Top Tourist Places in Thekkady

Thekkady, nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, India, is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to escape the chaos of urban life. Known for its tea gardens, wildlife sanctuaries, and serene lakes, Thekkady offers a plethora of experiences. This article explores the top places to visit, activities to engage in, and essential details for an unforgettable trip.

Top 10 Places to Visit in Thekkady with Family

• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Home to elephants, bison, and diverse flora, this sanctuary promotes wildlife conservation and offers boat rides on the Periyar Lake for family outings.
• Periyar Lake: A scenic lake ideal for boating, where families can relax and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.
• Kadathanadan Kalari Centre: A cultural hub offering demonstrations of traditional martial arts, dance, and music, which is both entertaining and educational for families.
• Spice Plantations: Visit local spice plantations to learn about the cultivation of cardamom, pepper, and coffee; interactive tours are available for kids.
• Nature Walks: Join guided nature walks to explore the myriad plant species and local wildlife; a perfect educational experience for families.
• Elephant Rides: Experience an unforgettable ride on the back of an elephant through lush greenery, a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Boating in Thekkady: Families can enjoy a peaceful boating experience on Periyar Lake, perfect for spotting wildlife.
• Jeep Safari: Explore the nearby hills and forests through adventurous jeep safaris, bringing excitement to family outings.
• Chambakkulam Lake: A tranquil spot for picnicking and enjoying the scenic beauty of Thekkady.
• Tea Garden Tours: Participate in guided tours through the picturesque tea gardens, ideal for a family outing.

Top Places to Visit in Thekkady with Kids

• Elephant Junction: A massive elephant sanctuary where children can interact with elephants while learning about their care.
• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: The chance to spot endangered species in their natural habitat fascinates children and adults alike.
• Nature Walks: Kid-friendly trails in the forest help children learn about the ecosystem while enjoying nature.
• Spice Gardens: Educational tours that introduce kids to the various spices and their uses, making for a fun experience.
• Adventure Parks: Parks offering zip-lining, rock climbing, and other adventure activities suitable for children.
• Bird Watching: Families can educate kids about various bird species and engage in bird-watching activities.
• Boating: Safe and fun, boating on Periyar Lake is a favorite for children and a lovely way to observe wildlife.
• Craft Workshops: Various workshops for children to showcase their creative potentials and learn from local artisans.
• Kalaripayattu Shows: Children can watch the traditional martial art performance, offering insight into Kerala’s culture.
• Local Festivals: Plan visits during local festivals to experience cultural events that intrigue kids.

Top Tourist Places in Thekkady for Couples

• Periyar Lake: An enchanting backdrop for romantic boat rides amidst stunning scenery.
• Nature Walks: A private stroll through the lush forests can be a romantic escape.
• Spice plantation tours: Learn about spices while enjoying a peaceful environment with your partner.
• Candlelight dinners: Several resorts offer exquisite dining experiences under the stars.
• Yoga and Wellness Retreats: Engage in yoga sessions together amidst serene nature for relaxation and bonding.
• Adventure Activities: Get your adrenaline pumping with activities like bamboo rafting or zip-lining.
• Tea Garden Tour: Enjoy each other’s company amid the scenic beauty of lush tea plantations.
• Sunset Views: Find a spot overlooking the hills for a stunning sunset shared together.
• Wildlife Safaris: Each wildlife safari offers unique experiences and the excitement of possibly spotting exotic animals.
• Art Galleries: Explore local art galleries showcasing Kerala’s rich art culture.

Best Time to Visit Thekkady

The best time to visit Thekkady is between October and March. The weather is pleasant, making outdoor activities enjoyable.

Best Weather and Climate to Visit Thekkady with Temperature Details

• Winter (December-February): 10°C to 25°C, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
• Summer (March-May): 20°C to 36°C, can be warm, with some humidity, making morning and evening activities ideal.
• Monsoon (June-September): Heavy rainfall occurs, temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C; ideal for those seeking tranquility but can hinder some outdoor plans.

What is the Best Time and Worst Time of the Year to Visit Thekkady?

The best time is from October to March when the weather is cool and conducive for sightseeing. The worst time, if one wants to avoid heavy rain and humidity, would be during the monsoon months from June to September.

Top 10 Tourist Places in Thekkady with Distance from Main Railway Station or Airport

• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary – 4 km from Kumily (the nearest town)
• Periyar Lake – 4 km from Kumily
• Spice Plantations – 5 km from Kumily
• Kadathanadan Kalari Centre – 5.5 km from Kumily
• Mangaladevi Temple – 15 km from Kumily
• Chellar Kovil – 12 km from Kumily
• Chambakkulam Lake – 10 km from Kumily
• Elephant Junction – 5 km from Kumily
• Tea Garden Tour – 8 km from Kumily
• Nature Walks – Available from various points in Kumily

Top 10 Tourist Attractions and Destinations in Thekkady

• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
• Periyar Lake
• Spice Plantations
• Elephant Junction
• Kadathanadan Kalari Centre
• Mangaladevi Temple
• Chambakkulam Lake
• Nature Walks
• Aranya Nivas
• Thekkady Garden

Top 10 Activities to Do in Thekkady

• Boating on Periyar Lake
• Wildlife safaris in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
• Visit spice plantations
• Explore nature through guided treks
• Watch the Kalaripayattu martial arts show
• Ride elephants at Elephant Junction
• Participate in tea plantation tours
• Experience bamboo rafting
• Relax at Ayurvedic spa centers
• Photography and bird watching

Top 10 Famous Places & Dishes to Eat

• Appam with Stew: A traditional breakfast dish.
• Karimeen Pollichathu: Pearl spot fish wrapped in banana leaves.
• Dosa with Sambar: South Indian pancake paired with lentil soup.
• Sadya: A feast served on banana leaves with various vegetarian dishes.
• Keralan Biryani: A delicious rice dish flavored with spices and meat.
• Palada Payasam: A sweet rice pudding for dessert.
• Chakka Varuthath: Jaggery-coated jackfruit – a local favorite.
• Kappa with Meen Curry: Tapioca served with fish curry.
• Puttu: Steamed cylindrical rice cake, often served with coconut and banana.
• Black Coffee: Kerala is famous for its strong coffee.

10 Best Hotels and Resorts in Thekkady

• Spice Tree – Thekkady
• Cardamom County
• The Elephant Court
• Taj Green Cove Resort & Spa
• Forest Canopy
• Hotel Ambadi
• Thekkady Wild Corridor
• Poovath Heritage Hotel
• Green Woods Resort
• Cardamom County Resort

10 Budget and Cheap Hotels in Thekkady

• Hotel Grand Thekkady
• Hotel Sandra Palace
• Periyar House
• Green Heaven Resort
• Thekkady Garden
• Abad Green Forest Resort
• Pine Top Inn
• Shanti Ayurvedic Resort
• Hotel Ridge View
• Gokulam Hotel Thekkady

Top 10 Hidden Gems and Places to Explore in Thekkady

• Murinjapalam Waterfall
• Chellarkovil Viewpoint
• Sabarimala Temple
• Kadambakkudy Waterfall
• Periyar Tiger Reserve
• Chellar Kovil
• Valley View Point
• Parappa Wildlife Sanctuary
• Haritha Bio Park
• Cardamom Research Centre

Nightlife in Thekkady

Thekkady is not known for a vibrant nightlife scene like big cities. Instead, the focus is on the tranquility of nature. Night safaris are offered in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, and some hotels host cultural performances in the evenings. Enjoy peaceful walks under the stars or visit local cafes for an authentic dining experience.

How Many Days Should I Spend in Thekkady?

It’s ideal to spend at least 2 to 4 days in Thekkady. This duration allows for exploring the top attractions, engaging in activities like wildlife safaris, plantation visits, and experiencing local culture without rushing through the scenic beauty and calm atmosphere.

What are the Transportation Options within the City or Region?

Transportation options in Thekkady include taxis, auto-rickshaws, and private vehicles. Most attractions are well-connected. Many resorts also offer pick-up and drop-off services. Public buses are available for budget travelers. Bicycles can be rented for local exploration.

What are the Local Customs and Etiquette One Should Be Aware Of?

Respect local customs, including dressing modestly when visiting places of worship. It’s customary to greet with “Namaste” and to remove shoes before entering homes and temples. Engage with the locals politely and be cautious to avoid public displays of affection, which may be frowned upon in rural areas.

Are There Any Local Festivals or Events One Should Plan Around?

Thekkady celebrates several local festivals, such as Onam in August-September, which features floral decorations, traditional feasts, and performances. Vishu in April is another local favorite. Attending these festivals provides insights into the vibrant culture and traditions of Kerala.

History of Thekkady

Thekkady was established as a trading center for spices in the 19th century. The Periyar region was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1950, becoming a focal point for conservation efforts in India. With its historical significance in relation to spice trade and wildlife protection, Thekkady is a blend of rich culture and natural beauty.

FAQs

1. What is the best way to reach Thekkady?

Thekkady is best accessed by road. The nearest major railway station is Kottayam (114 km away), and the nearest airport is Kochi International Airport (140 km away). Buses and taxis are available for the final leg of the journey.

2. Is Thekkady safe for tourists?

Yes, Thekkady is generally safe for tourists. However, exercising standard safety precautions, especially at night and in more isolated areas, is always wise.

3. What activities are popular in Thekkady?

Popular activities include wildlife safaris, boating, spice plantation tours, nature walks, and local cultural performances.

4. Are there any specific health precautions to take?

Vaccinations for common diseases, such as typhoid and hepatitis, are recommended. Also, carry mosquito repellent, as the monsoon season can increase mosquito activity.

5. Can I find vegetarian food in Thekkady?

Absolutely! Thekkady offers a wide variety of vegetarian options at restaurants and local eateries. Traditional Kerala meals often include a range of vegetarian dishes.

6. What should I pack for my trip to Thekkady?

Pack light, breathable clothing for the day; warmer layers for evenings, especially from December to February; comfortable walking shoes; and rain gear if travelling during the monsoon.

7. Is there public transportation within Thekkady?

While Thekkady has limited public transportation options, local buses are available. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are widely used for short distances.

8. How can I communicate with locals?

English and Malayalam are commonly spoken. Basic Malayalam phrases can be helpful, though most people in the tourism industry are fluent in English.

9. Are there any adventure sports in Thekkady?

Yes, you can engage in activities like bamboo rafting, nature trekking, zip-lining, and rock climbing at several adventure centers in Thekkady.

10. What should I buy as souvenirs from Thekkady?

Popular souvenirs include spices, tea, handmade crafts, and bamboo products that reflect the local culture and craftsmanship.

11. Are there ATMs and banking facilities available in Thekkady?

Yes, ATMs are available in Thekkady, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and markets.

12. How do I book wildlife safaris in Thekkady?

Wildlife safaris can be booked through local operators or directly at the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary office. It’s recommended to book in advance during peak seasons.

13. Are there guided tours available in Thekkady?

Yes, several travel agencies offer guided tours covering wildlife, spice plantations, and cultural experiences, providing in-depth insights into the region.