Thekkady

This is a unique trekking program where you walk through the dense woods of the Periyar Tiger Reserve. The trek is guided by former poachers who have turned into forest protectors. It offers a deep immersion into the jungle life for 1 to 2 nights. You will sleep in tents and eat simple vegetarian food prepared in the wild. The trail covers roughly 25-30 Kms of hilly terrain. It is a true test of stamina and a dream for wildlife lovers. You might see elephants, gaurs, and if lucky, a tiger. The experience is designed to be eco-friendly and sustainable. It is one of the most adventurous things to do in India. The group size is limited to 6 people to maintain the forest's peace. Every step reveals the secrets of the Western Ghats. It is a life-changing journey for many trekkers.

The **Periyar Tiger Reserve** (PTR), also known as the **Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary**, is one of the most protected and ecologically rich areas in **India**. Established in **1950**, it was declared a Tiger Reserve in **1978** under Project Tiger. Sprawling over an area that combines evergreen, semi-evergreen, moist deciduous forests, and patches of grassland, it is an ecological treasure trove nestled in the **Cardamom** and **Pandalam** Hills of the Southern **Western Ghats**. The reserve's landscape is dominated by the artificial **Periyar Lake**, a reservoir created by the construction of the **Mullaperiyar Dam** in **1895**, which winds through the forest and is the lifeblood for its diverse fauna. The primary attraction is the boating on this lake, which offers a unique vantage point to observe wildlife, particularly herds of Indian elephants, Gaur (Indian bison), Sambar deer, and wild boars, as they come to the water's edge to drink. While the elusive Bengal tiger is the reserve's flagship species, its rich biodiversity extends far beyond, housing over 60 species of mammals, 320 species of birds, 45 species of reptiles, and 160 species of butterflies. The reserve is managed under strict eco-tourism guidelines, which ensures that its activities are sustainable and directly benefit the local communities, including the indigenous **Mannan** and **Paliyan** tribes. PTR offers a plethora of eco-friendly activities like nature walks, trekking, and the thrilling **Periyar Tiger Trail**, a guided trekking program conducted by former poachers now dedicated to conservation. The presence of dense spice plantations and a pleasant climate makes the entire region a refreshing and memorable experience for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers alike. The reserve is a shining example of successful conservation efforts and is one of the most visited protected areas in **India**.

@@Overview of Kuttikkanam: Kuttikkanam is a stunning hill station located at an altitude of 3,500 feet above sea level in the Idukki district. This place was once the summer retreat for the kings of Travancore and later became a popular resort for British officials during the colonial era. The landscape is characterized by rolling hills, vast tea and coffee plantations, and a perennial misty climate that draws nature lovers throughout the year. It serves as a gateway to several other tourist spots like Panchalimedu and Parunthumpara. The area is also known for its prestigious educational institutions, earning it the nickname "the educational hub of the high ranges." Visitors can explore the ruins of old palaces and colonial-era buildings that tell stories of a bygone era. The air here is crisp and filled with the aroma of fresh spices and tea leaves, providing a refreshing escape from the heat of the plains. Lush green meadows and pine forests add to the ethereal beauty of this highland paradise. It is a perfect spot for those seeking peace and quiet amidst nature's bounty. The winding roads leading to Kuttikkanam offer spectacular views of the valleys below.

@@Nature's Splendor: Aruvikuzhi View Point, often spelled as Aruvikkuzhi, is a stunning natural attraction located in the Chellarcoil village near Thekkady. This spot is famous for its series of beautiful waterfalls that cascade down the rocky cliffs of the Western Ghats. The name 'Aruvikuzhi' literally translates to 'a stream with a hole,' referring to the way the water plunges into deep ravines. The viewpoint offers a panoramic vista of the plains of Tamil Nadu, creating a dramatic contrast between the green hills of Kerala and the golden fields across the border. It is a place of immense tranquility, where the only sound is the roar of the water and the chirping of birds. @@The Chellarcoil Connection: The area surrounding the viewpoint is part of the Chellarcoil eco-tourism project, which focuses on preserving the local environment while promoting tourism. The landscape is characterized by steep slopes, dense forests, and carefully manicured spice plantations. The mist often rolls over the hills in the early morning, creating a mystical atmosphere that is a favorite for honeymooners and solo travelers. The waterfalls are at their peak during the monsoon, but even in the dry season, the sheer verticality of the cliffs is a sight to behold. It is widely considered one of the most photogenic spots in the entire Idukki district. @@A Geological Wonder: The geography of Aruvikuzhi is fascinating, with the land dropping off sharply at the state boundary. This creates a natural balcony from which one can see the agricultural heartland of the neighboring state. The water from the falls eventually flows down into the plains, supporting the irrigation needs of the villages below. The surrounding vegetation is a mix of tropical evergreen forests and spice gardens, providing a rich habitat for various species of butterflies and small mammals. It is a perfect spot for those who want to appreciate the raw power of nature without the crowds of major tourist hubs. @@The Peace of the Heights: Visiting Aruvikuzhi is as much about the journey as the destination. The drive to the viewpoint takes you through winding roads lined with tea and cardamom plants. Once you arrive, a short walk through the trees leads you to the edge of the world. There are small benches and observation decks where visitors can sit and contemplate the vastness of the horizon. It is a therapeutic experience that allows for deep connection with the natural world. For many, this is the definitive Thekkady experience—quiet, green, and spectacularly beautiful.

**Pullumedu**, meaning "green meadow" in the local language, is a beautiful and serene spot situated deep within the forests of the **Periyar Tiger Reserve**, close to the famous **Sabarimala** hill temple. The area is characterized by rolling hills covered in lush green, velvety savanna-like grasslands (known locally as *Vistaram* or *Shola* grasslands), interspersed with patches of shola forests. Due to its strategic location, it offers magnificent views of the adjacent areas, including the distant **Periyar River** valley and the slopes leading up to the **Sabarimala** temple. The high-altitude, open nature of the landscape provides a dramatic contrast to the dense forests elsewhere in the reserve. Access to **Pullumedu** is strictly controlled by the **Forest Department** as it falls under the sensitive core zone of the tiger reserve and is near a significant religious pilgrimage route. Visitors typically require a special permit, and entry is often restricted to specific eco-tourism programs, such as escorted trekking or jeep safaris managed directly by the **Kerala Forest Department**. This restriction maintains its pristine beauty and protects the fragile ecosystem from over-tourism.

**Periyar Lake** is not a natural lake but a large, serene, and artificial reservoir that lies at the heart of the **Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary**. Created in **1895** by the construction of the famed **Mullaperiyar Dam** across the **Periyar** River, this beautiful body of water spans an impressive area of about **26** square kilometers. The most striking feature of the lake is the sight of the submerged, skeletal remains of tree trunks that rise eerily from the water, remnants of the forest that was inundated when the dam was built. This unique landscape, combined with the tranquil waters and the surrounding dense, evergreen forests, creates a picturesque setting unlike any other. The lake acts as a perennial watering hole for the sanctuary's diverse fauna, making it the focal point for wildlife spotting, especially during the dry season when animals venture to the water's edge. The main attraction is the boat cruise, which offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to see wild elephants bathing, herds of **Gaur** (Indian Bison), **Sambar** deer, and various species of birds and reptiles. The lake cruise is a tranquil yet exciting experience, allowing nature lovers to soak in the raw beauty of the **Western Ghats** ecosystem. The early **morning** and late **afternoon** boat rides are particularly recommended for the best animal sightings and photography opportunities. The biodiversity supported by this artificial habitat has transformed it into one of the world's most vital wildlife reserves, celebrated for its population of **Bengal Tigers** and **Nilgiri Tahr** in the surrounding high ranges. The creation of the lake dramatically changed the local ecology, leading to the flourishing of both aquatic and terrestrial life, solidifying its status as the prime ecological destination in **Thekkady**.

@@Overview of Panchalimedu: Panchalimedu is a breathtaking hill station that combines natural beauty with deep-rooted Hindu mythology. According to the legend, the Pandavas from the epic Mahabharata stayed here during their exile, and the place is named after their wife, Panchali. The landscape is a mix of sprawling meadows, rocky outcrops, and deep valleys. At an elevation of about 2,500 feet, it offers a cool and misty environment that is incredibly refreshing. There are two main hills here; one has a small temple dedicated to Bhuvaneswari Devi, and the other features a collection of stone crosses, representing the cultural harmony of the region. A unique feature is the Panchalikulam, a small pond that is said to have been used by Panchali for her daily bath. Even during peak summer, the pond is said to never dry up. The site is maintained by the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) and has been developed with walkways and seating areas. It is an ideal spot for families and trekkers who want to experience the raw beauty of the Western Ghats without the commercial hustle of major towns. The view of the sunset from here is particularly famous, as the sky turns into a canvas of vibrant colors over the mountains.

Located on the scenic highway connecting Kochi and Munnar, the Cheeyappara Waterfall is a spectacular natural marvel that serves as a vital pitstop for travelers heading toward Thekkady. This waterfall is unique because it cascades down in seven distinct steps, creating a mesmerizing visual of white frothy water against dark rock. The lush greenery of the surrounding forests enhances its beauty, especially during the monsoon season. Unlike many waterfalls tucked deep in jungles, this one is right on the roadside, making it highly accessible. The area is part of the Deviyar River system and is surrounded by dense deciduous forests that house diverse flora. Visitors often stop here to feel the cool mist and enjoy the rhythmic sound of falling water. It is a perfect spot to stretch your legs and breathe in the fresh mountain air before continuing the long drive to the hilly terrains of Thekkady. The waterfall maintains a steady flow throughout most of the year, though it is most vigorous between June and September. It serves as a gateway to the high ranges of Idukki district. Local vendors nearby sell fresh pineapples and tea, adding a culinary touch to the visit. The vertical drop is estimated at nearly 1000 feet when all tiers are combined. It represents the raw, untamed beauty of the Western Ghats. Many travelers consider it the most photogenic roadside attraction in all of Kerala. The spray from the falls often reaches the road, providing a natural cooling effect for passing vehicles.