Best time to visit : September to March
An alluring destination for wildlife lovers and adventurers, Thekkady in Kerala is home to Periyar National Park. Flora, fauna and avifauna existing in huge varieties are the prime highlights of this popular South India tourist destination. The natural beauty of the protected area spread over 777 km. sq. is beyond one’s imagination. Thekkady Lake formed by River Periyar enjoys the centre stage in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and bejewels the overall serenity of the place. Plenty of adventure activities with expert travel guide can be planned to add unlimited worth to a trip to Thekkady.
Facts
Thekkady showcases much more than what it boasts of. Spice plantations, boat rides, natural trails, historic sites and temples, playful herds of elephants and numerous tourist places in the close proximity can keep one immensely entertained and thrilled. The area is a part of Project Tiger and one of the most reputed Tiger Reserves of India. It is one place where numerous rare and endangered species of animals can be found living fearlessly in their natural habitats. Moderate climatic conditions prevail throughout the year and wildlife can be best explored during summers.
The best of spicy and tangy South Indian dishes (from Kerala and Tamil Nadu) can be enjoyed at in-house restaurants of various hotels in Thekkady. Resorts and home stay owners also offer delicious cuisines like dosa, idli and sambar. Elamala, Bar-b-Que, Bamboo Café and Spice Garden Restaurant are among the top options located on the main road leading to Thekkady.
Shopping in Thekkady and the nearby Kumily can be enjoyable at small stalls. Souvenirs and handicrafts in many interesting varieties can be extremely tempting for one to buy. Spices are other worthwhile items available at various stalls. You can buy fresh beverages (tea and coffee), pepper, cardamom, saffron and a variety of ayurvedic oils.
Nearby Places:
- Pandikuzhi (about 5 km.): A popular destination for trekkers, it is also admired for mesmerizing natural beauty.
- Anakkara (about 10 km.): Known for sprawling spice plantations and many enchanting picnic spots.
- Chellarkovil (about 11 km.): Breathtaking scenic beauty adorned with waterfalls and groves of coconuts, grapes and other crops.
- Vandanmedu (about 18 km.): One of the world’s largest cardamom producers, the village offers wonderful opportunity to enjoy plantation tours.
- Calvary Mount (about 38 km.): Home to a sacred hill with a holy cross, the place can be visited by trekking and offers attractions like tea gardens and elephant herds.
- Panchalimedu (about 49 km.): Linked to Panchali (wife of Pandavas from Mahabharata), the place accessible through hiking offers panoramic views and also has a beautiful temple.
Ramkalmedu, Vagamon, Idukki, Parumthumpara, Kuttikanam, Grampi and Munnar are other tourist places with majestic natural beauty, cool weather and hosts of tourist attractions.