Fun Things to Do in Thekkady | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Thekkady Travel Guide
Quick overview of Thekkady with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
Welcome to Thekkady, a mesmerizing destination nestled in the heart of India's southern state of Kerala. Known for its lush greenery, diverse wildlife, and serene backwaters, Thekkady offers a truly enchanting experience for travelers seeking a blend of adventure and tranquility. Home to the famous Periyar National Park, this picturesque town is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering opportunities for wildlife safaris, trekking, and bamboo rafting. Immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity of the region as you encounter elephants, tigers, and various species of birds. Additionally, Thekkady is renowned for its spice plantations, where you can witness the cultivation of cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon, and even indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage. With its breathtaking landscapes and unique cultural experiences, Thekkady promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of nature.
Thekkady Travel Videos
We've curated authentic Thekkady videos for inspiration and practical tips. Discover all the amazing places to visit and things to do in Thekkady in 2024. Make your own Itinerary, like a Pro.
Plan Thekkady Trip
Prepare for your Thekkady trip now. Use our trusted partners for great rates and a hassle-free booking experience. Easily book your Hotels now without advance payment and cancel anytime.
Things To Do In Thekkady
Thekkady, located in India, offers a plethora of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. One of the main attractions in Thekkady is the Periyar National Park, which is home to a diverse range of wildlife including elephants, tigers, and various species of birds. Exploring the park through a boat ride on the Periyar Lake is a popular activity that allows visitors to witness the natural beauty and observe the wildlife in their natural habitat.
Another highlight of Thekkady is the spice plantations that are scattered throughout the region. Visitors can take a guided tour of these plantations to learn about the cultivation and processing of various spices such as cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon. The aromatic scents and lush greenery make for a captivating experience.
For those seeking a cultural experience, a visit to the Kadathanadan Kalari Centre is a must. This center showcases the ancient martial art form of Kalaripayattu through thrilling performances. Visitors can witness the graceful movements and acrobatic skills of the performers, making it an enthralling spectacle.
Nature enthusiasts can also embark on a trekking expedition to the Mangala Devi Temple. This ancient temple is nestled amidst the dense forests and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The trek itself is an adventurous journey through the untouched wilderness.
Additionally, Thekkady is known for its elephant safaris. Visitors can enjoy a ride on these majestic creatures and explore the scenic beauty of the region. It is a unique and memorable experience that allows for up-close encounters with these gentle giants.
Lastly, a visit to Thekkady would be incomplete without indulging in the local cuisine. The region is known for its spicy and flavorful dishes that are a treat for the taste buds. Trying out dishes like appam, puttu, and karimeen fry is a must for food enthusiasts.
In summary, Thekkady offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy.
Tours And Activities In Thekkady
Check out these Top-Rated Tours and Activities in Thekkady. Read real reviews and highlights.
Best Time To Visit Thekkady
The best time to visit Thekkady is between the months of November and February. During this time, the weather is pleasant and cool, making it ideal for exploring the Periyar National Park and enjoying activities such as boating, wildlife spotting, and trekking. The monsoon season, which lasts from June to September, should be avoided as heavy rainfall can disrupt outdoor activities. The summer months of March to May can be quite hot and humid, so it is advisable to carry light and breathable clothing if visiting during this time.
Flight Calendar For Thekkady
Use our flight calendar to discover the Cheapest Days and Months to Book Flight to Thekkady.
Best Areas To Stay In Thekkady
Thekkady, located in India, offers several great areas for accommodation.
Kumily is one of the best areas to stay in Thekkady. It is a bustling town known for its spice plantations and vibrant markets. Staying in Kumily allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture and explore the various spice shops and markets. Additionally, it is conveniently located near the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, making it an ideal base for wildlife enthusiasts.
Murikkady is another excellent area for accommodation in Thekkady. This picturesque village is surrounded by lush green tea and spice plantations, offering a serene and tranquil atmosphere. Staying in Murikkady allows you to enjoy the scenic beauty of the region and take leisurely walks through the plantations. It is also a great place to learn about the tea-making process and indulge in some tea tasting sessions.
Periyar Lake is a popular area for accommodation in Thekkady, especially for those who want to be close to nature. The lake is located within the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and offers stunning views of the surrounding forests and wildlife. Staying near Periyar Lake allows you to enjoy boat rides on the lake, go for nature walks, and spot various species of birds and animals. It is a perfect choice for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Vandiperiyar is a small town located near Thekkady and is known for its beautiful landscapes and plantations. Staying in Vandiperiyar allows you to experience the charm of a small town while being close to Thekkady's attractions. The town is surrounded by tea, coffee, and spice plantations, offering a refreshing and peaceful environment. It is an ideal area for those seeking a quiet and laid-back stay.
In conclusion, Thekkady offers several great areas for accommodation, each with its own unique charm and attractions. Whether you prefer a bustling town like Kumily, a serene village like Murikkady, a nature-centric location like Periyar Lake, or a peaceful town like Vandiperiyar, you are sure to find the perfect place to stay in Thekkady.
Hotels Map Of Thekkady
Use our All-in-one Map to find Best Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Tours, Activities and Restaurants in Thekkady.
Transportation To Thekkady
There are several transportation options to Thekkady.
1. By Air: The nearest airport to Thekkady is Madurai International Airport, which is approximately 140 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Thekkady.
2. By Train: The nearest railway station to Thekkady is Kottayam Railway Station, which is approximately 110 kilometers away. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Thekkady.
3. By Road: Thekkady is well-connected by road to major cities in Kerala and neighboring states. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from cities like Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, or Madurai to reach Thekkady.
4. By Boat: If you are coming from Alleppey or Kumarakom, you can also take a boat ride through the backwaters to reach Thekkady. This is a scenic and unique way to travel to Thekkady.
Once you reach Thekkady, you can use local transportation options like taxis, auto-rickshaws, or buses to explore the area and visit tourist attractions.
Nearby Destination From Thekkady
1. Kumily: A small town known for its spice plantations and vibrant local markets.
2. Munnar: A picturesque hill station famous for its tea gardens and breathtaking views.
3. Idukki: A district known for its lush greenery, wildlife sanctuaries, and the Idukki Dam.
4. Alappuzha: A coastal town renowned for its backwaters, houseboat cruises, and serene beaches.
5. Kochi: A bustling port city with a rich history, colonial architecture, and a vibrant food scene.
6. Kottayam: A city known for its rubber plantations, ancient churches, and the scenic Vembanad Lake.
7. Vagamon: A hill station offering stunning landscapes, trekking opportunities, and paragliding adventures.
8. Thrissur: A cultural hub famous for its temples, festivals, and the iconic Thrissur Pooram.
9. Kozhikode: A coastal city known for its historic sites, beautiful beaches, and mouthwatering Malabar cuisine.
10. Madurai: A city in Tamil Nadu, famous for the Meenakshi Amman Temple and its vibrant street markets.