Things To Do
in Kānhangād
Kānhangād is a coastal town in Kasaragod district of northern Kerala, known for its relaxed beaches, coconut groves and proximity to historic sites in the region. It sits between the Arabian Sea and a network of rivers and backwaters, giving a mix of seaside and inland landscapes. The town is a transport hub on the Mangalore–Shoranur rail line, making it a convenient base for exploring Bekal Fort, nearby hills and local cultural sites.
Visitors find a low-key, authentic Kerala experience with simple local markets, seafood and friendly neighborhoods.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local eatery, savoring traditional Kerala dishes like puttu and kadala. Afterward, visit the ancient Bekal Fort, just a short drive away, where the morning sun illuminates the stunning coastal views. Take some time to explore the fort’s architecture and learn about its rich history.
After exploring the fort, head back to Kānhangād for lunch at a local restaurant, enjoying seafood delicacies that reflect the region's culinary heritage. Post-lunch, stroll through the quaint streets of the town, visiting local shops and markets that offer handmade crafts and textiles. Don’t miss the opportunity to interact with friendly locals who are eager to share stories about their culture.
As evening sets in, unwind at a local café with a cup of chai and some snacks, while soaking in the relaxed atmosphere. Later, take a leisurely walk along the beach, watching the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in vibrant hues. Conclude your day with a traditional dinner at a coastal restaurant, reveling in the flavors of Kerala cuisine.
Begin your day early with a visit to the nearby Agasthya Mala Biosphere Reserve, where the morning mist adds a magical touch to the dense forests. Enjoy a guided trek through the lush greenery, spotting various species of birds and wildlife that call this area home. The sounds of nature will invigorate your spirit as you immerse yourself in the beauty of the wilderness.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a packed lunch in the serene surroundings of the reserve, listening to the gentle rustle of leaves and chirping of birds. Post-lunch, continue your journey through the reserve, taking time to photograph the diverse flora and fauna, and perhaps even catch a glimpse of rare species. This afternoon adventure will leave you with unforgettable memories of the region's natural beauty.
Return to Kānhangād in the evening and take some time to freshen up before dinner. Head out to a local restaurant known for its authentic Kerala meals, where you can indulge in traditional dishes like fish curry and appam. After dinner, enjoy a peaceful walk through the town, reflecting on the day’s experiences amidst the soft glow of street lights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a café | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🚕Short auto-rickshaw/taxi ride | $1-4 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $12-30 |
| 🎟️Local attraction entry / small tour | $1-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic, low-key coastal Kerala experience with fewer tourists.
- Easy access to beaches, historic Bekal Fort and nature spots.
- Affordable food, accommodation and friendly local hospitality.
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end tourist services.
- Monsoon rains can disrupt travel and outdoor plans.
- Smaller town infrastructure means fewer international-standard facilities compared with big cities.
- "നമസ്കാരം (Namaskāram)" - Hello / Greetings
- "നന്ദി (Nandi)" - Thank you
- "എത്രയാണ്? (Ethrayāṇu?)" - How much is it?
- "സൗഖ്യം ആണോ? (Saukhyam āṇo?)" - Are you well? / How are you?
- "ദയവായി (Dayavāyi)" - Please
- "ക്ഷമിക്കുക (Kṣamikku)" - Excuse me / Sorry
Places to Visit in Kānhangād
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic 17th-century fort with ramparts, a lighthouse and sweeping coastal views — excellent at sunrise or sunset for wide seascapes and historic textures.
Early-morning activity on the shore provides candid scenes of nets, boats and daily life against soft morning light.
A picturesque waterfall and rocky landscape ideal for nature photography, especially after the monsoon when flows are stronger.
Close-up shots of spices, coconut palms and expansive paddy fields offer colorful rural imagery and seasonal agricultural scenes.
Markets brim with colors — spices, fish and textiles — while temple gateways and rituals provide cultural portrait opportunities (ask permission before photographing people).
Food in Kānhangād
Kānhangād Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tangy and spicy coconut-based fish curry typically made with local catch; find it at coastal restaurants and family eateries along the shoreline.
Must-Try!
Steamed rice flour cylinders served with spiced chickpea curry — a common breakfast available at small stalls and tea shops.
Soft, lacy rice pancakes paired with a mildly spiced coconut stew (vegetable or chicken), popular at breakfast and dinner spots.
Simply spiced and pan-fried local fish served in seaside restaurants and recommended for seafood lovers.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A daily market selling fresh fish, spices, coconuts and vegetables — great for tasting local fruit, buying spices and photographing market life.
Small stalls and tea shops by the beach offering snacks such as banana fritters (pazham pori), samosas and fresh coconut water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A respectful 'Namaskaram' with palms together is common; a handshake is fine in urban settings. Use formal greetings with elders.
Remove shoes before entering temples and some homes; dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees) at religious sites. Follow any photography restrictions.
Eating with the right hand is customary; avoid using the left hand for serving or accepting food. It’s polite to accept food offered by hosts.
Public displays of affection are frowned upon in many areas. Be polite and patient in interactions; bargaining on markets is acceptable but do so respectfully.
Safety
Tipping in Kānhangād
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory — small tips for restaurant servers, hotel porters and guides (roughly 50–200 INR) are common. For taxis and auto-rickshaws, rounding up the fare is usual.
Cash (Indian rupees) is widely used, especially at small stalls and rural spots. Cards and UPI/e-wallets are increasingly accepted in larger restaurants, hotels and shops; carry cash for local markets and small purchases. ATMs are available in town but may have limits; plan accordingly.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with temperatures often in the high 20s to low 30s °C (80s–90s °F). Ideal for early-morning beach walks and inland treks in the cooler hours; carry sun protection and stay hydrated.
Heavy rains and lush green landscapes—very scenic but some outdoor activities and ferry/boat services can be disrupted. Beaches may have strong currents; avoid swimming during rough seas.
Pleasant, cooler and drier weather with comfortable daytime temperatures — the best season for sightseeing, trekking and outdoor photography.
Kānhangād at Night
Hiking in Kānhangād
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short, scenic walk to a waterfall with rocky pools; best visited post-monsoon but accessible year-round for nature lovers and photographers.
A protected hill area in Kasaragod district offering treks through grasslands and forested stretches; suitable for half- to full-day hikes (a longer drive from Kānhangād).
Gentle cliffside and fort-top walks near Bekal provide panoramic sea views and easy hiking for all fitness levels.
Airports
How to reach Kānhangād by plane.
About 60–90 minutes by car (depending on traffic) north of Kānhangād; serves domestic and some international flights, convenient for travelers coming from Karnataka and Goa.
Approximately 1–1.5 hours south by road; a newer airport with growing domestic and international connections and a good option for arrivals to northern Kerala.
Further away (2.5–4 hours by road) but an alternative with more flight options; suitable if combining visits across central Kerala.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population primarily speaks Malayalam and follows varied religious traditions including Hinduism, Islam and Christianity.
Long-established fishing communities living along the shore, central to the local seafood economy and culture.
Due to proximity to Karnataka, some residents also speak Tulu, Kannada and Konkani, creating a culturally mixed border region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is popular across Kerala, played in schools, local grounds and beachside; local teams and enthusiastic community matches are common.
Cricket is widely followed and played informally in streets, beaches and school grounds — expect to see impromptu games throughout the town.
Local fishing and small-boat activities are part of daily life; seasonal boat races and community water events occur in the wider region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kānhangād.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available — coconut-based stews, vegetable curries, dosas, idli and appam. Ask for 'no onion/garlic' if needed; many eateries can accommodate this, and South Indian temple-style meals are often strictly vegetarian.
Vegan-friendly dishes include plain dosas, idli, steamed puttu (ask if made without ghee) and many vegetable curries; confirm dairy use in chutneys and preparations.
Rice-based dishes (appam, idli, puttu) are typically safe for gluten-free diets. Avoid wheat-based items like parotta unless specifically made with alternative flours.
Coconut and seafood are common — always inform vendors and restaurant staff about severe allergies. Small eateries may have limited ability to prevent cross-contamination.