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Situated in the heart of the Western Ghats of Kerala, Thekkady is undoubtedly a sanctorum for nature lovers. And, as you venture into this region, you will come across numerous places to visit near Thekkady that are meant to leave you spellbound with their stunning landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and rich cultural heritage. An excursion to this small town has so much to offer you, be it activities or otherwise. From spice plantations and tea gardens drenched in greenery to spotting wildlife on a boat safari, Thekkady has it all.
Top 10 Places To Visit Near Thekkady
Thekkady serves as a gateway to many other attractions. Here are the fantastic 10 Places to visit near Thekkady, imbibing the unique charm, cultural tradition, and natural beauty of this area.
1. Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve
Photo: Shantham11 / Wikimedia Commons
Periyar National Park is a 925 sq km sprawling area housing wildlife in the Western Ghats, rich in its variety of flora and fauna. Here you can enjoy various activities, including guided nature walks that allow you to witness tigers, elephants, deer, and numerous bird species. You can also enjoy a boat ride and elephant safaris to get closer to these majestic creatures. With different ecosystems—evergreen forests, grasslands, and wetlands—here sustain many other life forms.
Distance From Thekkady: 2 km
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Varkala
2. Gavi
Photo: Jeevan Jose / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Gavi is one of the untouched attractions near Thekkady, famous for its biodiversity. With over 260 species of birds and home to some endangered animals, here you can spot Nilgiri Laughingthrush, elephants, deer, and the Nilgiri Tahr. By following ecotourism principles and preserving the rich cultural heritage, it beckons thousands of nature lovers like you. Here, you can trek through its verdant forests and also hop on a boat ride to Gavi Lake to savour natural scenery like never before.
Distance From Thekkady: 60 km
3. Kumily
Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons
Famed for its spice plantations and markets, Kumily lets you take a glimpse of the processing of spices like black pepper, cardamom, and cinnamon. Detailed plantation tours splash all the knowledge about these aromatic spices, and the vibrant local markets sell fresh spices with other regional productions. Besides that, you can enjoy cultural programs that display traditional Kerala art forms like Kathakali and Kalaripayattu. During a Kulmily tour, you can also visit the historic Mangala Devi Temple, which remains open only during the Chithra Pournami festival.
Distance From Thekkady: 1 km
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kanthalloor
4. Kurisumala
Photo: Shijan Kaakkara / Wikimedia Commons
Kurisumala offers an opportunity for trekking and hiking through lush green forests to Spring Valley Mountain, where a panoramic view of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary awaits you. The steep inclines and rocky paths make up a challenging terrain, providing an exhilarating adventure to you with a chance to spot rarely-seen birds and wildlife. Besides that, you can enjoy camping, bird watching, get acquainted with local communities, and capture the region’s natural beauty.
Distance From Thekkady: 288 km
5. Chellarkovil
Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons
Famed for its Ayurvedic gardens, Chellarkovil is one of the best places to see near Thekkady. It provides you an opportunity to learn about ancient Indian medicine and immerse in wellness activities such as yoga and meditation. It also contains spice plantations beside the Periyar River, making it a major trading and commercial centre. Here, you can trek through its hills and forests for a bird’s eye view of lush green landscapes and grab an opportunity to spot birds and wildlife. You can also hop on its watchtower for panoramic views of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
Distance From Thekkady: 25 km
Suggested Read: Hill Stations In Kottayam
6. Vandiperiyar
Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons
A small town with lush green tea, coffee and pepper plantations, Vandiperiyar is another important place to visit near Thekkady. The major attractions that you can visit here include the Mullaperiyar Dam, one of the oldest among the existing engineering marvels; and the Mangala Devi Temple, dating back to the 8th century. It is said that Vandiperiyar’s proximity to the Periyar River and tea factories makes it a significant commercial hub in the area, offering you a glimpse of its local culture.
Distance From Thekkady: 15 km
7. Vandanmedu
Photo: Ardra Balakrishnan / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
A rustic village, Vandanmedu is one of the best tourist attractions near Thekkady. If you are a history buff, here you can visit one of the first post offices opened by the British in 1892, representing the region’s pristine colonial past. Apart from that, its traditional ambiance and typical architecture is meant to beguile you while offering the old-world charm experience. Moreover, its proximity to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary makes it a must-visit attraction in Kerala.
Distance From Thekkady: 22 km
Suggested Read: Beaches In Kochi
8. Ramakkalmedu
Photo: Kodephy / Wikimedia Commons
Enclosed by astonishing hills and valleys, Ramakkalmedu is one of the best places to explore near Thekkady, Kerala. Decked with lush greenery and dense foliage, here you can enjoy trekking and hiking activities while observing the local flora and fauna. What’s more? If you are seeking spirituality, you can enjoy a spiritual retreat in the famous Santhigiri Ashram while performing yoga, meditation, and wellness activities. With peaceful vibes all around and sceneries, Ramakkalmedu is an ideal getaway to break free from the routine of daily life.
Distance From Thekkady: 40 km
9. Pandikuzhi Waterfalls
Photo: Priya Sivakumar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Another serene and pictorial natural spot near Thekkady is Pandikuzhi Waterfalls. With its tranquil atmosphere and gushing waters, here you can enjoy a dive into natural pools at the foot of the waterfalls. Tucked amidst thick forests, the Pandikuzhi Waterfalls is an unpolluted, quiet picnic spot away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It is during the monsoon season that these waterfalls look awesome. You can also stroll through its nearby forests and cherish a relaxing time amidst mesmerising landscapes like never before.
Distance From Thekkady: 25 km
Suggested Read: Thrissur Waterfalls
10. Suruli Falls
Photo: Pranchiyetan / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Situated near Thekkady, Suruli Falls are an excellent natural phenomenon where the water falls from around 300 feet. Trek through its lush forests and let its colossal volume of water that rushes down the pebbly ground keep you drenched in its natural beauty. Besides that, here you can also swim amidst its serene atmosphere, and soothe the nature lover and adventurer in you at the same time.
Distance From Thekkady: 30 km
Located right in the heart of the Western Ghats of Kerala, Thekkady covers a wide gamut of attractions to leave you spellbound. From the famous Periyar National Park to the ever-serene Gavi forest reserve and the ancient Mangla Devi Temple, there is so much to experience. Whether you are seeking adventure or culture, places to visit near Thekkady never disappoint you. So, plan a trip to Thekkady with TripXL, now.
Cover Photo: Jigyasu / Wikimedia Commons
