IndiaKeralaThekkady
wildlife-destination · Kerala

Thekkady

Discover Thekkady wildlife, Periyar boating, spice plantations, forest stays, and nature experiences.

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Periyar Tiger Reservewildlife-destination
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Location

Periyar Tiger Reserve

Elevation

Approximately 900 to 1300 meters (3000 to 4200 feet) above.

Best Season

October to February for pleasant weather and wildlife sightings.

Ideal Stay

3-4 days to fully explore wildlife,.

01 — Overview

Thekkady: Kerala's Wild Heart Explored

Jungle thrills, spice scents, serene lakes. Thekkady awaits.

Thekkady, nestled in Kerala's verdant Western Ghats, is synonymous with the Periyar Tiger Reserve, a sanctuary of rich biodiversity and a paradise for nature lovers. This captivating destination offers a unique blend of thrilling wildlife encounters and the serene charm of spice plantations. Travelers can embark on boat safaris across Periyar Lake, witnessing elephants, sambar deer, and various bird species in their natural habitat along the tranquil shores. Beyond the jungle's embrace, Thekkady invites exploration into its aromatic spice gardens, where guided tours reveal the secrets of cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon cultivation. The region's vibrant culture, influenced by indigenous communities and its agricultural heritage, adds another layer to its appeal. Ideal for adventure seekers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a tranquil escape, Thekkady promises an immersive experience into the wild heart of God's Own Country, offering both relaxation and exhilarating discovery.

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02 — Things to do

Highlights worth the climb.

Periyar Tiger ReserveAttraction

Periyar Tiger Reserve

One of India's most captivating wildlife sanctuaries, famed for its diverse ecosystem and the magnificent Periyar Lake. Visitors can spot elephants, gaur, sambar, and various bird species.

Spice PlantationsAttraction

Spice Plantations

The rolling hills around Thekkady are carpeted with lush spice plantations. Guided tours offer insights into the cultivation and processing of cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, vanilla, and cloves.

MurikkadyAttraction

Murikkady

A picturesque area just a few kilometers from Thekkady, known for its extensive plantations of cardamom, coffee, and pepper. It offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Kadathanadan Kalari CentreAttraction

Kadathanadan Kalari Centre

Witness the ancient Kalaripayattu, Kerala's traditional martial art form, performed by skilled artists. These evening shows are a thrilling display of agility, strength, and discipline.

03 — Suggested route

Suggested Thekkady route

Jungle thrills, spice scents, serene lakes. Thekkady awaits.

Day 01
Periyar Tiger Reserve
One of India's most captivating wildlife sanctuaries, famed for its diverse ecosystem and the magnificent Periyar Lake. Visitors can spot elephants, gaur, sambar, and various bird species.
Day 02
Spice Plantations
The rolling hills around Thekkady are carpeted with lush spice plantations. Guided tours offer insights into the cultivation and processing of cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, vanilla, and cloves.
Day 03
Periyar Lake Boating
The most popular activity, offering a unique perspective of wildlife along the lake's banks from the comfort of a boat. Keep an eye out for elephants, wild boar, and various water birds.
Day 04
Bamboo Rafting & Border Hiking
An exhilarating full-day eco-tourism program involving trekking through dense forests and rafting across parts of Periyar Lake on bamboo rafts, guided by armed forest guards.

04 — Hotels

Stay in Thekkady.

No approved hotels are listed for Thekkady yet.

05 — Getting there

Reaching Thekkady's Wild Frontier

By air

The nearest major airports are Cochin International Airport (COK), approximately 150 km away, and Madurai International Airport (IXM) in Tamil Nadu, around 140 km away. Both offer domestic and international connections.

By rail

The closest railway stations are Kottayam (114 km) and Ernakulam (Kochi) (160 km). From these stations, travelers can hire taxis or take buses to reach Thekkady.

By road

Thekkady is well-connected by a network of state and national highways. Regular public and private bus services operate from major cities like Kottayam, Kochi, Madurai, and Trivandrum. Taxis and private cars are also readily available for hire.

Nearby sub-destinations

Kumily
Kumily
Near Thekkady
Gavi
Gavi
18 km from Thekkady
Vagamon
Vagamon
27 km from Thekkady
Munnar
Munnar
36 km from Thekkady

06 — Traveler reviews

From people who've been.

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07 — Community

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