Highlights
About Thekkady
Abundantly rich in Flaura and fauna, the wildlife sanctuary of Thekkady is different from the other National Parks. One of the oldest reserved area, you might get to see some natural wonderments, which you might have never witnessed before. One can sight the wildlife in this region from very close in their natural habitat. The Periyar Lake in the heart of the forest will take you by surprise with its ecstasy. One would also like to spend their evenings strolling in the Nature's Walk. Bamboo Rafting, Border Hiking and Trekking are some activities that draws the adventure enthusiasts to this place. With more to experience, you must definitely plan your trip to Thekkady.
Places To See
Tiger reserveThekkady is well known for its tiger reserve. It houses a range of landscapes including forest types, marshes and a large aquatic habitat that support 62 species of mammals, 320 species of birds, 45 species of reptiles, 27 species of amphibians, and 38 species of fish. Several of these animals are rare and endangered species. It is estimated that about 900 to 1000 animals inhabit the park, along with the nearby forest.
Tip: For best sighting of animals and birds, plan an early morning or late evening trip.
Mangala Devi TempleThe temple is located about 15 kms inside the forest. The tranquil surroundings immediately sooth the nerves and surround you with peace. However, the temple is opened only once a year during the Hindu festival of Chitra Pournami.
VandanmeduEnjoy an excursion to Vandanmedu, one of the world's largest cardamom auction centers.
Spring Valley Mountain, Kurisumala: From the top of this hillock you can enjoy 360 degrees view of the scenic surroundings. On a clear day, you can witness the lush green woods of Periyar Tiger Reserve, the blissful Periyar Lake, surrounding Kumily township and the adjoining Tamil Nadu borders.
Excursions to plantationsThere are several plantations such as tea, coffee, cardamom, pepper and vanilla plantations located in and around Thekkady. Some of the most popular are: Murukady (6 km), Odamade (8 km), Vellaramkunnu (10 km)). Walk through the plantations for a memorable experience.
ChellarkovilLocated about 15 kms from Chellarkovil, this sleepy little village is famous for growing grapes, coconut, cotton and vegetables. The area is abundant in scenic beauty and provides the ideal place to relax, rejuvenate and get away from a hectic life.
Things To Do
Nature walksA wide range of trails traverse the diverse habitats and are ideal for trekking. These trails are generally 4 to 5 km long and offer excellent opportunities to watch birds, butterflies and other wildlife. The trails often pass through evergreen and moist deciduous forests interspersed with marshy grasslands.
The Periyar Tiger TrailThe tour is conducted by a team of poachers who have now turned protectors. The team members are reliable and have great knowledge about the forest terrain. Each team for this tour consists of 5 visitors, 5 guides and 2 forest officials. Normally 20 to 35 km of trekking distance is covered in each trek.
Tip: The pre-condition to join the trek is that you should be medically fit and be between 15-65 years of age. You also need to be prepared to live in the wild and forgo the comforts of a hotel.
Bamboo RaftingA dawn to dusk hiking and rafting program takes you through the rich forest tracks of Periyar Tiger Reserve. The tour starts at 8AM from the boat landing and takes you through diverse habitats. The next part of the tour takes you on rafts made of bamboos to view the animals and birds in the forest.
Boating: Boat cruises are also available at the Periyar Lake. A typical boat ride is for one and half hour and costs INR 150 per adult and INR 50 per child. An extra charge of INR 25 is levied to carry a camera on board the boat.
