Introduction

Find out everything you wanted to know about Kerala’s rich culture and heritage at Gramam – the great Kerala village fair. This 10-day-long fair is celebrated from 14 to 23rd January every year on Kovalam Beach and the Marine Drive in Ernakulam. An initiative by the state tourism department, Gramam (meaning a traditional village in Malayalam) aims at recreating an entire village to include the Nalukettu - a quadrangular homestead of the upper class, Chayakada or the village teashop and Kamalagramam or the artisan’s enclave.

These Nalukettus with a beautiful floral decoration before them are the highpoint of the village fair. Recreated in traditional Kerala style with wood and tiles, these quadrangular mansions are a pretty piece of architecture opening up to a sprawling courtyard. Browse the house for its collection of oddball artifacts from the bygone era including exquisite paintings, sandalwood, curios and ethnic jewelry among other fascinating exhibits. And if you would like to have your own small collection of such rare Kerala antiques, stroll up to Kamalagramam. Here you will find artisans selling an array of ethnic handicraft, jewelry boxes, handmade jewelry and intricately carved furniture. The path also has astrologers, artisans and sorcerers peeping out of their little kiosks. Chayakada - the village teashop – is the place to enjoy, other than special masala tea, authentic Kerala fare such as Kappa, Meen and Puttu.
The setting sun forms the background for the colorful cultural performances on Kovalam beach. Witness an awe-inspiring Kathakali dance drama, a Mohininatyam or Bharatnatyam recital at the open-air auditorium created within the Gramam. One by one the folk dance groups, musicians and performers of martial arts breathe life into the atmosphere of Kovalam with their talent. By the end of the evening you will feel transported to a different world.

Special Attributes

The fair gives you a glimpse into the architecture, culture and heritage of Kerala.

Nuisance

Beggars, Hawkers

Dressing restrictions

Dress in whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

Private taxi from Trivandrum city centre

Enjoyed by

Art and Culture enthusiasts

Exposure

You will be under the sun for the better part of the day. Kovalam has a tropical climate, so carry your sunshades, cap, sunscreen lotion and a bottle of drinking water.

Avoidable Season

February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December

Facilities

There is a teashop-cum-restaurant, in addition to a number of shops selling attractive local bric-a-brac.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction

Tip

Don’t miss out the cultural performances against the backdrop of a colorful sunset sky.

Type of site

Traditional village fair