Perumbavoor Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Perumbavoor with our comprehensive travel guide, featuring a list of places to visit, outdoor activities, food and drink scene, where to stay, and travel logistics.


Introduction to Perumbavoor

Perumbavoor is a charming town located in the central region of Kerala, in Southern India. The town is known for its lush greenery, exotic wildlife, and serene backwaters. It is situated around 40 km east of Kochi, a popular tourist destination in Kerala, and is easily accessible by road and rail.

Perumbavoor is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and diverse flora and fauna. The region has a tropical climate, with monsoon season from June to September.

List of Places to Visit in Perumbavoor

Perumbavoor offers a wide range of attractions for visitors. From historical sites to natural wonders, here is a list of places to visit in Perumbavoor:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Peechi Dam: A popular tourist destination, Peechi Dam is a picturesque site located 23 km from Perumbavoor. The dam is surrounded by lush green forests and offers stunning views of the nearby hills and waterfalls.

  • Hill Palace Museum: Located in Tripunithura, about 30 km from Perumbavoor, Hill Palace Museum is Kerala’s first heritage museum. The museum exhibits a vast collection of rare artifacts, paintings, and antiques from the royal family of Kochi.

  • Kerala Folklore Museum: This museum is a treasure trove of Kerala’s rich cultural history, with displays of traditional attire, ancient architecture, and cultural artifacts.

Natural Attractions of Perumbavoor: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Thattekad Bird Sanctuary: Located about 20 km from Perumbavoor, Thattekad Bird Sanctuary is a paradise for bird lovers. The sanctuary is home to over 300 species of birds, including the rare Malabar grey hornbill and Sri Lankan frogmouth.

  • Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary: Another bird sanctuary located in Kochi, Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is home to several species of migratory and resident bird species.

  • Kodanad Elephant Training Center: It is an elephant rescue and training center situated on the banks of the Periyar River. Visitors can watch as young elephants are trained and cared for by mahouts.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Perumbavoor

Perumbavoor is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in and around the town:

  • Kothamangalam to Thattekad: A scenic trek that takes you through the dense forests of Kothamangalam and ends at the famous Thattekad Bird Sanctuary. The route is about 20 km long and takes about 5 hours to complete.

  • Periyar Tiger Reserve: Located about 50 km from Perumbavoor, the Periyar Tiger Reserve is a popular destination for hiking and trekking. Visitors can explore the scenic trails of the reserve and experience the beauty of the Western Ghats.

Best Things to Do in Perumbavoor: Activities and Tours

  • Backwater Cruise: A must-do activity in Kerala, a backwater cruise is a relaxing way to explore the scenic beauty of the region.

  • Elephant Ride: Visitors can take an elephant ride through the stunning landscape of Perumbavoor and get up-close with these majestic animals.

  • Ayurvedic Massage: Kerala is renowned for its Ayurvedic treatments, and visitors can indulge in a relaxing massage to rejuvenate their body and soul.

Week-Long Itinerary for Perumbavoor

Here’s a week-long itinerary for exploring the best of Perumbavoor:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Hill Palace Museum and explore the historical sites of Kochi
2 Take a backwater cruise and relax in the scenic beauty of Kerala
3 Explore the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary and the Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary
4 Take a day trip to the Kodanad Elephant Training Center
5 Head to the Periyar Tiger Reserve and go on a hike or trek
6 Indulge in an Ayurvedic massage and experience the traditional healing practices of Kerala
7 Visit Peechi Dam and spend the day amidst the serene surroundings

Food and Drink Scene of Perumbavoor

Perumbavoor offers a rich food and drink scene that visitors must experience. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sadhya: A traditional vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf, consisting of steamed rice, sambar, avial, and several other delicacies.

  • Fish Curry: Kerala is known for its delicious seafood, and the fish curry served in Perumbavoor is a must-try.

  • Appam with Veg Stew: A traditional Kerala breakfast dish, appam is a rice pancake served with a hearty vegetable stew.

Local Beverages

  • Toddy: A popular local beverage made from the sap of palm trees.

  • Chukku Kappi: A spicy, sweet tea made from ginger and jaggery.

Where to Stay in Perumbavoor: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Perumbavoor has a range of accommodation options for all budgets. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • The Shade - Eco-living: This eco-friendly resort is located amidst the lush greenery of Perumbavoor and offers a serene and tranquil retreat.

  • Hotel Marhaba: A budget hotel located in the heart of Perumbavoor, Hotel Marhaba offers comfortable rooms and excellent service.

  • Saj Earth Resort: A luxury resort situated on the banks of the Chalakkudy River, Saj Earth Resort offers top-notch amenities and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

What to Buy in Perumbavoor: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Perumbavoor is home to several local markets and handicraft stores where visitors can find unique souvenirs and local products. Here are some of the best things to buy in Perumbavoor:

  • Coconut Shell Handicrafts: A sustainable handicraft made from coconut shells, these items make great souvenirs or gifts.

  • Spices: Kerala is renowned for its aromatic spices, and visitors can buy a range of spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves in Perumbavoor markets.

  • Traditional Clothing: Visitors can buy traditional ethnic wear such as Kasavu sarees and Mundu, a traditional men’s garment.

Local Culture and Customs of Perumbavoor

Perumbavoor is home to a rich and diverse culture, with several festivals and traditions unique to the region. Some of the famous festivals celebrated in Perumbavoor include Onam, Vishu, and Christmas.

The people of Perumbavoor are known for their hospitality and warm demeanor. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and dress modestly while exploring the town.

Best Time to Visit Perumbavoor

The best time to visit Perumbavoor is during the winter months, between October to February. The weather during this time is pleasant, with clear skies and cool temperatures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Perumbavoor

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Perumbavoor:

Do:

  • Dress modestly while visiting religious places and cultural attractions.

  • Respect local customs and traditions.

  • Try local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Engage in activities that harm the environment and wildlife.

  • Disrespect local culture and customs.

  • Drink and drive.

Safety and Health

Safety in Perumbavoor

Perumbavoor is a safe place for visitors. However, it is recommended to take precautions such as basic safety measures like locking your doors and windows when you leave your accommodation, don’t accept drinks from strangers or leave your food and drinks unattended.

Health in Perumbavoor

Visitors are advised to carry mosquito repellent as Perumbavoor, like most of Kerala, is a high-risk area for mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue and malaria. It is also recommended to carry a first aid kit.

Getting to Perumbavoor: Transportation Options and Logistics

Perumbavoor is well connected by road and rail to other major cities in Kerala.

Airports Near Perumbavoor

The nearest airport to Perumbavoor is the Cochin International Airport, which is around 22 km away.

Bus Stations Near Perumbavoor

Perumbavoor has a well-connected bus station, with frequent buses from Kochi and other major cities in Kerala.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire a taxi or rent a car to reach Perumbavoor from Kochi or other major cities in Kerala.

How to Get Around in Perumbavoor

Perumbavoor is a small town, and most of the attractions are easily accessible by foot or rickshaw. Visitors can also rent a bike or scooter to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Perumbavoor: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Perumbavoor serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding areas of Kerala. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Munnar: A picturesque hill station located about 130 km from Perumbavoor, Munnar is renowned for its scenic beauty and tea plantations.

  • Athirappilly Waterfalls: Located about 40 km from Perumbavoor, Athirappilly waterfalls are some of the largest waterfalls in Kerala.

  • Cherai Beach: A stunning beach located about 45 km from Perumbavoor, Cherai Beach is a great place to relax and unwind.

Conclusion

Perumbavoor is a hidden gem in the heart of Kerala, offering a range of attractions for visitors. From exploring historical sites to experiencing the beauty of nature, Perumbavoor has something to offer for everyone. Plan your trip to Perumbavoor with our comprehensive travel guide, and experience the wonders of this enchanting town.