Periyar National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary
Kerala's premier tiger reserve spanning 925 sq km, featuring diverse wildlife including elephants, tigers, sambar deer, and over 265 bird species amid dense tropical forests.
Read MoreThekkady, located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, is a beautiful place full of nature and wildlife. It is home to the famous Periyar National Park, where you can see animals like elephants, deer, and sometimes even tigers. The forests are thick and green, and the air smells of spices like cardamom and pepper. Thekkady has calm hills, cool weather, and peaceful views, making it a great place for nature lovers. You can take a boat ride on Periyar Lake, go for jungle walks, or visit spice gardens. The place is perfect for both adventure and relaxation. Thekkady is also known for its efforts to protect animals and forests. It is one of the best spots in Kerala to enjoy wildlife and mountain beauty together. Whether you want to explore the wild or just relax, Thekkady is a perfect escape.
Kerala's premier tiger reserve spanning 925 sq km, featuring diverse wildlife including elephants, tigers, sambar deer, and over 265 bird species amid dense tropical forests.
Read MorePicturesque artificial lake formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam offering boat cruises to spot wildlife coming to drink at the water's edge, especially magical at sunrise and sunset.
Read MoreAromatic cardamom, pepper, clove, and cinnamon gardens offering guided tours where visitors learn about cultivation, processing, and medicinal uses of various spices.
Read MoreCharming spice trading center with bustling markets, authentic Kerala restaurants, and a glimpse into local mountain life.
Read MoreHilltop destination 15 km from Thekkady featuring stunning views of Tamil Nadu plains and constant strong winds that power numerous windmills.
Read MoreAncient temple situated inside the sanctuary, accessible only with special permission, offering spectacular views of Kerala and Tamil Nadu from its 1,337m elevation.
Read MoreIn Thekkady, you can enjoy many exciting and peaceful nature activities. Take a boat ride on Periyar Lake to see animals like elephants and deer. Walk through forest trails with tribal guides and learn about nature. Try bamboo rafting on the river or go on a border hike with forest rangers. Join night walks in the jungle to spot animals that come out after dark. Watch traditional tribal dances and visit spice plantations to see how cardamom, pepper, and other spices are grown and picked. These activities make Thekkady a fun and learning experience for nature lovers.
Visit the busy market in Kumily near Thekkady to buy fresh spices like cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and cloves, all packed for travelers. You can also find spice oils, herbal items, handmade chocolates with local flavors, and forest honey. Tribal people sell beautiful handmade crafts. For real and fair shopping, visit the Government Tribal Cooperative shop, which supports local communities and gives you quality traditional products.
In Thekkady, enjoy tasty Kerala food like spicy Periyar fish curry and sweet desserts with cardamom. Good places to eat include Wildernest, Chrissie's Café, and Bamboo Café. Thekkady is quiet at night, but some resorts have evening shows with Kathakali dance and Kalaripayattu martial arts. Nightlife is calm, as many people sleep early to join wildlife safaris in the morning. It’s a peaceful place with rich culture and flavor.
Thekkady is easy to reach by road from places like Kochi, Munnar, or Madurai. Buses, taxis, and private cars are commonly used. Auto-rickshaws are good for short trips. The area is generally safe, but always follow forest rules during treks or safaris. Wear life jackets during boat rides and avoid walking alone in the forest. Keep your valuables safe and stay in trusted hotels or homestays for a worry-free trip.