Is your wanderlust calling for a place brimming with vibrant greenery, captivating wildlife, and the calm of backwaters? Then Thekkady should definitely be at the top of your travel wish list.

Tucked away in Kerala's scenic Cardamom Hills, this charming destination is a remarkable fusion of thrilling experiences, natural splendour, and rich cultural heritage. The region unfolds like a vast green carpet, adorned with undulating hills, shimmering lakes, and cascading waterfalls, all contributing to its cool, aromatic atmosphere.

Planning to visit this Idukki district of Kerala? This Thekkady travel guide will inform you of everything you need to know before heading to this peaceful gem in God’s Own Country.

How to Reach Thekkady

Even though there is no direct airport or railway station in town, getting to Thekkady is fairly straightforward. That is because it’s well-connected to major cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

Flying In

The nearest airport is Madurai International Airport, which is about 140 kilometres away. Even Cochin International Airport, roughly 190 kilometres away, is a convenient option. Both airports serve all major domestic airlines. 

By Train

Kottayam serves as the nearest railway station, located approximately 144 kilometres from Thekkady. This station connects to many major cities across India.  

Via Road

The Kerala State Transport Corporation buses connect Thekkady well. Superfast buses run daily from Kottayam, Kochi, and Trivandrum. Buses also ply from Bengaluru, Chennai, and Salem.

Driving is also a popular choice. The routes from Kochi and Kottayam are particularly scenic, offering stunning views along the way. The former takes you through beautiful Idukki and Kattappana, while the latter features charming hilly terrain. 

When is the Best Time to Visit Thekkady

The ideal time to visit this Idukki district of Kerala depends on your preferences and what experiences you seek. 

Peak Season: October to February

This is often considered the very best time to visit Thekkady. 

The weather is delightfully cool and pleasant, with temperatures typically ranging from 15°C to 30°C. This is why it’s an ideal time for wildlife safaris and general sightseeing. You might even catch Christmas and New Year's festivities. 

Moderate Season: June to September

During these months, Thekkady experiences moderate to heavy rainfall. 

Some might view rain as a deterrent, but it transforms the landscape into an incredibly lush and vibrant green, offering breathtaking scenery. That makes this season perfect for stunning photography and cosy indoor activities such as cultural shows. 

Off-Season/Summer: March to May

Expect warm weather during these months. Evenings, however, can be delightfully cooler. Temperatures typically range from 19°C to 36°C. 

One of the significant benefits of visiting Thekkady in this period is fewer crowds. This leads to significantly lower prices for hotels and other services. 

Interestingly, summer is often considered the best time for wildlife spotting. Animals tend to gather near water bodies to drink or bathe, increasing your chances of seeing them.

Top Attractions to Visit in Thekkady

No Thekkady travel guide is complete without highlighting the town’s incredible sights and experiences. So, here’s a quick rundown of the top tourist attractions you must visit during your stay:

1. Periyar National Park 

The Periyar National Park, also known as Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, is undoubtedly the core attraction of Thekkady. It’s an expansive reserve spanning 777 square kilometres.

Within the boundaries of this Thekkady Wildlife Sanctuary, you might spot majestic Indian Elephants, the elusive Bengal Tigers, Sambar Deer, Gaur, leopards, and Indian Wild Dogs. The Periyar National Park is also home to rare plant species, including the unique South Indian conifer Podocarpus Wallichianus.

Thrilling Activities in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

To explore Thekkady's wilderness, take a scenic boat ride on tranquil Periyar Lake, or Thekkady Lake. You're sure to spot wild animals and various exotic bird species along the tranquil banks. 

Try bamboo rafting for a truly unique adventure. It’s a fantastic opportunity to watch arboreal animals, including the fascinating Giant Malabar Squirrels, from a close distance.   

A trip to Periyar Tiger Reserve is something you shouldn’t. This program involves trekking and camping inside the forest, offering a rare chance to spot a tiger. 

Try fun jeep safaris through the Periyar reserve. Popular routes include Vallakadavu, Satram, and Gavi.

2. Spice Plantations

Thekkady is often called the "Spice Capital" of Kerala. So, when you’re in the region, a spice plantation tour is a must. 

Just five kilometres away is Murikkady, particularly famous for its extensive cardamom, coffee, and pepper plantations. Take a guided tour and you’ll see how spices are cultivated, and learn about their journey from farm to kitchen. 

Consider dropping by India's biggest cardamom plantation, Vandanmedu, if you’re a spice lover. 

Located a short drive from Thekkady, this region is renowned for its high-quality cardamom and stunning plantation landscapes. Walking through the lush greenery, you’ll get a close look at how cardamom is harvested, dried, and graded.

3. Kadathanadan Kalari Centre

Want to experience Kerala’s traditional martial arts? Head to this centre for an exciting performance of Kalaripayattu—one of the oldest martial art forms in the world.

The performances are packed with agile flips, high kicks, weapon techniques, and synchronised movements that keep you on the edge of your seat. 

Held in a specially designed arena, the show also highlights the discipline and training behind the art. It’s an energetic, cultural experience that gives you a deeper appreciation for Kerala’s heritage and the incredible skill of its performers.

Other Top Tourist Destinations

Beyond the main attractions, Thekkady has several more enriching experiences that are well worth your time.

At Elephant Junction, you can enjoy an elephant ride and soak in the breathtaking natural beauty of the surrounding greenery. Some sessions even include feeding and bathing the elephants—a heartwarming, hands-on interaction for animal lovers.

For those craving a peaceful retreat, the Gavi Eco-Tourism Spot offers a tranquil haven surrounded by forests, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. It's perfect for nature walks and quiet reflection.

A visit to tea gardens is a must for tea enthusiasts. Just 15 kilometres from Vandiperiyar, you'll find the Connemara Tea Plantation. Its scenic beauty draws hundreds of visitors from around the world. If you're keen to see the intricate process of tea manufacturing up close, this exceptional tea factory is definitely worth a visit.

Last but not least, don’t miss the Mangala Devi Temple, tucked deep inside the Periyar forest at 1,337 meters above sea level. While it's only open to the public on select days, the trek up offers breathtaking panoramic views of the forests and distant valleys.

3 Tips to Make the Most of Your Thekkady Trip

To make sure your Thekkady trip is as smooth and fun as possible, keep these practical tips in mind:

1. Packing Smart for Thekkady's Climate

Thekkady’s weather is generally pleasant, but it does vary slightly with the seasons. Packing smart can make your trip more comfortable.

If you’re visiting between October and February, bring a light jacket or sweater for the cool mornings and evenings. Cotton clothes work well during the day. For the warmer months, opt for breathable fabrics, sunglasses, and a good sun hat.

If you’re heading there in the monsoon, carry a sturdy umbrella, raincoat, and water-resistant footwear.  

2. Book Your Stay in Advance

Thekkady is a popular year-round destination. This is why accommodations, especially the good ones, tend to fill up fast.

Whether you're eyeing luxury resorts or a charming homestay, it’s smart to book early to avoid last-minute hassle and score better rates.

Looking for something a little different from the usual hotel room? Try camping with Exoticamp—one of the most unique and nature-friendly ways to experience Thekkady. Its campsites are thoughtfully set up in scenic, eco-rich locations where you can fall asleep to the sounds of the forest and wake up to mist-covered greenery.

Whether you're travelling solo or as a family, Exoticamp offers a safe, beginner-friendly camping experience complete with comfortable tents, clean washrooms, bonfire sessions, and nature walks.

3. Pre-Book Your Adventures

Thekkady is packed with exciting experiences, from jungle safaris to bamboo rafting.

But many of these popular activities have limited slots and tend to fill up fast, especially during weekends and the peak season (October to February). That’s why it’s a smart idea to pre-book your adventures. 

This is especially important for early morning boat trips and guided treks, which are often the first to sell out. Plus, some activities like night trekking require forest permits and trained guides, which can’t be arranged last-minute.

You can reserve most experiences online through the Kerala Forest Department’s official website. Or, check with your hotel. 

Your Unforgettable Thekkady Travel Escape Starts Now!

Thekkady offers a truly magical escape, seamlessly blending nature's profound wonders with rich cultural experiences. It stands as a dream destination for adventure seekers, wildlife lovers, and nature enthusiasts.

So, use this Thekkady travel guide and start planning your unforgettable escape today. The wonders of Thekkady are waiting to greet you with open arms!