Perumbavoor, Kerala, India

Perumbavoor is well-connected by road, rail, and air, making it easily accessible from various parts of India and abroad. Here's a breakdown of how you can reach Perumbavoor:

Perumbavoor offers a mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Here are some of the must-visit places in and around Perumbavoor:

Perumbavoor and its surrounding areas offer a variety of activities for tourists to enjoy, catering to different interests. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a religious pilgrim, or someone looking for a relaxing getaway, Perumbavoor has something for everyone. Here are some activities you can indulge in:

• Bird Watching at Thattekad: Spend a day at Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, observing a wide variety of local and migratory birds.
• Pilgrimage to Malayattoor Church: Hike up the hill to visit Malayattoor Church, a significant Christian pilgrimage site.
• Elephant Interaction at Kodanad: Visit the Kodanad Elephant Training Centre and witness how elephants are cared for and trained.
• Boating at Bhoothathankettu: Enjoy a boat ride in the reservoir of Bhoothathankettu Dam, surrounded by scenic forests.
• Trekking and Nature Walks: Explore the natural beauty of the region by going on treks and nature walks in the nearby forests and hills.
• Temple Visit at Iringole: Visit the Iringole Forest Temple, known for its serene environment and unique setting within a forest.
• Explore Local Markets: Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the markets in Perumbavoor and interacting with local vendors.

While Perumbavoor is not a major shopping destination, it offers a decent range of options for local shopping and souvenirs. Here are some of the places where you can shop in Perumbavoor:

Perumbavoor has a variety of restaurants offering different cuisines to cater to various tastes. While not a culinary hotspot, you can find some decent places to eat in the town. Here are a few recommended restaurants in Perumbavoor:

Perumbavoor is a town with a rich history and unique cultural significance. Here are some interesting facts about Perumbavoor that you might find intriguing:

• Plywood Industry: Perumbavoor is known as the 'Plywood Town' of Kerala due to its numerous plywood industries.
• Labor Hub: It's a major labor hub, attracting migrant workers from various parts of India.
• Film Shooting Location: The town and its scenic surroundings are often used as film shooting locations for Malayalam movies.
• Historical Significance: Perumbavoor has a history dating back to ancient times and was part of various kingdoms.
• Cultural Diversity: Due to the influx of migrant workers, Perumbavoor has a diverse cultural mix, reflected in its cuisine and festivals.
• Proximity to Tourist Spots: Its location makes it a convenient base for exploring nearby tourist destinations like Thattekad, Malayattoor, and Kodanad.

Perumbavoor offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. While it may not have high-end luxury hotels, you can find comfortable and convenient places to stay. Here are some types of accommodation available in Perumbavoor:

• Budget Hotels: Perumbavoor has several budget-friendly hotels that offer basic amenities and comfortable rooms at affordable prices. These are suitable for travelers on a tight budget.
• Mid-Range Hotels: There are also mid-range hotels that provide better facilities and services compared to budget hotels. These may include amenities like air conditioning, in-house restaurants, and Wi-Fi.
• Guest Houses: Guest houses are another option for accommodation in Perumbavoor. They usually offer a more homely atmosphere and personalized service.
• Service Apartments: Service apartments are available for those who prefer a more independent stay with amenities like a kitchen and living area.
• Nearby Resorts: For a more luxurious experience, you can consider staying at resorts located in nearby areas like Thattekad or Munnar, which offer scenic views and a range of facilities.

Perumbavoor is located approximately 35 kilometers (22 miles) northeast of Kochi (Cochin). The driving distance between Perumbavoor and Kochi is usually around an hour to an hour and a half, depending on traffic conditions. Kochi is a major city in Kerala and a significant transportation hub, making it easy to access Perumbavoor. Many travelers fly into Cochin International Airport and then travel to Perumbavoor by road. The proximity to Kochi makes Perumbavoor a convenient base for exploring both the town and the larger city. You can easily plan day trips to Kochi to visit attractions like Fort Kochi, Mattancherry Palace, and the Chinese fishing nets, and return to the quieter environment of Perumbavoor in the evening.

Yes, Perumbavoor is generally considered a safe place to visit for tourists. Kerala, as a whole, is known for its hospitality and relatively low crime rate compared to many other parts of India. However, like any other place, it's always wise to take certain precautions to ensure a safe and pleasant trip.

• General Safety: Exercise common sense and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
• Transportation: Use reliable modes of transportation such as pre-paid taxis or reputable ride-sharing services.
• Personal Belongings: Keep an eye on your personal belongings and avoid displaying expensive items in public.
• Nighttime: Avoid walking alone in isolated areas at night.
• Local Customs: Respect local customs and traditions to avoid any misunderstandings.
• Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contact numbers, including local police and medical services.

By following these basic safety tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience in Perumbavoor.

Perumbavoor, being a part of Kerala, celebrates a variety of local festivals that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region. These festivals are marked by vibrant celebrations, traditional performances, and religious rituals. Here are some of the prominent festivals celebrated in and around Perumbavoor:

• Onam: Onam is the most significant festival in Kerala, celebrated with great enthusiasm in Perumbavoor. It is a harvest festival that includes elaborate feasts (Onasadya), traditional dances (like Thiruvathira), boat races, and colorful decorations.
• Vishu: Vishu marks the Malayalam New Year and is celebrated with family gatherings, special meals, and the tradition of 'Vishukani' (auspicious sight in the morning).
• Christmas: With a significant Christian population in Kerala, Christmas is celebrated with festive decorations, church services, and traditional meals.
• Malayattoor Perunnal: This is a major festival celebrated at the Malayattoor Church, attracting pilgrims from all over the state.
• Temple Festivals: Various local temples in and around Perumbavoor celebrate their annual festivals (Utsavams) with processions, traditional music, and cultural performances.
• Eid: Celebrated by the Muslim community, Eid is marked by prayers, feasts, and charitable activities.

Participating in these festivals can provide a glimpse into the local culture and traditions of Perumbavoor.

The local language spoken in Perumbavoor is Malayalam. Malayalam is the official language of the state of Kerala, where Perumbavoor is located. It is a Dravidian language with its own unique script and linguistic characteristics. While many people in Perumbavoor, especially those involved in tourism and business, may also be able to understand and speak English and Hindi to some extent, knowing a few basic Malayalam phrases can be very helpful and greatly appreciated by the locals. Learning greetings like 'Namaskaram' (hello) and 'Nanni' (thank you) can enhance your interactions and make your visit more enjoyable. The prevalence of Malayalam reflects the strong cultural identity of the region and is an integral part of daily life in Perumbavoor.