Thekkady is a town near Periyar National Park, an important tourist destination in Kerala, India. The term Thekkady is derived from the teak-related word "thekku". Thekkady is a hill station in Kerala's Idukki district. It has a famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, which is inhabited by elephants, tigers, deer, as well as other rare animals. You may also take a boating ride along the lake, where you can view the Mullaperiyar Dam amidst dense green forests.

This hill station is ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers. You can ride an elephant, trek, or buy spices and handicrafts in the town of Kumily which is nearby. Thekkady has good hotels and resorts that provide a serene and refreshing vacation throughout the year.

Tourist Places to Visit in Thekkady:

1. Periyar Lake:

Periyar Lake is a serene and lovely place in the heart of the forest. It has been developed through a dam and it is characterized by its scenic beauty and serene nature. Tourists can experience a boat ride here and even get a glimpse of animals such as elephants, deer, and birds around the lake. It is an ideal site to unwind and enjoy nature.

2. Periyar National Park:

It is one of the most popular wildlife sanctuaries in south India. It has elephants, tigers, wild boars, and a variety of birds and butterflies. The park can be explored via jungle safaris, bamboo rafting, or guided nature walks. It is an excellent way to avoid urban life with its fresh air and lush greenery.

3. Elephant Junction Thekkady:

Elephant Junction allows people to pass their time with friendly elephants in a safe and entertaining atmosphere. You can go on an elephant, take it a bath, and feed it with bananas. It is the favorite place of families and children who want to know more about these peaceful creatures. It is also a good place to take pictures.

4. Thekkady Rose Park:

Thekkady Rose Park is a colorful and well-preserved garden that has various different kinds of Roses and other decorative plants. It is an awesome spot to walk either casually or to capture beautiful pictures. There are small playgrounds that can be played by children and the serene scenery is a perfect place to be used by couples and nature lovers.

5. Kadathanadan Kalari Centre:

This cultural center provides live demonstrations of Kalaripayattu, the traditional form of martial art of Kerala. The tourists can also experience Kathakali which is the classical Kerala dance drama with facial makeup and costumes. The location is a great place to feel a part of Kerala's vibrant culture and talent in a thrilling environment.

6. Mangala Devi Temple:

This is the ancient temple, devoted to Goddess Mangala Devi and situated in the forest, close to the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border. It is accessible only during the Chitra Pournami festival. The temple is elevated at about 1300 meters where it provides an amazing scenic outlook on the hills and forests that are around. This hike to the temple is also quite scenic.

Things to Do in Thekkady:

1. Go for a boat ride in Periyar Lake
2. Enjoy a jungle safari in Periyar National Park
3. Experience bamboo rafting inside the forest
4. Watch Kalaripayattu and Kathakali performances
5. Visit spice plantations and take a guided tour
6. Try elephant rides and activities at Elephant Junction
7. Go for trekking and nature walks in the hills
8. Shop for spices and handmade souvenirs at the local market

Local Foods to Try:

1. Appam with Vegetable Stew (Vegetarian)
2. Puttu with Kadala Curry (Vegetarian)
3. Idiyappam with Egg Curry (Non-Vegetarian)
4. Kerala Sadya (Vegetarian)
5. Kappa with Meen Curry (Non-Vegetarian)
6. Pazham Pori (Vegetarian)
7. Erissery (Vegetarian)
8. Fish Moilee (Non-Vegetarian)
9. Vegetable Biryani (Vegetarian)
10. Payasam (Vegetarian)

Festivals Celebrated in Thekkady

Chithirapuram Pongal:

Chithirapuram Pongal is a traditional harvest festival celebrated with joy by the local people. Families prepare sweet pongal, decorate their homes with kolams, and offer prayers to thank nature for a good harvest.

Periyar Pongal:

Periyar Pongal is a special festival celebrated in the Periyar region with cultural programs, traditional food, and community gatherings. It brings people together to enjoy music, dance, and the spirit of the season.

Navarathri:

Navarathri is a colourful nine-day festival dedicated to Goddess Durga. People in Thekkady celebrate it with devotional songs, lighting of lamps, and beautiful decorations in temples and homes.

Onam:

Onam is the biggest festival of Kerala, and it is celebrated in Thekkady with great excitement. Traditional flower rangolis, Onam Sadya (feast), boat races, and cultural shows make this festival very special for locals and tourists.

Tourist Places near Thekkady:

1. Munnar – A hill station famous for tea gardens and cool weather
2. Vagamon – Known for green meadows and adventure sports

Stay Options:

Thekkady offers many stay options, suitable for all budgets:

1. Luxury Hotels: Greenwoods Resort, Spice Village – CGH Earth
2. Mid-range: Peppervine Hotel, Abad Green Forest
3. Budget: Homestays, guest houses, and lodges near Kumily town

Travel Tips for Thekkady Visitors:

1. Carry light woollens, especially in winter months
2. Book safari and bamboo rafting in advance
3. Respect wildlife and do not litter inside forest areas
4. Carry comfortable shoes for trekking and plantation visits
5. Local guides are helpful and know the area well
6. Mobile signal may be weak in deep forest areas

Best Time to Visit:

1. Summer (March to May): Warm days, good for early morning safari and sightseeing
2. Monsoon (June to September): Heavy rains but lush green views, best for nature lovers
3. Winter (October to February): Cool and pleasant weather, perfect for all activities