Thekkady Travel

Thekkady, a very popular tourist attraction in Kerala, is the ideal place to sit back and relax a laid-back holiday, amidst breathtaking scenery and cool climate. Located at a distance of 60 km from Idukki and 114 km from Kottayam, this cool countryside is the home of the renowned Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. It is a prominent holiday destination and represents the natural beauty of the Kerala. The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the best wildlife reserves in the country, contains several rare species of animals and plants. Known for its natural diversity, Thekkady is a habitat for several species of mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians.

Tourist Attractions

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Known as one of the best natural wildlife reserves, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is spread over a vast area of 777 sq. km. Major part of the sanctuary is covered with thick evergreen forest. This is the only wildlife sanctuary in the country where visitors can enjoy the natural wildlife while having a pleasure ride on the lake. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for the herds of elephants that stroll around lake. Every year thousands of tourists visit the sanctuary for its wildlife diversity and scenic beauty.

Mangala Devi Temple
Located 15 km from Thekkady, Mangala Devi Temple is an ancient temple that remains hidden in dark forest covers. A classic example of the traditional style of architecture of Kerala, the temple provides a panoramic view of the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats and few hill villages of Tamil Nadu as well. Known for its mysterious outlook, Mangala Devi Temple is open for visitors only during the Chithra Pournami Festival.

Chellarkovil
Chellarkovil is a small village located at a distance of 15 km from Thekkady. The village has grapes, coconut, cotton and vegetable crops growing on its slopes.

Pullumedu
Pullumedu can only be reached with help of jeep. The place provides stunning views of the hills wrapped in lush green surroundings and also offers the sight of rare plants and animals. Visitors can also see the famous temples like Sabarimala Sree Ayyappa Temple and the Makara Jyothi from here.

Vandiperiyar
Vandiperiyar River is the lifeline of Thekkady. It flows through the centre of it. The river further nurtures the vast plantations of tea, coffee and pepper. Vandiperiyar is a major trade centre in the region. A number of tea factories are located in this place. Vandiperiyar also has Government Agriculture farm and Flower Garden, which are known for the delightful arrangement of orchids, roses and anthuria.

Vandanmedu
Vandanmedu is located 25 km from Thekkady. It is known for its auction centers of cardamom, which are among the largest in the world. The sight of large number of cardamom together gives an intoxicating experience.

Kumily
Kumily is a prominent part of Thekkady. Situated at the outlying areas of Periyar Sanctuary, Kumily is a popular shopping and trade centre of the region.

Pandikuzhi Village
Located 5 km from Thekkady, Pandikuzhi Village is a popular picnic spot. Lying between Chellarkovil and the Tamil Nadu border, the village offers breathtaking views of rare flora and fauna present here. It is a great site for trekking and photography.

Ramakalmedu
Ramakalmedu offers its visitors the stunning views of lush green hills and the rolling grass hillocks. From the top of hill, visitors can have a panoramic view of the beautiful villages of Bodi and Cumbum lying on the Eastern slope of the Western Ghats.

Wagamon
Wagamon is situated at a distance of 60 km from Thekkady. It is a popular holiday resort. Here, one can experience the refreshing mountain air, mist and catch a glimpse of the lush green hills and velvety lawns. This place is also known for its religious harmony.

How to Reach Thekkady

Air
The nearest airport is Madurai Airport, which is located at a distance of 140 km from Thekkady.

Rail
You can also reach Thekkady by rail. The nearest railway station is Kumarakom, which is located 114 km from Thekkady.

Road
The best way to reach Thekkady is via roadways. Kumily is the main bus station which connects Thekkady with other major cities of the state.