thekkedy

Thekkady Tourism: Gateway to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Thekkady is a charming town located in the Idukki district of Kerala, known for its proximity to the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and its lush landscapes. Nestled in the Western Ghats, Thekkady is a haven for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those seeking tranquility amidst pristine forests, lakes, and spice plantations. Thekkady's rich biodiversity, serene environment, and adventure activities make it one of the top destinations to visit in Kerala.

Top Attractions in Thekkady

1. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as Periyar Tiger Reserve, is the main highlight of Thekkady. Spanning across 925 square kilometers of dense forest and grasslands, the sanctuary is home to various wildlife, including tigers, elephants, bison, leopards, and wild boars.
• Visitors can enjoy a boat cruise on the Periyar Lake, which offers a chance to spot wildlife, including herds of elephants coming down to the water to drink. The sanctuary also offers trekking, nature walks, and jungle safaris for those looking to explore the wilderness more closely.

2. Spice Plantations

• Thekkady is famous for its spice plantations, where you can see how Kerala's famous spices like cardamom, pepper, cloves, and nutmeg are cultivated. A visit to one of the spice plantations provides a sensory experience, with the aromatic smells filling the air.
• Many spice farms in Thekkady also offer guided tours, where visitors can learn about the different spices and their uses, and buy fresh produce directly from the plantations.

3. Periyar Lake

• Periyar Lake is an artificial reservoir created by the Mullaperiyar Dam. It serves as the central water body within the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and is known for its boat rides that offer opportunities to spot elephants, bison, and other wildlife along the shore. The serene lake, surrounded by dense forests, is perfect for a peaceful boat ride.

4. Bamboo Rafting

• Bamboo Rafting is a unique adventure activity in Thekkady. It involves rafting on the Periyar Lake using traditional bamboo rafts, offering an eco-friendly way to explore the sanctuary’s waterways. During this experience, you may come across various wildlife species like elephants, deer, and different birds while gliding peacefully on the lake.

5. Elephant Rides

• For a more interactive wildlife experience, elephant rides are offered at Thekkady. You can take a ride through the forest with trained elephants, and enjoy a guided tour of the area. These rides are popular among families and those looking to get closer to Kerala’s famous elephants.

6. Murikkady

• Located around 5 km from Thekkady, Murikkady is a serene area known for its spice plantations and coffee estates. It’s an excellent place for a peaceful retreat amidst lush greenery and panoramic views of the surrounding hills.

7. Chellarkovil

• Chellarkovil is a quiet village located around 15 km from Thekkady, offering stunning views of the Western Ghats. The village is famous for its waterfalls and beautiful landscapes, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. The cascading waterfalls here are particularly scenic during the monsoon season.

8. Kadathanadan Kalari Centre

• Kadathanadan Kalari Centre is a popular spot to experience Kalari Payattu, an ancient Indian martial art that originated in Kerala. The center offers live performances of this martial art, which can be both thrilling and educational for visitors interested in Kerala’s traditional arts.

9. Thekkady Heritage Museum

• For those interested in the culture and history of Thekkady, the Heritage Museum is a great place to explore. The museum displays various artifacts related to the region's tribal cultures, wildlife, and natural heritage. It’s an excellent place to learn about the local traditions and way of life.

Things to Do in Thekkady

1. Wildlife Safari and Trekking

• Explore the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary on foot with a trekking tour. You can take a guided jungle walk through the sanctuary, which offers an immersive experience in nature and opportunities to spot wildlife. The sanctuary also organizes wildlife safaris for a closer look at the flora and fauna.

2. Boating on Periyar Lake

• Boating on Periyar Lake is a must-do activity when visiting Thekkady. The boat rides, available in both early morning and late afternoon, allow you to experience the serene beauty of the lake while observing wildlife in their natural habitat.

3. Spice Plantation Tour

• A visit to a spice plantation is a fantastic way to learn about the different spices grown in Thekkady. Many plantations offer walking tours where you can see how spices are cultivated, processed, and harvested. You can also taste fresh spice-based products and buy them as souvenirs.

4. Ayurvedic Spa and Wellness

• Thekkady is also known for its Ayurvedic spas and wellness centers. Many resorts in the area offer traditional Ayurvedic massages and therapies designed to relax the body and rejuvenate the mind. The serene atmosphere of Thekkady makes it the perfect place for an Ayurvedic experience.

5. Nature Walks and Bird Watching

• Thekkady is a great place for nature walks, especially in and around the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. You can join nature walk tours to learn about the rich flora and fauna of the region. Thekkady is also an excellent spot for bird watching, with over 200 species of birds recorded in the area, including the Great Indian Hornbill and Malabar Grey Hornbill.

Best Time to Visit Thekkady

• Winter (November to February): This is the best time to visit Thekkady as the weather is cool and pleasant. Temperatures range between 15°C and 25°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities like trekking, wildlife safaris, and boat rides on Periyar Lake.
• Monsoon (June to September): The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall to Thekkady, transforming the landscape into a lush green paradise. However, due to the heavy rains, trekking and boat rides may not be available, and the trails could be slippery. It’s a great time for those who enjoy the monsoon ambiance but may not be ideal for outdoor activities.
• Summer (March to May): While the weather is warmer during the summer months, with temperatures ranging between 25°C and 35°C, Thekkady remains cooler due to its altitude. It’s still a good time to visit for those who prefer fewer crowds and don't mind the heat.

How to Reach Thekkady

• By Air: The nearest airport to Thekkady is Cochin International Airport (about 140 km away). You can hire a taxi or take a bus from the airport to reach Thekkady.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Kottayam, located about 114 km away. Thekkady is also accessible from Ettumanoor and Changanassery stations.
• By Road: Thekkady is well-connected by road to major cities like Kochi, Kottayam, and Madurai. You can reach Thekkady by taxi, bus, or hire a private car from these cities.

Accommodation in Thekkady

Thekkady offers a wide range of accommodation options, including luxury resorts, mid-range hotels, and budget guesthouses. Some popular places to stay include:

• Luxury Resorts:
• Spice Village Resort
• The Elephant Court
• Taj Garden Retreat



• Mid-Range Hotels:
• Periyar House
• Greenwoods Resort
• Shalimar Spice Garden

• Budget Stays:
• Zostel Thekkady
• Thekkady Woods Resort
• Abad Green Forest

Thekkady is an idyllic getaway that offers something for everyone — whether it's the thrill of spotting wildlife in the Periyar Sanctuary, the tranquility of a boat ride on the lake, or the rejuvenation of Ayurvedic treatments. Surrounded by dense forests, serene lakes, and a rich cultural history, Thekkady is the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, wildlife lover, or someone seeking a peaceful retreat, Thekkady promises an unforgettable experience.