Attingal Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and local culture in Attingal, Kerala, India with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Attingal

Attingal is a historic town located in the Southern Travancore region of Kerala, India. It is approximately 30 km north of the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram and is a hub for trade and commerce in the region. The town is surrounded by lush landscapes and natural beauty, and offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Kerala.

List of Places to Visit in Attingal

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Attingal Palace: A royal palace with a rich legacy, this site has become a symbol of Attingal and is a must-visit. Built in the 14th century, it is known for its architectural design and cultural significance.
  • Janardhana Swamy Temple: This temple is more than 2000 years old and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is one of the oldest temples in Kerala and is known for its intricate carvings and sculptures.
  • Government Institute of Handloom Technology: This institute offers a glimpse into the traditional handloom industry of Kerala. Visitors can witness the weaving process and purchase exquisite handloom products.

Natural Attractions of Attingal: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kilimanoor Palace: This palace is located in the small village of Kilimanoor, just 7 km from Attingal. It is surrounded by beautiful gardens and scenic views, making it a popular spot for nature lovers.
  • Varkala Beach: While not technically in Attingal, this beautiful beach is only a short drive away and is definitely worth a visit. It offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea and is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
  • Mankayam Ecotourism: This site offers a variety of outdoor activities, including trekking, bird watching, and camping. It is located about 20 km from Attingal and offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Kerala.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Attingal

  • Kilimanoor to Kottarakara Trail: This trail covers approximately 40 km and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It is suitable for both hiking and biking.
  • Kazhakuttom to Aruvippuram Trail: This trail is less strenuous and covers approximately 20 km. It passes through several small villages and offers a unique glimpse into rural life in Kerala.

Best Things to Do in Attingal: Activities and Tours

  • Visit local markets: Attingal is known for its bustling markets, where you can purchase a variety of goods including spices, handloom products, and fresh produce.
  • Attend a Kathakali performance: Kathakali is a traditional dance form of Kerala and is performed at various venues throughout Attingal.
  • Take a backwater tour: Attingal is situated close to several backwater channels, which can be explored through boat tours.

Week-Long Itinerary for Attingal

Day 1: Visit the Attingal Palace, Janardhana Swamy Temple, and local markets. Day 2: Explore the surrounding natural attractions such as Kilimanoor Palace and Varkala Beach. Day 3-4: Take a backwater tour and enjoy nature walks and bird watching at Mankayam. Day 5-6: Embark on a hiking or biking trail to Kazhakuttom or Aruvippuram. Day 7: Attend a Kathakali performance and enjoy local cuisine.

Food and Drink Scene of Attingal

Must-Try Dishes

  • Appam with stew: This is a classic breakfast dish in Kerala, and Attingal is no exception. It consists of fluffy pancakes made from fermented rice batter served with a vegetable or meat stew.
  • Puttu and kadala curry: Puttu is a steamed rice cake and kadala curry is a spicy chickpea curry. Together, they make a delicious and satisfying meal.
  • Prawn curry: Attingal is known for its seafood, and prawn curry is a must-try. It is a spicy and tangy curry made with coconut milk and fresh prawns.

Local Beverages

  • Toddy: Toddy is a locally brewed alcoholic drink made from the sap of coconut palms. It has a sweet and sour taste and is a popular drink in Kerala.
  • Tea: Kerala is known for its tea plantations, and Attingal is no exception. Visitors can enjoy a cup of fresh, locally grown tea at one of the many tea shops in the town.

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

  • Hotel Blue Nile: This hotel is located in the heart of Attingal and offers comfortable rooms and a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views.
  • Friends Residency: This guesthouse is situated in a quiet residential area and offers clean and comfortable rooms at an affordable price.
  • Saarepaathi Ayurvedic Healing Village: This resort is located outside of Attingal and offers a unique experience of Ayurvedic healing amidst natural surroundings.

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

  • Handloom products: Attingal is known for its traditional handloom industry, and visitors can purchase a variety of handloom products including sarees, dhotis, and towels.
  • Spices: Kerala is known for its spices, and Attingal is a great place to purchase fresh and high-quality spices such as cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon.

Local Culture and Customs of Attingal

Attingal is steeped in history and culture, and visitors should be respectful and sensitive to local customs and traditions. It is customary to remove shoes before entering temples and other religious sites, and visitors should dress modestly.

Best Time to Visit Attingal

The best time to visit Attingal is during the winter months from November to February when the weather is mild and pleasant.

Do’s and Don’ts of Attingal

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Learn a few words of Malayalam, the local language, to communicate with the locals.
  • Try local cuisine and attend cultural events.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing or inappropriate clothing in public.
  • Disrespect religious sites and customs.
  • Be too loud or obnoxious in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Attingal

Attingal is a relatively safe town, but visitors should take the usual precautions such as locking doors and windows and not carrying large amounts of cash.

Health in Attingal

Visitors should drink only bottled water and use mosquito repellent to avoid mosquito-borne diseases.

Getting to Attingal: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Attingal

The nearest airport to Attingal is Trivandrum International Airport, which is located approximately 30 km south of the town.

Bus Stations Near Attingal

Attingal has a bus station that connects it to various cities and towns in Kerala.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Attingal by train. The nearest railway station is located in Thiruvananthapuram, which is approximately 30 km south of Attingal.

How to Get Around in Attingal

Visitors can get around Attingal using local buses, taxis, or auto-rickshaws. Bikes and scooters can be rented from local shops.

Where to Go Next from Attingal: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Thiruvananthapuram: The capital city of Kerala is only 30 km south of Attingal and offers a variety of attractions including beaches, palaces, and museums.
  • Kollam: This historic port town is situated approximately 60 km north of Attingal and is known for its backwaters and beaches.
  • Varkala: This beach town is situated about 20 km south of Attingal and is known for its stunning cliffs and beautiful beaches.

Conclusion

Attingal is a hidden gem in Kerala, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the town’s rich cultural heritage, sample local cuisine, and embark on outdoor adventures in the surrounding countryside. With its welcoming locals and laid-back atmosphere, Attingal is a must-visit destination in Kerala.

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