Things To Do
in Nelliyalam

Nelliyalam is a picturesque village located in the Wayanad district of Kerala, India, characterized by its lush greenery and serene landscapes. Nestled amidst the Western Ghats, it offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The village is known for its rich culture, friendly locals, and stunning views of the surrounding hills.

Visitors can explore the natural beauty and experience the vibrant local traditions that make Nelliyalam a hidden gem in southern India.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Nelliyalam Palace, a beautiful historic site that offers insights into the local royal heritage.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby waterfalls for a refreshing swim and enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature.

evening
:

Visit a local cultural center to experience traditional dance performances and learn about the region's customs.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Start with a guided nature walk in the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot diverse flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through a local spice plantation, learning about the cultivation of spices such as cardamom and pepper.

evening
:

End your trip with a sunset view from a hilltop, followed by a traditional Kerala dinner at a local restaurant.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍛Meal at Local Restaurant$2-5
Coffee$1
🚌Local Bus Ride$0.50
🏨Budget Hotel Room$15-25
🛍️Souvenir Shopping$5-20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and biodiversity.
  • Rich cultural experiences and traditions.
  • Affordable cost of living and travel.
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
  • Public transportation may be infrequent.
  • Language barrier for non-Hindi speakers.
  • "Namaste" - Hello
  • "Shukriya" - Thank you
  • "Kya haal hai?" - How are you?
  • "Aapka naam kya hai?" - What is your name?
  • "Bhauji, thoda kam mirch" - Less spice, please

Places to Visit in Nelliyalam

Visit one of these nice places.

Nelliyalam Palace

Capture the grandeur of this historic palace surrounded by lush gardens.

Banasura Sagar Dam

A stunning backdrop of hills and water, perfect for landscape photography.

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Ideal for wildlife photography, showcasing diverse species in their natural habitat.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nelliyalam

Nelliyalam's culinary scene is a delightful blend of traditional Kerala flavors, showcasing the richness of local ingredients and spices.

Nelliyalam Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Appam with Stew

A soft rice pancake served with a flavorful vegetable or meat stew, perfect for breakfast.

Must-Try!

Puttu and Kadala Curry

Steamed rice cake served with black chickpeas in a spicy coconut gravy.

Fish Curry

A traditional Kerala-style curry made with fresh catch and local spices.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Nelliyalam Market

A vibrant local market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and street food stalls offering snacks.

Street Food Stalls

Try local favorites like banana fritters and spicy samosas from various street vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Nelliyalam experiences a tropical monsoon climate. Summers can be warm, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, while winters are mild and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. Humidity is high during monsoon, but the post-monsoon season brings pleasant weather.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect Local Customs

Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or rural areas.

Greetings

A simple 'Namaste' with folded hands is a common greeting.

Dining Etiquette

It's polite to eat with your right hand and offer food to others before serving yourself.

Safety Guide

Safety

Nelliyalam is generally safe for tourists, but basic precautions are advised. It's best to avoid isolated areas at night and be cautious with valuables in crowded places. Stay informed about local weather conditions during the monsoon season to avoid potential hazards.

Tipping in Nelliyalam

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It's customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but some places may accept mobile payments; it's advisable to carry cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (March - May)

Expect warm temperatures; it's great for outdoor activities, but stay hydrated.

Monsoon (June - September)

Heavy rains transform the landscape; ideal for experiencing the lush greenery but be cautious of landslides.

Autumn (October - November)

Pleasant weather makes it perfect for hiking and exploring local attractions.

Winter (December - February)

Cool and comfortable temperatures; a great time for wildlife spotting and cultural festivals.

Nightlife Guide

Nelliyalam at Night

Nelliyalam offers a quiet nightlife scene, with options primarily focused on local eateries and cultural performances. While there aren’t nightclubs, some restaurants may host live music or traditional dance shows. For a more vibrant atmosphere, nearby towns may have bars and lounges that cater to a younger crowd.

Hiking in Nelliyalam

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Chembra Peak

The highest peak in Wayanad, offering a challenging trek with breathtaking views from the summit.

Soochipara Falls

A beautiful trek leading to stunning waterfalls, perfect for a day trip and a refreshing swim.

Airports

How to reach Nelliyalam by plane.

Kozhikode International Airport (CCJ)

Located approximately 85 km from Nelliyalam, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, providing convenient access to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Nelliyalam is relatively walkable, with most attractions within a reasonable distance. The village streets are narrow but well-maintained. However, some areas may require walking on unpaved paths, especially when exploring natural sites.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Keralites

The majority of the population consists of Keralites, known for their hospitality and rich cultural traditions.

Adivasi Communities

Indigenous tribal groups reside in and around Nelliyalam, contributing to the area's cultural diversity and heritage.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Cricket is a popular sport in Nelliyalam, with many locals playing in open fields and streets.

Football

Football also enjoys popularity, especially among the youth, with local tournaments frequently held.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Nelliyalam is generally light, with most roads being narrow and winding. Public transportation includes buses and auto-rickshaws, which connect to nearby towns. However, travel times can vary due to road conditions, especially during the monsoon.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nelliyalam.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's good to specify 'no meat'.

Spicy Food

Kerala cuisine is generally spicy; ask for milder versions if you're not used to heat.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Nelliyalam are basic; there are local clinics and small hospitals. For serious health issues, it's advisable to travel to larger towns or cities like Kalpetta or Wayanad, which offer better medical services.

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