Quick Info:
Thekkady isn’t loud; it doesn’t rush. You won’t find packed streets or bright lights here. What do you get instead? A deep breath. Greenery surrounds you everywhere. A sky that actually looks blue. This town sits in Kerala’s Idukki district and moves at its own pace. You’ll walk more and probably sleep more deeply.
Planning a trip? Good. Spend two or three days here and you’ll return rejuvenated. Boat rides, forest walks, quiet temples. It’s all waiting for you!
Top Attractions in Thekkady
1. Wildlife Sanctuary
Best time: November to April
Highlight: Take a boat tour for elephant and deer viewing
To the north of Thekkady is a big forest inhabited by several wild animals such as elephants and tigers. It is best to travel there during November and April. A boat ride in the Periyar lake will give you glimpses of several aquatic species. Pre-book your tickets to avoid waiting time. The opportunity to visit Periyar will provide you with the possibility to experience wild nature in all its glory.
Local Advice: You will see the animals if you start your day early. Bring your own drinking water and trekking shoes. Advance reservation of a boat is a time and stress-saving strategy.
2. Thekkady Lake (Periyar Lake)
Best time: November to April
Experience: A Boat ride with a beautiful view of birds and animals along the lake will be peaceful
Thekkady Lake lies at the core of the Periyar wildlife sanctuary. A very extensive breadth of still water, bordered with wood. Tourists ride boats to observe wild animals such as elephants and deer around the water. It is a relaxing hideout to view wildlife. This will serve the travelers who are interested in being close to nature, with no hurry and noise. Read this Thekkady Travel Guide to learn how you will be able to experience it in the best way!
Local Tip: Visit it early in the morning to find the water calm and more wildlife activity. Carry a camera to capture some scenery.
3. Kadathanadan Kalari Centre
The Best Time: October to March
Experience: Watch traditional Kerala martial arts and learn about the local culture
This centre showcases an ancient martial art called Kalaripayattu. Visitors see live shows that combine combat skills with dance and storytelling. The performances bring old legends and history to life. The centre also offers training sessions for those who want to try basic moves. It’s a great stop for culture lovers. The venue is near Thekkady town and adds a cultural touch to your visit.
Local Tip: Check the show schedule before you go. Reach early to get good seats as evening shows are the most popular.
4. Spice Plantations
Best Time: October to March
Experience Highlight: In a Spice Plantations Tour, you can visit fragrant spice gardens and find out how spices like cardamom and pepper grow
Thekkady is also known as the spice plantation capital of Kerala. Tourists go across the pepper vine fields, cardamom bushes, and clove trees. Instructions with the spices contain information on how these spices have been cultivated and hand-harvested by the farmers. The tour will allow you to feel fragrant spices and observe the processes of creating the famous Kerala flavors.
Amazing tour packages for Thekkady can be availed to check out the spice tours.
Local Tip: The best souvenir to take home would be fresh spices purchased from the farmers.
5. Mangala Devi Temple
Best Time: April to June
Experience: Take a trip to a distant temple on top of a hill accessible during the Chitra Pournami festival
Mangala Devi Temple lies right at the border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. It is situated on a hill and is 1300 meters above sea level. It is closed most of the time and is opened only for a day once a year in summer. Tourists must travel through a guided forest drive organized by the forest authorities to visit the temple.
Tip: Do not forget your ID card, as it is mandatory for visiting the temple.
6. Chellarkovil Viewpoint
Best Month: September to February
Experience: Take in panoramic views of the valley and look at water falling down the hills at Chellarkovil Viewpoint
Chellarkovil is a small village close to Thekkady and is known for its picturesque beauty. The scenery is perfect with the vistas of rich green valleys and plains. During certain days, one is able to observe thin waterfalls descending the slopes. The location is calm and serene, and it calls out to you if you are someone who detests crowds and seeks tranquility.
Local Tip: It is advisable to visit before sunset. Carry a water bottle and wear light clothes. Avoid visiting during heavy rains.
7. Periyar River for Bamboo Rafting
Best Month: October to May
Experience: Take a raft ride to drift through the waters in the forest on a bamboo raft and observe the animals and birds in their natural habitat
The tour begins with a brief visit to the forest, where professional guides will be instructing you. Upon completion of the trek, the tourists cruise through calm waters within Periyar Tiger Reserve. The slow walk enables you to listen to the sounds and movements of the forest animals. If you keep your eyes open, you can spot elephants, bison, and even river otters. It is a combination of a little adventure and nature observation. It is perfect for those travelers who seek peace amidst the wild nature.
Local Tip: Put on comfy shoes. Carry water. Booking is only available through the forest office, so visit it in advance to avoid waiting.
How to Plan an Adventure to Thekkady
How to Reach: You can reach Thekkady through Kochi, Kottayam, or Madurai. The closest airport is located in Madurai. And the nearest railway station is in Kottayam.
Perfect Time: Take two to three days to spend in Thekkady in order to relax before you start your adventure.
Evening: Watch a local performance of martial arts or dance. Another place that you can visit is Chellarkovil Viewpoint prior to sunset.
Places to stay: One should choose to stay in or around the Kumily town. All the significant places can be reached easily from here.
What to bring: Bring along some light clothes and refillable water bottles.
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FAQs
Q: Is it allowed to take photos on boat rides and animal safaris?
Yes. You can capture photos, but the sounds of flash and loud noises are to be avoided at all times.
Q: Which languages do the guides speak in Thekkady?
The majority of the guides speak English and Malayalam.
Q: Are there any concerns about safety in sanctuaries?
During safaris, visitors have to adhere to all the safety protocols and accompany the guides to stay safe.
