Puducherry
Explore the beauty, culture, and attractions of Puducherry.
Top Attractions
3 Days in Nettapakkam for a Tasty Food Trip
Nettapakkam might be a small town, but it packs a punch when it comes to food. From street-side stalls serving crispy dosas to hidden gems dishing out authentic Chettinad flavors, this place is a paradise for food lovers. I’ve spent countless evenings here, savoring everything from spicy fish curry to sweet payasam, and I can’t wait to share the best spots with you.
Trip Highlights
Best Time to Visit
Share Your Adventure
Spread the word about this amazing trip!
Day 1
Day 1 in Nettapakkam
A flavorful introduction to Nettapakkam, blending local sights with must-try dishes and authentic dining experiences.
Activities
Morning at Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple
Start your day with a visit to this serene temple, known for its peaceful ambiance and intricate carvings. The morning rituals here are a beautiful way to soak in the local culture. Don’t miss the small stalls outside selling fresh coconut water and jaggery-based sweets.
- Dress modestly as it’s a religious site.
- Try the 'panchamirtham' prasadam offered here—it’s a sweet, tangy treat.
Breakfast at Local Thatte Idli Stall
Head to a nearby thatte idli stall for a hearty breakfast. These thick, plate-shaped idlis are a local favorite, served with coconut chutney and sambar. The texture is soft yet slightly crispy at the edges, perfect for soaking up the flavors.
- Arrive early—the best stalls run out by mid-morning.
- Pair your idli with a strong filter coffee for the full experience.
Explore Nettapakkam Market
Wander through the bustling market, where vendors sell everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. It’s a great place to pick up local spices, banana chips, or even a traditional 'veshti' (dhoti). The vibrant colors and lively chatter make it a sensory delight.
- Bargain politely—it’s part of the fun!
- Look for the 'murukku' (savory snack) stalls—they’re a local specialty.
Must Try Foods
Transportation
No destinations found for this itinerary
Day 2
Day 2 in Nettapakkam
Dive deeper into Nettapakkam's local flavors and cultural spots, from serene lakes to bustling eateries.
Activities
Morning by Nettapakkam Lake
Start your day with a peaceful stroll around Nettapakkam Lake, a quiet spot where locals come to unwind. The lake is especially beautiful in the early hours, with fishermen setting out and birds skimming the water. Grab a fresh coconut from a nearby vendor and soak in the calm before the day heats up.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the uneven path.
- Bring a hat—shade is limited by the lake.
Breakfast at Murugan’s Crispy Dosa Corner
Head to this tiny but legendary spot for some of the crispiest dosas in town. Murugan’s is famous for its 'Ghee Podi Dosa,' slathered with spicy gunpowder chutney and dripping with ghee. The place is no-frills, but the flavors are unforgettable. Pair it with a strong filter coffee for the full experience.
- Go early—it gets crowded after 9 AM.
- Ask for extra podi (spicy powder) if you like heat.
Explore Local Pottery Workshops
Nettapakkam has a small but thriving community of potters. Visit a family-run workshop where artisans shape clay into traditional pots and lamps using age-old techniques. You can even try your hand at the wheel (though it’s harder than it looks!). It’s a great way to see a slice of local craftsmanship.
- Wear clothes you don’t mind getting muddy.
- Buy a small handmade souvenir—they make great gifts.
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 3
Day 3 in Nettapakkam
A relaxed day diving into hidden gems and local flavors, from serene village walks to authentic home-style meals.
Activities
Village Walk & Coconut Grove Visit
Start your morning with a peaceful stroll through Nettapakkam's quieter lanes, where you'll see traditional Tamil-style homes and lush coconut groves. The locals often dry coconuts in their yards, and if you're lucky, someone might offer you fresh tender coconut water. The groves are especially serene in the early hours, with birds chirping and the occasional sound of temple bells in the distance.
- Wear comfortable sandals—some paths are uneven.
- Carry a small cloth bag; you might find villagers selling fresh coconuts or bananas.
Breakfast at Lakshmi’s Home Kitchen
Skip the usual stalls today and head to Lakshmi’s, a tiny home-based eatery known only to locals. She serves the fluffiest 'pongal' (savory rice-lentil porridge) with a side of coconut chutney and crispy 'vadai' (fried lentil fritters). The place has no signboard—just look for the house with a blue gate and the aroma of ghee in the air. Eating here feels like being invited to a Tamil grandmother’s kitchen.
- Ask for her 'special' chutney—it’s made with tiny local onions.
- Cash only—no digital payments here.
Handloom Weaving Demonstration
Visit a family-run handloom workshop where generations have woven traditional 'veshti' (dhotis) and cotton sarees. You’ll see how raw cotton is spun into thread and dyed using natural colors like indigo and turmeric. The weavers might let you try your hand at the loom—it’s harder than it looks! They also sell finished pieces at prices much lower than city boutiques.
- Look for the 'checkered' veshti—a Nettapakkam specialty.
- Photography is allowed, but ask permission first.