Trekking in Thekkady & Periyar National Park

About Thekkady

Thekkady is located in the southern state of Kerala in India. Specifically, it is situated in the Idukki district of Kerala. The nearest major city to Thekkady is Madurai in Tamil Nadu, which is approximately 140 kilometers away. The town of Kumily serves as the gateway to Thekkady (Thekku means Thekkady) and is often considered part of the larger Thekkady tourist area.

What to explore in Thekkady?

Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary: This is the main attraction in Thekkady. Visitors can take boat rides on Periyar Lake to observe wildlife such as elephants, tigers, gaurs, sambar deer, and various species of birds. Guided nature walks, periyar boating and trekking are also available for those who want to explore the park on foot.

Periyar Tiger Reserve: A part of the Western Ghats, the Periyar Tiger Reserve in Thekkady is home to Bengal tigers and various other species of fauna and flora. The Periyar wildlife sanctuary offers opportunities for wildlife spotting and jungle safaris. Local drivers lead Thekkady jeep safari into Periyar Tiger Reserve, known for diverse wildlife and beautiful scenery. Great adventure awaits!

Spice Plantations: Thekkady is surrounded by lush spice plantations. Tourists have the opportunity to participate in guided visits of these farms to gain knowledge about the growth and treatment of spices such as cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and cloves.

Kalaripayattu Performances: Kalaripayattu is an ancient martial art form that originated in Kerala. Many cultural centers in Thekkady organize daily performances where visitors can witness the impressive skills of Kalaripayattu practitioners.

Sailing on Periyar Lake: Experience a tranquil boat trip on Periyar Lake, encircled by the verdant foliage of the woods. It's a great way to relax and soak in the natural beauty of Thekkady while also spotting wild animals along the lake's edge.

Bamboo Rafting: For those seeking adventure, bamboo rafting in the Periyar Tiger Reserve is a popular activity. Visitors can take bamboo raft rides with guides to see wildlife and scenery from a new perspective. 

Explore Thekkady's beauty on guided nature walks or treks through spice plantations and forest trails. Enjoy scenic views. It's an excellent opportunity to get closer to nature and observe the biodiversity of the region.

In Thekkady, tourists can ride elephants at some centers to see the forest from a unique perspective.

Spring Valley Mountain offers a peaceful retreat from city life with its lush green surroundings and tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can embark on leisurely hikes or nature walks, immersing themselves in the breathtaking beauty of the surroundings.

 To Do Adventure Activities - Thekkady

Unwind with Ayurvedic massages and spa treatments at resorts in Thekkady to refresh your body and mind.

Explore Tribal Villages: Learn about indigenous lifestyles and cultures by visiting tribal communities nearby. Interact with locals to gain insights into their way of life.

Cooking Classes: Learn to cook traditional Kerala dishes using locally sourced spices and ingredients. Many hotels and resorts in Thekkady offer cooking classes where you can learn to prepare authentic Kerala cuisine.

When you are in Thekkady, be sure to visit the local markets and shops. You can find souvenirs, handicrafts, spices, and regional specialties to take back home.

Thekkady local food – Must Try

   Appam with stew

   Karimeen Pollichathu

   Puttu and Kadala curry

   Fish curry

   Meen Moilee

How to reach Thekkady?

By plane: The nearest airport to Thekkady is Madurai Airport (IXM) in Tamil Nadu, about 140 kilometers away. From Madurai, you can hire a taxi or use public transportation to reach Thekkady. Alternatively, you can also fly to Cochin International Airport (COK), which is about 190 kilometers away from Thekkady.

By Rail: The closest significant rail hub to Thekkady is Kottayam Railway Station, situated roughly 114 kilometers distant. From Kottayam, you can either rent a cab or board a bus to get to Thekkady. You can go to Ernakulam Junction or Aluva Railway Station, with good connections to major cities in India. 

You can reach Thekkady by road, as it is well-connected to cities and towns in Kerala and nearby states. You can drive to Thekkady from cities like Kochi (Cochin), Kottayam, Madurai, and Thiruvananthapuram. 

KSRTC and private buses regularly go to Thekkady from cities and towns in Kerala. The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) runs buses to Thekkady from cities such as Kochi, Kottayam, and Thiruvananthapuram. Private bus operators also run buses to Thekkady from nearby towns and cities.

 You can hire a taxi or rent a car to travel to Thekkady by car. This option is comfortable and convenient. It is available from nearby cities and towns. Several car rental agencies operate in Kerala, offering a variety of vehicles for hire.

Best time to visit Thekkady

The ideal time to go to Thekkady is from November to February. During these months, the weather is mild and there is less rain. In this season, the weather is nice, with temperatures between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). It's perfect for outdoor activities and seeing wildlife.

Winter in Thekkady is busy with tourists, making it a popular time to visit. Expect crowds during this peak season. It's advisable to book stay and activities in advance during this time to avoid any inconvenience.

Stay / Hotels in Thekkady

Thekkady has many resorts with spa, pool, restaurants, and tours for guests to enjoy premium amenities and services. To experience local life in Thekkady, consider staying in a homestay for a more personalized and authentic experience. Thekkady is known for its unique treehouse stay, offering a memorable stay amidst the lush greenery of the forest.

Many camping companies offer camping experiences in and around Thekkady. Camping trips have tents, sleeping bags, meals, and activities like nature walks, bird watching, and wildlife spotting. They also ensure safety and provide amenities like bonfires and basic restroom facilities.

Visit Exoticamp’s Thekkady Camp Cloudscape

Situated within a picturesque 50-acre spice plantation in the scenic Thekkady Hills, this Thekkady tent stay is truly a paradise for nature lovers. With its breathtaking surroundings, this location offers endless opportunities for capturing stunning photographs of the diverse flora and fauna. Additionally, visitors can explore a small antique museum on the premises. 

Whether you're embarking on a spice plantation tour, birdwatching in the Western Ghats, relaxing in a hammock with a good book, or simply enjoying the panoramic view point from your tent, this campsite promises an unforgettable experience. To top it off, indulge in a delectable spread of local cuisine, adding to the overall charm of your stay.

Explore Thekkady with Exoticamp:

https://www.exoticamp.com/site/camp/camp-cloudscape

 FAQs

1. What is Thekkady famous for?

Thekkady is famous for its greenery, spice plantations, and the Periyar National Park. It is home to various wildlife like asian elephants, tigers, and birds.

2. What are the must-visit attractions in Thekkady?

Must-visit attractions in Thekkady include Periyar National Park, Periyar Lake, spice plantations, Kalari shows, and elephant rides.

3.  What activities can I do in Thekkady?

Visitors to Thekkady can enjoy activities such as boat ride on Periyar Lake, trekking, bamboo rafting, spice plantation tours, Kalaripayattu martial arts shows, and elephant rides.

4. What is the best time to visit Thekkady?_=-+++

The best time to visit Thekkady is during the winter months from November to February when the weather is cool and pleasant, ideal for outdoor activities and wildlife spotting.

5. How do I reach Thekkady?

Thekkady can be reached by air via Madurai Airport or Cochin International Airport, by train to Kottayam Railway Station, or by road via Kochi, Kottayam, or Madurai.