Things To Do
in Puttankulam

Puttankulam is a quaint village located in Tamil Nadu, India, known for its serene landscape and rich cultural heritage. The village is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a glimpse into traditional Indian rural life. It is home to a diverse community that celebrates various festivals throughout the year.

Visitors can enjoy the hospitality of the locals and explore the nearby natural attractions and historical sites.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local temple, where you can witness morning rituals and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local eatery and then visit the village market to experience daily life and shop for handmade crafts.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional dinner at a family-run restaurant and take a walk around the village to enjoy the evening breeze.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin with a sunrise hike at a nearby hill that offers panoramic views of the landscape.

afternoon
:

After descending, have a picnic lunch by a nearby lake, followed by kayaking if available.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a cultural performance showcasing local dance and music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at Local Restaurant$3
🚌Local Bus Fare$0.50
🏨Budget Hotel Night$15
🚕Taxi Ride within Town$2
🍵Cup of Tea$0.30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic cultural experience
  • Beautiful natural scenery
  • Tranquil atmosphere away from city life
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Language barrier for non-Tamil speakers
  • Basic amenities may not meet all travelers' expectations
  • "Vanakkam" - Hello
  • "Naan enna seyyanum?" - What should I do?
  • "Nandri" - Thank you
  • "Ungal peyar enna?" - What is your name?
  • "Ithu enakku pidikkiradhu" - I like this.

Places to Visit in Puttankulam

Visit one of these nice places.

Puttankulam Temple

A beautifully ornate temple that offers stunning architecture and vibrant colors, perfect for capturing local spirituality.

Lakeside Sunrise

A serene spot by the lake where you can capture breathtaking sunrise views with mist rising from the water.

Village Fields

The lush green fields surrounding the village provide picturesque landscapes that change with the seasons.

Culinary Guide

Food in Puttankulam

Puttankulam offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing traditional Tamil cuisine that is rich in flavors and spices.

Puttankulam Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sambar

A lentil-based vegetable stew, flavored with spices and served with rice or idli.

Must-Try!

Dosa

A thin, crispy pancake made from fermented rice and lentil batter, usually served with chutney and sambar.

Pongal

A comforting dish made from rice and lentils, spiced with black pepper and ghee.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Puttankulam Village Market

A vibrant market where local vendors sell fresh produce, spices, and street food snacks.

Street Vendors

Try local street foods like murukku (savory snack) and sundal (spiced chickpeas).

Climate Guide

Weather

Puttankulam experiences a tropical climate with high humidity. Winters are mild with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, while summers can be quite hot, often exceeding 35°C. The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, contributing to the lush green landscape. The best time to visit is during the winter months when the weather is most pleasant.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always greet elders first and show them respect in conversation.

Dress Modestly

Dress conservatively, especially when visiting temples or rural areas.

Remove Footwear

It is customary to remove shoes before entering homes and places of worship.

Safety Guide

Safety

Puttankulam is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to take standard safety precautions, such as avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure. Always stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Tipping in Puttankulam

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It’s customary to tip around 10% in restaurants, though it's not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; credit/debit cards may not be accepted everywhere.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (December to February)

Pleasant weather with cool temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer (March to June)

Hot and humid; early mornings or late evenings are best for outdoor exploration.

Monsoon (July to September)

Frequent rainfall; the landscape becomes lush and vibrant, but be cautious of muddy paths.

Post-Monsoon (October to November)

Cooler temperatures and clear skies make this a favorable time for travel and outdoor adventures.

Nightlife Guide

Puttankulam at Night

Puttankulam offers a calm nightlife with limited options. Most locals prefer to spend evenings at home or visiting local temples. Occasionally, you may find small gatherings at community centers celebrating traditional dance or music. For a more vibrant atmosphere, consider traveling to nearby towns where there are more bars and entertainment venues.

Hiking in Puttankulam

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve

Offers various hiking trails with opportunities to explore wildlife and scenic views.

Agasthyamalai Hills

A popular hiking destination known for its rich biodiversity and panoramic vistas.

Airports

How to reach Puttankulam by plane.

Tuticorin Airport (TCR)

Located approximately 60 km from Puttankulam, this airport serves domestic flights and is the nearest major airport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Puttankulam is a small village, making it highly walkable for visitors. Most attractions, markets, and eateries are within walking distance. Footpaths may not always be well-maintained, but the slower pace of life encourages leisurely strolls through the village.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Tamils

The majority of the population consists of Tamils, who predominantly speak Tamil and follow Hindu traditions.

Scheduled Castes

There are also communities from scheduled castes that contribute to the cultural diversity and workforce of the village.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Cricket is immensely popular in Puttankulam, with local teams often playing matches in open fields.

Kabaddi

Kabaddi, a traditional Indian sport, is enjoyed by many, especially during village festivals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Puttankulam is minimal, with few vehicles on the roads. Public transportation includes local buses and auto-rickshaws, which provide convenient travel options within and outside the village. Be prepared for narrow lanes and occasional livestock on the roads.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Puttankulam.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most local restaurants offer a wide range of vegetarian dishes, as vegetarianism is prevalent in Tamil Nadu.

Spice Levels

Food is often spicy; ask for milder options if you are sensitive to heat.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Puttankulam are basic, with a few small clinics available for minor ailments. For more serious medical needs, the nearest hospital is located in the nearby town of Tirunelveli, approximately 30 km away. It is advisable for travelers to carry basic medications and health insurance.

Discover India

Read more in our India 2025 Travel Guide.

India Travel Guide