Thekkady is a popular tourist destination, close to Kumily in Kerala. There are special Kerala Tour Packages to this place. This location is one of the best places in Kerala to see wild animals. The major attraction of this place is the Periyar tiger reserve, which is situated around an artificial lake. This lake was formed when the Mullaperiyar dam was constructed across the river Periyar. Cruising in a boat along this lake is a thrilling experience for tourists. The boat takes tourists though calm waters which are surrounded by hills and forests. During the boat cruise it is possible to see some wild animals that come here to drink water.
Wild elephants can be seen moving in groups. Another common wild animal that can be seen are the wild buffalos. One may also come across animals like deer, wild boar, otters etc. Nilgiri langurs and lion tailed macaque are also plenty in the area and they may be sometimes spotted sitting on trees. Monkeys are commonly seen in the boat landing area. Although this place is a tiger reserve tigers are rarely seen during boat cruise.
Thekkady is one of the best places in India to see wild life. Many wild animals can be seen by sitting safely in a boat. There is no possibility of wild animals attacking tourists because they are at a safe distance from the river bank. In Thekkady animals also don’t feel threatened by humans as they are far away in a boat. They do not run away seeing a boat and so it is easier to spot wild animals.
Apart from wild life Thekkady and the surrounding area are known for a variety of spices. Cardamom and tea estates can be seen on the way to Thekkady. The road leading to this place passes through hills and tea estates and the tourists can get a view of the breath taking natural beauty all around.
Thekkady is situated at an altitude of 1500m above sea level and the weather is pleasant throughout the year. Most of the accommodation facilities are in Kumily. Thekkady is 145 km from Cochin airport, 107 km from Kottayam railway station.
Places to see in and around thekady
Periyar wild life sanctuary : is the most popular spot for tourists visiting Thekkady. This wild life sanctuary is open all days a week from 6:00a.m to 6:00pm. There is an entry fee of Rs.25 for Indian nationals and Rs.300 for foreign nationals. For tourists coming in vehicle there is an entry fee of Rs.50 per person. Extra 100Rs will be charged for still cameras and Rs.250 for movie camera.
Periyar lake: A boat ride across the periyar lake is one of the major attractions in Thekkady. One may see many wild animals during the boat ride. It is possible that one may not see any wild animals at all. Even if you do not see any wild animals, the boat journey is still enjoyable. Boat timings are from 7:30am to 3:30pm. Boat tickets have to be taken before entering the boat. Boating charge is Rs.225 per person.
Kumily : This town is close to Thekkady. This town has many accommodation facilities. Most of the tourists visiting Thekkady normally reside in Thekkady. Some spices are available here.
Mangaladevi temple : This is temple is situated 17 km. from Thekkady. This temple is about 2000 years old. Visitors interested in visiting historical places can see the temple from a distance. But special permission from forest officials needs to be taken to go there.
Vandiperiyar: This river side town has many tea factories. The surrounding area around Vandiperiyar has many tea estates. The drive through Vandiperiyar and surrounding area itself is enjoyable. The road passes through steep mountains and tea estates full of natural beauty. small waterfalls on the way to Chinnakkanal. Anayirangal dam is also situated close to Chinnakkanal.