Colorful boats and bamboo rafts tied along the shore create vibrant, cultural scenes.

Dawn Rice Paddies

Fields reflecting the early light, with silhouettes of farmers and water channels.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cherupulasshēri

Kerala cuisine centers on coconut, rice, seafood, and spice-forward dishes. Cherupulasshēri offers homestyle meals that emphasize fresh local ingredients and seasonal produce.

Cherupulasshēri Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Meen Curry

Coconut-based fish curry with tamarind and curry leaves, best enjoyed with rice or puttu.

Must-Try!

Karimeen Polichathu

Pearl spot fish wrapped in banana leaf and slow-cooked with spices for a fragrant, smoky flavor.

Appam with Veg Stew

Fermented rice pancake served with a creamy coconut-vegetable stew; a classic Kerala pairing.

Kappa (Tapioca) with Meen Curry

Steamed tapioca served with a hearty coconut fish curry—comfort food in the backwaters.

Puttu with Kadala

Steamed rice cake with black chickpea curry, often enjoyed for breakfast or a hearty snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Cherupulasshēri Local Market

Fresh fish stalls, coconut vendors, spices, and seasonal produce; great for sampling everyday Kerala flavors.

Backwater Street Snacks

Pazham pori, banana chips, roasted peanuts, and fried fish bites sold along the canal banks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cherupulasshēri experiences a tropical monsoon climate with hot, humid summers; a heavy rainy season (southwest monsoon) brings frequent showers, followed by a relatively mild, pleasant winter. Humidity remains high year-round, and coastal humidity can feel intense during summer afternoons.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Temple etiquette

Remove shoes before entering temples; dress modestly; avoid displays of affection and loud behavior in sacred spaces.

Greet with Namaskaram

Join hands in a slight bow to show respect; address elders with politeness.

Respect for labor and watercraft

Ask permission before photographing people engaged in work; avoid littering along canals and fields.

Safety Guide

Safety

General safety is good in the village; follow standard travel precautions: keep valuables secure, be cautious near water during monsoon, wear life jackets on boats, and avoid poorly lit areas after dark. Verify boat operators’ credentials and weather conditions before backwater trips. Healthwise, use bottled water for drinking and ensure basic first aid supplies are accessible.

Tipping in Cherupulasshēri

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In restaurants, a 5-10% tip is common if service charge isn’t included. Small tips to boat operators, guides, and porters are appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted in village shops. Digital payments via UPI, card, and mobile wallets are increasingly common in larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with temperatures often reaching the 30s-40s C. Stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.

Monsoon

Heavy rainfall and high humidity; rivers swell and backwaters become a lush, dramatic landscape. Boating can be subject to delays; carry rain gear and waterproof bags.

Winter

Pleasant and cooler mornings with temperatures comfortable for outdoor exploration; humidity remains high but rainfall is lower.

Nightlife Guide

Cherupulasshēri at Night

Expect a quiet, village-centered scene with tea stalls, small family-run eateries, and occasional cultural performances. Backwater evenings often feature calm strolls along the shore, occasional live music at local cafes, and cinema screenings in nearby towns rather than urban nightlife. It's a peaceful contrast to bustling city nightlife, ideal for early-to-bed travelers.

Hiking in Cherupulasshēri

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Backwater Ridge Trail

A light-to-moderate hike along canal-side ridges with scenic views of water channels and rice paddies.

Kuttanad Wetland Loop

Remote, water-adjacent trails weaving through lush wetlands and agricultural landscapes.

Vembanad Lake Shore Walk

Coastal path with long views across the lake, ideal for sunrise or sunset photography and relaxed hiking.

Airports

How to reach Cherupulasshēri by plane.

Cochin International Airport (CIAL) – Nedumbassery

Approximately 85-110 km from Cherupulasshēri; best served by road or taxi via the NH66 corridor.

Trivandrum International Airport

About 150-170 km away; alternative option with longer road travel through the coastal belt.

Getting Around

Walkability

The village is highly walkable with flat, compact lanes and canal-front paths. Some longer distances and backwater access may require cycling or small boat transfers, especially during monsoon when paths can be slick.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Fishermen community

Families engaged in daily fishing with boats and nets; strong ties to the waterway economy.

Farmers and plantation workers

Individuals involved in coconut, rice, and spice cultivation; rural markets form social hubs.

Malayali families

Residents primarily speaking Malayalam, with a rich tradition of arts, weddings, and temple rituals.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Widely played and observed; local teams and school-level matchups are common.

Football

Popular among youth and in community grounds; informal matches happen on weekends.

Badminton

A common indoor sport in homes and small clubs; regular practice sessions.

Transportation

Traffic

Roads are mainly narrow and rural; auto-rickshaws, bicycles, and local buses are common. Waterways provide backwater taxis as an alternative transport. Traffic is generally light, with slower speeds during the monsoon due to rain and wet conditions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cherupulasshēri.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most eateries offer vegetarian thalis and curries. Request nofish/oil or coconut milk if needed, and look for plant-based options in village kitchens.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Cherupulasshēri has a local primary health center; for more comprehensive care, the nearest district hospital is in Alappuzha (Alleppey) or Kollam, reachable by road or water taxi. Private clinics in larger towns offer faster service but at higher cost.

Discover India

Read more in our India 2025 Travel Guide.

India Travel Guide