One of the most popular tourist destinations in the south Indian state of Kerala, Thekkady is famous for its beautiful scenery and rich biodiversity. It’s also known as the Periyar Tiger Reserve because of its abundance of wildlife and rare species of animals, birds, and plants that call this place home.
There are plenty of Thekkady tourist places to visit while you’re here, from zoos and parks to resorts and waterfalls to temples, churches, and other ancient structures dating back thousands of years.
How to reach Thekkady?
By Train: There is no train station in Thekkady, so trains cannot directly reach the city. From any Indian city, including Delhi and Kolkata, you can travel to Kottayam via the train station in Kottayam, 110 kilometres away. Several trains operate from Ernakulam to Kottayam, and cabs are readily available from Kottayam to Thekkady. You can also reach Thekkady by state-run buses from Kottayam.
By Air: The Madurai airport is about 136 km from Thekkady and is the nearest domestic airport. Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and other prominent Indian cities are connected to Madurai by flight. Thekkady and Periyar can be reached by taxi from Madurai airport. Thekkady is served by the Cochin International Airport, the nearest international airport. Several Middle Eastern and Southeast Asian cities and countries offer flights to the airport, making it accessible to many international travellers.
By Bus: To reach Thekkady directly, you must travel by road. When travelling by road, you can take either a bus or a car. From various cities, including prominent travel destinations like Kochi, Kottayam and others, there are Kerala State Department buses that travel to Thekkady. As far as comfort and ease of travel are concerned, these buses tend to be pretty nice.
15 Thekkady tourist places you must visit
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Source: Wikipedia
River Periyar runs through the sanctuary, which offers some of the most spectacular wildlife viewings in India. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary offers picturesque views of lush green surroundings that will not only make you smile but also make you want to take pictures.
The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-see tourist place. For Indians, the entry fee is Rs 25, and for foreigners, it is Rs 300. This popular attraction can be easily reached by bus or taxi from the town centre.
Mangla Devi Temple
Source: Wikipedia
Located within the northern boundary of the renowned Periyar Tiger Reserve, the Mangla Devi Temple in Idukki is one of the main attractions of Thekkady. Mangala Devi, also known as Kannaki, is a symbol of the moral powers possessed by a woman. Taxis are easily available from the city centre to get here.
Abraham’s Spice Garden
Source: Pinterest
Between Thekkady and Kottayam lies this spice-scented place. A magnificent organic spice garden with scenic charm and a picturesque view of the gardens, Abraham’s Spice Garden is one of the finest spice gardens in the region. Ayurveda, spice cultivation, and organic farming are all popular in this location. The entry fee is 200 rupees per person.
Situated just 3 km from Kumily, Abraham’s Spice Garden is a popular tourist destination in Thekkady. Visitors can see and learn about a variety of spices that are grown here. There are also many shops selling spices, incense sticks, and other aromatic products. To reach Abraham’s Spice Garden, you can take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw from Kumily.
Murikkady
Source: Pinterest
The spice plantations in Kerala are known for their beauty, but this place has something else to offer. Besides spices, Murikkady is known for coffee and cardamom gardening, making it a popular place to visit in Thekkady.
Just 10 minutes from the town of Kumily, Murikkady is one of the most scenic spots in Thekkady. You can reach Murikkady by taking a bus or taxi from Kumily. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by stunning views of plantations and forests. Make sure to visit the Murikkady View Point for the best views.
Kadathanadan Kalari Centre
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Situated in the heart of Thekkady, Kadathanadan Kalari Centre is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area. You can have a firsthand experience of the renowned art of Kalaripayattu at Kadathanadan Kalari Centre. The entry fee is 200 rupees per person. To reach the centre, you can take a bus or taxi from either Kumily or Periyar.
Kumily
Source: Pinterest
Kumily is a plantation town near the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, close to Thekkady. In contrast to Thekkady, Kumily is a busy town surrounded by greenery. Kumily is an important tourist and commercial centre in Kerala because of its spice and tea plantations and bustling spice trading activities. This place is located 4 km away. You can walk from Thekkady or take a taxi to get here.
Chellarkovil
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There has been a significant increase in visitors to the quaint village in Thekkady over the past few years. Many tourists are drawn to this place because of its stunning natural beauty and solitude. An 8 km walk along the cascading waterfalls will mesmerise you with the shimmering light of the sun reflected on them. You can take a taxi or a bus to reach the place.
Pandikuzhi
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The Pandikuzhi region is surrounded by picturesque landscapes and exotic fauna and flora. To reach Pandikuzhi, tourists must first travel to Thekkady. This can be done by taking a bus or hiring a taxi from Kumily, the nearest town. Once in Thekkady, Pandikuzhi is only a short drive away. The best time to visit Pandikuzhi is between October and March when the weather is cooler.
Periyar Lake
Source: Pinterest
Source: Pinterest
A popular tourist destination near the Periyar National Park is this placid lake. The surrounding areas are scenic, and you can enjoy boating there. The lakeside might be one of the best places to observe elephants bathing. By Kumily – Kannagi Temple Road and Kannagi Temple Road, Periyar Lake is 12.1 km away from Thekkady.
The journey takes about four hours. Once you arrive, you’ll be able to see the lake from different viewing points around the park. You can also take a boat ride on the lake to get up close to the wildlife.
Thekkady Lake
Source: Pinterest
Just 4 km from the town of Kumily, Thekkady Lake is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Thekkady. With a lush-green jungle surrounding it, this lake is famous for the wide variety of wildlife it is home to. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake to get up close and personal with the local wildlife.
Spring Valley Mountain
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Known locally as Kurisumala, Spring Valley Mountain overlooks Periyar National Park. A lovely view of the surroundings can be enjoyed from this fantastic vantage point. Mountain Spring Valley is the highest peak in Kerala. This is the only place where you can experience peace and tranquillity.
The hilltop shrine, however, is open only from 4 AM to 8:30 PM on all days of the week. While the mountain does not have an entrance fee or set hours, it is open from 4 AM to 8:30 PM on all days of the week.
Mullaperiyar Dam
Source: Pinterest
The Mullaperiyar Dam is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Thekkady. Located on the Cardamom Hills, the dam is 2,890 feet above sea level. Around the reservoir of this dam is the famous Periyar National Park. The dam is a great place to take in the area’s scenic beauty and offers some excellent photo opportunities. Visitors can also go for a swim in the dam’s reservoir or take a boat ride to get a closer look at the dam, which is located approximately 4 km from the city centre and can be easily reached by bus or taxi.
Vandiperiyar
Source: Pinterest
The Periyar River is a picturesque element of this quaint town. The cultivation of spices and herbs is also popular in this region. Nature lovers will love this place because of the breathtaking landscape. To reach Vandiperiyar from the city centre, take a bus or drive southwest for about an hour and a half. You’ll know you’re in the right place when you see the sign for the town.
Anakkara
Source: Pinterest
Source: Wikipedia
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, look no further than Anakkara. Just a short drive from the centre of town, Anakkara offers visitors a chance to relax and rejuvenate surrounded by nature. With its cool climate and scenic views, it’s no wonder this is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Thekkady.
Elephant Junction Thekkady
Source: Pinterest
Elephant Junction is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Thekkady. It is located just 4 kilometres from the town centre and is easily reachable by foot, car, or tuk-tuk. Elephant Junction allows visitors to get up close and personal with elephants. You can feed them, bathe them, and even ride them. If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, be sure to add Elephant Junction to your list of places to visit in Thekkady.
FAQs
What is the most enjoyable way to spend a day in Thekkady?
You should include some of Thekkady's most noteworthy experiences or places in a one-day trip, such as visiting tea plantations, jeep safaris, nature walks, spice gardens, and of course, Periyar National Park.
Why is Thekkady popular among tourists?
Among its many attractions are thrilling experiences that make Thekkady a popular tourist destination. You can explore Periyar National Park, visit Mangla Devi Temple, visit Abraham's Spice Garden, and more in Thekkady.
Which is the most suitable time to visit Thekkady?
Thekkady is best visited during the winter months, which last from October to February.
What are the top nature attractions in Thekkady?
There are many scenic places that every nature enthusiast will enjoy, such as Periyar National Park, Bamboo rafting, Gavi forest, Elephant Junction, Periyar Tiger Reserve, and lake. Make your trip memorable by including them in your itinerary.
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