Things To Do
in Pathanāmthitta
Pathanamthitta is a district located in the southern state of Kerala, India. It is known for its serene natural beauty, with lush greenery and picturesque landscapes. The district is home to the famous pilgrimage center Sabarimala, visited by millions of devotees every year.
Pathanamthitta also has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional art forms and festivals being celebrated with great enthusiasm.
- "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): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.20 - $0.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $10 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $8 - $20
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the famous Sabarimala Temple, one of the most revered pilgrimage sites. Enjoy the serene morning atmosphere and the chants echoing through the hills.
Visit the picturesque Parumala Church, known for its stunning architecture and peaceful surroundings. Spend some time relaxing in the church premises and soaking in the tranquility.
Wrap up your day with a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Pampa River. The sunset view here is captivating and perfect for photography.
Explore the Kerala Folklore Museum to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region. The collection of artifacts and exhibits will provide insight into local traditions.
Head to the nearby Kottarakara Ganapathy Temple, one of the oldest temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Relish the local cuisine at a nearby restaurant for lunch.
Attend a traditional Kathakali performance in the evening. The vibrant costumes and intricate storytelling will leave you in awe.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and traditions
- Beautiful natural landscapes and scenic views
- Proximity to the backwaters and tourist attractions like Alappuzha
- Fertile land ideal for agriculture and spice cultivation
- Relatively peaceful and less crowded compared to urban areas
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors
- Transportation may be less convenient compared to major cities
- Occasional flooding during monsoon season
- Healthcare facilities may not be as advanced as in larger cities
- Dependence on agriculture can lead to economic vulnerability
Best Activities in Pathanāmthitta
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful hill ranges and forests of the Western Ghats through a variety of trekking routes in Pathanamthitta.
Enjoy an exhilarating river rafting experience in the scenic Pamba River, known for its rapids and natural beauty.
Visit the Periyar Tiger Reserve to indulge in bird watching and catch glimpses of a diverse range of bird species in their natural habitat.
Places to Visit in Pathanāmthitta
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning waterfall with an impressive view, popular for photography
Scenic landscape and water views, ideal for photography and sightseeing
Offers picturesque river views and traditional boating experiences
Food in Pathanāmthitta
Pathanāmthitta Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular local dish featuring marinated pearl spot fish, wrapped in banana leaf and grilled to perfection. It's a must-try for seafood enthusiasts.
Must-Try!
Flaky, layered bread served with a flavorsome chicken curry, this combination is a staple and can be found at numerous eateries and local restaurants across Pathanāmthitta.
Soft, fluffy pancakes made of fermented rice batter, served with a light and aromatic coconut milk-based stew. This dish is often enjoyed for breakfast or dinner.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of local street food such as spicy chicken fry, banana fritters, and various savory snacks. It's an excellent place to experience the vibrant street food culture.
A paradise for food lovers, this market is teeming with stalls offering fresh produce, spices, and an array of street food delicacies like kappa biryani, a tapioca-based dish, and freshly made dosas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Pathanamthitta, it is important to show great respect towards elders. This involves using polite language, listening attentively, and showing deference to their wisdom and experience.
When visiting religious sites or attending cultural events in Pathanamthitta, it is respectful to dress modestly and adhere to local customs regarding attire, especially for women.
When dining with locals in Pathanamthitta, it is customary to accept food or drinks with the right hand as the left hand is considered impure. Additionally, showing appreciation for the food and complimenting the host is seen as a sign of respect.
Safety
Tipping in Pathanāmthitta
Ensure a smooth experience
In Pathanāmthitta, India, tipping is not generally practiced or expected in most establishments. However, in some high-end restaurants or hotels, a service charge may be added to the bill, in which case additional tipping is optional.
Cash is the most common form of payment in Pathanāmthitta, India. However, many businesses, especially in urban areas, also accept debit/credit cards and mobile payment methods. It's advisable to carry small denominations of cash for convenience, especially in rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Pathanāmthitta is in the winter season when the weather is cool and pleasant. This is a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Summer in Pathanāmthitta is hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching high levels. It is advisable to stay indoors during the peak summer months.
Pathanāmthitta experiences heavy monsoon rains during this season. It is not the best time to visit as outdoor activities may be restricted due to the rainfall.
The post-monsoon season in Pathanāmthitta brings relief from the heavy rains and the landscape is lush and green. This is a good time to visit for nature enthusiasts.
Pathanāmthitta at Night
Hiking in Pathanāmthitta
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning hill station located near Pathanamthitta, known for its breathtaking views and serene hiking trails through lush greenery.
A picturesque location featuring a beautiful waterfall, ideal for hiking and enjoying nature, with well-marked trails that offer great views.
A dense forest area offering various hiking trails, ideal for nature lovers and those looking to explore Kerala's rich biodiversity.
A famous pilgrimage site that attracts many trekkers; the trek to the shrine offers a mix of spiritual and adventurous hiking experiences.
Known for its rich flora and fauna, this forest area offers a variety of trails suited for both novice and experienced hikers.
Aiports
How to reach Pathanāmthitta by plane.
Located approximately 75 kilometers from Pathanāmthitta, Cochin International Airport is the largest international airport in the state of Kerala, India.
Situated around 90 kilometers from Pathanāmthitta, Trivandrum International Airport serves both domestic and international flights.
Located about 130 kilometers from Pathanāmthitta, Kozhikode International Airport primarily services the Malabar region of Kerala.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Pathanāmthitta, with a rich cultural and religious heritage.
A significant population, with various denominations, contributing to the region's diverse culture.
A notable minority group that adds to the cultural mosaic of the district.
Includes various smaller ethnic and religious groups, adding to the diversity of Pathanāmthitta.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is immensely popular in Pathanāmthitta and across India, with local tournaments and passionate fans.
Football enjoys a strong following, especially among the youth, with local clubs and schools actively participating in leagues.
Badminton is a widely played sport in the region, with many players participating in local and state-level competitions.
Kabbadi is a traditional sport in Kerala, and it features prominently in local festivals and competitions.
Athletics events are organized in schools and colleges, promoting various track and field disciplines.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pathanāmthitta.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Pathanāmthitta provides a plethora of vegetarian and vegan options. Many local restaurants and cafes offer delicious vegetarian dishes like avial, thoran, and masala dosa. For vegan options, dishes such as vegetable stew and parippu curry are widely available.
While traditional Kerala cuisine heavily features rice, some dishes may contain gluten. However, many eateries are accommodating and can offer gluten-free alternatives upon request. Dishes like appam, idiyappam, and puttu are naturally gluten-free and commonly found in the region.