Malappuram City Guide

Local dishes such as Malabar Biryani and Puttu are must-tries. While international variety is limited, vegetarian and vegan options are common. Most eateries close by 10-11 PM.

Nightlife is very limited due to the conservative nature of the district, lacking bars or nightclubs.

The coffee scene is developing with local cafes. The more traditional tea stalls dominate the landscape.

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; common in more upscale settings or for good service.

Local SIM cards from Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone Idea (Vi) can be purchased. Jio and Airtel are recommended for good coverage and data speeds. ID and passport-sized photo needed for registration.

Street cleanliness varies, with main areas maintained but smaller streets often less clean.

24/7 services are limited, with some late pharmacies and small stores providing basic options.

International products might have limited availability but are found in larger supermarkets. Fresh markets are abundant for vegetables, fruits, and meat.

Card acceptance is common in larger shops, supermarkets, and hotels. Cash is still widely used for smaller transactions, local markets, and street vendors.

ATMs are widely available from major banks like SBI, Federal Bank, and Canara Bank. Fees for ATM withdrawals from other banks are around INR 20-25 after free transactions.

Notable local schools include Kendriya Vidyalaya Malappuram with instruction primarily in Malayalam and English. International schools are limited, with more options in cities like Kochi or Kozhikode.

The digital nomad community is minimal, with limited facilities or meetups dedicated to remote workers.

Kottakkunnu Park is a major green space, suitable for walking and leisure.

Kottakkunnu Park and residential roads provide running options, with generally safe conditions barring heavy traffic.

Gyms are available, with facilities for fitness and sports activities, including local grounds for football and cricket.

Some facilities might be available, primarily in private clubs or educational institutions.

Padel is not widely known or available in Malappuram.

Some local yoga centers and fitness studios offer classes, mainly traditional styles.

Karate, Taekwondo, and traditional Kalaripayattu training facilities may be found locally. Kalaripayattu has a strong cultural presence.

There are no ski resorts or skiing activities in Malappuram.

Limited water sports opportunities locally; some are available along the Kerala coast.

No direct surfing spots in Malappuram; surfing-friendly locations are further south in Kerala.

No diving spots; diving is mainly available on the southern coast of Kerala or the Lakshadweep Islands.

Hospitals like Malappuram District Hospital and several private options are available. Private healthcare quality is typically higher, and larger hospitals may have English-speaking staff.

Tap water is generally not considered safe for direct drinking. It's advisable to drink bottled or filtered water.

Playgrounds and residential parks like Kottakkunnu Park provide family-friendly spaces. Attractions include historical and religious sites.

Malappuram is conservative, with low LGBTQ+ acceptance. Legal protections exist, but social acceptance is limited.

Malappuram is generally not very pet-friendly, with limited public spaces accommodating pets. Veterinary services are available.