Thekkady

Nestled in the verdant hills of the Western Ghats, Thekkady is a captivating destination known for its lush forests, exotic wildlife, and serene spice plantations. Home to the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady offers a rare opportunity to experience nature in its rawest form — whether it's spotting wild elephants during a boat safari or walking through aromatic spice trails. The crisp mountain air, the melody of birdsong, and the scent of cardamom in the breeze make Thekkady a sensory escape for wildlife lovers, photographers, and peace seekers alike. Here, adventure meets tranquility in perfect harmony.

Getting to Thekkady

• By Air: The nearest airport is Madurai International Airport (IXM) in Tamil Nadu, about 140 km away. Alternatively, Cochin International Airport (COK) is approximately 165 km away. Both airports are well-connected to major Indian cities and offer easy access via taxi or bus.
• By Train: The closest railway station is Kottayam, situated about 110 km from Thekkady. Regular trains connect Kottayam to major cities like Kochi, Trivandrum, and Bangalore. From there, taxis or buses can be hired for the scenic uphill journey to Thekkady.
• By Road: Thekkady is easily accessible by road and is well-connected to Kochi (165 km), Munnar (90 km), and Madurai (140 km). Both KSRTC buses and private taxis operate regularly on these routes, taking you through picturesque mountain roads, spice plantations, and forested landscapes.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Thekkady is from October to February when the weather is pleasantly cool, perfect for trekking, boating, and wildlife safaris. During this season, the lush greenery and clear skies enhance the experience of exploring the Periyar reserve and surrounding plantations. The monsoon months (June to September) turn the region into a rainforest paradise, ideal for nature lovers and photographers, although some activities may be limited. Thekkady is also a great summer retreat from March to May, offering cooler temperatures than the plains.

Top Experiences in Thekkady

• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Enjoy boat safaris on Periyar Lake and spot elephants, bison, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
• Bamboo Rafting: A thrilling eco-tourism activity that combines rafting and trekking through the heart of the jungle, guided by local forest experts.
• Spice Plantation Tour: Walk through fragrant cardamom, pepper, and clove plantations while learning about organic farming and Ayurvedic uses.
• Border Hiking: A full-day trek along the borders of the sanctuary, led by tribal guides and armed forest guards — ideal for adventure seekers.
• Kadathanadan Kalari Centre: Witness traditional Kerala martial arts and cultural performances like Kathakali in a vibrant local theater.

Unique Activities

• Try spice shopping at local markets — Thekkady is one of the best places in India to buy fresh cardamom, pepper, cloves, nutmeg, and other spices directly from the source.
• Take a guided night patrol through the forest for a chance to experience the jungle after dark — a thrilling, eco-conscious adventure for wildlife enthusiasts.
• Savor a Kerala thali meal in a traditional homestay or eco-lodge, served on banana leaves with a variety of vegetarian and spiced dishes typical to the region.

Stay in Style

From jungle resorts and treehouses to cozy eco-lodges and boutique homestays, Thekkady offers a range of accommodations that blend seamlessly into the natural environment. Wake up to the call of wild birds, enjoy views of misty valleys, and feel immersed in the heart of Kerala’s wilderness without compromising on comfort.