Destination Information - Periyar/Thekkady in Kerala

Periyar / Thekkady: 

Thekkady is a town in Kerala's Idukki district, and Periyar refers to the town's surrounding wildlife sanctuary, the Periyar Tiger Reserve. Thekkady is a beautiful hill station set in the lush vegetation of the Western Ghats and rolling hills. It's a famous tourist destination noted for its breathtaking natural beauty and diverse wildlife. It is not a city, but rather a settlement on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border that serves as a gateway to the Periyar Tiger Reserve. The Periyar Tiger Reserve, one of India's most famous wildlife sanctuaries, is the main attraction here. The Periyar Tiger Reserve, which covers 777 square kilometres, is a refuge for wildlife enthusiasts. Tigers, elephants, sambar deer, gaur, lion-tailed macaques, and Nilgiri langurs are among the reserve's many species. The Mullaperiyar Dam, which spans the Periyar River, creates a glittering Periyar Lake. Boat safaris on Periyar Lake are a popular way to explore the reserve and see wildlife in their natural habitat. While spotting tigers is difficult due to the deep forest, a boat ride on Periyar Lake is a must. You could be lucky enough to see other creatures going to the water's edge to drink or cool off. Thekkady is set in the lush green forests of the Western Ghats. These forests are home to a diverse range of plant and animal species.

Tea, cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, nut mace, ginger, clove, and other spices grow in abundance throughout Thekkady. Everyone can take a tour of these fields to learn about spice growing and processing. The town provides a picture of Kerala's traditional way of life. Visitors can attend Kathakali performances, a traditional dance form from Kerala, or browse local marketplaces for handicrafts and souvenirs. It provides a distinct blend of nature, animals, and culture, making it a must-see location for anybody going to Kerala. One can explore spice plantations, go on nature walks, night trekking, hike through the hills, go on a shared boat trip, go on a vehicle safari, or simply rest.

Thekkady enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the year, making it a perfect getaway destination. The summers are mild, and the winters are cool and comfortable.  

The main ways to reach Thekkady: 

By Air: The nearest airport to Thekkady is Madurai Airport (IXM), which is located about 150 kilometres away. Madurai Airport is well-connected to major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata. The Second nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (COK), which is located about 180 kilometres away. It is a major hub for Air India Express, Air Kerala, and Deccan Charters & easily connected with major destinations in India and overseas.

By Train: Thekkady does not have a railway station. The nearest railway station to Thekkady is Kottayam Railway Station (KTYM), located about 114 kilometres away in Kerala. Kottayam railway station is well connected to major cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu & other major destinations in India. The second nearest railway station is Madurai railway station (MDU) which is about 150 Kms.  

By Road: Thekkady is well connected by road to major cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu through several national highways like NH85, NH44, NH212, NH45 & NH544 etc.

Important Places to explore in Periyar: 

Kumily is a town in Kerala's Idukki district, around 4 kilometres from the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. It's a town located in the Cardamom Hills that serves as a gateway to Kerala from Tamil Nadu. The nearest city to Kumily is Kottayam, which is easily accessible via the KK road that passes through Vandiperiyar, Pambanar, Mundakayam, Kanjirapally, Ponkunnam, Pampady, and Manarkadu. Kumily is the gateway to the world-renowned Periyar Tiger Reserve, which is one of India's best-managed protected regions. Kumily is renowned as the "Spice Capital of Kerala" because of the number of spice farms in the region. The delicious scent of cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and cloves will meet everyone who travels the twisting roads. Kumily, previously known as Kuzhumoor, served as the capital of the Thekkumkoor Kingdom. Following India's independence, the Lord of Poonjar ((Poonjar Thamburan) governed the territory. The British then arrived in the area and planted tea, coffee, cardamom, ginger, and cinnamon plantations. It is a popular tourist site and a spice trading hub. This location is always a terrific place to unwind and appreciate the beauty of nature.

Gavi: Gavi is a hidden gem in Kerala's Pathanamthitta District. Gavi, set in the thick greenery of the Ranni Reserve Forest, is a renowned eco-tourism destination known for its serene atmosphere, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking natural beauty. It is part of the Periyar Tiger Reserve, making it an excellent choice for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. It is 50 kilometres from Periyar City, and all vehicles from Periyar pass through the Vandiperiyar checkpoint. However, if travellers want to have an adventurous and thrilling experience on their 4-wheel Jeep ride through Gavi, they should enter the Angamoozhy checkpoint. To obtain an admission pass, guests must arrive at the forest checkpoint by 06.30 a.m. The drive from Periyar City to the Angamoozhy checkpoint will last three hours and cover 90 kilometres.

This trip offers consumers the best woodland jeep safari in Kerala. They will initially pass through cardamom and tea farms, but their surroundings will change as they continue. After passing through the checkpoint, they will be on a tiny road surrounded by vegetation on both sides. We can see several bamboo trees while travelling down this road. This area is protected by a tiger reserve. As a result, guests must follow certain Tiger Reserve Department policies. Plastics are prohibited in some areas, and leech-resistant socks are recommended. Elephants, lion-tailed macaques, Nilgiri Thar, and a vast range of birds are just some of the creatures you may encounter here. It is also recognized as a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 260 bird species identified in the vicinity. Keep an eye out for these feathered beauties: the Great Indian Hornbill, colourful woodpeckers, and kingfishers.

Special Note: Because Gavi is located within a forest reserve, only Kerala Forest Department vehicles are permitted. Guests can contact the Forest department or arrange for private jeeps to get to Gavi.

Nadukani: Nadukani Hills, in Kerala's Kottayam district, offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area. One side offers a glimpse of mountain ranges, while the other side overlooks the Muvattupuzha River. This is an excellent picnic site located on the Muttam-Moolamattam route, 25 kilometres from Idukki and 30 kilometres from Thodupuzha. Gigantic boulders that rise over 3,000 feet above sea level provide a breathtaking picture. It is a fantastic location for nature enthusiasts and photographers looking for a breathtaking view. The Kerala State Electricity Board erected the viewpoint as part of the Idukki Hydroelectric Project. A two-story pavilion featuring a dome-shaped ceiling and a viewing gallery. Visitors can relax and enjoy the scenery on benches or in a small garden. It offers a clear view of the Muvattupuzha River, the village of Moolamattom, the Malankara Reservoir, and the magnificent Western Ghat highlands. Please keep in mind that admission to Nadukani is only permitted till 6:00 PM. The best months to visit are October through January.

Sightseeing & Activities: 

Periyar Tiger Reserve: Periyar National Park, commonly known as Periyar Tiger Reserve, is in the rugged Western Ghats of Kerala, southern India. This wildlife reserve is home to Tigers, Elephants, rare Lion-tailed macaques, Sambar Deer, Leopards, and Indian Bison. Periyar Tiger Reserve is in Kerala's districts of Idukki, Kottayam, and Pathanamthitta. Periyar Tiger Reserve, the country's tenth tiger reserve, was established in 1978 through Project Tiger. The reserve covers a total of 925 square kilometres. Periyar Tiger Reserve is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the "Western Ghats". It has received 23 honours and recognitions for excellence in several categories, demonstrating its commitment to conservation and social responsibility.

Special Note: Periyar Tiger Reserve is open every day from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Periyar Tiger Reserve Entry Charges: 

Foreign Adult: Rs.530 & child between 05 to 11 years is Rs.210 

Indian Adult: Rs.75 & child between 05 to 11 years is Rs.45

Indian Student (group of students): Rs.45 

Boating at Periyar Lake: : Periyar is surrounded by artificial lakes. This lake is built by a dam that spans the Periyar River. Tourists can ride ferries along this gorgeous lake. During the boat excursion, you will have the opportunity to see wild creatures and an elephant herd. Periyar Tiger Reserve provides boating rides on the lake near the sanctuary. The boat ride takes around 1.5 hours through the Periyar Lake, which is located within the Periyar Tiger Reserve boundaries. Boating on Periyar Lake is one of the main attractions of Thekkady. If you're lucky, you'll have the opportunity to see wildlife up close to the boat. Elephant herds and sambar deer groups are prevalent. Guests may see herds of gaur and wild boars in the meadow near the coastlines. Darters, egrets, and kingfishers can be seen resting on dead tree trunks extending out over the lake. During your boat ride, you will most likely see the Smooth Indian Otter in action. Please book tickets for guests well in advance. Please keep in mind that once your tickets have been confirmed, they cannot be cancelled, refunded, or altered. Children under the age of five do not need to have their tickets reserved. The forest entry fee, per rule, must be bought separately from the forest information office. Shuttle bus services are available from there.

Boat Ride Timings: 07.30 AM to 09.00 AM, 09.30 AM to 11.00 AM, 11.15 AM to 12.45 PM, 01.45 PM to 03.15 PM and 03.30 PM to 05.00 PM

Nature Walk (Short Day Trek): The hiking routes are made up of different nature trails that travel through various habitats and are typically 4 to 5 kilometres long. This interpretive program provides wonderful opportunities to observe birds, butterflies, and other animals. The pathways frequently pass through evergreen and damp deciduous forests, alternating with marshy grasslands. The Nature Walk is the ideal program for experiencing nature, hearing her whispers, and smelling her blooms.

Timings: 07.00 AM to 09.30 AM, 07.30 PM to 10.00 AM, 10.00 AM to 12.30 PM, 10.30 AM to 01.00 PM, 02.00 PM to 04.30 PM and 02.30 PM to 05.00 PM.

Green Walk (Short day trek): The trekking program offers an excellent opportunity to watch birds, butterflies and other wildlife through a range of habitats during the 4-5 km 2.5-hour walk. It is a program where one can feel nature’s whispers and sighs.

Timings: 07.00 AM to 09.30 AM, 07.30 AM to 10.00 AM, 11.00 AM to 01.30 PM, 11.30 PM to 02.00 PM, 02.00 PM to 04.30 PM and 02.30 PM to 05.00 PM.

Bamboo Rafting Full Day / (Trekking & Rafting): This is a dawn-to-dusk trekking and rafting tour through some of the richest forest regions in the Periyar Tiger Reserve. The woodlands are home to a variety of birds and arboreal species such as gigantic squirrels and Nilgiri langurs. Rafting lasts around three hours and provides a panoramic view of forested hills reflected in the lake. Elephants, gourds, and sambar have been observed near the lake's side. An armed guard and four guides will accompany up to 15 guests. Tea, snacks, and a packed lunch will be provided en route.

Timings: 08.00 AM to 05.00 PM

Bamboo Rafting Half Day / (Trekking & Rafting): A dawn-to-afternoon range hiking and rafting program will be conducted through some of the richest forest tracts of the Periyar Tiger Reserve, a mosaic of habitats, before guests board bamboo rafts. Rafting offers a magnificent view of forested hills. Elephants, gaurs, and sambar deer have been observed near the lake's edge. This program operates in two slots, and guests will be given a packed lunch.

Timings: 07.30 AM to 12.30 PM & 09.30 AM to 02.30 PM

Border Hiking / (Full Day Trekking): Border hiking in Periyar takes you through the uneven terrain of this stunning area. Prepare to be awestruck by the spectacular mountains that surround this stunning location on all sides. Trek via tiny pathways that offer the best views of the tall mountains, beautiful pastures, and breathtaking valleys, making your journey even more memorable. This trekking trip takes you on a journey through the highly recognized Periyar Tiger Reserve. Prepare to encounter rare wild animals roaming freely across the woods. Border hiking in Periyar brings you through lush green thickets capped at an elevation of roughly 900-1200 meters. Hike through meandering trails, listen to birds chirping in distant mountain ranges, and discover the value of stillness when trekking here with friends and family.

Timings: 08.00 AM to 05.00 PM

Jungle Scout / (Night Trekking): This activity is part of the regular night patrolling in the tiger reserve's periphery eco-development zones. Participating in this activity directly contributes to the protection of Periyar forests. A slot has a maximum duration of three hours and a maximum capacity of six visitors (who must move in two separate teams). They will be accompanied by two protection watchers and one armed forest guard. Push your senses—sight, hearing, and smell—to their maximum and experience the completely distinct world of nocturnal jungle life. A three-hour night journey begins at two sites, the Periyar Tiger Reserve's Entrance Gate and the Bamboo Grooves, and takes the guest into the forest for the night, accompanied by an Armed Forest Guard and two guides.

Timings: 07.00 PM to 10.00 PM,10.00 PM to 01.00 AM, 01.00 AM to 04.00 AM.

Tiger Trail: Tiger Trail is an adventure trekking and camping program that comes in two packages: one-night and two-night stays. The initiative is unique in that it is led by a group of rehabilitated poachers and tree cutters from the park, who are hardworking and dependable with extensive knowledge of the forest terrain. A maximum of six tourists are allowed at a time, accompanied by five guides and one-armed forest guard. Here is your chance to observe animals such as the Nilgiri langur, giant squirrel, elephant, and perhaps the tiger! Depending on the route chosen, the hiking distance will often range between 20 and 35 kilometers.

Timings: 09.00 AM

Pugmark Trail / (Self-guided Trek): Self-guided soft trekking is now available at Periyar Tiger Reserve, allowing visitors to appreciate the grandeur of nature. This program will guide travelers through a variety of biodiversity themes, such as bird carvings in stone, tree species name boards, and so on. The hike begins at the entrance gate and concludes near the boat landing area.

Timings: 09.00 AM to 04.00 PM. 

Jungle Jeep Safari / (Gavi): This is one of the most popular activities in Thekkady. The jeep safari to Gavi, a scenic country, is a popular off-the-beaten-track destination for a wilderness escape, complete with trekking, birding, canoeing, and boarding facilities. This biological landscape, which includes hills and valleys, tropical forests, spreading grasslands, sholas, cascading waterfalls, and cardamom plantations, is home to several endangered species such as lion-tailed macaques and Nilgiri tars. Following breakfast, a qualified guide will lead you on a trek through the forest. Return around 12.30 p.m., have a south Indian vegetarian lunch, then rowboat on Gavi Lake, tour cardamom plantations and curing homes, then visit Sabarimala Viewpoint. Return by 3.30 PM, following evening tea.

Timings: 05.30 AM TO 05.00 PM

Tribal dance: The youth of the Mannan and Paliyan tribes living in the fringes of the park are eager to revive their forgotten culture and the folklores. They have been successful in documenting the lost traditional dance forms of their cult and are all set to launch the traditional dance programmes.

Timings: 06.00 PM TO 07.00 PM

Bamboo Grove / (Eco Lodge): The Bamboo Grove package includes an introduction session, a visit to a tribal colony, wildlife film displays, bird watching, trekking, and a free boat trip on the famous Periyar Lake. The package includes lunch and dinner on the first day, as well as breakfast on the second. An eco-lodge for experiential learning is solely operated by a Forest Department program to benefit local communities. The fifteen bamboo cottages with hygienic and modern furnishings are nestled between bamboo thickets. The Bamboo Grove program also provides an environmentally friendly setting for conferences, symposiums, workshops, and training programs in the centrally placed 'Kalari', a conference hall with audio-visual facilities.

Watch Tower / (Edapalayam): Arrive in Thekkady, and report to the Tribal Heritage (TH) EDC Office (near Bamboo Grove) at 1:00 PM. Upon purchasing entry tickets, tourists will be transported to the boat landing via shuttle bus. Upon arrival at the boat landing, guests will be carried by boat to Edapalayam Jetty, followed by a short climb to the watch tower. Check in at the watchtower. Evening Tea, dinner, and a pleasant lodging will be given in the peaceful forest. This marks the conclusion of the day. Early in the morning, the guide will lead the guest on a short excursion to see birds. After the trek, breakfast will be provided. The rest of the time is spent relaxing at the Tower. Check out.

Special note: Stay for 2 Adults only at Edapalayam Watch Tower.

Jungle Inn / (Camping & Trekking): Once the guests arrives at Thekkady, they need to report at Check post in Thekkady, near Periyar East Division Office at 02.30 PM. Upon taking entry tickets, they will be guided to the Jungle Inn by a short trek. Check in at the Jungle Inn. Evening Tea, dinner and comfortable stay will be provided in the serene wilderness and this will mark the end of first day. Early Morning the guide will take the guest for a short trek and bird watching. After the trek, breakfast will be provided. Check out after breakfast. Guest will be guided back to the Check post, Thekkady. Special note: Stay for 2 Adults only at Jungle Inn.

Special note: Stay for 2 Adults only at Jungle Inn.

Clouds Walk: 

The program begins at the Kurisumala viewpoint, continues to the Tribal Heritage Museum at Mannakudy Tribal Settlement, and ends at Anavachal. From this vantage point, guest can see grasslands, evergreen, deciduous, and riverine woods, as well as vast areas of irrigated dry territory across the border, where the nectar of Periyar provides life. Visitors can see the exuberance of Cumbum Valley, the dizzying heights of Mangaladevi, Kumarikulam, and other escarpments of Periyar Fort, the glory of Palani Hills further away from the viewpoint, habitat specialist birds and butterflies, including endemics such as the Nilgiri Pipit, broad-tailed grass bird, tree nymph, and so on.

Spice Plantation: Spices have long played an essential role in Kerala's culture. Here, the experts of Ayurveda, the science of life, discovered the use of spices as medicine. Spices are also used extensively in Kerala food, non-Ayurvedic medicine, and cosmetics. Periyar is rich in spices due to its location in the lower mountains, roughly 1000 meters above sea level. As a result, the spice plantation trip is one of the most essential activities that visitors may do outside of the reserve. It provides an opportunity to see why Kerala cuisine is so distinct from most other Indian cuisines. The tour allows the guest to sample cardamom, pepper, clove, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and many more types of spices.

Timings: Any time between 07.00 AM to 05.00 PM. 

Spice Plantation Tour with Lunch: Guest can enjoy a guided tour through the spice plantation and get to experience the real taste of Kerala’s cuisine in the local family. A variety of traditional Kerala style menu is served for the lunch which is prepared by the family.

Spice Plantation Tour with Cooking Demo Lunch OR Dinner:  Guest can visit a native family in Periyar. The host would walk them through their private spice farm and introduce them to the numerous spices growing in Periyar, India's spice country. Guest will learn about how different spices are grown and used. Later, join the host family for an interesting cooking demonstration, followed by a sumptuous lunch or dinner including Periyar's popular local delicacies. This is an opportunity for the guest to immerse themselves in Periyar culture and learn about local food.

Elephant Ride: Captive elephants are used, it’s a private program, happening in cardamom plantations, morning 9.00 am to 5.00pm available. It’s a half an hour ride.

Timings: Any time between 07.30 AM to 05.30 PM 

Elephant Interaction Programme: Enjoy a breathtaking ride on majestic elephants, watch traditional timber dragging, participate in elephant bathing and feeding procedures, and capture wonderful moments with a photo session. Finish your adventure with a refreshing cup of tea or coffee.

Timings: Any time between 07.30 AM to 05.30 PM 

Half Day Elephant Program: It’s a half-day package. Explore the woods on elephant back, take part in elephant bathing and feeding rituals, learn about timber pulling, and explore the region's vegetation. Guest shall visit a cardamom processing factory, later with coffee and snacks, this program ends.

Timings: Any time between 07.30 AM to 05.30 PM 

Full Day Elephant Program: The full day package includes a thrilling elephant ride, learning about cardamom processing and tea production, a jeep safari into distant places, and boating or hiking to relax. Experience the tranquility of waterfall baths, take in panoramic vistas, and interact with elephants all while eating great meals and snacks throughout the day.

Timings: Any time between 07.30 AM to 05.30 PM 

Bullock Cart Ride: The tour is known as the Bullock Cart ride. Discovery involves a visit to a village's farmlands in the valleys beyond the Periyar Tiger Reserve in a bullock cart. A tour like this provides insight into the traditional farming methods as well as the local culture and lifestyle. You will also find a vineyard and a field with a variety of agricultural crops such as mangoes, tamarind, onions, and flowers such as sunflowers and jasmine.

Tamil Nadu Jeep Safari OR Low Land Area Visit: This program is having a jeep drive for two hours through the panoramic view of Tamil Nadu and enjoys the sightseeing which includes vegetables farm visit, grape farm visit, viewpoints, waterfalls etc.

Timings: Anytime between 06.00 AM to 05.00 PM. 

Kerala Jeep Tour / (Ottakathalamed & Chellarkovil): This program is having a jeep drive for two hours through the panoramic view of Kerala and enjoys the sightseeing which includes visit to large plantations, cardamom processing centre, Mountain Viewpoints & Spice plantation Tour.

Kerala & Tamil Nadu Jeep Tour: This is a three & half hour program which includes vegetables farm visit, grape farm visit, viewpoints, waterfalls. Visit to large plantations, cardamom processing centre, Mountain Viewpoints & Spice plantation Tour.

Sathram Jeep Safari: An off-road jungle adventure in the remoteness of the Periyar Tiger Reserve. Explore the beautiful greens of the rainforest, with little mountains on the opposite side. It also serves as a sanctuary for numerous wild creatures. Beautiful waterfalls, cardamom farms, and deep jungles can be seen when on a safari over rivers.

Tea Factory Visit: Guest will be taken to visit one of the local tea plantations where they can see the process of tea being cultivated. They can also choose to interact with some of the tea estate workers and learn more about their lives and finally indulge themselves in some tea tasting under the guidance of an expert.

Timings: Anytime between 09.00 AM to 04.00 PM. 

Tea Trek: The plantation is around 20 minutes' drive from Periyar. One naturalist will accompany the guest and explain how tea is cultivated, picked, and processed into the hot beverage we drink. The sight of local ladies harvesting tea leaves from a nearby estate adds to the excitement of this walk. This trek will showcase the region's stunning beauty and provide an unforgettable experience in the tea gardens.

Kathakali Dance Show: Kathakali is one of the oldest theatre forms in the world. It originated in the area of southwestern India now known as the state of Kerala. Kathakali is a group presentation, in which dancers take various roles in performances traditionally based on themes from Hindu mythology, especially the two epics, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.

Timings: 07.00 to 08.00 PM. 

Kalarippayattu Show / (Martial Art Performance): Kalarippayattu, the oldest martial art, is a gift to the modern world and is regarded as the mother of all martial arts. Kalarippayattu originates in ancient South India. The Shaolin monastery monks promoted kung-fu, which may be traced back to Bodhi Dharma, an Indian Buddhist monk and Kalarippayattu master. 

Hotels in Thekkady: