Thekkady: A Wild Escape into Nature's Wonderland**

 # **Thekkady: A Wild Escape into Nature's Wonderland**

Located in the **Western Ghats** of Kerala, **Thekkady** is a haven for those who love nature, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventurers. Situated in the famous **Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary**, Thekkady provides an **unparalleled combination of dense forest, peaceful lakes, rolling hills, and rare wildlife**. From **boat safari to visiting spice plantations, trekking through dense forests, and simply immersing in the serenity of nature**, Thekkady is the place to be.

If you’re looking for a **wild yet peaceful escape**, Thekkady should be at the top of your travel list!  

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## **Why Visit Thekkady?**  

???? **Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary** – One of India’s best tiger and elephant reserves.  

???? **Boating in Periyar Lake** – Spot wildlife while cruising on the tranquil waters.  

???? **Spice Plantations** – Walk through fragrant cardamom, pepper, and coffee farms.

???? **Adventure Activities** – Bamboo rafting, jeep safaris, nature walks, and trekking.

???? **Cultural Experiences** – Kalaripayattu martial arts and Kathakali performances.

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## **Top Attractions in Thekkady**

### **1. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary – The Heart of Thekkady**

Scattered across **925 sq. km**, **Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary** ranks as **one of the finest sites in India for viewing elephants, tigers, deer, and exotic birds**. Thick forest cover and abundant green cover give it a **breath-taking experience** to all those visiting. 

???? **Must-Do:** 

✔ Go on a **boat safari** to Periyar Lake to catch the sight of elephants bathing by the lake shores.

✔ Choose **a jungle trek** or **bamboo rafting** for an exhilarating experience.

### **2. Periyar Lake – The Soul of Thekkady**

Situated inside the **Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary**, this **man-made lake** is a peaceful place where tourists can indulge in **boating and wildlife sighting**. The tranquil atmosphere, with hills veiled in mist and animals reaching out to the water's edge, provides a **magical experience**.

???? **Must-Do:** Take a **morning or evening boat tour** for the most excellent wildlife viewing.

### **3. Elephant Junction – Up Close with Gentle Giants**

One of Thekkady's most visited places, **Elephant Junction** provides **elephant rides, feeding, and bathing**. It's an **excellent way to experience these majestic creatures responsibly**.

???? **Must-Do:** Experience an **elephant shower**, where you are splashed by a playful elephant!

### **4. Mangala Devi Temple – A Hidden Gem in the Hills**

Located **1,337 meters above sea level**, **Mangala Devi Temple** is an ancient temple with **breathtaking panoramic views** of the Western Ghats. The temple is normally open **only on Chitra Pournami festival**, so it is a rare but worthwhile visit.

???? **Must-Do:** Hike to the temple for **sensational sunrise and sunset views**.

### **5. Spice Plantations – The Aromatic Side of Thekkady**

Thekkady is renowned for its **spice plantations**, cultivating **cardamom, black pepper, cloves, cinnamon, and coffee**. Guided tours provide information on spice cultivation, and you can even purchase **fresh organic spices** directly from the farms.

???? **Must-Do:** Go on a guided **spice tour** and sample fresh **organic tea and coffee**.

### **6. Kadathanadan Kalari Centre – The Art of Combat**

Culture and martial arts buffs, don't miss a **Kalaripayattu (traditional Kerala martial arts) show** at **Kadathanadan Kalari Centre**. The warriors do **high-energy stunts with swords, fire rings, and acrobatics**.

???? **Should Not Miss:** Attend a **Kathakali dance performance** to witness Kerala's classical storytelling art.

### **7. Murikkady – The Green Carpet of Thekkady**

Murikkady is a stunning **tea, coffee, and spice plantation** region at just 5 km from Thekkady. The rolling green hills and fresh mountain breeze make it a **best spot for a leisurely walk**.

???? **Must-Do:** Stop by a nearby **tea factory** and find out how your daily morning tea is prepared!  

### **8. Chellarkovil Viewpoint – A Scenic Getaway**  

Chellarkovil is a **secluded gem** that provides **scenic views of waterfalls, mountains, and greenery**. Situated 11 km from Thekkady, it is an ideal destination for **photography enthusiasts and nature enthusiasts**.

???? **Must-Do:** Come in the **monsoon** to see breathtaking waterfalls pouring down the hills.  

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## **Best Adventure Activities in Thekkady**

???? **Bamboo Rafting:** Float across Periyar's peaceful waters spotting wildlife.  

???? **Trekking:** Trek through dense forests, waterfalls, and tribal settlements.  

???? **Jeep Safari:** Four-wheel drive through thick jungles for an exciting experience.  

???? **Nature Walks:** Learn about Thekkady's biodiversity through guided eco-tours.

???? **Bird Watching:** See rare birds such as the Malabar Hornbill and Kingfisher.

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## **Best Time to Visit Thekkady**

???? **Winter (October – February):** Ideal time for wildlife sighting, trekking, and outdoor activities.

???? **Monsoon (June – September):** Ideal for greenery and waterfalls, but heavy rains may restrict activities.

☀ **Summer (March – May):** Hot in the daytime, but excellent for wildlife sighting by water bodies.

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## **How to Reach Thekkady**

✈ **By Air:** Nearest airport – **Madurai (136 km)** and **Cochin International Airport (190 km)**.

???? **By Train:** Nearest railway station – **Kottayam (114 km)**.

???? **By Road:** Excellently connected to cities like **Kochi, Madurai, and Trivandrum** through scenic routes.

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## **Where to Stay in Thekkady**

???? **Luxury Stays:** Spice Village, The Elephant Court, Cardamom County.

???? **Eco-Resorts:** Greenwoods Resort, Pepper Trail Treehouse, Shalimar Spice Garden.

???? **Budget Hotels:** Jungle Park Resort, Coffee Inn, Periyar House.

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## **Must-Try Local Food in Thekkady**

???? **Puttu & Kadala Curry** – Steamed rice cakes with spicy black chickpea curry.

???? **Karimeen Pollichathu** – Kerala-spiced grilled pearl spot fish.

???? **Appam & Stew** – Spongy rice pancakes served with rich coconut stew.

???? **Malabar Prawns Curry** – A dish not to miss for a coast dweller.

???? **Spiced Tea & Coffee** – Made fresh from the plantations of Thekkady.

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## **Final Thoughts**

Thekkady is a **peaceful, adventurous, and wild retreat** where you can **immerse yourself in nature, discover wildlife, and enjoy Kerala's vibrant culture**. Cruise through **Periyar Lake**, hike in the woods, or drink freshly brewed **spiced tea** from a plantation – Thekkady will always leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

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