Nestled beautifully in the high ranges of the Idukki district along the Western Ghats, Thekkady is a well-known hill station and tourist attraction in Kerala. It is known as an eco-tourism and wildlife destination as it is home to mist-clad hills, cascading waterfalls, spice gardens, and the world-famous Periyar Tiger Reserve. Known as a refreshing retreat, this hill station is perfect for a family vacation, an adventurous weekend getaway, or a romantic honeymoon. From places to costs, here’s a complete travel guide to Thekkady.
Why Visit Thekkady?
Thekkady is a well-known destination in Kerala where the vibrant cultural traditions blend with the untouched wilderness of the forests in a seamless manner. It is home to the famous Periyar Tiger Reserve, which is said to be one of the best places in India to observe sambar deer, gaurs, rare bird species, and wild Asian elephants in their natural habitat.
This hill station is also known as the “spice capital” of Kerala. The mountain breeze here is infused with the scent of various spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and black pepper. From jungle night patrols and border hikes to bamboo rafting and jeep safaris, Thekkady is the ultimate answer to all your adventure needs.
You can also witness the classic Kathakali dance performances and the ancient martial art form of Kalaripayattu up close in local cultural centers.
How To Reach Thekkady
Air
- The nearest airport is the Madurai International Airport. It is located about 136 km away from Thekkady.
- The second nearest airport is the Cochin International Airport. It is located about 151 km away from Thekkady.
- You can take a pre-paid cab or taxi to Thekkady from here. It will be a scenic 3 to 4.5-hour drive based on which airport you begin from.
Train
- The nearest railway station to Thekkady is the Kottayam Railway Station (KTYM). It is about 1.7 km away from the hill station.
- This railway station is the closest major railway station that is connected to major Indian cities.
- You can easily hop on the regular KSRTC buses and private cabs that ply between Kottayam station and Thekkady.
- The second nearest railway station is Madurai Junction. It is just 136 km away from Thekkady.
- You can take buses and private cabs from here.
Road
- Thekkady is well-connected by National and State Highways (NH183).
- From Munnar: 85 km (approximately 3 hours via Poopara)
- From Kochi: 155 km(approximately 4.5 hours)
- From Alleppey: 138 km (approximately 3.5 to 4 hours)
Best Time To Visit Thekkady
The best time to visit Thekkady completely depends upon your travel preferences.
Winter Season (October to February)
October to February is the best time to visit Thekkady for most of the visitors or travelers. This is because temperatures stay between 15 and 27 degrees Celsius, bringing chilly evenings and pleasant days. It is perfect for outdoor trekking, spice garden walks, witnessing post-monsoon foliage, and forest trails.
Summer Season (March To May)
Summer is considered to be the best time to visit Thekkady if you wish for wildlife adventures. The temperatures go up between 32 degrees Celsius and 35 degrees Celsius. If spotting animals is your motive, this is the period to visit Thekkady.
Monsoon Season (June to September)
The South-West monsoon brings heavy downpour, which transforms the place into a lush green paradise. Monsoon enthusiasts will surely love visiting Thekkady in this season. Do note that most of the trekking trails and safaris will be closed.
Where To Stay In Thekkady
Though Thekkady is known as a forest and reserve area. So here are some of the best areas for accommodations.
Kumily Town Center
Located right at the heart of the region, Kumily Town offers immediate access to the spice markets, main bus station, Kalari theatre shows, and local eateries. It is the ideal spot for backpackers, first-time visitors, and budget travelers who wish for easy walking access to various town amenities.
Lake Road & Sanctuary Gate
Lake Road is lined with premium eco-resorts, government-run forest lodges, and boutique homestays. Choosing to stay here offers you boat safari and forest walking trails just minutes away.
Vandiperiyar & Plantation Belt
Vandiperiyar is a peaceful plantation town which is located just 18 km from Kumily along the Periyar River. It is surrounded by sprawling tea, coffee, and pepper estates. It is ideal for honeymooners, heritage resort guests, and nature lovers who would like to stay near the river.
Spring Valley & Kurisumala Range
Spring Valley is situated slightly uphill from the main town along scenic points. It offers quieter surroundings with spice hills and lush pines around. It is perfect for couples or families looking for luxury or mid-range resorts away from the city’s disturbance.
Anakkara & Chellarkovil Belt
Anakkara and Chellarkovil are positioned about 10 to 12 km outside the town on the ridge. It overlooks the Cumbum valley and is home to some charming spice plantation villas, eco-retreats and organic farmstays. It is a perfect area if you like offbeat stays.
What To See In Thekkady
Periyar National Park & Tiger Reserve
Periyar Tiger Reserve is rightly known as the crown jewel of Thekkady. It spans over 777 sq km with a 100-year-old artificial Periyar Lake as the core attraction formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam. The Kerala Forest Department hosts early morning boat safaris that will help you observe wild elephant herds, wild boars, exotic birds, sambar deer nd gaurs sitting near the water’s edge.
Timing: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Kadathanadan Kalari & Mudra Cultural Centres
Visit specialized performance arenas to witness Kalariyapattu, which is an ancient martial arts form, and Kathakali, a classical dance-drama. What adds to the experience are the live background music, stage lights, and elegant costumes. These showcases are hosted every evening, offering an opportunity for all to witness them.
Elephant Junction
The Elephant Junction is an interactive elephant park that offers some amazing experiences. Visitors can bathe, feed, and walk alongside ancient elephants under the guidance of a professional mahout.
Abraham’s Spice Garden
Abraham Spice Garden is an organic garden that is managed by knowledgeable local horticulturists. It offers guided walk-throughs as well. All visitors can learn how various herbs are cultivated and harvested organically. This includes black pepper, vanilla, cinnamon, and cardamom.
To know more about exciting things to do in Thekkady, you can visit our website.
Travel Guide To Thekkady: Estimated Budget Breakdown
Budget Traveler
- Guesthouse or homestay: INR 700 to INR 1,500
- Local transport: INR 400 to INR 700
- Buses and rickshaws: INR 200 to INR 400
- Safari or Nature Walk: INR 300 to INR 600
Mid-Range Traveler
- Resort or 3-star Hotel: INR 2,500 to INR 5,500
- Hotel dining or Multi-cuisine: INR 1000 to INR 1,800
- Private auto or cab: INR 1,000 to INR 2,000
- Boating plus spice tour plus Kalari: INR 1,000 to INR 2,500
Luxury Traveler
- Luxury Eco-resort: INR 9,000 to INR 18,000
- Resort Meals or Fine dining: INR 2,500 to INR 5,000
- Private chauffeured car: INR 2,500 to INR 4,000
- Bamboo Rafting or tour: INR 4,000 to INR 8,000
Food To Try In Thekkady
Thekkady’s culinary offerings show the rich Kerala spice traditions, which feature aromatic local spices and fresh farm ingredients:
Kerala Sadya
This is a traditional vegetarian feast that is served on a banana leaf. It features over 20 side dishes, papad, ghee, red rice, and payasam.
Malabar Parotta With Kerala Curry
Malabar Parotta is a flaky, layered flatbread that is paired with slow-cooked delicious curry. The curry can be vegetarian or non-vegetarian depending on your preferences.
Spice-Infused Tea & Coffee
Relish locally grown cardamom tea and fresh Robusta coffee, which are served at local roadside tea stalls.
Karimeen Pollichattu
Pearl spot fish is marinated in freshly ground spices. It is then wrapped in banana leaves and later pan-fried.
Summing Up
From witnessing Asian elephants live to walking through the aromatic spice plantations, Thekkady offers a classic experience. This travel guide has offered you all the important details regarding travel to Thekkady. So make sure you save it to plan a smooth and memorable trip to Kerala’s spice capital.
And if you wish to get a complete travel guide to Kozhikode or Kannur, you must visit our website!
