Things To Do
in Munnalam
Munnalam is a small cultural town in Kerala, tucked between lush hills and shimmering backwaters. Its markets, spice trails, and colonial-era architecture tell a story of centuries-old trade and coastal life. Visitors come to savor coconut-rich cuisine, serene boat rides, and slow-paced village life along winding lanes.
The tropical climate keeps the town green year-round, with vibrant festivals and markets that glow after monsoon rains.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin the day with arrival at the riverside resort, soaking in panoramic views of the flowing stream and lush greenery. Stroll along the riverbank to feel the mist and hear the soothing water sounds as you settle in. Chat with local guides over aromatic South Indian coffee to plan the week ahead.
Wander through the local bazaar to explore handwoven textiles, traditional jewelry, and organic spices. Learn about age-old trades from friendly artisans who demonstrate weaving and wood carving techniques. Sample bite-sized snacks like pazhampori (banana fritters) and murukku at a roadside stall.
Return to the riverfront for a sunset boat ride, watching as golden light dances on the water surface. Listen to a live percussion ensemble performing tribal rhythms under swaying palm fronds. Dine on a thali of steamed rice, sambar, and freshly grilled fish at an open-air pavilion.
Rise early for a guided trek into the rainforest, inhaling dew-fresh air as you climb narrow trails. Navigate through dense ferns and towering banyan trees to reach a secluded waterfall cascading into a crystal-clear pool. Capture photos of endemic birds and butterflies that flit among mossy boulders.
Enjoy a riverside picnic featuring banana leaf wraps filled with spiced coconut chutney and jackfruit curry prepared by a village family. Learn about traditional fishing methods from local fishermen casting nets downstream. Engage in a friendly coconut husking competition before sipping fresh toddy served in bamboo cups.
Return to the village hamlet to partake in a tribal cooking demonstration, tasting sweet rice pudding and pepper-spiced lentils cooked over an open flame. Gather around a bonfire while elders share folklore passed down through generations. Drift to sleep in a thatched cottage serenaded by chirping crickets and distant frog calls.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| ☕Tea or coffee at a local cafe | $0.50-2 |
| 🥗Lunch at a mid-range restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🚕Short taxi within town | $3-7 |
| 🛍️Local handicraft souvenir | $3-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich spice-trade heritage and vibrant coastal culture
- Quiet, walkable town with easy access to backwaters and plantations
- Limited nightlife and nightlife venues compared to big cities
- Monsoon travel can disrupt some outdoor activities
- "Namaskaaram" - Hello
- "Nanni" - Thank you
- "Ente peru [Name] aanu." - My name is [Name].
- "Sugamano?" - How are you?
- "Dayavayi sahayam cheyyamo?" - Could you please help me?
Places to Visit in Munnalam
Visit one of these nice places.
A broad stretch along the backwaters with reflected sunsets, boats, and local life—ideal for golden-hour photography.
Colorful lanes filled with sacks of spices, brassware, and bustling traders; great for candid street photography.
Terraced hillsides and misty mornings offer atmospheric shots of cultivation and rural landscapes.
Historic storefronts, lanterns, and peeling paint provide texture-rich urban photography opportunities.
Calm water, silhouettes of boats, and pastel skies create tranquil twilight imagery.
Food in Munnalam
Munnalam Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed rice flour cylinders served with spiced black chickpeas; a popular breakfast pair found in most local eateries.
Must-Try!
A silky coconut-milk fish curry with gentle spice, best enjoyed at seaside restaurants or hotel menus with a view.
Pearl spot fish wrapped in banana leaf and slow-cooked with a blend of spices; a Malabar coastal specialty.
Fermented rice pancake served with a creamy coconut and vegetable (or egg) stew; a staple for brunch and dinner.
Fragrant Malabar-style biryani made with pepper and spice blends; best enjoyed at sit-down restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering pepper, cardamom, vanilla, cloves, and chili; try fresh coconut, roasted snacks, and homemade spice mixes.
Lanes along the backwaters with quick bites like banana chips, jackfruit chips, fresh coconut water, and traditional fritters.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Namaskaaram or Namaste. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; remove shoes before entering temples or homes when appropriate. Seek permission before taking photographs of people, and be mindful in villages during religious or cultural events.
Safety
Tipping in Munnalam
Ensure a smooth experience
If service charges aren’t included, a tip of 5–10% at restaurants is common. Small tips (20–50 INR) to guides, drivers, and porters are appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted, and many places accept cards and digital wallets (UPI, Google Pay, Paytm, PhonePe). Keep some cash for markets and smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid from March to May with temperatures often in the 30s C (mid-90s F). Expect bright days, occasional sea breezes, and periods of high humidity. Hydration and sun protection are essential.
June to September brings heavy rainfall and lush greenery; landslide and road conditions can affect travel plans. Pack a compact raincoat and waterproof footwear, and plan flexible itineraries.
December to February offers milder days and cooler nights, typically comfortable for outdoor activities. Nights can be chilly; light layering is recommended.
Munnalam at Night
Hiking in Munnalam
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle trail through spice terraces with viewpoints over the valley; suitable for most hikers.
Steeper climb with rewarding panoramic views of the Western Ghats foothills and distant villages.
Airports
How to reach Munnalam by plane.
A major regional hub with domestic and limited international services; access to Munnalam by road from Kozhikode.
Secondary regional airport offering domestic flights; convenient for travelers from the northern belt of Kerala.
Large international airport farther south; good option for longer itineraries across Kerala and beyond.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A core community in the riverine and coastal zones, often involved in local markets and seafood trade.
Residents connected to spice and tea plantations, sharing knowledge of crops and seasonal cycles.
A mix of locals and visitors contributing to a gentle pace of life and cultural events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched in towns and schools; local leagues and informal matches are common.
Popular among youth and communities, with local teams and casual games in parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Munnalam.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Kerala offers abundant vegetarian dishes based on lentils, vegetables, and coconut. Ask for ghee-free or oil-light options, and request spice levels to suit your preference.