🇮🇳 Thekkady, Kerala – Destination Guide

Thekkady, nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, is a nature lover’s paradise, renowned for the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, lush spice plantations, and scenic hill landscapes. It offers a mix of adventure, eco-tourism, and wildlife experiences, making it one of Kerala’s most captivating hill retreats.

🌿 Why Visit Thekkady?

• Explore Periyar Tiger Reserve and spot elephants, gaurs, and rare birds

• Enjoy a boat safari on Periyar Lake amidst jungle scenery

• Visit lush cardamom and pepper plantations

• Try adventurous activities like bamboo rafting, jungle trekking, and night patrols

• Indulge in Kerala’s traditional cuisine and Ayurveda treatments

🌟 Top Attractions in Thekkady

🐘 Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

• A vast protected area famous for its elephants and scenic boat safaris

• Home to tigers, wild boar, sambars, bison, and over 260 bird species

• Boat rides on Periyar Lake offer a chance to spot wildlife along the banks

🚣 Periyar Lake

• Man-made reservoir inside the sanctuary surrounded by dense forest

• Ideal for boating, photography, and nature spotting

🌶️ Spice Plantations

• Take guided walks through aromatic cardamom, clove, and pepper farms

• Learn about organic farming and buy freshly sourced spices

🚶 Bamboo Rafting & Nature Walks

• Conducted by forest department with tribal guides

• An immersive jungle experience across forests and wetlands

🎭 Kadathanadan Kalari Centre

• Watch live demonstrations of Kalaripayattu (Kerala’s traditional martial art) and Kathakali performances

📍 Nearby Excursions

• Kumily – A nearby town for shopping spices and local handicrafts

• Mangaladevi Temple – Ancient 1,000-year-old temple located deep within the forest (open during Chitra Pournami festival)

• Chellarkovil Viewpoint – Offers panoramic views of the plains and waterfalls of Tamil Nadu

📅 Best Time to Visit

• October to March – Cool, pleasant climate ideal for outdoor activities

• April to June – Warmer but good for wildlife sightings

• Monsoon (July to September) – Green and lush, but boat rides may be restricted

🚗 How to Reach Thekkady

• By Air: Nearest airport – Madurai (140 km) or Kochi (190 km)

• By Train: Kottayam Railway Station (114 km)

• By Road: Well-connected via scenic routes from Munnar, Kochi, and Madurai

🛏️ Where to Stay

• Eco-resorts and jungle lodges within forested settings

• Spice plantation homestays for authentic rural experience

• Luxury hotels with Ayurvedic spas and nature views

🍛 What to Eat

• Traditional Kerala Sadhya (vegetarian feast), fish curry, and appam

• Try local dishes flavored with fresh spices from the plantations

• Many resorts offer organic farm-to-table meals

🧘 Travel Tips

• Book Periyar sanctuary activities early—limited daily slots

• Carry binoculars for birdwatching and wildlife spotting

• Wear earthy colors during treks or safaris

• Respect forest guidelines and avoid littering in eco-zones