Things To Do
in Mankada

Mankada is a quaint town located in the Malappuram district of Kerala, India. Known for its lush green landscapes and rich cultural heritage, it offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Kerala life. The town is surrounded by picturesque paddy fields and coconut groves, providing a serene environment perfect for relaxation.

Mankada is also famous for its temples and festivals, which reflect the vibrant local culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Mankada
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the historic Mankada Palace, where you can learn about the town's royal past.

afternoon
:

Head to the local market to experience shopping for traditional handicrafts and spices, followed by a delicious lunch at a local eatery.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a visit to the ancient Kottakkal Arya Vaidya Sala, where you can enjoy an Ayurvedic treatment or simply explore the surroundings.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Enjoy a morning walk through the nearby paddy fields, taking in the natural beauty and tranquility of the area.

afternoon
:

Visit the local temple, showcasing the architectural beauty of Kerala, and learn about the local customs and traditions.

evening
:

Finish your day at a local restaurant with a traditional Kerala dinner, followed by a stroll around the town to soak in the evening ambiance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$3-5
🛒Local Market Shopping$2-10
🚕Taxi Fare (within town)$1-3
🏨Night in Budget Hotel$10-20
Cup of Tea/Coffee$0.50-1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage
  • Beautiful natural landscapes
  • Delicious local cuisine
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Public transport can be sparse
  • Language barrier for non-Hindi speakers
  • "Namaste" - Hello
  • "Shukriya" - Thank You
  • "Kya haal hai?" - How are you?
  • "Kripya" - Please
  • "Alvida" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Mankada

Visit one of these nice places.

Mankada Palace

A beautiful heritage site with stunning architecture, perfect for capturing the essence of Kerala's history.

Paddy Fields

The lush green fields provide a picturesque backdrop, especially during sunrise or sunset.

Local Temples

The intricate carvings and vibrant colors of the temples make for captivating photographs.

Culinary Guide

Food in Mankada

Mankada offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing the rich flavors of Kerala cuisine.

Mankada Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sadya

A traditional Kerala feast served on a banana leaf, featuring a variety of vegetarian dishes.

Must-Try!

Karimeen Pollichathu

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

Appam with Stew

A type of rice pancake served with a coconut milk-based vegetable or meat stew.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mankada Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and local snacks.

Street Food Stalls

Vendors selling local delicacies like Paniyaram and Kothu Parotta, perfect for a quick bite.

Climate Guide

Weather

Mankada experiences a tropical climate with three main seasons: a hot summer (March-May), a monsoon season (June-September), and a pleasant winter (November-February). Summer temperatures can rise above 35°C (95°F), while winter temperatures range between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The monsoon brings heavy rainfall, making the landscape lush but also causing occasional flooding.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Always greet with a smile and say 'Namaste' or 'Namaskaram' when meeting someone.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and religious sites.

Respect for Elders

Show respect to elders by greeting them first and using polite language.

Safety Guide

Safety

Mankada is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to be cautious of your belongings in crowded places. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas, and always ask locals for the safest routes. It's also wise to stay updated on weather conditions during the monsoon season.

Tipping in Mankada

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It's customary to tip around 10% in restaurants. However, tipping is not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but digital payment methods like UPI are becoming popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (November to February)

Cooler temperatures make this the best time to visit, perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer (March to May)

Expect hot weather; early morning or late evening outings are recommended.

Monsoon (June to September)

Heavy rains transform the landscape, but be cautious of flooding.

Post-Monsoon (October)

The landscape is lush and vibrant, making it an ideal time for photography.

Nightlife Guide

Mankada at Night

Mankada's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to bigger cities. The town does not have nightclubs, but you can find some local eateries and tea shops open late where locals gather to chat. Occasionally, cultural events and festivals offer vibrant nightlife experiences with music and dance.

Hiking in Mankada

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kottakkal Trail

A scenic trail that offers views of lush greenery and is suitable for all levels of hikers.

Nelliyampathy Hills

Located a short drive from Mankada, these hills offer challenging hikes with breathtaking views.

Airports

How to reach Mankada by plane.

Calicut International Airport (CCJ)

Located about 30 km from Mankada, this airport connects to major cities in India and offers international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Mankada is a walkable town, with many attractions located close together. The roads are generally flat and easy to navigate, making it suitable for walking tours. However, be cautious of traffic, especially in busier areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Malayalis

The predominant ethnic group in Mankada, known for their rich traditions and hospitality.

Migrants

A small number of migrants from other states work in local businesses, contributing to the diverse community.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Cricket is a major sport in Mankada, with local matches frequently held in community fields.

Football

Football enjoys popularity among the youth, with local clubs and casual games played regularly.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Mankada can be moderate, especially during peak hours when locals commute. Public transportation options include auto-rickshaws and local buses, which are the most common ways to get around. It's advisable to plan your travel times accordingly to avoid congestion.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Mankada.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to ask about ingredients.

Gluten-Free

Some traditional dishes are gluten-free, but confirm with the restaurant staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Mankada are limited, with a few local clinics and pharmacies available. For serious medical issues, it's advisable to travel to larger towns like Malappuram, which offer more comprehensive healthcare services.

Discover India

Read more in our India 2025 Travel Guide.

India Travel Guide