Edathua Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and local culture in Edathua, Kerala. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Edathua

Nestled in the heart of Central Travancore, Edathua is a charming village in Kerala, a southern state in India. Known for its scenic beauty, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant temple festivals, Edathua offers a perfect blend of natural and cultural attractions for travelers seeking an authentic Indian experience. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, Edathua has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Edathua

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Edathua Church

The Edathua Church, dedicated to St. George, is one of the most famous churches in Kerala. Built in the early 19th century, the church boasts a beautiful blend of Gothic and Indian architectural styles. The annual feast of St. George, celebrated in May, is a major event that attracts thousands of devotees from all over India.

Mannarassala Nagaraja Temple

Mannarassala Nagaraja Temple is a popular Hindu temple known for its serpent worship. The temple complex houses over 30,000 images of snakes, including cobras, vipers, and pythons. The annual festival of Mannarassala Ayilyam, celebrated in October/November, is a grand affair that attracts tourists and devotees from all over the world.

Krishnapuram Palace

Krishnapuram Palace, built in the 18th century by the Travancore king Marthanda Varma, is a beautiful example of traditional Kerala architecture. The palace houses a museum that displays a rich collection of ancient sculptures, coins, and paintings, including the famous Gajendra Moksham mural.

Natural Attractions of Edathua: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Pamba River

The Pamba River, one of the longest rivers in Kerala, flows through Edathua, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for boating and fishing. The river is also a popular spot for picnics and birdwatching.

Pathiramanal Island

Pathiramanal Island, located in the middle of Vembanad Lake, is a scenic paradise that is home to a variety of migratory birds and exotic flora and fauna. The island is accessible only by boat, and visitors can enjoy boat rides, birdwatching, and camping.

Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall

Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall, located in a picturesque village near Edathua, cascades down from a height of 100 feet, creating a breathtaking spectacle. The waterfall is surrounded by lush green forests and offers excellent opportunities for trekking and nature walks.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Edathua

Edathua is surrounded by beautiful hills, forests, and waterfalls, making it an ideal destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some of the popular trails include the Edathua-Peringara trail, the Edathua-Kallumkathara trail, and the Edathua-Vazhakulam trail.

Best Things to Do in Edathua: Activities and Tours

Temple Festivals

Temple festivals, known as “utsavams” in Malayalam, are an integral part of Kerala’s cultural heritage. The festivals are a grand affair that involves processions, music, dance, and other cultural programs. The annual festivals of Mannarassala Ayilyam, Edathua Perunnal, and Thazhathangadi Perunnal are the major celebrations in Edathua.

Houseboat Cruises

A houseboat cruise through the backwaters of Kerala is a unique experience that should not be missed. The houseboats, known as “kettuvallams” in Malayalam, are traditional boats that have been converted into luxury floating villas. The cruises offer a picturesque view of the villages, paddy fields, and coconut groves that dot the backwaters.

Week-Long Itinerary for Edathua

Day 1: Explore the Edathua Church and attend the evening service. Day 2: Visit the Mannarassala Nagaraja Temple and witness the serpent worship. Day 3: Take a boat ride through the Pamba River and enjoy the scenic beauty. Day 4: Trek through the forests to reach the Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall. Day 5: Visit Krishnapuram Palace and the nearby Oachira Temple. Day 6: Take a day trip to Alappuzha and enjoy a houseboat cruise through the backwaters. Day 7: Attend the Thazhathangadi Perunnal and witness the cultural extravaganza.

Food and Drink Scene of Edathua

Must-Try Dishes

The cuisine of Kerala is famous for its spicy and flavorful curries, seafood dishes, and vegetarian delicacies. Some of the must-try dishes in Edathua include “puttu and kadala curry,” “appam and stew,” “meen curry,” and “thoran.”

Local Beverages

Kerala is known for its refreshing coconut water, toddy (a fermented coconut sap drink), and tea (served with spices and milk). The local “sulaimani” tea, a black tea infused with spices and lemon, is a popular beverage in Edathua.

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

Edathua has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Some of the popular hotels include The Raviz Resort and Spa Ashtamudi, Purity at Lake Vembanad, and Soma Kerala Palace. For travelers on a budget, guesthouses and homestays offer affordable and authentic experiences.

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

Some of the popular souvenirs to bring back from Edathua include traditional Kerala sarees and mundu (dhoti), brass and copper artifacts, coir products, and spices.

Local Culture and Customs of Edathua

The people of Edathua are known for their warm hospitality and vibrant cultural traditions. The major festivals are celebrated with great pomp and show, and the local cuisine and handicrafts reflect the rich cultural heritage of Kerala.

Best Time to Visit Edathua

The best time to visit Edathua is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and mild. The temple festivals of Mannarassala Ayilyam (October/November), Edathua Perunnal (April/May), and Thazhathangadi Perunnal (January/February) are the major events that attract tourists in large numbers.

Do’s and Don’ts of Edathua

Do:

  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or other cultural sites.
  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and traditional beverages.
  • Be polite and courteous to the locals.
  • Keep the environment clean and avoid littering.

Don’t:

  • Show disrespect to religious or cultural sensitivities.
  • Invade the privacy of the locals or take photographs without permission.
  • Engage in illegal activities such as drug use or gambling.
  • Damage the natural or cultural heritage of the place.

Safety and Health

Safety in Edathua

Edathua is a safe destination for tourists, and crime rates are relatively low. However, it is advisable to take precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night and carrying valuables in a safe and secure manner.

Health in Edathua

Visitors are advised to get vaccinated against common diseases such as hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and tetanus. It is also recommended to carry a first-aid kit and to drink only bottled water and avoid street foods.

Getting to Edathua: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Edathua

The nearest airports to Edathua are the Cochin International Airport (95 km) and the Trivandrum International Airport (150 km). Taxis and buses are readily available from both airports.

Bus Stations Near Edathua

Edathua is well-connected by road, and there are regular bus services from nearby cities such as Alappuzha, Kottayam, and Kochi. Private taxis and auto-rickshaws are also available for hire.

Other Options

Train services to Edathua are available from major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangalore. The Edathua railway station is a major stop for long-distance trains.

How to Get Around in Edathua

Edathua is a small village, and most attractions are within walking distance or a short drive away. Auto-rickshaws and bicycles are also available for hire, and taxis can be hired for longer journeys.

Where to Go Next from Edathua: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Edathua is located in the heart of Central Travancore and is surrounded by several notable destinations such as Alappuzha, Kumarakom, and Kottayam. These places offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Kerala and offer exciting experiences such as backwater cruises, spice plantation tours, and ayurvedic treatments.

Conclusion

Edathua is a beautiful destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. With its serene backwaters, scenic waterfalls, vibrant temple festivals, and rich cuisine, Edathua has something for everyone. Plan your trip to Edathua today and experience the incredible charm of Kerala.

Edathua Church Edathua Church