Places to visit in Thekkady

Places to visit in Thekkady – Overview

Thekkady, in Kerala’s Western Ghats, is a tranquil haven with lush forests, spice gardens, and wildlife. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is the star attraction, where boat rides on Periyar Lake offer sightings of elephants and birds. Spice plantations offer fragrant tours of cardamom and pepper farms. Thrill-seekers can enjoy bamboo rafting and jungle treks. Cultural delights include Kathakali shows and bustling markets selling spices and crafts. Charming hill stations like Kumily offer scenic views, completing Thekkady’s appeal as a nature lover’s paradise in beautiful Kerala.

Tour Highlights

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: One of the main attractions of Thekkady is the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. It’s famous for its population of elephants, along with tigers, leopards, deer, sambar, wild boars, and numerous bird species. Visitors can enjoy boat safaris on Periyar Lake to spot wildlife in their natural habitat.

Boat Cruises: The Periyar Lake offers boat cruises that provide visitors with an opportunity to observe the wildlife, especially elephants, as they come to the lake to drink water and bathe. The serene surroundings and the chance to catch glimpses of animals in their natural habitat make these cruises a memorable experience.

Nature Walks and Treks: Thekkady offers several trekking trails and nature walks through the lush forests and spice plantations. These trails take visitors through scenic landscapes, providing them with a chance to experience the rich biodiversity of the region up close.

Spice Plantations: Thekkady is renowned for its spice plantations, particularly cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and cloves. Visitors can take guided tours of these plantations to learn about the cultivation and processing of various spices and herbs. It’s an enriching experience for those interested in learning about Kerala’s spice trade.

Kadathanadan Kalari Centre: For those interested in Kerala’s traditional martial art form, Kalari, a visit to the Kadathanadan Kalari Centre is a must. Here, visitors can witness thrilling demonstrations of Kalari martial arts, showcasing agility, skill, and ancient combat techniques.

Charming Hill Stations: Thekkady serves as a gateway to several charming hill stations like Kumily, Vandiperiyar, and Peerumedu, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and tea plantations. These hill stations provide a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Culture and Cuisine: Thekkady offers a rich cultural experience with its vibrant local markets, where visitors can shop for spices, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Additionally, tourists can savor authentic Kerala cuisine at the numerous restaurants and eateries in the area, featuring delicious dishes like appam, stew, fish curry, and banana chips.

Overall, Thekkady is a nature lover’s paradise, offering a perfect blend of wildlife, adventure, culture, and relaxation amidst the serene beauty of Kerala’s Western Ghats.