Mallapally Travel Guide

Discover the top attractions, activities, culture, and local tips with our comprehensive guide to Mallapally, Kerala – perfect for planning your next vacation!


Introduction to Mallapally

Mallapally is a quaint, cozy village located in the heart of Central Travancore, one of the most beautiful regions of Kerala, India. Mallapally is known for its rich cultural heritage, warm hospitality, and stunning natural beauty. The village is surrounded by lush green hills and crystal-clear lakes, and it is the perfect destination for travelers looking for an offbeat experience of Kerala.

List of Places to Visit in Mallapally

Mallapally is a popular tourist destination in Kerala, thanks to its many heritage sites, natural attractions, and outdoor activities. Here are some of the must-visit places in Mallapally:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • St. Thomas’ Orthodox Church: This historic church is a must-visit for those interested in Kerala’s Christian heritage. Established in 1810, the church boasts of beautiful architecture and carvings.
  • Kuncheria Palliyil Mahadeva Temple: This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.
  • Kadammanitta Devi Temple: This stunning temple is dedicated to the goddess Bhagavathy, and it’s famous for its annual music festival held during the Malayalam month of Vrischikam (November-December).
  • Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its beautiful architecture and serene surroundings. It’s also believed to be one of the 108 Shiva temples built by Lord Parasurama.

Natural Attractions of Mallapally: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pamba River: This scenic river flows through Mallapally and is perfect for scenic boat rides and picnics.
  • Ammachiyude Aachumuri Waterfall: This stunning waterfall is located near the Kadammanitta Devi Temple and is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
  • Pampady Hills: The Pampady Hills offer spectacular views of the surrounding landscape and are perfect for trekking and hiking.
  • Naranammoozhi Lake: This tranquil lake is located in the middle of a dense forest and is perfect for fishing, boating, and camping.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mallapally

Mallapally is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, with plenty of trekking and biking trails to explore. Some popular routes include:

  • Pampady Hills Trek: This trek starts from the Pampady Hills and takes you through scenic landscapes, waterfalls, and forests.
  • Mallapally–Pambavally Cycle Trail: This 15-kilometer trail takes you through the countryside of Mallapally and offers scenic views of the surrounding hills and lakes.
  • Kannanthanam Mala Trek: This trek takes you to the top of the Kannanthanam Mala, one of the highest peaks in Mallapally, and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Mallapally: Activities and Tours

Apart from trekking, biking, and exploring the local attractions, here are some other activities you can enjoy in Mallapally:

  • Village Tour: Take a guided tour of the local village and learn about the traditional lifestyle and customs of the locals.
  • Cooking Class: Learn to cook traditional Kerala dishes such as appam, puttu, and avial from the locals.
  • Boat Ride: Enjoy a scenic boat ride on the Pamba River and soak in the beautiful landscapes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mallapally

Here’s a week-long itinerary for Mallapally that includes the best places to visit and activities to enjoy.

Day 1: Arrival in Mallapally

Check-in at a hotel or guesthouse and rest for the day.

Day 2: Explore the Village

Take a guided tour of the local village and explore the traditional lifestyle and customs of the locals.

Day 3: Visit the Local Attractions

Visit the Kuncheria Palliyil Mahadeva Temple, St. Thomas’ Orthodox Church, and Kadammanitta Devi Temple.

Day 4: Nature Trail

Explore the beautiful landscapes and waterfalls around Mallapally, including the Ammachiyude Aachumuri Waterfall and the Pampady Hills Trek.

Day 5: Outdoor Adventure

Enjoy a day of biking, trekking, or fishing near the Naranammoozhi Lake.

Day 6: Cultural Experience

Learn to cook traditional Kerala dishes, such as appam and puttu, from the locals.

Day 7: Departure

Check-out from your hotel and depart from Mallapally.

Food and Drink Scene of Mallapally

Kerala is famous for its delicious food, and Mallapally is no exception. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Appam: A soft, pancake-like dish made from fermented rice batter and coconut milk, usually served with coconut milk and vegetable stew.
  • Puttu: A steamed rice and coconut cake served with a variety of curries.
  • Avial: A mixed vegetable dish cooked with coconut and yogurt.

Local Beverages

  • Toddy: A local alcoholic beverage made from fermented coconut water.
  • Lemon Tea: A hot beverage made from tea and lemon, perfect for refreshing your senses.

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

Mallapally offers a variety of accommodation options to suit your budget and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Pulimoottil Homestay: This cozy homestay offers comfortable rooms and warm hospitality.
  • Mundackal Plantation Homestay: This lovely homestay is located in the midst of lush green plantations and offers a peaceful, serene experience.
  • Hotel Palace Tower: This hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities and is located in the heart of Mallapally.

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

Mallapally is known for its exquisite handicrafts and traditional products. Here are some things you can buy as souvenirs:

  • Coconut Shell Handicrafts: Unique and beautiful handicrafts made from coconut shells, including bowls, spoons, and home decor items.
  • Handloom Products: Traditional handloom products such as saris and shawls make great souvenirs.
  • Spices: Kerala is famous for its spices, and Mallapally is no exception. Pick up some aromatic spices such as cardamom and black pepper to add to your pantry.

Local Culture and Customs of Mallapally

Mallapally has a rich cultural heritage that is a fascinating blend of various influences, including Christian, Hindu, and Islamic. The locals are warm and welcoming, and they take pride in their traditions and customs. The traditional lifestyle of the locals revolves around agriculture, and you can see rice paddies, coconut groves, and rubber plantations all around Mallapally.

Best Time to Visit Mallapally

The best time to visit Mallapally is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the natural beauty of the region is at its best.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mallapally

Do:

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Carry sufficient cash as ATMs may be limited in the village.
  • Try the local cuisine, especially the seafood.

Don’t:

  • Do not litter, especially in natural areas.
  • Do not disrespect the local traditions and customs.
  • Do not take photographs in sensitive areas without permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mallapally

Mallapally is generally considered a safe destination, but it’s always advisable to take precautions while traveling. Avoid walking alone at night, and be cautious while using public transportation.

Health in Mallapally

Mallapally has a few hospitals and clinics that provide basic medical facilities. It’s advisable to carry a first aid kit and necessary medications while traveling.

Getting to Mallapally: Transportation Options and Logistics

Mallapally is well-connected by air, road, and rail, making it easily accessible from major cities in India. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Mallapally

  • Cochin International Airport (114 km)
  • Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (132 km)

Bus Stations Near Mallapally

  • Kozhencherry Bus Station
  • Changanassery Bus Station

Other Options

  • Railway stations: Chengannur Railway Station (21 km), Kottayam Railway Station (44 km)

How to Get Around in Mallapally

Mallapally is a small town and can easily be explored on foot or by bicycle. You can also hire taxis or local buses to get around.

Where to Go Next from Mallapally: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Mallapally is surrounded by some beautiful destinations in Kerala that are worth exploring. Here are some nearby destinations:

  • Pathanamthitta: This nearby town is known for its beautiful temples and is located just 15 km from Mallapally.
  • Vagamon: This scenic hill station is just a couple of hours’ drive from Mallapally and offers stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities.
  • Kumarakom: This idyllic backwater destination is perfect for those who want to relax and unwind after a busy trip. It’s just a few hours’ drive from Mallapally.

Conclusion

Mallapally is a hidden gem in the heart of Kerala, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. With its many attractions and activities, Mallapally is the perfect destination for those who want to experience Kerala off the beaten path. We hope this comprehensive guide helps you plan your next vacation to Mallapally and enjoy all that this beautiful destination has to offer!