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Thekkady – Pampered By Nature

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Located in Idukki District, Thekkady is one of the most sought-after and amazingly impressive travel destinations in Kerala. Though best known for Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, this tourist hotspot caters to the interests of trekkers, nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, adventure freaks, picnickers and backpackers.

Thekkady lies closer to the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border and hence enjoys a distinct culture and tradition. This strategic location gives the region remarkable accessibility from both Kerala and Tamil Nadu. The wildlife sanctuary of Thekkady attracts millions of tourists from both within the country and from abroad every year. The region is known to house a wide range of animal and plant life which adds to the magnetism of the region.

Leisure At Its Best

Thekkady enjoys a unique geographical pattern and ecological structure, making it different from other hill stations and sanctuaries. This hilly terrain is blessed with salubrious landscapes and vast stretches of plantations. The aroma from the spice gardens lingers in the air, making a traveller feel rejuvenated.

The winding hills in the background serve as the perfect setting for those who have an eye for photography. The cool climate and the availability of excellent resorts and home-stays make the region a favourite spot for picnicking and honeymooning.

The serpentine hilly tracts and long stretches of Trekking trails offer an unmatched experience to trekkers and mountaineers. The region treats the visitors with a number of entertainment activities including border hiking, wildlife train, rock climbing and bamboo rafting.

A Sanctum Of Sanctuary

The region of Thekkady gathered its fame across the globe for being the location of the world-renowned Periyar National Park, otherwise known as Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The dense evergreen forests of Thekkady form the sanctuary which houses the most exciting variety of wildlife such as Elephants, Sambar, Tigers, Wild Boar, Lion-tailed Macaque, Nilgiri Tahr, Malabar Giant Squirrel and Nilgiri Langurs.

In 1978, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary was given the official status of a Tiger Reserve and the locality witnessed many projects centered on community-based ecotourism. The region is surrounded by an artificial lake built across Periyar River, which offers excellent boating facilities. Travellers who come here get to watch and photograph the rarest sight of elephant herds enjoying in the lake.

Tourist Places In And Around Thekkady

The sightseeing and adventure options in Thekkady are numerous as well as thrilling. Apart from the Wildlife Sanctuary, the location is known for attractions such as Murikkady (known for its spice and coffee plantations), Abraham's Spice Garden, Kadathanadan Kalari Centre (a centre for the world-known martial art Kalari) and Mangala Devi Temple.

The Plantation Resort located in the hamlet of Vandanmedu attracts millions of visitors every year for it is famed as world’s largest cardamom producer. Thekkady is a haven of exotic spices and travellers can purchase many premium quality spices such as cinnamon, fenugreek, white and green pepper, cardamom, nutmeg, cloves, star anise and coriander. Traditionally prepared cuisines are sold in the restaurants of the area and flavours of authentic Kerala food are sure to enchant foodies.

Thekkady Weather

Of all the factors that play out to make Thekkady a perfect getaway destination, the most commendable ones are its climate and accessibility. The region enjoys a cool climate and thus serves as an excellent holidaying spot.

How To Reach Thekkady

Thekkady enjoys excellent connectivity by road from both Kerala and Tamil Nadu and bus services are available from a number of places including Madurai, Kumbam, Kochi (165 km), Kottayam (120 km), Ernakulam and Thiruvananthapuram (250 km).

Thekkady being a tourist hotspot, accommodation facilities and tour packages are plenty. There are a number of budget hotels as well as holiday resorts in the region and travellers can indulge in comfortable ambience and lip-smacking cuisines. Be it adventure activities or casual strolls, leisure or pleasure, Thekkady has everything a traveller hopes for from an exotic holidaying spot.

Thekkady is Famous for

Thekkady Weather

Best Season / Best Time to Visit Thekkady

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How to Reach Thekkady

  • By Road
    Thekkady is well connected by road to some of the major cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) runs regular bus services from Kochi, Kottayam and Thiruvananthapuram to Thekkady. Plenty of tour packages are also available to Thekkedy, it being one the major tourist destinations.
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  • By Train
    The closest railway station to Thekkady is located in Kottayam (about 120 km). Regular trains are available from Kottayam railway station to all major cities in India such as Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Ernakulam, Thiruvananthapuram and New Delhi. Taxis services are available from Kottayam to Thekkedy at a rate of approximately 2500-3000 INR. Buses are also available, which are more economic.
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  • By Air
    Madurai is the nearest airport to Thekkady (140 km), but the nearest international airport is Kochi International Airport also known as Nedumbassery International Airport. Located at a distance of 190 km, Kochi Airport is well connected to all major cities of India and some cities abroad. Those who arrive by air can either avail taxi services (about 4000 INR) or take buses from the airport to reach Thekkady.
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