Thekkady is one of Kerala’s most breathtaking destinations, featuring lush forests, aromatic spice plantations, wildlife adventures and scenic landscapes. If you enjoy nature, wildlife or just taking in its scents like pepper, cardamom and cinnamon wafting through the air then Thekkady should become a place you visit frequently.
Thekkady is known for its Periyar Tiger Reserve as well as calm boating adventures and rich culture of spices; with natural earthiness, fresh air, and vibrant cultures in abundance. You’ll wake up to misty mornings while strolling lush plants or looking out for elephants near Lake, or perhaps tasting authentic Kerala cuisine!
Perfect for family adventures as well as romantic escapes, nature tours are sure to create memorable experiences for both young and old alike.
⭐ Why Thekkady Is So Famous
Home to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and with beautiful spice plantations (cardamom, vanilla bean and pepper). Enjoying scenic boat rides around Periyar Lake is another pleasure while bamboo river rafting, trekking through forests elephant watching and birdwatching are also options here. Finally the village itself provides unique Ayurveda treatments and experiences.
📍 Top Famous Places to Visit in Thekkady
- Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is the centerpiece of Thekkady! Take boat rides through this incredible sanctuary where you will see bison, elephants, deer, and even occasionally even the rare Bengal tiger! - Periyar Lake
This picturesque and serene lake encased by trees is one of Kerala’s most enthralling experiences in nature. - Spice Plantations
Discover cardamom, pepper and clove farms while learning more about how Kerala spices are produced. - Kadathanadan Kalari Centre At this center you can witness traditional Kalaripayattu martial art as well as cultural programs which are captivating and unforgettable.
- Elephant Junction * Take a ride on an elephant, feed and bathe them – perfect fun for the whole family!
- Mangala Devi Temple
A beautiful hilltop temple that dates back centuries with tranquil forests and breathtaking valley views is Mangala Devi Temple.
🚗 How to Reach Thekkady
Thekkady can easily be reached from major cities both within Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
- By Air with IXM = 140 km and COK = 145 km (approx).
Airports both offer taxis and buses that can transport you directly to Thekkady; travel time ranges between 3-4 hours. 2. By Train – Nearby Stations The closest railway stations are Kottayam Railway Station 110 kilometers from Thekkady and Changanassery Railway Station 95 kilometer.
From this location, both taxicabs and buses are readily available for transport.
- Travel by Road
Thekkady can be easily reached by roads: it boasts excellent road connectivity to connect it to various parts of Kerala and beyond.
- Kumily to Thekkady – 4 km Kottayam to Thekkady – 110 km
- Munnar to Thekkady distance of 90 km Madurai to Thekkady distance of 140 km.
KSRTC buses, taxis, private cars and self-drive vehicles are available 24 hours a day for access.
