When thinking about Kerala, Periyar National Park, Thekkady naturally comes out on the top as a famous travel getaway. This park is located in Thekkady, a town in the Idukki district and is quite a cherished place to explore. Famous for its diverse wildlife and plantations, the grasslands and deciduous forests are the highlighting factors of Thekkady. It is no less than heaven to discover natural spices like black pepper, cardamom, ginger, clove, and many others.
Thekkady is a place where you can experience cool boat rides, have fun with elephants, take long walks in the blissful beauty of nature, stay up late in cool and shady tree houses, and, last but not least, witness the impeccable beauty of the birds while relaxing in nature. Elephant Junction in Thekkady is particularly popular for its close encounters with these majestic creatures, offering a unique and memorable experience.
Best Time to Visit Thekkady
If you plan a trip, the best time to go to Thekkady is from October to February. During these months, the weather is pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the many attractions in the area. Summer months, on the other hand, may be less suitable due to higher temperatures.
Major Attractions in and Around Thekkady
Thekkady is home to several captivating sights, each offering a unique experience of Kerala's natural and cultural beauty. Here are some places to visit at Thekkady:
1. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Located on the banks of the Periyar River, this sanctuary is one of the most important Thekkady tourist places. It is a protected area in the Idukki and Pathanamthitta districts of Kerala. Travelling to this place, you can hope to witness a great variety of animal species, such as elephants, Bengal tigers, gaurs, sambars, wild pigs, Indian giant squirrels, and many more.
2. Mangla Devi Temple
Built in the name of Kannaki, it is no less than a legendary temple. The legend says that Kannaki was the woman who, around 2,000 years ago, burned down an entire town. She had done so after being wronged by the then-king. Thus, it was her tale of love, loss, and vengeance that inspired the foundation of this temple. Thousands of devotees visit annually, making it a prominent attraction in Thekkady.
3. Murikkady
Kerala is known for its spice plantations and coffee and cardamom gardening. The gentle breeze kissing your cheeks and ruffling your hair will certainly make you happier. It's one of the places to see at Thekkady that offers a true taste of Kerala's agricultural heritage.
4. Abraham’s Spice Garden
This spice garden is a must-visit for those interested in Kerala's spice culture. Visitors can interact with local agriculturists, learn about Thekkady's history, and get an insider's view of the region's rich agricultural traditions.
5. Kumily
Kumily is an enchanting town near Thekkady, famous for its spices and tea plantations. The town's vibrant atmosphere and natural beauty make it one of the best places to visit at Thekkady. The exuberant jungles and vast skies provide a perfect backdrop for exploration.
6. Chellarkovil
This quaint village is a combination of solitude and peace. Perhaps this is a good reason why it attracts a good number of tourists on an annual basis. Moreover, the Shimmering light of the Sun reflects on the cascading waterfalls, creating a mesmerising spell of nature's magic upon the tourists.
How to Reach Thekkady
Thedakky, Kerala, is situated about 2,645, 1,499, 2,232, and 510 km from Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru, respectively. For those travelling by train, the nearest station is in Kottayam, approximately 110-115 km away, offering good connectivity with major Indian cities. Thekkady is in the Idukki district and is well-connected by road, with buses and taxis available from nearby towns and cities.
Here are the details on how you can reach Thekkady by public transport.
By Air
Thekkady does not have its own airport; the nearest airport from this region is the Madurai International Airport (IXM), situated at a distance of around 190 km. The airport is well connected with other Indian cities, and after you deboard here, the best option would be to hire a cab to reach your respective destination.
Here is a list of Indian cities from where flights are available to Thekkady
By Train
The nearest railway station is in Kottayam, which is approximately 110-115 km away. This railhead has good connectivity with other Indian cities. From the station, you can easily hire a cab or some other locally available transport to reach here.
By Road
Thekaddy is quite well connected to other regions by roads. You can easily board interstate or private buses from nearby cities and states. Otherwise, you can hire private taxis or use your vehicle to reach here.
- From Madurai - 139 km via NH85
- From Munnar - 90-100 km via SH19
- From Kodaikanal - 148 km via NH183
Conclusion
Thekkady is filled with natural beauty, rich history, and exciting adventures. Whether exploring the lush landscapes, enjoying wildlife, or simply relaxing in the serene environment, Thekkady offers something for everyone. With its diverse attractions and easy accessibility, it remains one of Kerala's most cherished destinations.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Thekkady
Q. What are some popular places to visit in Thekkady?
A: Some popular places in Thekkady include Periyar National Park, Kumily, Murikkady and Kadathanadan Kalari Centre.
Q: Why is Thekkady famous?
A: Thekkady is famous for its rich wildlife, particularly the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, spice plantations, and scenic boat rides on Periyar Lake.
Q. Which is better, Munnar or Thekkady?
A: Munnar is known for its expansive tea plantations and cool climate, while Thekkady is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and those interested in spice plantations; the choice depends on your interests.
Q. Is Thekkady worth visiting?
A: Yes, Thekkady is worth visiting for its unique wildlife experiences, lush landscapes, and cultural attractions, such as the Mangla Devi Temple.
Q. Is Thekkady a hill station?
A: Yes, Thekkady is a hill station in the Western Ghats, offering cool temperatures and picturesque scenery.
