Things To Do
in Panamaram
Panamaram is a quiet hill village in Kerala’s Wayanad district, set among lush forests, coffee and spice estates, and winding country roads. The landscape blends rubber plantations, paddy fields, and viewpoints that reveal misty valleys at dawn. The area serves as a gateway to waterfalls, forest trails, and wildlife experiences while retaining a welcoming, village-town atmosphere.
Visitors arrive for a relaxed pace, cool climate, and easy access to nature and rural Kerala life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a traditional Kerala breakfast of puttu and kadala curry at a local eatery. After breakfast, visit the nearby Panamaram Church, one of the oldest churches in the region, and admire its stunning architecture. Engage with local artisans as they demonstrate their crafts, providing insight into the rich cultural heritage of Panamaram.
Spend your afternoon exploring the local markets, where you can find vibrant textiles and handmade goods unique to the region. Don’t miss the chance to sample some authentic Kerala snacks from street vendors while interacting with the friendly locals. Visit the nearby agricultural fields and witness farmers at work, gaining a deeper appreciation for the area's agricultural practices.
As the sun sets, head to a local café for a leisurely dinner featuring regional delicacies such as fish curry and appam. Enjoy the ambiance of the café while savoring the flavors of Kerala cuisine, often accompanied by traditional music. Conclude your evening with a walk along the riverside, enjoying the cool breeze and the sounds of nature.
Begin your day with a guided nature walk in the lush landscapes surrounding Panamaram, where you can breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. Keep your eyes peeled for native bird species as you stroll through the forest trails, listening to their melodious calls. Capture the beauty of the morning light filtering through the trees, creating a picturesque setting for photography enthusiasts.
After lunch, visit a nearby bird sanctuary known for its diverse avian population, where you can spend hours observing various species in their natural habitat. Bring along binoculars and a camera to document the fascinating birds while learning from an expert guide about their behaviors and migratory patterns. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature, surrounded by the soothing sounds of chirping birds.
As dusk falls, return to your accommodation, and relax with a refreshing drink while reflecting on the day's adventures. If you're up for it, head out for a night walk to experience the unique sounds of the forest after dark. Settle in for a cozy dinner, discussing the myriad of birds you encountered throughout the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4–8 |
| 🚍One-way local transport | $0.50–1.50 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (2–5 km) | $3–6 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $1–2.50 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (per night) | $15–40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery and wildlife-rich landscapes
- Rich spice and coffee heritage
- Laid-back pace ideal for relaxation
- Affordability and easy access from major cities
- Limited nightlife and urban amenities
- Some areas have limited local healthcare facilities
- Rural signage can be confusing without guidance
- "Namaskaaram" - Hello / Good morning
- "Nanni" - Thank you
- "Dayavaayi" - Please / Kindly
- "Ithu entha?" - What is this?
- "Ethra?" - How much?
Places to Visit in Panamaram
Visit one of these nice places.
Misty mornings and slow-flowing water with fields and palm groves; ideal for golden-hour photography.
Panoramic valley views and winding roads framed by lush greenery—great for wide-angle shots.
Ancient rock shelters with dramatic limestone edges and ancient petroglyphs; dramatic light in the early morning.
Food in Panamaram
Panamaram Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed rice flour cylinders served with black chickpea curry; a classic Kerala breakfast often enjoyed with ripe banana.
Must-Try!
Delicately spiced fish curry cooked in coconut milk, best paired with fluffy appam or steamed rice.
Spiced, tender beef served with flaky layered parotta—a Malabar specialty popular in homes and eateries.
Plantain stir-fry with coconut and mustard seeds or thin, crunchy banana chips as a snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market with fresh produce, spices, and local snacks; great for sampling fruit and coconut-based treats.
Street stalls offering fried banana snacks, crispy banana chips, and light bites typical to Kerala streets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a simple Namaste or Malayali 'Namaskaram'; use a respectful tone with elders.
Dress modestly, remove footwear before entering temples, and ask for permission before taking photos.
Ask for permission when photographing people or sacred spaces; respect private property and crop-sensitive scenes.
Safety
Tipping in Panamaram
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but discretionary; 5-10% in restaurants if service is good; small tips for guides or drivers are appreciated but not obligatory.
Cash is widely accepted in rural eateries; digital payments (UPI, cards) are common in towns; carry some local currency for markets and smaller shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry and warm days; start early for trekking, carry water, and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Heavy rainfall and frequent showers; trails can be slippery; check local advisories and carry rain gear.
Cool to mildly chilly mornings and evenings with comfortable daytime temperatures; good for photography and outdoor walks.
Panamaram at Night
Hiking in Panamaram
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trek to multiple waterfalls; moderate difficulty with rich biodiversity.
Popular hill trek offering sweeping valley views; permits may be required.
Forest walk to a majestic waterfall with scenic rock formations.
Bird sanctuary trek through dense forest near Brahmagiri; best with a guide.
Airports
How to reach Panamaram by plane.
Approximately 60–100 km away; regular domestic flights and some international connections; best reached by road via NH66.
Located near Kozhikode; roughly 110–150 km away; good domestic connectivity and some international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant population speaking Malayalam; diverse religious backgrounds.
Adjacent areas include tribal groups such as Kuruma and Paniya within the broader Wayanad region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in villages and schools; local matches and casual play.
Popular pastime with casual nets and community games.
Common in community centers and homes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Panamaram.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are abundant; inform cooks about ghee or dairy if needed and ask for coconut milk-based dishes.