Thekkady – The Wild Heart of Kerala- Thekkady(Periyar)

Thekkady – The Wild Heart of Kerala

State: Kerala
Known For: Wildlife, Forests, Spice Plantations, Eco-Tourism

Thekkady, located in the Idukki district of Kerala, is one of the most enchanting wildlife destinations in India. Best known as the gateway to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady is a haven for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Positioned near the border of Tamil Nadu and Kerala, this destination lies close to the town of Kumily and is easily accessible by road.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary – Jewel of Thekkady

Spread across 777 square kilometers, with 360 sq. km of dense evergreen forest, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is one of India’s most prestigious protected areas. It was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978 under Project Tiger and is home to:

• Indian elephants

• Bengal tigers

• Nilgiri langurs

• Sambar deer

• Lion-tailed macaques

• Gaur (Indian bison)

Periyar is also rich in reptilian biodiversity, with over 45 species of reptiles, including king cobras, pythons, monitor lizards, and turtles. The sanctuary is set around the artificial Periyar Lake, created by the Mullaiperiyar Dam, which adds a unique aquatic ecosystem to the forest.

Eco-Tourism and Activities

Thekkady offers several eco-friendly and immersive tourism options supported by the Forest Department:

• Boat cruises on Periyar Lake to spot wildlife

• Bamboo rafting and guided jungle treks

• Nature walks, border hiking, and forest camping

• Jeep safaris to explore nearby spice gardens and plantations

Boating is available until 4 PM daily, and tickets can be booked via the official Kerala Forest Department website or at the Periyar Tiger Reserve Eco-tourism Centre near the boating dock.

Other Attractions Around Thekkady

• Mangala Devi Temple: An ancient shrine dedicated to Goddess Mangala Devi, accessible only during the Chitra Pournami festival. It is located inside the forest and offers scenic views of Tamil Nadu plains.

• Chellarkovil: A nearby eco-tourism village with waterfalls, valley viewpoints, and "God’s Own Balcony".

• Anakkara and Murikkady: Famous for their aromatic spice plantations of cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, cloves, and more. Spice tours and plantation visits are available for tourists.

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Climate and Best Time to Visit

Due to its varying altitudes, Thekkady enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the year. Summer temperatures range between 15°C and 20°C, and winters are cool and misty. The best time to visit is from October to March, although summer months like March and April are ideal for wildlife spotting near water sources.

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Food and Shopping in Thekkady

Local markets in Thekkady are compact yet vibrant, offering:

• A variety of fresh spices – cardamom, pepper, nutmeg, clove, cinnamon, and more

• Homemade chocolates, herbal teas, and souvenirs

• The popular Kerala banana chips, fried in pure coconut oil, are a must-try snack

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Reaching Thekkady

• By Air:

  • Nearest airport: Madurai (Tamil Nadu) – 136 km

  • Nearest international airport: Cochin International Airport (Nedumbassery) – 190 km

• By Rail:

  • Nearest station: Kottayam – 114 km

  • Well connected by express trains from Kochi, Trivandrum, and Chennai

• By Road:

  • Regular KSRTC buses and private tourist coaches operate between Thekkady and cities like Kottayam, Kochi, Munnar, and Trivandrum

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Accommodation in Thekkady

Thekkady offers a wide range of stay options catering to every budget:

• Jungle resorts nestled in the forest

• Luxury hotels, mid-range eco-lodges, and budget homestays

• Many resorts also offer spice garden tours, traditional Kerala cuisine, and ayurvedic wellness treatments