Thekkady
A lush paradise where adventurous wildlife safaris and aromatic spice plantations await.
About Thekkady
If you’re looking to add more adventure and natural beauty to your Kerala getaway, Thekkady is a destination you simply can’t skip. Ideally located and well-connected to many of Kerala’s top travel spots, this lush paradise stays wrapped in the vibrant green of Mother Nature all year round.
Known as the “Spice Capital of Kerala,” Thekkady is also a sanctuary for a remarkable variety of wildlife. The crown jewel here is the Periyar National Park, where the rich diversity of flora and fauna promises to leave every visitor spellbound.
Main Highlights
Go on an exciting wildlife safari in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you might catch glimpses of elephants, tigers, and other exotic species.
Take a tranquil boat cruise on Periyar Lake, offering close-up views of wildlife along the forested shores.
Add a dash of adventure with bamboo rafting and guided jungle treks through lush landscapes.
Wander through aromatic spice plantations, discovering how cardamom, pepper, and coffee are cultivated.
Witness the power and skill of Kalaripayattu, Kerala’s traditional martial art, in a live performance.
Visit the mystical Mangala Devi Temple, hidden deep in the wilderness.
Hop on an off-road jeep safari to Gavi, a serene eco-tourism haven surrounded by forests and hills.
Travel Advice
Reserve your Periyar boat safari tickets in advance, especially during high season.
Pack sturdy walking shoes and binoculars for the best wildlife-spotting experience.
Don’t miss sampling locally grown spices and organic tea from the markets.
Interesting Facts
- Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is among India’s oldest protected areas, established back in 1895.
- Thekkady hosts the world’s first tiger reserve, declared under Project Tiger in 1978.
- The town’s name comes from Thekku, meaning teak in Malayalam, a nod to its dense teak forests.
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