Things To Do
in Chirak

Chirak, India, is a quaint village located in the picturesque state of Kerala, known for its lush green landscapes and serene backwaters. The village is characterized by traditional Kerala architecture, vibrant local culture, and warm hospitality. Chirak serves as an excellent base for exploring the nearby natural wonders, including the famous backwaters of Alleppey.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich heritage and tranquil surroundings while enjoying the unique flavors of the region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the nearby backwaters for a refreshing boat ride. Enjoy the serene views and watch local fishermen at work.

afternoon
:

Visit the local temple to learn about the culture and traditions of the region. Engage with locals and explore traditional handcraft markets.

evening
:

Head to a local restaurant for dinner and enjoy authentic Kerala cuisine, followed by a leisurely stroll through the village as the sun sets.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Take a guided nature walk in the nearby hills to spot local wildlife and enjoy the lush greenery. Capture stunning views from various viewpoints.

afternoon
:

Relax by the riverside with a picnic, or participate in a local cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional dishes.

evening
:

Enjoy a cultural performance showcasing local music and dance, followed by a delicious seafood dinner at a lakeside restaurant.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$5
🚌Local Bus Fare$0.50
🏨Budget Hotel Night$20
Coffee at a Café$1.50
🍧Street Food Snack$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Lush greenery and beautiful landscapes
  • Rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality
  • Delicious local cuisine with fresh ingredients
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Humidity can be uncomfortable in summer
  • Public transportation may be infrequent
  • "Namaskaram" - Hello
  • "Sukhamano?" - How are you?
  • "Nanni" - Thank you
  • "Enikku onnum ariyilla" - I don't understand
  • "Thirichu varu" - Come back soon

Places to Visit in Chirak

Visit one of these nice places.

Chirak Backwaters

Capture breathtaking views of the tranquil waters and lush landscapes.

Local Temples

Photograph the intricate architecture and vibrant rituals of local temples.

Sunset Point

A picturesque spot to capture stunning sunsets over the hills.

Culinary Guide

Food in Chirak

Chirak is a food lover's paradise, offering a delightful mix of flavors that reflect Kerala's rich culinary heritage.

Chirak Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Karimeen Pollichathu

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

Must-Try!

Appam with Stew

Soft rice pancakes served with a coconut-based vegetable stew.

Puttu and Kadala Curry

Steamed rice cakes served with black chickpea curry.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Chirak Local Market

A vibrant market offering fresh produce, spices, and local snacks.

Street Food Stalls

Try local snacks like banana chips and pazham pori (banana fritters) from various stalls.

Climate Guide

Weather

Chirak experiences a tropical climate with three distinct seasons: a humid monsoon season, a warm summer, and a mild winter. The average temperature ranges from 25°C to 35°C throughout the year. The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, while winters are cooler and dry, making it the best time for travel.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always greet elders first and use respectful terms of address.

Dress Modestly

Dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites.

Remove Shoes

It is customary to remove shoes before entering homes and temples.

Safety Guide

Safety

Chirak is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Avoid walking alone at night and be cautious with personal belongings. Always follow local guidelines and respect cultural norms.

Tipping in Chirak

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants; small change can be given for services.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; however, some establishments may accept digital payments via apps.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Monsoon (June to September)

Expect heavy rainfall; plan indoor activities and enjoy the lush greenery.

Winter (October to February)

Cool and pleasant weather; ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer (March to May)

Hot and humid; stay hydrated and plan activities for early mornings or evenings.

Festival Season

Various local festivals occur throughout the year; experience vibrant celebrations and cultural events.

Nightlife Guide

Chirak at Night

Chirak has a relaxed nightlife scene centered around local eateries and cultural performances. While there are no large clubs, many cafes and restaurants offer live music and traditional dance shows. Enjoying a quiet evening by the lakeside with friends or watching local performances is a popular activity.

Hiking in Chirak

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Vembanad Lake Trail

A scenic trail around the famous Vembanad Lake, offering stunning views and opportunities for birdwatching.

Pallathuruthy Trail

A moderate hike through lush forests and rubber plantations, ideal for nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Chirak by plane.

Cochin International Airport

Located approximately 85 km from Chirak, this international airport offers numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Chirak is quite walkable, especially in the village center where most attractions, markets, and eateries are located within walking distance. The roads are generally well-maintained, but some areas may have uneven surfaces. Walking is an excellent way to experience the local culture and interact with residents.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Keralites

The native population of Kerala, known for their hospitality, vibrant culture, and cuisine.

Tourists

Visitors from around the world come to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of Chirak.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Cricket is a beloved sport in Chirak, with many local teams and enthusiasts playing in fields.

Traditional Boat Racing

A unique sport in the region, where teams compete in traditional longboats during festival seasons.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Chirak is generally light, with most local travel done by foot or bicycle. Public transportation includes local buses and auto-rickshaws, but services may not be frequent. Roads may become busy during festival seasons, so plan accordingly.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Chirak.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; inform the staff of specific dietary needs.

Gluten-Free Options

Some dishes are naturally gluten-free, but it's advisable to check with the restaurant.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Chirak is available through local clinics and hospitals. However, for more serious medical issues, traveling to larger cities like Alappuzha may be necessary. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover India

Read more in our India 2025 Travel Guide.

India Travel Guide