Punalur Travel Guide
Plan your trip to Punalur, Kerala, India with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.
- Introduction to Punalur
- List of Places to Visit in Punalur
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Punalur
- Best Things to Do in Punalur: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Punalur
- Food and Drink Scene of Punalur
- Where to Stay in Punalur: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Punalur: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Punalur
- Best Time to Visit Punalur
- Do’s and Don’ts of Punalur
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Punalur: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Punalur
- Where to Go Next from Punalur: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Punalur
Nestled in Southern Travancore, in Kerala, India, Punalur is a quaint town that offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Punalur, also known as the “Gateway to Western Ghats,” is a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With lush green fields, cascading waterfalls, and serene backwaters, Punalur has a lot to offer. In addition to its natural beauty, the town has a rich cultural heritage, making it an exciting place to explore.
List of Places to Visit in Punalur
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Punalur has a variety of museums and historical places that allow visitors to experience the town’s rich cultural heritage. Some of the must-visit places are:
- Pathanapuram Palace
- Thirumullavaram Beach
- Kottukal Rock Cut Temple
- Thenmala Eco-tourism
Natural Attractions of Punalur: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Punalur is known for its natural beauty and offers plenty of outdoor adventure opportunities. Some of the popular natural attractions are:
- Punalur Suspension Bridge
- Kallada Dam
- Palaruvi Waterfalls
- Kulathupuzha Sastha Temple
Hiking/Biking Routes of Punalur
Punalur has many scenic trails that are perfect for hiking and biking. Here are some of the popular routes:
- Thenmala to Shenkottai
- Kallada River Trail
- Palaruvi Waterfalls Trail
Best Things to Do in Punalur: Activities and Tours
In addition to hiking and biking, Punalur offers a multitude of activities and tours. Some of the best things to do are:
- Boating at Thenmala Dam
- Jungle Safari at Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary
- Trekking at Jatayupara
Week-Long Itinerary for Punalur
If you plan to visit Punalur for a week, here’s a suggested itinerary:
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit Pathanapuram Palace and Kottukal Rock Cut Temple |
| 2 | Go boating at Thenmala Dam and visit Thenmala Eco-tourism |
| 3 | Hike the Kallada River Trail and explore Punalur Suspension Bridge |
| 4 | Visit Thirumullavaram Beach and Kulathupuzha Sastha Temple |
| 5 | Trek at Jatayupara and visit the Palaruvi Waterfalls |
| 6 | Go on a jungle safari at Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary |
| 7 | Relax and enjoy the local culture and cuisine of Punalur |
Food and Drink Scene of Punalur
Must-Try Dishes
Punalur has a diverse range of cuisine that is influenced by the local culture and geography. Some of the must-try dishes are:
- Appam with Stew
- Puttu and Kadala Curry
- Fish Curry
- Kerala-style Biriyani
Local Beverages
Punalur is known for its refreshing drinks and beverages. Some of the popular local beverages are:
- Tender coconut water
- Palm wine
- Coffee
Where to Stay in Punalur: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Punalur has many affordable and comfortable accommodation options. Here are some of the best places to stay:
- KTDC Golden Peak Punalur
- Hotel Rohini International
- Hotel Sea Lord
- Comfort Inn
What to Buy in Punalur: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Punalur has a vibrant market scene with many local products and souvenirs. Some of the popular things to buy are:
- Traditional Kerala sarees
- Handicrafts and pottery
- Spices and tea
- Coir products
Local Culture and Customs of Punalur
Punalur is known for its diverse culture and traditions. Visitors to Punalur should be mindful of these customs and respect the local way of life.
Best Time to Visit Punalur
The best time to visit Punalur is during the winter season, from October to March. The weather during this time is pleasant and favorable for outdoor activities.
Do’s and Don’ts of Punalur
Do:
- Respect local customs and traditions
- Explore the natural beauty of the town
- Try the local cuisine and drinks
Don’t:
- Disrespect local culture and traditions
- Litter or harm the environment
- Engage in illegal activities
Safety and Health
Safety in Punalur
Punalur is a safe place to visit, but visitors should take standard precautions to ensure their safety. Be aware of your belongings and valuables, and do not leave them unattended in public places.
Health in Punalur
Visitors to Punalur should ensure that they are up-to-date with their vaccinations and carry a basic first-aid kit. It is advisable to drink bottled water and avoid uncooked food.
Getting to Punalur: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Punalur
Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is the nearest airport and is located about 70 km from Punalur.
Bus Stations Near Punalur
Punalur has a well-connected bus station with links to nearby cities and towns.
Other Options
Taxis and rental cars are also available for hire.
How to Get Around in Punalur
Punalur has many transportation options, including buses, taxis, and rental cars. However, the best way to explore the town is on foot or by biking.
Where to Go Next from Punalur: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Punalur is a gateway to many nearby destinations and excursions. Some of the popular places to visit from Punalur are:
- Alappuzha
- Kollam
- Thiruvananthapuram
Conclusion
Punalur is a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, making it an exciting destination to visit. This comprehensive guide will help you plan your trip to Punalur, Kerala, India, and discover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.
