Thekkady Tourism And Travel Guide

Roads meandering through tranquil plantations, tea gardens, lush greenery and thick jungles. Well, you’re definitely in Thekkady. One of the most popular tourist spots of Kerala and home to the Periyar National park and Tiger Reserve. Head here for an experience of a lifetime amidst the lap of nature.

For the wildlife enthusiasts, tourism in Thekkady is sure to offer a thrilling jungle vacation. Spot rare species of flora and fauna and camp in one of the tree houses that Thekkady has to offer. Here is a short travel guide to Thekkady.

By Air:

Thekkady doesn’t have an airport. The closest airport would be Cochin (145 km) or Madurai (114 km). Most domestic carriers have regular flights to Cochin and Madurai. State run buses can then take you from the airport to Thekkady.

By Rail:

Kottayam (114 km) railway station is the closest to Thekkady. Kottayam is well connected with other major towns and cities within Kerala as well as neighbouring states. One has to take a bus or rent a car to cover the distance between Kottayam and Thekkady.

By Road:

Kerala State Road Transport Corporation runs daily buses from Kottayam, Kochi and Madurai to Thekkady. There are other private players also offering the same besides inter-state bus services. This is the most feasible and economical mode to reach Thekkady. If you wish to drive to Thekkady, you can rent cars at Madurai, Kochi or Kottayam. The scenic roads are sure to leave you spell bound.

Travel Tip: Do carry reserve fuel in your car as refuelling stations are far and few on this route. 

Thekkady lies very close to the equator and thus has a tropical climate with warm winters and warmer summers. Monsoons however are distinct and wet. Tourists generally avoid the summer months of March to May due to the high temperatures and humidity. Monsoons tend to be a good time to visit if you want to explore the washed out beauty of Thekkady. Winters (October to February) however, are by far the best months to be in Thekkady with a breezy pleasantness in the air.

Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve:

A protected area about 4 km from Thekkady, the Periyar National Park is home to a wide range of flora and fauna. During the summers you will be lucky to see some of the rarest species of migrating birds. The park is home to the largest number of free roaming tigers in India. However, these magnificent felines are fairly difficult to spot.

Tree Houses:

While in Thekkady, a stay in one of their tree houses is a must to complete your jungle vacation. A number of eco resorts offer these accommodations, complete with all modern amenities.

House Boats: 

A trip to Kerala will remain incomplete for most without a house boat cruise. Do not miss out on this. If you have the leisure of an extra night, spend it in the house boat to experience the life of the locals.

Bar-B-Que:

You must enjoy a meal you have cooked at the 'Bar-B-Que' in Thekkady. This unique local family welcomes you to their home with a drink and then places a knife and chopping board before you to prepare your own Kerala style meal. Once preparations are done, you proceed to the kitchen with your chopping boards where they teach you how to prepare the dish. A fun, gastronomical experience which is not to be missed.