Thekkady Tourist Places: A Unique Experience of Wildlife and Nature

Thekkady houses the country's largest Tiger Reserve- Periyar, at Periyar National Park, which is a major attraction, is where one can enjoy bamboo rafting in the Mullaiperiyar Dam. Tourists can also experience night treks in the wilderness of Periyar. The Periyar Lake which is a part of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, is best place for couples looking to enjoy honeymoon at Thekkady.

Thekkady is a top place for travelers who wants a forest vacation and encounters wildlife. The place is full of sightseeing, lush forest along the terrains, including hills, valleys, and plantations that dot this Kerala's countryside. Anakarra is also located nearby, a beautiful place to enjoy nature and wander in the luxuriant of vegetation. Another famous spot to enjoy the natural beauty and expansive vistas of coffee, pepper, and cardamom plantations is Murukkady..

Thekkady provides accommodations ranging from modest homestays to somewhat opulent resorts, apart from sightseeing opportunities. Many resorts are near the national park, and an early boat safari within the sanctuary is a must to spot wild elephants, bison, wild boars, various birds, etc.

Periyar National Park

The Periyar National Park in Thekkady, is one of the most best-protected reserve area that one can visit in India. The Park is Famous for its gorgeousness, greenery and stillness, the park is the place of wide range of significant species, including the Royal Bengal Tigers and Elephants apart from other reptiles, fishes and birds. This National Park is a perfect blend of nature, adventure and beauty. The Park is a place which allows you the peace and serenity you need, an opportunity to be one with nature and just a normal sighting of a Tiger.

The Periyar National Park covers an area of 257 square miles and the rivers Pamba and Periyar flow through it. These rivers help the plants and animals to nurture and flourish. The site attracts thousands of tourists here every year, and enjoy the boat cruises, jungle safaris in the form of jeep safaris and elephant safaris, and prominent eco-tourism activities, that are the specialty of this national park. 

The top attractions of the national park are boating at the magnificent lake, trekking through the dense forests, or simply sitting back to spot animals. The wide range of activities, decent and affordable accommodation, as well as easy accessibility, makes Periyar National Park a must-visit place in Kerala.

Thekkady Lake

The Lake is located in the heart of the jungle, Thekkady Lake which is also known as Periyar Lake is famous for its wide varieties of wildlife. Tourists can see wide range of wild animals near the lake making it a must visit sight for the visitors. The visitor can also take a boat ride in the reservoir which is memorable moment.

Green Park Ayurvedic & Spices Plantation 

The Green Park Ayurvedic & Spices Plantation is an beautiful ecological park to grow medicinal herbs and spices and spread the knowledge of growing them with the help of advanced new agricultural techniques. The park is spread in an area of five acres and it has a Spice Garden and an Organic Farm that is open for the visitors which can be explored along with the stunning landscape of the area.

Read More: Top Kerala Tourist Places

Mudra Cultural Centre 

The Mudra Cultural Centre is well known for cultural events which specifically involve the traditional dance forms, Kathakali and India's oldest form of martial arts, Kalaripayyattu. Tourists can also see the preparations the artists have to make before they their marvelous performances. Witnessing such shows is the best way to get a glimpse into the rich culture and art of the region.

Kadathanadan Kalari Centre 

Kadathanadan Kalari Centre is famous for the traditional form of martial arts, Kalaripayyattu which was invented by a famous Sage Parshuram. The shows arranged by the centre are especially to showcase the ancient form of martial arts and self-defence in a gallery which is specially designed for the safety of the fighters and the audience.

Vandiperiyar

Vandeperiyar is a little town in Idukki District, which is just 18km from Thekkady. Located at an altitude of 2743ft. above the sea level, this hilly town has been a hot spot for travelers who wants to enjoy exploring plantations and spice farms. Regardless of the commercial activity of the town it is filled with greenery engulfing a travelers. The plantations are an ecosystem of their own - nourishing flora and fauna with the beautiful River Periyar flowing through, Vandiperiyar is famous for the cultivation of spices, herbs and its captivating natural terrain. This town also has a number of tea factories that offer guided tours for visitors.

Best Time to Visit Thekkady

The best time to visit Thekkady is September to April when the weather is most favorable for traveling. March and April are driest months, where a lot of animals are gathered near the water bodies, and make it the best time to spot animals. Monsoons bring freshness and greenery along with it and make the area even more beautiful, making it an ideal time to visit Thekkady.

Conclusion 

Thekkady is a place which combines the beauty of nature with adventures. From traveling in the Periyar Tiger Reserve to boating in the awesome Periyar Lake, Thekkady gives a beautiful unique experience of wildlife and nature. The scent of spice plantations, the enjoyment of elephant rides, and the cultural delights of Kathakali and Kalaripayattu add the charm to this attractive destination. The Ayurvedic treatments, wellness retreats, and shopping for local handicrafts, Thekkady provides everything which pleases the tourists. Plan your trip to Thekkady and drop yourself in the beauty and adventure of this captivating destination and make it a lifetime experience.