Thiruvalla: The cost of enjoying tea or coffee at a hotel has risen significantly. In central Kerala, tea that previously cost Rs 10 is now priced at Rs 13, with some mid-range hotels charging up to Rs 15.

Black coffee and tea are now priced similarly, with brewed coffee increasing to Rs 20 from the previous range of Rs 15 to Rs 18.

The price of vada has also risen to Rs 13, while idli, dosa, and appam now cost Rs 12 each, up from around Rs 8 to Rs 10. Porotta and chappathi are priced at Rs 13, and egg curry now costs Rs 40, compared to the earlier rate of Rs 25 to Rs 30. The cost of masala dosa has increased to Rs 80.

These new rates have been set by various hotel associations and are effective from August 1.

In addition, the price of a standard meal has risen from Rs 70 to Rs 80. Depending on the number of curries, lunch prices at various hotels now range from Rs 70 to Rs 100. The cost of fish and other special dishes varies with the seasons.

Hotels have also begun charging for extra gravies, which were previously complimentary with dosa, porotta and chappathi. A cup of sambar or gravy now costs Rs 20.

M.K. Ullas, President of the Pathanamthitta Hotel and Restaurant Association, stated that the price increase is the first in three years. Hotel owners attribute the hike to rising wages, milk prices, and the cost of other food products.