Thekkady Kerala Tourism-7 Charming Places to Visit in Thekkkady

Thekkady Kerala

Thekkady is a popular tourist destination located in the Idukki district of the southwestern Indian state of Kerala. It is famous for its wildlife sanctuary, which is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The main attraction of Thekkady is the Periyar National Park Spread across 777 km² The wildlife sanctuary was declared a tiger reserve in 1978. The Charm of the park is a splendid artificial lake formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar River. The Other greatest attractions of Periyar are the herds of wild elephants, deer and bison. The national park can be accessed by trekking, boating or jeep safari.

The park is home to several endangered species, including the Indian elephant, Bengal tiger, and Nilgiri tahr. Visitors can take a guided tour of the park, which includes a boat ride on the Periyar Lake, elephant rides, and nature walks. Apart from the national park, Thekkady in Kerala is also known for its spice plantations. The town is surrounded by vast stretches of tea, coffee, and spice plantations, and visitors can take a tour of these plantations to learn about the different spices grown in the region, including cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and cloves.

Thekkady in Kerala also offers several adventure activities, such as trekking, bamboo travelling and jeep safaris. Visitors can also indulge in cultural activities, such as Kathakali dance performances and martial arts demonstrations. Thekkady Kerala is a beautiful town with lush green landscapes and serene surroundings. It is an ideal destination for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those interested in exploring the culture and traditions of Kerala.

Thekkady weather

Thekkady Kerala has a tropical climate with hot and humid summers and cool and pleasant winters. The weather in Thekkady is generally pleasant throughout the year, making it a popular tourist destination. The summer season in Thekkady starts in March and lasts till May. During this time, the temperature ranges from 25°C to 36°C, and the weather can be quite humid. It is advisable to carry light cotton clothing and stay hydrated during this season.

The monsoon season in Thekkady starts in June and lasts till September. The region receives heavy rainfall during this time, which can lead to landslides and road closures. It is advisable to avoid traveling to Thekkady during this season. The winter season in Thekkady starts in October and lasts till February. The weather during this season is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. This is the best time to visit Thekkady Kerala, as the weather is ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

The best time to visit Thekkady in Kerala is during the winter season, from October to February, when the weather is pleasant, and the region is lush green. However, if you prefer to avoid crowds, you can consider visiting during the shoulder season of March to May, but be prepared for hot and humid weather.

Thekkady Tourist Places

Thekkady Kerala is a popular tourist destination in Kerala, India, known for its wildlife sanctuary, spice plantations, and beautiful natural surroundings. Some of the top tourist places to visit in Thekkady-

Thekkady wildlife sanctuary

Thekkady Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Thekkady Kerala. It is a protected area in the Western Ghats, spread over an area of 925 square kilometers, and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The sanctuary is situated around Periyar Lake, and visitors can take a boat ride to explore the sanctuary and spot wildlife. The park is home to several endangered species, including the Indian elephant, Bengal tiger, Indian bison, sambar deer, and Nilgiri tahr.

Apart from the boat ride, visitors can also indulge in other activities in the sanctuary, such as trekking, bamboo rafting, jeep safaris, and nature walks. The park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 260 species of birds spotted here. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the park, which includes a visit to the Interpretation Centre, where they can learn about the different species of flora and fauna found in the sanctuary. The sanctuary also has several eco-tourism initiatives, such as nature camps, jungle patrol, and green trekking.

Mangala Devi Temple

Mangala Devi Temple is a famous Hindu temple, situated in the dense forests of the Periyar Tiger Reserve and is dedicated to Goddess Mangala Devi, an incarnation of Goddess Shakthi. The temple is believed to have been built during the 9th century AD and has been renovated several times over the years. The temple’s architecture is typical of the Kerala style, with a sloping roof made of copper sheets and walls made of stone.

The temple is open to the public only on specific days of the year, during the annual festival of Chithira Thirunal Mahotsavam, which is usually celebrated in April. During this time, thousands of devotees visit the temple to offer their prayers and seek blessings from the goddess. The temple is located in a scenic location amidst dense forests, and the journey to the temple is a trek of about 7 kilometers through the jungle. The trek is known for its natural beauty and is a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts.

Chellarkovil

Chellarkovil is a scenic waterfall situated about 15 kilometers from Thekkady Kerala and is a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty and picturesque surroundings. The waterfall is located in a remote area and can only be accessed by trekking through the forest. Visitors can enjoy a trek of about 2 kilometers through the dense forest to reach the waterfall. The trek is known for its natural beauty and offers visitors a chance to see a variety of flora and fauna along the way.

Once visitors reach the waterfall, they can enjoy the cool, clear waters and the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and forests. The waterfall is especially beautiful during the monsoon season when it is in full flow and the surrounding vegetation is lush and green.

Chellarkovil is also known for its panoramic views of the plains below, including the famous Cumbum Valley and the village of Tamil Nadu. Visitors can enjoy the views from various viewpoints located around the waterfall. Chellarkovil is a great destination for visitors who want to experience the natural beauty and serenity of Kerala’s forests and waterfalls. It is a popular spot for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.

Murikkady

Murikkady is a small town located in the Idukki, situated about 8 kilometers from Thekkady Kerala. Murikkady is known for its lush greenery and scenic beauty, and it is a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The town is surrounded by hills and tea plantations, and visitors can enjoy trekking, hiking, and camping in the area.

One of the main attractions of Murikkady is the spice plantations, which offer visitors a chance to learn about the different spices grown in the region and their medicinal properties. Visitors can also take a tour of the plantations and see how the spices are grown, harvested, and processed. Murikkady is also known for its waterfalls, including the Chellarkovil Waterfalls and the Valanjamkanam Waterfalls. These waterfalls offer visitors a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the area and to cool off in the refreshing waters.

Vandiperiyar

Vandiperiyar is a small town situated on the banks of the Periyar River and is a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty and spice plantations. The town is surrounded by lush green forests and is home to several spice plantations, including cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and cloves. Visitors can take a tour of the plantations and learn about the different spices grown in the area and their medicinal properties.

One of the main attractions of Vandiperiyar is the Periyar National Park, which is located nearby. The park is known for its diverse flora and fauna and is home to a variety of animals, including elephants, tigers, and wild boars. Visitors can enjoy a boat ride on the Periyar River and spot wildlife along the banks. Vandiperiyar is also known for its tea and coffee plantations, which offer visitors a chance to learn about the process of growing and harvesting tea and coffee. Visitors can also sample different varieties of tea and coffee and purchase them to take home as souvenirs.

Also read- A Stunning Hill Station in Periyar River Canyon-Idukki

Thekkady boating

Boating in Thekkady is one of the most popular and must-do activities for tourists visiting this beautiful town in Kerala. Thekkady in Kerala offers a unique boating experience in the Periyar Lake, which is located in the heart of the Periyar National Park.

The Periyar Lake is an artificial lake that was formed by the construction of the Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar River. The lake is surrounded by dense forests and hills, and it is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, leopards, deer, and more. The boating ride offers a chance to spot some of these animals in their natural habitat and to enjoy the scenic beauty of the lake and its surroundings.

There are different types of boating rides available in Thekkady, including motorboats, rowboats, and bamboo rafts. The most popular and recommended option is the motorboat ride, which takes around an hour and a half and covers a distance of about 6 km. The boats are operated by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation. The boating ride is usually scheduled in the early morning and late afternoon, which is the best time to spot wildlife. The boats are equipped with life jackets, and a guide accompanies each boat to provide information about the lake and the wildlife.

Thekkady Kerala Resort

Hills and hues Thekkady

Hills and Hues is a luxury boutique resort located in Thekkady, Kerala. It is situated amidst lush greenery, tea plantations, and spice gardens, offering a serene and peaceful environment for guests to relax and rejuvenate. Hills and Hues offers nine luxurious and spacious cottages that are designed to provide utmost comfort and privacy to guests. The cottages are equipped with modern amenities like air conditioning, flat-screen TV, mini-bar, tea/coffee maker, and private balconies that offer stunning views of the surrounding hills.

Hills and Hues offers a range of activities for guests to enjoy, including guided nature walks, tea plantation tours, cooking classes, bird watching, and cycling tours. The resort can also arrange for bamboo rafting, trekking, and jeep safaris in the nearby Periyar National Park. The resort has a beautiful infinity pool, a spa that offers traditional Ayurvedic massages and therapies, and a well-equipped fitness center. Guests can also enjoy the indoor games room, library, and the on-site souvenir shop.

Lake palace Thekkady

Lake Palace Thekkady is a luxury resort located on a small island in the middle of the Periyar Lake. The resort can only be accessed by a boat ride, which adds to the unique and exclusive experience of staying at Lake Palace. The resort offers 6 deluxe rooms and 4 suites, all of which are beautifully designed and equipped with modern amenities. The rooms and suites offer stunning views of the Periyar Lake and the surrounding hills and are designed to provide maximum comfort and luxury to guests.

The resort offers a range of activities for guests to enjoy, including boating in the Periyar Lake, nature walks, bird watching, fishing, and cycling. Guests can also explore the nearby Periyar National Park, which is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. The resort has a beautiful infinity pool, a spa that offers traditional Ayurvedic massages and therapies, and a well-equipped fitness center. Guests can also enjoy the indoor games room, library, and the on-site souvenir shop.

Green woods Thekkady

Things to do in Thekkady

How to get to Thekkady

Thekkady Kerala is located in the southern Indian state of Kerala. The nearest airport to Thekkady is Madurai International Airport in Tamil Nadu, which is approximately 140 km away. Another option is the Cochin International Airport, which is about 190 km away. From both airports, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Thekkady. The nearest railway station is Kottayam, which is about 110 km from Thekkady Kerala. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Thekkady. Another option is the Madurai railway station, which is about 140 km away. Thekkady in Kerala is well-connected to major cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu by road.

Munnar to Thekkady

The distance between Munnar and Thekkady is approximately 90 kilometers, and it takes around 3-4 hours to travel by road, depending on the mode of transportation and the route taken.

The most common and convenient mode of transportation is by private or shared taxis, which can be easily hired from Munnar. Another option is to take a bus from Munnar to Kumily, which is the nearest town to Thekkady, and then hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Thekkady.

Kochi to Thekkady

The distance between Kochi and Thekkady is around 155 kilometers, and it takes approximately 4-5 hours to travel by road, depending on the mode of transportation and the route taken. The most common and convenient mode of transportation is by private or shared taxis, which can be easily hired from Kochi. Another option is to take a bus from Kochi to Kumily, which is the nearest town to Thekkady, and then hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Thekkady.

The route from Kochi to Thekkady passes through scenic landscapes of the Western Ghats, with tea and spice plantations, forests, and hills. The road is quite smooth, with some winding stretches, and there are many picturesque viewpoints along the way.