Discover Thekkady: Kerala’s Hidden Gem for Wildlife, Adventure, and Serenity

Nestled in the heart of Kerala, Thekkady stands as a hidden gem that offers an impressive blend of wildlife, adventure, and tranquility. Renowned for its lush landscapes and rich biodiversity, Thekkady is one of the most sought-after destinations for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Below is a detailed exploration of all that Thekkady has to offer.

Thekkady: An Overview

Location: Thekkady is situated in the Idukki district of Kerala, bordering the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.

Accessibility: The nearest major city is Kochi, making it relatively easy to reach.

Major Attractions

1. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Description: The crown jewel of Thekkady, this sanctuary spreads across 925 square kilometers and is home to elephants, tigers, and numerous bird species.

Activities: Wildlife safaris, bamboo rafting, and guided nature walks.

2. Periyar Lake

Description: A man-made lake at the heart of the sanctuary, known for its tranquil settings.

Activities: Boating and sightseeing. The lake serves as a watering hole for wildlife.

3. Kadathanadan Kalari Centre

Description: A cultural center devoted to Kalaripayattu, a traditional martial art.

Activities: Watch live performances and learn about the art’s history.

4. Spice Plantations

Description: Thekkady is famous for its spice plantations, including cardamom, pepper, and vanilla.

Activities: Plantation tours, spice shopping, and cooking classes.

5. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

Description: A lesser-known wildlife sanctuary with a unique ecosystem.

Activities: Trekking in a rugged landscape, home to endangered species like the Nilgiri Tahr.

6. Bamboo Rafting

Description: Experience the serene waters of Periyar Lake on a bamboo raft.

Activities: Engage in eco-friendly rafting while enjoying the scenic beauty.

7. Elephant Rides

Description: A unique way to explore the forest.

Activities: Ride through the sanctuary accompanied by trained mahouts.

Hidden Gems

1. Chellar Kovil

Description: A serene spot offering panoramic views of the Western Ghats.

Activities: Photography and peaceful meditation.

2. Parunthumpara

Description: Known for its breathtaking views and rolling hills.

Activities: Ideal for picnics and nature walks.

3. Pandikuzhi

Description: A valley surrounded by hills, perfect for photography enthusiasts.

Activities: Trekking and exploring small waterfalls.

Time to Visit

Best Months: September to May.

Monsoon Season: June to August can be good for budget travelers, but heavy rains may affect outdoor activities.

Weather & Climate

Summer: March to May sees temperatures between 25°C to 35°C.

Monsoon: The region witnesses heavy rainfall during monsoon, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C.

Winter: December to February is pleasant, with temperatures between 10°C to 25°C, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

Nightlife

Thekkady is not particularly known for a bustling nightlife; however, a few places offer a relaxed ambiance. The art centers occasionally host cultural performances in the evenings, and some resorts provide serene places for evening gatherings.

Nature and Scenic Beauty

Flora and Fauna: The region boasts a rich ecosystem with evergreen and deciduous forests, diverse wildlife, and vibrant plant life.

Bird Watching: The sanctuary is a hotspot for bird enthusiasts, showcasing various migratory and endemic species.

Market and Shopping

Local Markets: Explore local markets for fresh spices, handmade crafts, and souvenirs.

Spice Shopping: Cardamom, black pepper, and cinnamon are popular purchases.

Food

1. Local Cuisine

Kerala Sadhya: A traditional vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf.

Seafood: Fresh catches from the backwaters and coastal regions.

2. Popular Restaurants

Spice Garden Restaurant: Known for its authentic Kerala cuisine.

Thekkady Cafe: A cozy spot for coffee and local snacks.

Sightseeing

Ayyappa Temple: A famous pilgrimage center showcasing stunning architecture.

Murikkady: Known for its captivating cardamom plantations and vibrant landscape views.

Must Visit

Periyar National Park

Mangaladevi Temple

Vandiperiyar

Echo Point

Idukki Dam

Vagamon

Vandanmedu

Kumily

Sylvan Retreat

Thekkady Lake

Resorts and Hotels

Spice Village: A unique eco-resort offering traditional Kerala-style accommodations.

The Elephant Court: Known for its luxurious amenities and proximity to major attractions.

Periyar Meadows: Provides a cozy homely feel amidst nature.

Transportation

1. Getting There

By Air: The nearest airport is in Kochi, around 140 km away.

By Train: The nearest railway station is in Kottayam, approximately 114 km away.

2. Local Transport

Taxis and Auto-rickshaws: Easily available for local travel.

Bicycle Rentals: A fun way to explore nearby areas at your own pace.

Connectivity

Roads: Well-connected to major cities in Kerala.

Mobile Network: Most major mobile networks operate without issues in Thekkady.

Top 20 Places to Visit in Thekkady

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Periyar Lake

Kadathanadan Kalari Centre

Spice Plantations

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

Bamboo Rafting

Elephant Rides

Chellar Kovil

Parunthumpara

Pandikuzhi

Ayyappa Temple

Murikkady

Vandiperiyar

Echo Point

Idukki Dam

Vagamon

Vandanmedu

Sylvan Retreat

Thekkady Lake

The Elephant Court

FAQs

1. What is the best time to visit Thekkady?

The best time to visit is from September to May when the weather is pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Monsoon from June to August can be heavy but offers lush greenery.

2. What activities can I do in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary?

You can engage in wildlife safaris, bamboo rafting, nature walks, and elephant rides. The sanctuary also offers guided trekking tours for a closer encounter with its wildlife.

3. Is Thekkady safe for solo travelers?

Yes, Thekkady is generally safe for solo travelers. However, it is advisable to follow basic safety precautions like avoiding isolated areas at night.

4. Can I see elephants in Thekkady?

Absolutely! Thekkady is renowned for its elephant population. You can spot them in their natural habitat during safaris and even participate in elephant rides.

5. Are there any local markets to shop in Thekkady?

Yes, Thekkady features local markets where you can find an array of spices, handmade crafts, and souvenirs. Make sure to explore the local spice shops to bring home some aromatic treasures.

6. How do I get to Thekkady?

You can reach Thekkady by air, train, or road. The nearest airport is Kochi and the closest railway station is Kottayam. There are also excellent bus services connecting major cities in Kerala.

7. What type of food is served in Thekkady?

Thekkady offers rich Kerala cuisine, featuring dishes like Kerala sadhya, seafood, and various spicy curries. Don’t miss trying out local delicacies in the restaurants around.

8. Is there any nightlife in Thekkady?

Thekkady is relatively quiet at night, focusing more on nature and tranquility than nightlife. Some resorts host cultural performances and activities in the evenings.

9. Are there accommodations for different budgets in Thekkady?

Yes, Thekkady has a range of accommodations from luxury resorts to budget hotels and homestays to cater to all types of travelers.

10. What wildlife species can I expect to see in Thekkady?

In Thekkady, you can observe a wide variety of wildlife including elephants, tigers, barking deer, wild boars, and over 250 species of birds.

In summary, Thekkady is a captivating destination offering an enriching experience for wildlife enthusiasts, adventure lovers, and those searching for serenity. From its emerald landscapes and diverse wildlife to vibrant culture and delicious cuisine, Thekkady is truly Kerala’s hidden gem waiting to be explored.