Thekkady, a picturesque town and gateway to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, is a beloved honeymoon destination in Kerala, known for its serene atmosphere, lush green forests, and diverse wildlife. The Periyar Tiger Reserve, established in 1988, offers the chance to see tigers, elephants, sambars, and many other animals in their natural habitat. The scenic Periyar River flows through the reserve, providing unique wildlife viewing opportunities through boat safaris.

Besides wildlife, Thekkady is renowned for spice plantations, especially cardamom, and its beautiful mountain landscapes, ideal for treks, bamboo rafting, and jeep safaris. Popular spots near Thekkady include the scenic Pandikuzhi picnic area, the Mangala Devi Temple with panoramic Western Ghats views, and the enchanting Chellarkovil waterfall. Additionally, Vandiperiyar, with its tea and spice plantations, and Grampi (or Parunthupara) offer beautiful trekking trails and scenic vistas.

The best time to visit Thekkady is between October and February, despite the nearest railway station and airports being a few hours away, as it is well-connected by road.

How to Reach:

1. Air : The Cochin International Airport located at a distance of 190 km is the nearest airport.
2. Road : Thekkady is well connected by road to Ernakulam and Kottayam
3. Rail : The nearest rail road station is located at a distance of 120 km at Kottayam.

Top places to Visit in Thekkady

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary:

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Thekkady, Kerala, is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and is one of India’s premier wildlife destinations. Spanning 925 square kilometers, the sanctuary is home to a wide array of wildlife, including the endangered Bengal tiger, elephants, deer, and various bird species.

Nestled around the tranquil Periyar Lake, the sanctuary offers scenic boat safaris, providing visitors with an opportunity to spot animals like elephants and water buffaloes along the shore. Beyond boat rides, the sanctuary also features several trekking routes and nature walks, offering a closer look at its diverse plant and animal life. Visitors can further immerse themselves in the natural surroundings by participating in bamboo rafting programs, which allow a deeper exploration of the forest.

As one of India’s oldest wildlife sanctuaries, Periyar is not only a protected reserve but also a UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve. Its combination of natural beauty, wildlife diversity, and adventure activities makes it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.

Timing: Depends on the activity taken

Entry Fee : Depends on the activity taken

Spice Plantations

Thekkady is renowned for its vibrant spice plantations, offering visitors an enriching experience of Kerala's aromatic herbs and spices. The region’s spice gardens showcase a wide range of spices, including cardamom, black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, grown in lush, verdant surroundings.

Tourists can take guided tours through these plantations to learn about the cultivation, harvesting, and processing of these spices. These immersive tours often provide visitors with the opportunity to pluck spices directly from the plants, gaining a deeper understanding of the traditional farming methods passed down over generations. It's a fantastic way to engage with Kerala’s agricultural heritage while enjoying the scenic beauty of the Western Ghats.

Entry Fee : Approximately Rs.100/- per person

Timing: 9 Am to 6 Pm

Elephant Junction

Elephant Junction in Thekkady, located in Kumily, Kerala, is a popular and well-regarded destination for those seeking an up-close and personal experience with elephants. Visitors can engage in various activities such as riding elephants along forest trails, bathing them, and feeding them. The elephants at Elephant Junction are rescued animals, and their well-being is prioritized, which adds both an educational and ethical element to the experience.

The park offers a range of immersive activities for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers, providing a unique opportunity to connect with these majestic creatures.

Timing: 8 Am to 6 Pm

Entry Fee: Depends on the activity taken.

Classical Art show and Kalaripayattu

In Thekkady, visitors can immerse themselves in Kerala's rich cultural heritage through captivating classical art performances and the ancient martial art of Kalaripayattu. These shows offer an enriching glimpse into the region's traditional arts, blending history, spirituality, and incredible skill.

Classical Art Shows: Performances like Kathakali and Mohiniyattam are popular in Thekkady, offering dynamic storytelling through dance and dramatic expressions. Kathakali, known for its elaborate costumes and expressive facial movements, often portrays stories from Indian epics, while Mohiniyattam focuses on graceful and rhythmic movements.

Kalaripayattu, one of the oldest martial arts forms in the world, is an integral part of Kerala's cultural tradition. It is characterized by swift, graceful movements, and the use of weapons, showcasing the physical prowess and spiritual depth of this art form.

Both these performances provide an excellent way to experience Kerala’s cultural richness. Various cultural centers in Thekkady host these shows, often including live demonstrations that allow visitors to witness and appreciate the skills that have been passed down through generations.

Entry fee : Approximately Rs. 200/-