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Nestled in the heart of Kerala’s Western Ghats, Thekkady Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. This pristine sanctuary, also known as Periyar National Park, spans over an impressive 925 square kilometres of area and is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna. With its dense evergreen forests, serene lake, and rich biodiversity, here is your chance to immerse yourself in the raw beauty of nature and witness some of India’s most iconic wildlife species in their natural habitat.
Quick Details About Thekkady Wildlife Sanctuary
Elevation: 700 metres (approximately 2297 feet) above sea level
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Best Time To Visit: October to May
Entry Fees: ₹25 for Indians, ₹300 for foreigners, additional charges for activities
Location
Photo: Asheen Anoopa / Wikimedia Commons
Thekkady is located near the Periyar National Park, a significant tourist attraction in Kerala. It’s approximately 257 km from Trivandrum, 145 km from Cochin International Airport, and 114 km from Kottayam railway station. The sanctuary is just 4 km from Kumily, a plantation town on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border.
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How To Reach Thekkady Wildlife Sanctuary
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By Road: Thekkady is well-connected by road to major cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. You can reach the sanctuary by private car, taxi, or bus. The journey from Kochi takes about 4-5 hours, while from Madurai, it takes around 3-4 hours. The drive offers scenic views of the Western Ghats along with spice plantations, and tea estates.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Thekkady is Kottayam, which is about 114 km away. From Kottayam, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Thekkady. The journey from Kottayam to Thekkady takes approximately 3-4 hours, which depends on traffic conditions.
By Air: The closest airport to Thekkady is Madurai International Airport in Tamil Nadu, located about 140 km away. Cochin International Airport is another option, situated approximately 145 km from Thekkady. From either airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-booked transport to reach the sanctuary. The journey typically takes 3-4 hours from Madurai and 4-5 hours from Cochin.
Things To Do In Thekkady Wildlife Sanctuary
1. Wildlife Safaris
Photo: Sudharshan Solairaj / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
One of the main attractions of Thekkady Wildlife Sanctuary is its diverse wildlife. You can embark on various safari options to explore the park and spot animals in their natural habitat. The most popular is the boat safari on Periyar Lake, which offers a unique perspective of the sanctuary’s ecosystem. During these safaris, you may spot elephants, gaur, sambar deer, and various bird species along the shoreline. For those of you seeking a more immersive experience, guided jungle walks and bamboo rafting expeditions are also available.
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2. Nature Walks And Trekking
Photo: Kir360 / Wikimedia Commons
Thekkady offers numerous trekking trails that cater to various fitness levels. The Gavi Trek is particularly popular for taking you through dense forests, grasslands, and cardamom plantations. During these treks, you can observe the rich biodiversity of the Western Ghats, including rare orchids, medicinal plants, and a variety of bird species. You can also visit a temple located at an elevation of 1,337 metres, providing panoramic views of the surrounding forests and hills of both Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
3. Cultural Experiences
Photo: J P Vets / Wikimedia Commons
Thekkady isn’t just about wildlife and nature; it also offers rich cultural experiences. Here, you can attend traditional Kathakali performances, which showcase the vibrant dance-drama art form of Kerala. These performances, often held in the evenings, provide you with an insight into Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. In addition to that, you can explore the nearby spice plantations, learning about the cultivation and processing of various spices that have made this region famous. Besides that, there are many plantations that offer guided tours and the opportunity to purchase fresh, locally grown spices.
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4. Elephant Encounters
Photo: Kondephy / Wikimedia Commons
While Thekkady no longer offers elephant rides due to ethical concerns, you can still observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. The sanctuary is home to a significant population of wild Asian elephants, which can often be spotted during boat safaris or jungle treks. For those of you interested in a more up-close experience, the nearby Elephant Junction offers ethical elephant interactions. So, here you can observe elephants being bathed and fed, and even participate in these activities under the guidance of experienced mahouts.
Places To Visit Around Thekkady Wildlife Sanctuary
1. Periyar Lake
Photo: Arunpnair787 / Wikimedia Commons
At the heart of Thekkady Wildlife Sanctuary lies Periyar Lake, an artificial reservoir created by the Mullaperiyar Dam. The lake, surrounded by dense forests, serves as a vital water source for wildlife and offers breathtaking views. Besides that, boat safaris on the lake offer you excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting and photography.
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2. Mangala Devi Temple
Photo: Reji Jacob / Wikimedia Commons
Located within the sanctuary, Mangala Devi Temple is an ancient shrine dedicated to the goddess Mangala Devi. The temple, situated at an elevation of 1,337 metres, offers panoramic views of the Western Ghats and the plains of Tamil Nadu. The temple is open for visits only during the Chitra Pournami festival in April.
3. Kumily Spice Market
Photo: SimonK / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The nearby town of Kumily is famous for its spice markets. So, you can explore these bustling markets, filled with the aroma of fresh spices like cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and cloves. It’s an excellent place to purchase high-quality spices and learn about their cultivation and uses in Indian cuisine.
Distance From Thekkady Sanctuary: 1.5 km
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4. Abraham’s Spice Garden
Photo: Michael Clarke Staff / Wikimedia Commons
Located near Kumily, Abraham’s Spice Garden offers guided tours of a traditional spice plantation. So, here you can learn about the cultivation of various spices, medicinal plants, and fruit trees. The knowledgeable guides provide you with insights into the historical and cultural significance of these plants in Kerala’s culture.
Distance From Thekkady Sanctuary: 5.4 km
5. Chellarkovil Viewpoint
Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons
Located in the proximity of Thekkady, Chellarkovil offers stunning views of the plains of Tamil Nadu and the surrounding hills. The viewpoint is particularly beautiful during sunrise and sunset, with cascading waterfalls adding to the scenic beauty during the monsoon season.
Distance From Thekkady Sanctuary: 16 km
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Where To Stay
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Whether you want a budget stay or luxurious accommodation, Thekkady offers you a plethora of stay options. From eco-lodges and forest rest houses to hotels, resorts, and homestays, there is no dearth of good stay options in the region. Some of the good hotels or resorts that you can book here are: The Wildernest, Green Court Cottages, Periyar Heritage Home Stay, The Elephant Court, and Peppervine Hotel.
Where To Eat
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There are numerous resort restaurants, homestay dining options, and local eateries in the proximity of the Thekkady Sanctuary for you to have a delightful experience. The list of some of the best restaurants and cafes include: Ariya Bhavan, Spice Garden Restaurant, Ebonys Cafe, Gokul Veg Restaurant, and French Restaurant & Bakery.
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Other Factors To Consider
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Average Cost Of Trip
The cost of visiting Thekkady Sanctuary can vary depending on accommodation choices, activities, and length of stay. For budget travelling, you can find affordable guesthouses and homestays in Kumily, with rates starting from ₹1,000 per night. Activity costs vary, with boat safaris typically priced at ₹300-450 per person.
Tips For Travellers
- Book in Advance: Popular activities like boat safaris can get fully booked, especially during peak season. So, reserve your spots in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Dress Appropriately: Wear comfortable, neutral-coloured clothing for wildlife safaris. Bring a light jacket or sweater, because mornings and evenings can be cool.
- Respect Wildlife: Maintain a safe distance from animals and follow all park rules and guide instructions.
- Be Prepared for Weather Changes: The weather in Thekkady can be unpredictable. So, do carry a light rain jacket or umbrella, especially during the monsoon season.
- Carry Essentials: Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and a reusable water bottle.
- Support Local Communities: Purchase souvenirs and spices from local markets to support the local economy, because your tour cannot be complete without indulging in shopping.
Thekkady Wildlife Sanctuary offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and cultural experiences. From thrilling wildlife encounters to serene boat rides on Periyar Lake, Thekkady has something for everyone. So, whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, photography buff, or seeking an escape into nature, Thekkady promises an unforgettable experience. Ready to embark on your Thekkady adventure? Let TripXL help you plan a perfect getaway.
Cover Photo: Danny Markose / PixaHive / Image For Representation Only
