Things To Do
in Mānikkal
Mānikkal is a small village located in the state of Kerala, India. It is known for its lush greenery and serene rural landscape. The village is home to a close-knit community that largely depends on agriculture for their livelihood.
Visitors to Mānikkal can experience traditional village life, explore nearby forests, and take in the natural beauty of the region.
- "kiddan" - How are you?
- "shukriya" - Thank you
- "tuhada naa ki hai" - What is your name?
- "ki haal chaal" - How are things?
- "chalo" - Let's go
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $30
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $0.50 - $2
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful local temple to experience the serene morning atmosphere. Enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast at a nearby eatery.
Explore the lush greenery of Mānikkal by taking a nature walk through the nearby hills. Don't miss the chance to interact with locals to learn about their culture.
Relax at a quaint cafe as you watch the sunset over the hills. Try some local snacks and enjoy the vibrant evening vibe.
Begin your day by visiting a local artisan's workshop to see traditional crafts in action. Participate in a short workshop to create your own souvenir.
Enjoy lunch at a popular local restaurant that serves authentic Mānikkal dishes. Afterward, visit a nearby museum to dive deeper into local history.
Attend a local dance performance or music event to experience the region's rich cultural offerings. Grab dinner at a restaurant serving live music.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and traditional practices.
- Beautiful natural scenery and landscapes.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Affordable cost of living compared to urban areas.
- Opportunities for agrarian and rural development.
- Limited access to modern infrastructure and amenities.
- Fewer educational and healthcare facilities.
- Potential for economic instability due to reliance on agriculture.
- Risk of natural disasters, such as floods or droughts.
- Lower job opportunities in comparison to metropolitan cities.
Best Activities in Mānikkal
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails of the Western Ghats, offering breathtaking views of lush forests and diverse wildlife.
Mānikkal is home to a variety of bird species. Visit local parks and wetlands for an opportunity to observe and photograph these beautiful birds.
Enjoy cycling through the picturesque countryside of Mānikkal, passing through tea estates and charming villages.
Take guided nature walks in the nearby forests to learn about local flora and fauna while enjoying the serene environment.
Take a day trip to the nearby Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary to experience wildlife safaris and guided boat rides on Periyar Lake.
Capture the stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and vibrant local culture through a photography expedition in and around Mānikkal.
Participate in agricultural tours to learn about local farming practices and enjoy fresh produce from the fields.
Tours
Uncover the best of Mānikkal with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Mānikkal
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and the town of Mānikkal.
Provides opportunities to capture diverse wildlife and natural scenery in the area.
Features a picturesque location at the confluence of three rivers, offering great photography spots.
Food in Mānikkal
Mānikkal Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular South Indian delicacy made from fermented rice and lentil batter, typically served with coconut chutney and sambar. Must-try dosas can be found at Annapoorna Dosa Kadai.
Must-Try!
A spicy and aromatic chicken dish with roots in the Chettinad region, known for its robust flavors and use of traditional Chettinad spices. Don't miss the Chettinad Chicken at New Madurai Mess.
Mānikkal's proximity to the coast ensures an abundance of fresh seafood. Sample the exquisite local fish curry at Coimbatore Seafood Restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Mānikkal better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find an array of street food stalls offering snacks such as bhajis, bondas, and vadas, alongside fresh fruits and vegetables.
Explore the vibrant street food scene at Town Hall, where you can savor local specialties like kati rolls, egg dosas, and savory chaats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Mānikkal, as in many parts of India, elders are greatly respected. It’s customary to greet them first in gatherings and to use respectful language. Bowing your head slightly while greeting can show additional respect.
Modesty in dress is important in Mānikkal, especially in rural areas. Wearing traditional attire or clothing that covers the shoulders and knees is advisable when visiting homes or participating in local events.
When dining, it is common to eat with your right hand. Always wait for the host to invite you to start eating, and try to finish all the food on your plate as it is considered respectful and demonstrates gratitude for the meal provided.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Mānikkal with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Mānikkal
Ensure a smooth experience
In Mānikkal, as in many parts of India, tipping is not a mandatory practice but is generally appreciated. It is common to tip service workers such as waiters, taxi drivers, and hotel staff. The customary amount ranges from 10% to 15% of the bill, though the amount may vary based on the quality of service. Many locals and tourists leave small denominations of currency as a gesture of gratitude.
Payment practices in Mānikkal include both cash and digital transactions. While cash is still widely used, especially in local markets and smaller establishments, digital payment methods are becoming increasingly popular, especially following the push for cashless transactions in India. Mobile payment apps and digital wallets are commonly used for convenience, and many businesses accept payments via UPI (Unified Payments Interface), credit, and debit cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Mānikkal.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit due to pleasant weather and great for outdoor activities. Expect cool temperatures, clear skies, and various cultural festivals.
Expect hot and humid weather, but still suitable for visiting. It's a good time for wildlife enthusiasts as the national parks are open, and the flora is in full bloom.
Not ideal for tourism due to heavy rainfall, but it's a great time to experience the lush greenery and enjoy the local monsoon festivals.
Mānikkal at Night
Hiking in Mānikkal
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this area offers stunning trails amidst rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.
Located nearby, Nedumkandam offers various trekking routes through lush forests and hills, perfect for a day hike.
Famous for its panoramic views, this spot provides gentle hiking trails through beautiful landscapes and is ideal for nature lovers.
While known for birdwatching, it also has walking trails that allow hikers to enjoy the beauty of the backwaters and surrounding greenery.
Located in the Periyar National Park area, Kumily offers various trekking options through plantations and wildlife trails, showcasing vibrant flora and fauna.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Mānikkal through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Mānikkal by plane.
Located approximately 12 km from Mānikkal, this is the nearest international airport, serving domestic and international flights.
Situated about 64 km from Mānikkal, this is one of the busiest airports in India, known for its unique fully solar-powered terminal.
Approximately 107 km away from Mānikkal, this airport serves various international flights, mainly to the Middle East.
While often referred to as Cochin International Airport, it provides a wide range of international services and is located further from Mānikkal.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority religious group in Mānikkal, consisting of various castes and communities.
A significant minority in Mānikkal, with a number of local congregations.
A smaller demographic group in Mānikkal, contributing to the area's cultural diversity.
Communities that are categorized under the Scheduled Castes as per government classification.
Indigenous groups that are recognized under the Scheduled Tribes category.
Several communities that fall under the OBC category, comprising various castes.
The Soul of Mānikkal
Discover the essence of Mānikkal through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in Mānikkal, drawing immense local support and participation. The community frequently organizes local tournaments.
Football has a significant following in Mānikkal, with many playing in local clubs and schools, as well as participating in district-level competitions.
Kabaddi enjoys popularity particularly among youth, with local matches often held and people excited to cheer for their favorite teams.
Badminton is commonly played in Mānikkal, both recreationally and competitively, with many contributing to a growing interest in the sport.
Volleyball is a popular team sport in Mānikkal, often played in schools and during local festivals, fostering community bonding.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mānikkal.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local eateries provide extensive vegetarian and vegan menus, with options ranging from classic dosas and idlis to innovative plant-based dishes.
Visitors requiring gluten-free options can indulge in naturally gluten-free South Indian fare such as appams, uttapams, and coconut-based curries, available at various restaurants and cafes.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Mānikkal with these cultural adventures.