Thekkady Tour - A Complete Travel Guide

Overview

Thekkady, home to the world-renowned Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, is a breathtaking destination in Kerala, offering a mix of lush forests, exotic wildlife, serene lakes, and spice plantations. Nestled in the Western Ghats, Thekkady is a haven for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and wildlife enthusiasts. It is famous for its elephant safaris, bamboo rafting, spice gardens, trekking trails, and picturesque landscapes.

Whether you're looking for an exciting jungle safari, a relaxing boat ride on Periyar Lake, or a deep dive into Kerala’s rich spice culture, Thekkady has something for everyone. The cool climate, misty hills, and vibrant flora and fauna make it one of the most enchanting destinations in South India.

Best Time to Visit Thekkady

The best time to visit is September to May when the weather is pleasant, and wildlife sightings are frequent. Monsoons (June-August) bring lush greenery but limit outdoor activities.

Read Also — Best Time to Visit Kerala

Top Tourist Attractions & Activities in Thekkady

1. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary 🐅🌿

One of India’s most famous wildlife reserves, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is spread over 925 sq. km and is home to elephants, tigers, leopards, deer, wild boars, and hundreds of bird species. The lush forests and rich biodiversity make it a must-visit for nature and wildlife lovers.

📍 Best Activities:

• Wildlife Safari – Spot elephants, gaur, and exotic birds in their natural habitat.
• Bamboo Rafting – A thrilling journey through the lake, offering scenic and wildlife views.
• Trekking & Nature Walks – Guided tours through the dense forests.

2. Periyar Lake 🚣‍♂️🌊

This beautiful artificial lake inside the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is perfect for a boat safari, offering breathtaking views of the wildlife along its shores. The lake, surrounded by misty hills and lush greenery, provides an unforgettable experience.

📍 Best Activities:

• Boat Safari – Witness herds of elephants and other wildlife from a boat.
• Photography & Bird Watching – Ideal for nature photographers.

⏳ Timings: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
🎟️ Entry Fee: ₹225 (Indians), ₹500 (Foreigners)

3. Spice Plantations & Gardens 🌿🌰

Thekkady is known for its fragrant spice plantations, including cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and vanilla. A visit to these estates gives insights into Kerala’s spice trade and allows tourists to buy fresh spices directly from farmers.

📍 Best Activities:

• Guided Spice Tours – Learn about the cultivation of different spices.
• Organic Farm Visits – Experience sustainable farming.
• Ayurvedic & Herbal Products Shopping

⏳ Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
🎟️ Entry Fee: ₹100 – ₹300

4. Elephant Junction 🐘🐾

One of the best places in Kerala to interact with elephants ethically, Elephant Junction offers various activities for visitors.

📍 Best Activities:

• Elephant Safari – Enjoy a short elephant ride through scenic routes.
• Elephant Bathing & Feeding – A fun and educational experience.
• Mahout Experience – Learn about elephant care from trained mahouts.

⏳ Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
🎟️ Entry Fee: ₹500 – ₹1500 (Depending on activities)

5. Mangala Devi Temple 🏯⛰️

Located inside the Periyar Tiger Reserve, this ancient temple is dedicated to Goddess Mangala and offers panoramic views of the hills and forests. The temple is usually open only during the annual Chithra Pournami festival.

📍 Best Activities:

• Trekking to the temple – A scenic 12 km trek through lush greenery.
• Explore historical architecture – The temple dates back over 2000 years.

⏳ Timings: Open only during special occasions.

Read Also— Top 15 places to visit in kerala