Deep in the rolling hills of the Western Ghats, where the air is thick with the fragrant, intoxicating aroma of cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon, lies the magnificent wildlife sanctuary of Thekkady. This is the heart of Kerala’s spice country, a land of dense, evergreen forests, misty mountains, and incredible biodiversity. The centerpiece of this beautiful region is the world-renowned Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve, a place where the drama of the wild unfolds around a vast, serene lake. A journey to Thekkady is a multi-sensory adventure, a chance to breathe in the scent of a thousand spices, to listen to the chorus of the jungle, and to witness herds of wild elephants drinking peacefully by a lakeside.
The story of the Periyar sanctuary is unique. Its heart, the beautiful Periyar Lake, is actually an artificial reservoir created in the late 19th century by the construction of the Mullaperiyar Dam. This act, intended for irrigation, had an unintended and wonderful consequence: it created a perennial source of water that attracted a huge concentration of wildlife, transforming the surrounding forests into a thriving, protected ecosystem. This unique, lake-centered habitat is what makes the wildlife experience in Thekkady so special.
Unlike other wildlife sanctuaries where you track animals deep in the forest, the classic Thekkady experience is on the water. A boat ride on Periyar Lake offers a fantastic and comfortable vantage point to observe animals as they come to the water’s edge to drink and bathe. This is the best way to see large herds of wild elephants, sambar deer, gaur (Indian bison), and a huge variety of birdlife. The sight of a family of elephants—from tiny calves to majestic tuskers—playing in the water against the backdrop of the submerged, skeletal trees of the old forest is the iconic and unforgettable image of Thekkady.
Beyond the park, the region is a paradise for spice lovers. The surrounding hills are covered in plantations growing a rich variety of spices. A guided tour through one of these spice gardens is a fascinating and aromatic experience. You can see how spices like pepper, cardamom, cloves, and nutmeg grow, learn about their medicinal properties, and buy fresh, fragrant spices to take home. A visit to Thekkady is a journey into the wild, green heart of Kerala, a place that delights the senses and offers a perfect blend of serene nature and thrilling wildlife encounters.
Key Attractions:
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Periyar Lake Boating: The most popular and iconic activity in Thekkady. The two-hour boat safari, operated by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC), takes you around the beautiful Periyar Lake. It offers the best opportunity to see wildlife, especially herds of elephants, gaur, and sambar deer, in a safe and serene environment.
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Periyar National Park (Jungle Safari & Trekking): For a more adventurous and immersive experience, the park offers a variety of land-based activities. You can opt for a Jeep Safari that takes you through the dense forest tracks. For the truly adventurous, guided Jungle Treks and Nature Walks with armed forest guards offer a chance to experience the forest on foot. The park also offers programs like Bamboo Rafting, which combines trekking with rafting on the lake.
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Spice Plantation Tours: A quintessential Thekkady experience. A guided tour of a local spice garden is a fascinating journey for the senses. You will learn to identify various spices in their natural form, from pepper vines climbing up trees to cardamom bushes and cinnamon trees. It’s an educational and incredibly aromatic tour.
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Elephant Junction / Thekkady Elephant Camp: These privately run camps offer a chance for up-close encounters with elephants. Activities often include elephant rides through the plantations, the opportunity to bathe and feed the elephants, and educational programs about these magnificent animals.
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Kathakali and Kalaripayattu Shows: The nearby town of Kumily is home to cultural centers that showcase Kerala’s traditional performing arts. You can watch a vibrant Kathakali (classical dance-drama) performance in the evening. Even more thrilling is a demonstration of Kalaripayattu, the ancient and spectacular martial art of Kerala, featuring incredible displays of acrobatics, swordplay, and unarmed combat.
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Gavi: A beautiful and pristine eco-tourism spot located a bit further from the main Thekkady area. A full-day trip to Gavi offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience, with trekking, canoeing, and a chance to see a more untouched part of the forest, including the rare lion-tailed macaque.
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Chellarkovil Viewpoint: Located a short drive from Kumily, this viewpoint offers a stunning, panoramic view of the plains and villages of the neighboring state of Tamil Nadu. It is a beautiful and serene spot, especially during sunset.
