Thekkady, located in the Idukki district of Kerala, is a hidden gem nestled in the Western Ghats at an altitude of 700 meters above sea level. Thekkady is famous for being home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and Tiger Reserve, renowned for its dense deciduous forests and grasslands that house a variety of wildlife.
The highlight of Thekkady is a boat ride on the tranquil Periyar Lake, where one can witness herds of elephants, bison, and deer quenching their thirst along the water's edge. Also explore the vast stretches of spice gardens, coffee and tea plantations, and folk art which make Thekkady a unique destination that offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Kerala.
Ideal Duration For A Trip To Thekkady
The ideal duration for a trip to Thekkady depends on the traveler's interests and activities they want to do.
A minimum of 2-3 days is recommended to explore the main attractions, such as:
- Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Spice plantations
- Cultural performances
If travelers want to experience more off-the-beaten-path activities, longer duration of 4-5 days may be more suitable:
- Trekking
- Bamboo rafting
- Visiting tribal villages
Best Time to Visit Thekkady
Monsoon Season (June to September):
- The landscape is lush and verdant.
- Waterfalls and streams are at their full glory.
- Ideal for ayurvedic treatments and massages due to enhanced effects of humidity. However, check weather forecast and road conditions before planning.
Winter Season (October to February):
- Mild and pleasant weather (15°C to 25°C).
- Peak season for tourism, ideal for sightseeing, wildlife spotting, trekking, camping.
Summer Season (March to May):
- Hot and dry weather (25°C to 35°C).
- Off-season for tourism, peaceful and quiet vacation.
- Ideal for indoor activities like spice gardens, ayurvedic centers, cultural centers.
You may also like to read: Exploring Thekkady & Periyar National Park
Things To Do In Thekkady
Thekkady has many things to do that will make your trip exciting and adventurous.
Bamboo Rafting: Explore the Periyar Lake and its surroundings on a bamboo raft. Bamboo rafting is a full-day program that starts from the boat landing point and ends at the same point. Enjoy the view of the lake, the forest, and spot animals such as elephants, bison, deer, monkeys, etc., as well as birds such as hornbills, kingfishers, parakeets, etc., along the shore.
Night Trekking: Night trekking is a three-hour program that starts from the entrance gate of the Periyar National Park and ends at the same point. You can enjoy the thrill of walking through the dark forest with a torch and a guide. You can also hear and see some of the nocturnal animals and birds such as owls, civets, porcupines, etc., in their natural habitat.
Boat Safari: Boat safari is a two-hour program that starts from the boat landing point and covers about half of the lake. Spot animals such as elephants, bison, deer, monkeys, and birds like hornbills, kingfishers, parakeets on the shore or in the water.
Wildlife Spotting: Wildlife spotting can be done at any time of the day or night from various points in Thekkady such as watchtowers, hides, trails, etc. You can see animals such as tigers, elephants in their natural behavior and environment.
Spice Garden Tour: Spice garden tour can be done at any time of the day from various spice gardens in Thekkady such as Deepa World Spice And Ayurvedic Garden, Abraham’s Spice Garden, Connemara Tea Factory, etc. Experience various spices and herbs and learn about their cultivation processing and uses for culinary medicinal and cosmetic purposes.
Kathakali Performance: Immerse yourself in Kerala's vibrant culture with a traditional Kathakali performance. Watch the elaborate costumes, expressive gestures, and rhythmic movements that characterize this classical dance-drama.
Ayurvedic Massage: Relax and rejuvenate with an Ayurvedic massage in Thekkady. Experience the healing properties of Ayurveda with a variety of treatments that promote physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
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Thekkady Viewpoints For Panoramic Views
Thekkady boasts several breathtaking viewpoints that offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Here are some of the must-visit viewpoints in Thekkady:
Chellarkovil Viewpoint: Located around 15 km from Thekkady, Chellarkovil Viewpoint offers stunning views of the plains and cascading waterfalls. The viewpoint is also a great spot to witness the sunset, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink.
Ramakkalmedu: Situated about 40 km from Thekkady, Ramakkalmedu is known for its picturesque landscapes and wind farms. The viewpoint at Ramakkalmedu offers panoramic views of the Western Ghats and the plains of Tamil Nadu.
Pandikuzhi Viewpoint: Pandikuzhi is a scenic spot located around 5 km from Thekkady, known for its lush greenery and meandering streams. The viewpoint at Pandikuzhi offers breathtaking views of the surrounding forests and is a popular picnic spot.
Green Rock Viewpoint: Green Rock is a lesser-known viewpoint located near Thekkady, offering panoramic views of the Periyar Lake and the surrounding forests. The viewpoint is accessible by a short trek through the forest, making it a great spot for nature lovers.
Ottakathalamedu Viewpoint: Ottakathalamedu is located around 4 km from Thekkady and offers panoramic views of the Idukki Reservoir and the surrounding hills. The viewpoint is also a great spot for bird watching, with many endemic and migratory bird species found in the area.
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Festivals Celebrated In Thekkady
Chithirapuram Pongal: Celebrated in the month of January, Chithirapuram Pongal is a harvest festival that marks the end of the winter solstice. It is a time when farmers express their gratitude to nature for a bountiful harvest. The festival is celebrated with much fervor, with people decorating their houses, cooking traditional dishes, and participating in cultural events.
Periyar Pongal: Another important festival celebrated in Thekkady is Periyar Pongal, which is dedicated to Lord Indra, the god of rain. It is celebrated in the month of August or September, depending on the Malayalam calendar. The festival is marked by offering prayers and performing rituals to invoke the blessings of Lord Indra for a good monsoon and a prosperous harvest.
Navarathri: Navarathri, meaning nine nights, is a festival dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga and her various forms. It is celebrated in the month of September or October and is marked by colorful decorations, music, dance, and religious ceremonies. The festival culminates in the celebration of Dussehra, which symbolizes the victory of good over evil.
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Dining Options In Thekkady
Ambadi Restaurant: Located in Thekkady, Ambadi Restaurant is known for its authentic Kerala cuisine. Must-try dishes include Karimeen Pollichathu (Pearl spot fish marinated in spices and grilled in banana leaf) and Kerala-style Meen Curry (Fish curry prepared with coconut milk and spices).
Approximate price for two: INR 600-800.
Periyar Cafe: Situated near the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Periyar Cafe offers a picturesque dining experience with views of the lush greenery. Must-try dishes include Kerala Parotta with Chicken Curry (Layered flatbread served with spicy chicken curry) and Fish Fry.
Approximate price for two: INR 400-600.
Bamboo Cafe: Known for its tranquil ambiance and bamboo-themed decor, Bamboo Cafe offers a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Must-try dishes include Bamboo Biryani (Biryani cooked in bamboo tubes) and Kerala Sadhya (Traditional Kerala meal served on a banana leaf).
Approximate price for two: INR 500-700.
Thekkady Cafe: A popular choice among tourists, Thekkady Cafe offers a cozy ambiance and a menu that includes Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. Must-try dishes include Chicken Stew with Appam (Mildly spiced chicken stew served with rice pancakes) and Kerala Prawn Curry.
Approximate price for two: INR 600-800.
French Restaurant: For those craving French cuisine, the French Restaurant in Thekkady is a must-visit. Must-try dishes include Quiche Lorraine (Savory tart filled with bacon, cheese, and egg custard) and Coq au Vin (Chicken braised with wine, mushrooms, and onions).
Approximate price for two: INR 800-1200.
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Places to Visit in Thekkady
Thekkady has many places to visit that will make your trip memorable and exciting. Here are some of the most popular and interesting places to visit in Thekkady:
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in India covers an area of 925 sq km and hosts more than 35 species of mammals 265 species of birds 45 species of reptiles and 160 species of butterflies. You can see tigers, elephants, bison, sambar deer, nilgiri, langurs etc., as well as birds such as hornbills and parakeets. Enjoy activities such as boat safari, bamboo rafting, night trekking, and jungle patrol in the sanctuary.
Periyar Lake: This is a beautiful artificial lake that was created by the construction of the Mullaperiyar Dam in 1895. Periyar Lake is located inside the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and offers a scenic view of the forest and its wildlife. Enjoy activities such as fishing, kayaking and canoeing on the lake.
Kadathanadan Kalari Centre: This is a cultural center that showcases the ancient martial art of Kerala, called Kalaripayattu. Kalaripayattu is a form of combat that involves weapons such as swords, daggers, spears, shields, as well as unarmed techniques such as kicks, punches, blocks. You can also enroll for a training session or a massage session at the center.
Elephant Junction: This is an elephant camp that offers more than 20 elephants that are well-trained and friendly. You can enjoy activities such as elephant ride, elephant bath, elephant feeding, elephant shower, etc., at the camp.
Deepa World Spice And Ayurvedic Garden: Deepa World Spice And Ayurvedic Garden has more than 100 varieties of spices and herbs that are used for culinary, medicinal, and cosmetic purposes. You can take a guided tour of the garden and learn about the cultivation, processing, and uses of spices and herbs.
Nearby Attractions From Thekkady
Vandanmedu: This spice village, s located about 25 km from Thekkady offers you a chance to witness the cultivation and processing of cardamom, the queen of spices. You can see the cardamom plantations, drying yards, warehouses, and factories that produce the aromatic and flavorful spice from Vandanmedu.
Kumily: Kumily is located about 4 km from Thekkady and is the main commercial center of the region. You can shop for some local products such as spices, handicrafts, souvenirs and dine at some of the best restaurants in Thekkady. Visit some attractions such as Kumily Church, Kumily Mosque, and Kumily Rose Park in Kumily as well.
Murikkady: This is a scenic spot that offers you a splendid view of the spice plantations and the mountains. Located at an altitude of 900 meters above sea level, one can enjoy the aroma and scenery of the spice plantations such as cardamom, pepper, coffee, etc., from Murikkady. You can also visit some attractions such as Murikkady Viewpoint, Murikkady Waterfalls, and Murikkady Lake in Murikkady.
Pandikuzhi: Pandikuzhi is located about 5 km from Thekkady from where you can enjoy the view of the green hills, valleys, streams, and waterfalls. You can also enjoy activities such as trekking, camping, fishing, etc., at Pandikuzhi. You can also visit some attractions such as Pandikuzhi Viewpoint, Pandikuzhi Waterfalls, and Pandikuzhi Church in Pandikuzhi.
Mangala Devi Temple: Mangala Devi Temple is located about 15 km from Thekkady and is dedicated to Goddess Mangala Devi, who is believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. The temple is built in the Pandyan style of architecture and has a stone idol of the goddess. The temple is open only on the Chitra Pournami Festival, which is celebrated in April every year.
Panchalimedu: According to legend Panchalimedu was the abode of Panchali the wife of the Pandavas the heroes of the epic Mahabharata. You can see some rock formations caves and ponds that are believed to be associated with the Pandavas such as Bhima’s Kitchen, Draupadi’s Bath, etc. You can also enjoy activities such as trekking camping photography etc. at Panchalimedu.
Gavi Forest: This is an eco-tourism destination that offers you an amazing experience of wildlife and nature. Gavi Forest is located about 40 km from Thekkady and is part of the Periyar Tiger Reserve and hosts a variety of animals and birds such as tigers, elephants, leopards, bears, hornbills. You can enjoy activities such as jeep safari, jungle camping, birdwatching, and boating at Gavi Forest.
Accomodation Options In Thekkady
Thekkady offers a wide range of accommodation options for all kinds of travelers, from modest homestays to luxurious resorts.
Tree Houses in Thekkady Kerala
If you want to experience living close to nature in a unique way, then staying in a tree house is a great option for you.
Vanya Tree House: This is a luxury tree house that offers you all the comforts and amenities of a modern hotel such as AC TV WiFi hot water etc. You can also enjoy delicious food a swimming pool a spa and a library at this property.
Dream Catcher Plantation Resort: This is an eco-friendly resort that offers you four different types of tree houses such as deluxe superior standard and family. You can also enjoy organic food a coffee plantation tour a spice garden tour and a campfire at this property.
Carmelia Haven Resort: This is a plantation resort that offers you two types of tree houses such as deluxe and honeymoon. You can also enjoy a swimming pool, a jacuzzi, a spa, and a restaurant at this property.
Homestays in Thekkady Kerala
If you want to experience the local culture and hospitality of Thekkady, then staying in a homestay is a great option for you.
Periyar Villa Homestay: This is a spacious and elegant villa that offers you four well-furnished rooms with attached bathrooms, balconies, and garden views. You can also enjoy a common living room, a dining room, a kitchen, and a terrace at this property.
Green Ark Boutique Resort: This is a charming and colorful resort that offers you six cottages with private sit-outs, bathrooms, and garden views. You can also enjoy a restaurant, a library, a yoga center, and a spice shop at this property.
Chrissie’s Hotel: This is a cozy and rustic hotel that offers you five rooms with private bathrooms, balconies, and mountain views. You can also enjoy a common lounge, a dining area, a garden, and a barbecue at this property.
Private Pool in Thekkady Kerala
If you want to enjoy some privacy and luxury in Thekkady, then staying in a hotel or resort with a private pool is a great option for you.
The Mountain Courtyard Thekaddy: This is a premium resort that offers you four villas with private pools, bathrooms, living rooms, and garden views. You can also enjoy a restaurant, a spa, a gym, and a library at this property.
Spice Village: This is a heritage resort that offers you 52 cottages with private pools, bathrooms, verandas, and forest views. You can also enjoy an Ayurvedic center, an organic farm, a games room, and a restaurant at this property.
Poetree Sarovar Portico: This is a luxury resort that offers you 51 rooms with private pools, bathrooms, balconies, and valley views. You can also enjoy an infinity pool, a spa, a fitness center, and a restaurant at this property.
Wildlife Views in Thekkady Kerala
If you want to witness the wildlife of Thekkady from your room or balcony, then staying in a hotel or resort with wildlife views is a great option for you.
Greenwoods Resort: This is an eco-friendly resort that offers you 36 rooms with wildlife views bathrooms balconies and garden views. You can also enjoy an outdoor pool a spa a gym and a restaurant at this property.
Lake Palace Resort: This is an exquisite resort that offers you six rooms with wildlife views bathrooms living rooms and lake views. You can also enjoy an indoor pool a spa a library and a restaurant at this property.
The Elephant Court: This is an elegant resort that offers you 65 rooms with wildlife views bathrooms balconies and mountain views. You can also enjoy an outdoor pool a spa a fitness center and a restaurant at this property.
How To Reach Thekkady
By Air: Nearest airport is Kochi International Airport (140 km away).
By Rail: Nearest railway station is Kottayam Railway Station (110 km away).
By Road: Well-connected by road from various cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Popular routes include:
- Kochi - Muvattupuzha - Kothamangalam - Neriamangalam - Adimali - Kumily - Thekkady (140 km)
- Madurai - Usilampatti - Andipatti - Theni - Cumbum - Kumily - Thekkady (140 km)
- Bangalore - Hosur - Krishnagiri - Dharmapuri - Salem - Namakkal - Karur - Dindigul - Theni - Cumbum - Kumily - Thekkady (510 km)
