Thekkady




Discover Thekkady: A Wildlife Wonderland in Kerala

Nestled in the Western Ghats, Thekkady is a picturesque town located in the Idukki district of Kerala. Known for its lush forests, vibrant wildlife, and serene landscapes, Thekkady is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. From exploring the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary to enjoying tranquil boat rides on the Periyar Lake, Thekkady offers a blend of excitement and relaxation amidst nature’s wonders.

Here’s a guide to the must-visit places and experiences in Thekkady.

🦁 Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: A Haven for Wildlife Enthusiasts

The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as Periyar Tiger Reserve, is one of the most famous wildlife sanctuaries in India. Spanning over 925 square kilometers, this sanctuary is home to tigers, elephants, bison, leopards, and various species of birds. It’s a great place for jungle safaris, trekking, and nature walks.

Key Attractions:

  • Boat Ride on Periyar Lake: The boat ride on the tranquil Periyar Lake is a must-do activity. It offers a chance to spot wildlife such as elephants, wild boars, and a variety of birds, especially around the lake’s banks.

  • Boat ride on Thekkady lake

  • Jungle Safari: A guided jungle safari gives you the chance to explore the deeper parts of the sanctuary, with a focus on spotting tigers and other wild animals.

  • Wild life safari

Ticket Price for Boat Ride: ₹200 - ₹500 (depending on the type of boat)
Safari Charges: ₹100 - ₹500 per person (depending on the type of safari)
Best Time to Visit: October to March (ideal for wildlife sightings and pleasant weather)

🌳 Thekkady Spice Plantation: A Fragrant Escape

Thekkady is renowned for its spice plantations, where you can experience the essence of Kerala’s rich spice heritage. A visit to a spice plantation offers a guided tour through aromatic fields of cardamom, pepper, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Learn about the cultivation process and buy fresh spices as souvenirs.

Thekkady tea Estate

Best Time to Visit: Morning for a peaceful walk through the plantations

🦜 Chellarkovil: A Scenic Viewpoint

Chellarkovil is a small village located around 15 km from Thekkady and is famous for its breathtaking views of the Western Ghats and the cascading Chellarkovil Waterfalls. This is a serene spot for nature lovers, photographers, and those looking to unwind in a peaceful environment.

Chellarkovil Waterfalls

Ticket Price: Free
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for the best views

🏞️ Pandikuzhi: A Tranquil Nature Spot

Pandikuzhi, located around 10 km from Thekkady, is a beautiful valley nestled between the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border. The area is known for its rich flora, fauna, and stunning landscape. It’s a perfect place for trekking, picnics, and enjoying the beauty of nature.

Pandikuzhi

Ticket Price: Free

Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon for a relaxing experience

🐒 Elephant Junction: A Close Encounter with Elephants

Elephant Junction offers a unique opportunity to interact with elephants. You can enjoy an elephant ride, bathe the elephants, or simply watch them in their natural habitat. It’s a great activity for families and animal lovers.

Ticket Price: ₹400 - ₹1,500 (depending on the type of activity)
Best Time to Visit: Morning when the elephants are active

🏙️ Thekkady Lake: A Serene Retreat

Thekkady Lake, located near the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, offers a peaceful atmosphere where visitors can relax and enjoy nature’s beauty. The surrounding forests and hills provide a tranquil setting for boat rides and birdwatching.

Thekkady lake

Ticket Price for Boat Ride: ₹150 - ₹300
Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon for calm waters and wildlife sightings

🏛️ Historical Significance of Thekkady

Periyar Tiger Reserve

Thekkady holds a significant place in Kerala’s history and natural heritage. It is home to the Periyar Tiger Reserve, established in 1950, which was one of the first tiger reserves in India. The region is a key conservation area, promoting the protection of wildlife, especially tigers and elephants. The spice plantations also play a major role in Kerala's economy, as the state is one of the largest producers of spices in India.

Thekkady has been a popular destination for travelers since the British colonial era, who were drawn to the cool climate and lush greenery. The region's rich biodiversity and pristine environment continue to attract eco-tourists and wildlife enthusiasts from around the world.

How to Reach Thekkady

  • By Train: The nearest railway station to Thekkady is Kottayam (approximately 110 km away). From Kottayam, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Thekkady.
  • By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (COK), about 140 km from Thekkady. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Thekkady.

Where to Stay in Thekkady

Thekkady offers a range of accommodations, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly homestays, ensuring a comfortable stay amidst nature.

  • Luxury Resorts: Thekkady Wild Corridor (₹6,000 - ₹12,000 per night), Spice Village (₹7,000 - ₹15,000 per night)
  • Budget Stays: Greenwoods Resort (₹3,000 - ₹5,000 per night), Coffee Routes (₹2,000 - ₹4,000 per night)

Must-Try Food in Thekkady

Thekkady’s food scene is dominated by local Kerala cuisine, with a variety of traditional dishes prepared using fresh, local ingredients. Here are some dishes you must try:

  • Karimeen Pollichathu: A flavorful Kerala dish made with pearl spot fish, marinated in spices and grilled in banana leaves. Try it at Spice Garden Restaurant or Thekkady Café.
  • Puttu and Kadala Curry: A traditional Kerala breakfast of steamed rice cake with spicy black chickpea curry. Available at local restaurants like Shalimar Restaurant.
  • Nadan Kozhi Curry: A spicy, flavorful chicken curry, often served with appam or rice. Enjoy it at Vandanmedu Restaurant or Thekkady Spice Village.
  • Banana Chips: A crispy snack made from raw bananas, fried in coconut oil. You can find them in local markets or at various spice shops.

What to Buy in Thekkady: Souvenirs and Memories

Thekkady is famous for its spices, tea, and handicrafts, making it the perfect place to pick up souvenirs.

  • Spices: Kerala is known for its aromatic spices, and Thekkady is the place to buy fresh cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and cloves. Price: ₹50 - ₹500 depending on the quantity Where to Buy: Spice markets and plantation tours in Thekkady.

  • Kerala Spices

  • Tea: Kerala is also known for its tea, and you can buy fresh tea leaves from local estates. Price: ₹100 - ₹500 depending on the type Where to Buy: Local spice plantations and shops.

  • Handicrafts: You can buy local Kerala handicrafts such as wooden carvings, coir products, and traditional brass items. Price: ₹200 - ₹2,000 depending on the item Where to Buy: Local shops and handicraft emporiums in Thekkady.

Best Time to Visit Thekkady

The ideal time to visit Thekkady is between October and March when the weather is cooler, and wildlife sightings are more frequent. The months from June to September are also a good time to visit for those who enjoy the monsoon season and the lush green landscapes, though some activities like boat rides may be affected by rains.

How Many Days to Stay in Thekkady

To fully explore the attractions and enjoy the serenity of Thekkady, a stay of 1 to 2 days is recommended. This allows enough time for wildlife safaris, boat rides, visits to spice plantations, and enjoying the tranquility of the area. If you plan to explore nearby destinations like Munnar or Kumarakom, you may want to add another day or two.

Wrap-Up: Experience the Wilderness of Thekkady

Thekkady offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature’s beauty, from exploring wildlife sanctuaries to enjoying scenic viewpoints and cultural experiences. Whether you’re trekking through dense forests, spotting wildlife, or relaxing by the Periyar Lake, Thekkady offers a tranquil and enriching escape into Kerala’s natural heritage.

So, pack your bags and get ready to explore Thekkady’s incredible wildlife, lush greenery, and rich cultural experiences! 🦁🌿

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Kovalam

Image
  Discover Kovalam: Kerala’s Iconic Beach Destination Kovalam , located in the southern part of Kerala, is one of the most famous beach destinations in India. Known for its stunning crescent-shaped beaches, calm waters, and vibrant atmosphere, Kovalam attracts tourists seeking a blend of relaxation, water sports, and Ayurveda treatments. With its long coastline, Kovalam is a paradise for sunbathers, surfers, and those who wish to enjoy the tropical beauty of Kerala. 🌊 Lighthouse Beach: The Crown Jewel of Kovalam The Lighthouse Beach is the most famous and busiest beach in Kovalam. Its name is derived from the towering lighthouse that stands at the top of a hill overlooking the beach. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline. The beach is perfect for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying the view of the Arabian Sea. Kovalam Light House Beach  Activities : Swimming, photography, beach walks, lighthouse visit Ticket Price : ₹10 (for light...
Read more

Wayanad

Image
  Discover Wayanad: Kerala’s Tranquil Paradise Nestled in the Western Ghats, Wayanad is a picturesque district in Kerala known for its lush green landscapes, misty mountains, and abundant wildlife. It is an ideal destination for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those seeking peace and tranquility. Wayanad is home to serene waterfalls, ancient caves, spice plantations, and abundant wildlife, offering a diverse range of experiences. Here's a guide to the must-visit places in Wayanad. 🌿 Edakkal Caves: A Peek into Prehistoric Times The Edakkal Caves are a historic and archaeological wonder, known for their ancient petroglyphs (rock engravings) that date back to the Stone Age. The caves are located at an altitude of 1,200 meters on Ambukuthi Hill. A hike to the caves takes about 30 minutes and rewards visitors with a panoramic view of the surrounding hills. Activities : Trekking, photography, historical exploration Ticket Price : ₹30 (Indian), ₹100 (Foreigners) Best Time to ...
Read more

Alappuzha

Image
Discover Alappuzha: A Tranquil Escape in Kerala Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey , is a captivating destination in Kerala that offers a serene mix of natural beauty, rich heritage, and a touch of coastal charm. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or someone in search of relaxation, Alappuzha has something unique for you. Let’s dive into the must-visit places in this beautiful town. 🌊 Alleppey Beach: Where Serenity Meets the Sea The Alleppey Beach is a picturesque retreat for those who love the combination of golden sands, gentle waves, and a cool breeze. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely walk, a peaceful sunset, or simply unwinding by the water. The old lighthouse standing tall adds a historical touch to this tranquil beach, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Alleppey Beach Ticket Price : Free entry Best Time to Visit : 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM Special Tip : For a panoramic view, you can climb to the top of the Alappuzha Lighthouse , which has a small...
Read more