Thekkady, Kerala
Experience Wildlife & Nature at Thekkady, Kerala
Thekkady is a captivating destination in Kerala, India, renowned for the spectacular Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park. Located in the Idukki district at an elevation of 700-1,200 meters, Thekkady offers an incredible blend of wildlife encounters, aromatic spice plantations, and pristine natural beauty. The town is built around the stunning Periyar Lake, an artificial reservoir created by the Mullaperiyar Dam, which serves as a vital water source for wildlife and adds to the region's scenic splendor.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is one of India's most famous wildlife reserves, home to herds of wild elephants, Bengal tigers, Indian bison, sambar deer, wild boar, and over 260 species of birds. Visitors can enjoy boat cruises on Periyar Lake, offering unique opportunities to spot wildlife drinking at the water's edge. Beyond wildlife, Thekkady is a paradise for spice lovers, with extensive cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and clove plantations dotting the landscape. Adventure activities include bamboo rafting, jungle trekking, border hiking, night safaris, and elephant rides. The pleasant climate, rich biodiversity, and aromatic spice gardens make Thekkady a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
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Address
Thekkady, Idukki District, Kerala 685536, India
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Languages
Malayalam, English, Tamil, Hindi
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Currency Used
Indian Rupee (INR)
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Distance
140 KM from Kochi Airport
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning your wildlife adventure to Thekkady? Here are answers to some commonly asked questions to help you prepare for an unforgettable experience in this natural paradise.
What is the best time to visit Thekkady?
The best time to visit Thekkady is from September to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for wildlife spotting. December to February is peak season with cool temperatures (10°C-25°C). April-May offers the best chance to see wildlife as animals come to the lake for water. The monsoon season (June-August) brings heavy rainfall but transforms the landscape into a lush green paradise, though some activities may be restricted.
What are the must-visit attractions in Thekkady?
Top attractions include Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and Lake, boat cruises for wildlife viewing, spice plantation tours, Periyar Tiger Reserve, Mangala Devi Temple, Chellarkovil viewpoint, Pandikuzhi for trekking, Elephant Junction for elephant interactions, Kadathanadan Kalari Centre for martial arts performances, and the aromatic spice markets. Nature walks, bamboo rafting, and border hiking are also highly recommended.
How do I reach Thekkady from major cities?
The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (140 km, 4-5 hours by road). Madurai Airport (140 km) is another option. The nearest railway station is Kottayam (114 km). Regular buses and taxis connect Thekkady to Kochi, Munnar, Madurai, Trivandrum, and Kottayam. The scenic drive through winding mountain roads and spice plantations is an experience in itself. Private taxis and state-run buses are readily available.
What wildlife can I spot in Thekkady?
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is home to wild elephants (most commonly spotted), Bengal tigers, Indian bison (gaur), sambar deer, barking deer, wild boar, Nilgiri langur, lion-tailed macaques, and various reptiles. The sanctuary also hosts over 260 bird species including Malabar grey hornbill, kingfishers, darters, and woodpeckers. While tiger sightings are rare, the diverse wildlife and pristine ecosystem offer incredible nature experiences.
Location Map
Explore Thekkady's location and plan your wildlife adventure. Situated in the Idukki district of Kerala bordering Tamil Nadu, Thekkady is easily accessible from major cities. Use the map below to familiarize yourself with the area and nearby attractions.
