Discover the best things to do in Thekkady
Thoughtfully designed day-by-day plans to experience the soul of Thekkady at your own pace.
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Thoughtfully designed day-by-day plans to experience the soul of Thekkady at your own pace.
Where forests meet spice-scented dreams
Thekkady was once a favoured retreat for the British, who established it as a hill station in the early 20th century. Its colonial legacy is still visible in the old bungalows and tea plantations that dot the landscape. Today, Thekkady is synonymous with the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, one of India's most protected and biodiverse regions. The sanctuary is home to herds of Asian elephants, Bengal tigers, and over 750 species of birds. As you wander through Thekkady's spice plantations and forests, the scent of cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon fills the air. The best time to visit is during the monsoon season when the landscape is lush and green.
The Kadathanadan Kalari Centre showcases traditional Kerala martial arts and cultural performances. The centre's performances can be quite touristy, but it's a great way to learn about local culture.
The spice plantations around Thekkady are famous for their cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon production. Some plantations can feel a bit commercialized, but they offer a glimpse into the region's rich spice heritage.
Cochin International Airport (COK) 130 km 2.5 hours by taxi
Available at hotels and cafes. Poor coverage in some remote areas.
Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone networks work well. Some dead zones in forest areas.
Thekkady does not have a railway station. Nearest is Kothamangalam Railway Station (KM) or Alleppey Railway Station (ALL).
NH 544 130 km from Kochi. Bus operators like KSRTC and private buses available from ₹200-₹500
Getting around
Hire a bike for ₹300-₹500 per day to explore the town and nearby areas.
Use card for bigger purchases and cash for small expenses and local markets.
Where backwaters meet the sea
The Scotland of India
Spice and sea meet in old world charm
Serenity on the Kerala Coast
Where hills meet heaven's silence
Cliffs, Sea, and Ancient Wisdom
Nature's serenity in Western Ghats