Tonakkal
,Tonakkal is a small village located in the Malappuram district of Kerala, India. It is known for its natural beauty, lush green landscapes, and a serene environment, typical of rural Kerala. The community here mainly engages in agriculture, with rice and coconut being the predominant crops cultivated.
Tonakkal also reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region through its festivals, traditional practices, and local cuisine.
- "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): $10 - $25
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Nature
morning
:Start your day with a refreshing trek in the nearby forests, enjoying the lush greenery and chirping birds. Bring along some breakfast and relish it amidst nature.
afternoon
:Visit a local waterfall for a picnic lunch and a swim. Capture beautiful photographs of the stunning scenery.
evening
:As the sun sets, head to a viewpoint to witness the breathtaking views of the landscape. Enjoy some local snacks from nearby vendors.
Culinary Delights
morning
:Visit a local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and pick up fresh ingredients. Learn about local spices and try your hand at cooking a traditional dish.
afternoon
:Attend a cooking class where you can prepare authentic Tonakkal cuisine. Enjoy the meal you've created for lunch!
evening
:Dine at a popular local restaurant that serves traditional foods. Relish the flavors as you reflect on the day's cooking adventures.
Highlights
Good
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Friendly and welcoming local communities.
- Access to beautiful natural landscapes and rural settings.
- Affordability of living and cost of goods compared to urban areas.
- Potential for agricultural and local business opportunities.
Bad
- Limited access to advanced healthcare facilities.
- Infrastructural challenges such as poor roads and public transport.
- Limited educational institutions and opportunities for higher education.
- Occasional seasonal weather challenges such as heavy rain.
- Lower availability of modern amenities compared to larger cities.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in the Western Ghats
Explore the lush landscapes and diverse flora and fauna of the Western Ghats through various trails suited for different fitness levels.
Bird Watching
Visit local parks and forest areas to observe a variety of bird species, ideal for both amateur and experienced bird watchers.
Cycling Tours
Experience the scenic routes around Tonakkal while cycling, offering a mix of adventure and exploration.
Photography Walks
Capture the natural beauty and vibrant local culture with guided photography walks through picturesque landscapes.
Camping Trips
Set up camp in the beautiful outdoors, enjoying starry nights and the sounds of nature.
Nature Trails
Take leisurely walks on designated nature trails, perfect for families and nature lovers alike.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Tonakkal with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Tonakkal Viewpoint
A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and lush greenery, perfect for sunrise and sunset photography.
Tonakkal Church
An architectural marvel set against a backdrop of hills, the church provides an excellent opportunity for capturing stunning photographs amidst serene surroundings.
Kakkadampoyil Waterfall
A beautiful waterfall located a short distance from Tonakkal, ideal for nature photography and capturing the vibrant flora and fauna.
Bamboo Forest
A tranquil bamboo grove that offers unique photographic opportunities, especially with sunlight filtering through the tall stalks.
Local Tea Gardens
Capturing the lush green rows of tea plants provides a picturesque view and an authentic glimpse into local agricultural life.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Dosa
A thin, crispy crepe made from fermented rice and lentil batter, often served with chutney and sambar. Visit local eateries like Kottakkal Dosa House for the best experience.
Must-Try!
Appam
A rice flour pancake with a soft center and crispy edges, often enjoyed with vegetable stew or coconut milk. Try it at Hotel Sealord.
Ghee Rice
A fragrant rice dish cooked with ghee and spices, typically served with chicken curry. Head over to Malabar Spice for a delightful version.
Puttu
Steamed rice cake layered with coconut, usually served with bananas or curry. Sample this at local breakfast spots like Saravana Bhavan.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Tonakkal better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Tonakkal Market
A vibrant local market where fresh produce, spices, and local snacks can be found. Don’t miss out on the street vendor selling vadas and bondas for a quick, delicious bite.
Street Food Stalls near Tonakkal Church
These stalls offer a variety of snacks, including samosas, chaat, and sweet treats like jalebi, perfect for a quick lunch or evening snack.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings
When meeting someone in Tonakkal, it's customary to greet them with a respectful nod or a handshake. It's polite to inquire about their well-being and engage in small talk before discussing business or serious matters.
Dress Modestly
In Tonakkal, dressing modestly is important, especially for women. Traditional attire is often preferred, and it is advisable to avoid revealing clothing. This shows respect for local customs and cultural sensibilities.
Remove Footwear
It is customary to remove your footwear before entering someone's home or religious site in Tonakkal. This practice is a sign of respect and should be observed by visitors and locals alike.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Tonakkal with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Tonakkal, India, tipping is generally not a common practice in many local establishments. However, in more tourist-focused areas or upscale restaurants, it is appreciated if you leave a small tip for good service, typically around 10% of the bill. Tipping may also occur in other services such as taxis or hotels, where rounding up the fare or leaving some small change is seen as a gesture of appreciation.
Payment
In Tonakkal, cash is the predominant form of payment, particularly in small shops and local markets. However, digital payment methods have been gaining popularity, especially after the push for cashless transactions in India following government initiatives. Mobile payment apps and e-wallets are commonly used among the younger population and urban dwellers. Credit and debit cards may also be accepted at larger establishments, although it's advisable to confirm acceptance before dining or shopping.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Tonakkal.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Winter
From November to February, Tonakkal experiences cool and pleasant weather, making it the best time to visit. The temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C. It is ideal for outdoor activities and exploring local attractions.
Summer
From March to May, temperatures can rise significantly, ranging from 25°C to 35°C. Although it can be quite hot, this season is suitable for early morning and late afternoon excursions. Visitors should stay hydrated.
Monsoon
June to September brings heavy rainfall to Tonakkal. While the landscape becomes lush and vibrant, occasional flooding may occur. This season is best for those who enjoy the beauty of nature but may not be ideal for outdoor activities.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Agasthyarkoodam
Agasthyarkoodam is a peak in the Western Ghats and a part of the Agasthyavanam Biological Park, known for its rich biodiversity and scenic trekking paths.
Panchalimedu
Panchalimedu offers beautiful landscapes and is surrounded by greenery. It is a popular spot for hikers seeking solitude and nature.
Munnar
Munnar is famous for its rolling hills and tea plantations. There are several trekking routes that provide breathtaking views of the Western Ghats.
Kurangani Hills
Known for its lush greenery, Kurangani Hills features various trails suitable for both novice and experienced hikers, providing a unique experience of the Western Ghats.
Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary
Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary has trekking routes that allow visitors to enjoy the diverse flora and fauna in the area, making it a great spot for hiking enthusiasts.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Tonakkal through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Tonakkal by plane.
Coimbatore International Airport (CJB)
Located approximately 23 kilometers from Tonakkal, Coimbatore International Airport is a major airport serving the city of Coimbatore and the surrounding regions.
Kerala International Airport (COK)
Also known as Kochi International Airport, it is located about 70 kilometers from Tonakkal and serves as a major gateway to international destinations.
Trivandrum International Airport (TRV)
Situated around 106 kilometers from Tonakkal, Trivandrum International Airport serves the capital city of Kerala and offers both domestic and international flights.
Calicut International Airport (CCJ)
Approximately 100 kilometers from Tonakkal, Calicut International Airport serves the Malappuram district and offers various international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Hindus
The predominant religious group in Tonakkal, contributing significantly to the culture and traditions of the area.
Muslims
A significant minority group in Tonakkal, with a rich cultural heritage and community practices.
Christians
Another important demographic group in Tonakkal, known for their churches and community events.
Others
Includes smaller religious and ethnic groups contributing to the diversity of Tonakkal.
The Soul of Tonakkal
Discover the essence of Tonakkal through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket
Cricket is the most popular sport in Tonakkal, played by people of all ages, with local tournaments often held in the community.
Football
Football also enjoys a significant following, with many youth participating in local clubs and schools.
Badminton
Badminton is popular among both men and women, with many recreational courts available.
Kabaddi
Kabaddi is a traditional sport in the region, often played during local festivals and gatherings.
Athletics
Track and field events are promoted in schools, with participation in district competitions.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian
Tonakkal boasts a plethora of vegetarian options, with most local restaurants and street food vendors offering dishes free from meat.
Vegan
Many traditional dishes can be modified to be vegan-friendly. Look for options with coconut milk curries and plenty of vegetable dishes.
Gluten-Free
Rice-based dishes, including dosa and idli, are naturally gluten-free. Always confirm with the vendor or restaurant for safety, as cross-contamination may occur.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Tonakkal with these cultural adventures.
