Thekkady
Thekkady is a renowned tourist destination situated in the mountainous terrain of the Western Ghats in Kerala, close to the border of Tamil Nadu. It is famously known as the location of the Periyar Tiger Reserve and the accompanying Periyar Lake, offering one of the best wildlife viewing experiences in India. The region is blanketed in dense evergreen forests and lush savanna grasslands. Beyond its wildlife appeal, Thekkady is a major hub for various aromatic spice plantations, particularly cardamom, pepper, coffee, and tea, which contribute to the cool, fragrant air. Visitors come here for adventure, nature walks, boat safaris, and to explore the rich biodiversity and cultural heritage of the local communities. The nearest town and commercial centre is Kumily.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
3 to 4 Days ---
Top Places in Thekkady: Serial No. : 1Place Type:
Hill Station, Wildlife Sanctuary, Spice PlantationPhoto Gallery
Things To Do
@@The Pinnacle of Idukki: Calvary Mount, also known as Kalvari Mount, is a breathtaking mountain viewpoint located about 35 KMS from Thekkady. It is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful spots in Kerala due to its stunning bird's-eye view of the Idukki Reservoir. From the summit, the vast expanse of the reservoir, formed by the Idukki Arch Dam, looks like a collection of tiny islands floating in a sea of green. The mountain is a site of both natural beauty and religious significance, as it serves as a Christian pilgrimage destination. The steep climb to the top is rewarded with a panoramic view that covers the surrounding peaks of the Western Ghats. @@A Spiritual Ascent: For the local Christian community, Calvary Mount is a sacred site where the "Way of the Cross" is observed, particularly during the Lenten season. Crosses are placed at intervals along the path leading to the top, representing the stations of the cross. This adds a layer of spiritual solemnity to the location, making it more than just a tourist attraction. Even for non-religious visitors, the sense of peace and the sheer scale of the landscape evoke a feeling of awe and reverence. The mountain stands as a symbol of the harmonious blend of faith and nature that is so characteristic of the Idukki region. @@Engineering Meets Nature: The highlight of the visit is seeing the architectural marvel of the Idukki Dam from a distance. The reservoir's turquoise waters wind through the folds of the mountains, creating a landscape that resembles the fjords of Norway. The hills are covered in thick shola forests and tea plantations, providing a vibrant green backdrop to the water. On clear days, the visibility is so good that one can see far into the distance, identifying various peaks and valleys of the Periyar National Park. The cool mountain air and the constant breeze at the top make it a perfect place for relaxation and photography. @@A Hiker's Paradise: Reaching the viewpoint requires a short but steep trek from the parking area. The path takes you through rugged terrain and grasslands, offering fresh perspectives of the valley at every turn. It is a moderately challenging hike that is accessible to most people with a basic level of fitness. At the top, there are small shelters and viewing points where you can sit and soak in the scenery. The mountain is relatively quiet compared to other major viewpoints, allowing for a more intimate experience with nature. It is an essential stop for anyone exploring the Thekkady and Idukki circuit.
**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.
This is a scenic village famous for being one of the largest cardamom auction centers in the world. Located at an altitude of 4000 feet, it offers a cool and refreshing climate. The air here is always filled with the sweet aroma of spices. You can walk through vast plantations of cardamom, pepper, and coffee. Historically, it was a hub for British planters in the 19th century. Many old plantation bungalows still stand here as a testimony to its past. The village is surrounded by lush green hills and misty valleys. It is less crowded than Thekkady, making it a peaceful getaway. Visitors can learn about the processing of cardamom from harvest to auction. It is a paradise for nature photographers and spice lovers. The local culture is a blend of Kerala and Tamil influences.
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 Ottakathalamedu: Ottakathalamedu is a hidden vantage point located on a high peak near Thekkady, offering some of the most spectacular panoramic views in the region. The name literally translates to "the cliff of the camel's back" due to the unique shape of the mountain crest. This spot is situated at an elevation of about 1,300 meters above sea level. From the watchtower at the top, visitors can see the vast expanse of the Periyar Tiger Reserve, the bustling town of Kumily, and the lush spice gardens of Idukki. On a clear day, the view extends even to the plains of neighboring Tamil Nadu. The area is relatively less crowded compared to other spots in Thekkady, making it a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and photographers. The journey to the top involves a drive through narrow, winding roads lined with cardamom and pepper plantations. The cool mountain breeze and the scent of fresh spices make the trip delightful. It is an ideal spot for a short trek or a quiet evening to watch the sunset. The watchtower provides a safe platform to enjoy the 360-degree views of the Western Ghats.
Deepa World Spice and Ayurvedic Garden is a premier destination in Thekkady for those looking to understand the botanical wealth of Kerala. Spanning across several acres of fertile land, this garden is a living museum of spices, herbs, and medicinal plants. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a knowledgeable guide who leads a walk through the dense plantation. Here, you can see how black pepper vines climb high up the silver oak trees, and how cardamom pods grow at the base of the plant. The garden features exotic species like vanilla, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, along with local fruits like jackfruit and cocoa. What sets Deepa World apart is its focus on the Ayurvedic properties of these plants. The guides explain the medicinal uses of herbs like Brahmi and Ashwagandha, detailing how they are processed into traditional oils and tonics. The experience is sensory; you are encouraged to crush a leaf to smell its aroma or taste a fresh peppercorn. The garden is impeccably maintained, with clear pathways and labels for all major plants. It provides an educational journey for students and families alike. After the tour, visitors can visit the on-site store which sells high-quality spices, herbal cosmetics, and Ayurvedic medicines produced directly from the garden's harvest. The staff is known for their friendly demeanor and deep knowledge of traditional Kerala medicine. It is a peaceful environment where one can learn about the intricate relationship between nature and human health.
**Spring Valley Mountain**, locally and more famously known as **Kurisumala**, is a serene and prominent hillock that offers one of the most stunning panoramic views in the **Thekkady** region of **Kerala**. The name **Kurisumala** literally translates from Malayalam to 'Mountain of the Cross' (*'kurisu'* means cross and *'mala'* means mountain or hill), a name derived from the large Christian cross and chapel located at its summit. Situated at an altitude of approximately 1,370 meters (4,495 feet) above sea level, it stands as an excellent natural vantage point, overlooking the vast expanse of the **Periyar National Park** and the surrounding rich tapestry of the Western Ghats. The location is an ideal blend of spiritual sanctity and natural beauty. For many visitors, the trek up the hill is a rewarding experience, combining a moderate physical challenge with the spiritual tranquility offered by the summit shrine. The path is lined with dense forests, lush green tea, coffee, and spice plantations, which fill the air with refreshing, natural aromas. The top provides a spectacular 360-degree view, encompassing the deep green valleys of **Periyar** below, the reservoir of **Periyar Lake** shimmering in the distance, and the rolling hills that stretch into **Tamil Nadu**. It is a place where you can feel truly close to nature, enjoying the cool mountain breeze and the quiet hum of the wilderness. The diverse flora and fauna along the trail also make it a treat for nature lovers and birdwatchers. The atmosphere here changes beautifully from the misty mornings to the brilliant sunsets, each offering a unique and unforgettable visual experience. The area is part of the larger ecological landscape of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which highlights its importance in terms of biodiversity and natural heritage. This combination of religious significance, trekking opportunities, and breathtaking views firmly establishes **Kurisumala** as a must-visit spot in any **Thekkady** itinerary.Show All
**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**.Information
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