Things To Do
in Vakkam
Vakkam is a coastal town tucked along Kerala's Malabar coast, renowned for its spice-laden air and coconut-lined shoreline. The town blends traditional fishing communities with a growing tourist-ready scene, offering calm beaches, backwaters, and vibrant markets. Expect a warm, relaxed pace of life, with delectable Malabar flavors and a penchant for communal meals.
Visitors leave with memories of sun, spice, and sunsets over the Arabian Sea.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a traditional South Indian breakfast at a local eatery, savoring dishes like idli and sambar. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets of Vakkam, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant street art. Visit the nearby temples to soak in the spiritual ambiance and witness the morning rituals.
Head to a local restaurant for a hearty lunch, enjoying regional specialties that highlight the flavors of Tamil Nadu. Post-lunch, explore the Vakkam Beach, where you can relax on the sandy shore or take a dip in the refreshing waters of the Bay of Bengal. Engage with local fishermen and learn about traditional fishing techniques that have been passed down through generations.
As the sun sets, enjoy a scenic walk along the beach, taking in the breathtaking views of the horizon. Visit a nearby café for some chai and snacks, mingling with locals and fellow travelers. End your day by attending a cultural performance or music event showcasing local talent.
Begin your culinary adventure with a guided food tour that takes you to local markets, where you can sample fresh fruits and spices. Participate in a cooking class with a local chef, learning to prepare traditional dishes using age-old recipes. Enjoy the aromas and flavors as you create your own breakfast to savor afterward.
After your cooking experience, head to a popular local restaurant to enjoy a lavish lunch featuring authentic Tamil cuisine. Visit the local fish market to understand the importance of seafood in the region's culinary culture. Spend the afternoon at a spice plantation, learning about the various spices grown in the area and their uses in cooking.
Return to Vakkam and unwind at a rooftop restaurant, enjoying the sunset views while indulging in a multi-course dinner. Engage with your fellow diners, sharing stories and experiences about the local food scene. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local sweet shop to taste traditional desserts like Mysore Pak or Gulab Jamun.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🥗Local lunch thali | $6-12 |
| 🚆Local bus fare | $0.25-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $40-80 |
| 🛵Tuk-tuk or short taxi ride | $3-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich spice heritage and coastal cuisine
- Relaxed, friendly atmosphere with scenic backwaters
- Limited nightlife compared to big cities
- Humid climate; summers can be hot and sticky
- "Namaskaaram" - Hello
- "Nanni" - Thank you
- "Sugamano?" - Are you well?
- "Dayavayi" - Please
- "Ente peru [name] aanu" - My name is [name]
Places to Visit in Vakkam
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide sandy shore with golden-hour light and surfers; ideal for long-exposure seascapes.
Elevated vantage point over the coast offering dramatic horizons and silhouettes of fishing boats at dusk.
Cinematic lanes with colorful stalls, jute bags, and spices—great for candid street photography.
Calm channels fringed with coconut palms; perfect for reflective water shots and boat silhouettes.
Food in Vakkam
Vakkam Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Coconut-based tangy fish curry, best paired with steamed rice or matta rice.
Must-Try!
Steamed rice flour cylinders served with spiced black chickpea curry; a popular breakfast or light meal.
Chewy tapioca served with the same flavorful fish curry—an iconic Malabar pairing.
Fermented rice pancake with a coconut milk-based stew, available with vegetarian or egg variants.
Malabar-style spiced beef fry, often enjoyed with parotta or rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A colorful cluster of stalls selling pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, vanilla, and fresh coffee beans; try roasted nuts and local snacks while you browse.
A lively stretch for banana chips, fish fry, cut fruits, and small-size fritters; ideal for quick bites after a market walk.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly and cover shoulders; remove shoes before entering most temples; speak softly and avoid photography in sacred spaces unless permitted.
Namaste is commonly used; use the right hand for giving or receiving items; avoid public displays of affection in conservative areas.
Ask permission before photographing locals, especially in rural or religious contexts.
Safety
Tipping in Vakkam
Ensure a smooth experience
Generally 5-10% at restaurants if service charge is not included; small tips to guides, waitstaff, and drivers are appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash (INR) is widely accepted, with cards and mobile wallets (UPI, wallets) increasingly available at mid-range places; confirm before ordering at small stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with temps often in the mid-30s°C; frequent sea breezes cool coastal areas, but carry water and sun protection.
Heavy rainfall, lush green scenery, and occasional sea swells; plan indoor activities or boat trips with caution and wear rain gear.
Pleasant and cooler, with comfortable humidity levels; this is a popular time for outdoor activities and photography.
Vakkam at Night
Hiking in Vakkam
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic routes on the southern edge of the Western Ghats with lush forests and occasional waterfalls.
Accessible forest trails weaving through tea, coffee, and pepper estates with viewpoints over valleys.
Airports
How to reach Vakkam by plane.
Major international gateway near Kochi; convenient for international travelers and domestic connections.
Also known as Karipur Airport, serving northern Kerala; good for access from northern districts.
Newer airport serving northern Kerala; efficient for trips from the northern coast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group, Malayalam-speaking with rich cultural traditions.
Active coastal community with long-standing fishing practices and markets.
A mix of people from other Indian states contributing to daily services.
Growing number of visitors and hospitality workers shaping the local economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in streets, schools, and local clubs; social gatherings often revolve around matches.
Popular among youth and in community leagues; casual kickabouts common at dusk.
Common indoor/outdoor activity; courts available in community centers.
Kayaking, swimming, and snorkeling along the coast, especially during dry season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Vakkam.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; look for thalis and curries made with coconut milk and vegetables. If avoiding fish sauce, confirm with the server and opt for coconut-based gravies.