Tourist spots in Thekkady attract travellers from around the world with their perfect mix of wildlife, adventure, scenic landscapes, and eco-tourism experiences. Nestled in the heart of Kerala’s Western Ghats, Thekkady is one of South India’s most loved nature destinations, famous for its rich forests, spice plantations, misty hills, and thrilling outdoor activities. Whether you are planning a family vacation, honeymoon getaway, wildlife tour, or adventure trip, Thekkady offers unforgettable experiences for every traveller.
From exciting jeep safaris through dense forest trails to peaceful boat rides across the beautiful Periyar Lake, Thekkady provides the ideal balance of relaxation and adventure. The destination is also known for trekking, bamboo rafting, cultural performances, spice plantation visits, and breathtaking viewpoints surrounded by lush greenery. If you enjoy exploring tourist spots in Thekkady and Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, don’t miss our complete guide to Wildlife Sanctuaries in Kerala featuring the best safari destinations and eco-tourism experiences across the state.
In this complete travel guide, discover the best tourist spots in Thekkady, exciting things to do, the best safari experiences in Thekkady, popular Thekkady jeep safari places, and top adventure activities you should not miss during your Kerala trip.
Why Visit Tourist Spots in Thekkady?
Thekkady is one of Kerala’s top eco-tourism destinations known for:
- Rich wildlife and dense forests
- Scenic mountain landscapes
- Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Spice plantations and plantation tours
- Adventure activities and trekking
- Boat safaris and bamboo rafting
- Cool climate throughout the year
- Family-friendly and honeymoon-friendly atmosphere
Best Tourist Spots in Thekkady
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is the most famous tourist attraction in Thekkady and one of India’s best-known wildlife reserves. Located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, this protected forest area is famous for its rich biodiversity, scenic landscapes, and thrilling wildlife experiences.
The sanctuary is home to several wildlife species including elephants, sambar deer, Indian bison, wild boars, monkeys, and a variety of exotic birds. It is also an important tiger reserve and eco-tourism destination in Kerala.
Highlights of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Famous wildlife destination in Thekkady
- Scenic boat safari on Periyar Lake
- Opportunity to spot wild elephants and birds
- Dense evergreen forest landscapes
- Popular eco-tourism activities and trekking
- Ideal destination for wildlife photography
- Peaceful atmosphere surrounded by nature
Popular Activities
- Boat safari in Periyar Lake
- Bamboo rafting
- Jungle trekking
- Nature walks
- Border hiking
- Bird watching
- Wildlife photography
Periyar Lake
Periyar Lake is one of the most beautiful attractions in Thekkady and a major highlight of the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Surrounded by dense forests, green hills, and peaceful natural scenery, the lake offers visitors a relaxing and unforgettable wildlife experience in the heart of Kerala’s Western Ghats.
The lake was formed after the construction of the Mullaperiyar Dam and is now one of the best places in Thekkady for boating, wildlife spotting, and nature photography. Visitors can often see elephants, deer, wild boars, and various bird species near the lake during boat safaris.
Mangala Devi Temple
Mangala Devi Temple is an ancient hilltop temple located near Thekkady on the Kerala–Tamil Nadu border. Surrounded by dense forests and scenic mountain landscapes, the temple is known for its historical significance, peaceful atmosphere, and breathtaking panoramic views of the Western Ghats.
Highlights of Mangala Devi Temple
- Ancient temple with historical importance
- Located amidst dense forest landscapes
- Stunning panoramic mountain views
- Peaceful spiritual atmosphere
- Scenic off-road journey to the temple
Spice Plantations
Spice Plantations are among the most popular tourist attractions in Thekkady. The region is famous for producing aromatic spices such as cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and vanilla. Visitors can enjoy guided plantation tours and learn about Kerala’s rich spice cultivation traditions.
Highlights of Spice Plantations
- Famous spice gardens in Thekkady
- Fresh cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon plantations
- Educational plantation tours
- Beautiful greenery and peaceful surroundings
- Opportunity to buy authentic Kerala spices
Chellarkovil Viewpoint
Chellarkovil Viewpoint is one of the most scenic tourist spots near Thekkady, known for its misty valleys, waterfalls, and breathtaking hill views. The viewpoint offers a peaceful atmosphere and is ideal for travellers looking to enjoy Kerala’s natural beauty away from crowded tourist areas.
Highlights of Chellarkovil Viewpoint
- Panoramic valley and mountain views
- Beautiful waterfalls during monsoon
- Mist-covered landscapes
- Peaceful nature destination
- Excellent photography spot
Ramakkalmedu
Ramakkalmedu is a beautiful hill station destination near Thekkady, famous for its strong winds, cool climate, and breathtaking panoramic views of Tamil Nadu villages and Kerala hills. The destination is also known for the giant Kuravan and Kurathi statues, which symbolize local tribal heritage.
Highlights of Ramakkalmedu
- Stunning panoramic hill views
- Cool and windy climate
- Famous Kuravan-Kurathi statues
- Scenic mountain roads
- Perfect destination for nature lovers
Elephant Junction
Elephant Junction is a popular family-friendly attraction in Thekkady where visitors can interact closely with elephants and enjoy unique elephant activities. It is especially popular among children, families, and wildlife enthusiasts visiting Thekkady.
Highlights of Elephant Junction
- Elephant interaction experiences
- Family-friendly attraction
- Opportunity to feed and bathe elephants
- Scenic plantation surroundings
- Memorable wildlife experience
Things to Do in Thekkady
Thekkady is one of Kerala’s most exciting travel destinations, offering the perfect mix of wildlife, adventure, nature, and cultural experiences. From thrilling jungle safaris to peaceful boat rides and spice plantation tours, there are plenty of unforgettable activities for travellers of all ages.
1. Enjoy a Wildlife Safari
Wildlife safari is one of the top things to do in Thekkady. Visitors can explore forest regions and spot animals in their natural habitat inside the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
Common Wildlife Sightings
- Elephants
- Sambar deer
- Indian bison
- Wild boars
- Monkeys
- Exotic birds
2. Experience a Jeep Safari
Jeep safaris in Thekkady offer thrilling off-road adventures through forests, plantations, waterfalls, and scenic hill routes. It is one of the best activities for adventure lovers and photographers.
Highlights
Off-road forest trails
Scenic mountain viewpoints
Waterfall visits
Village exploration
Sunset viewpoints
3. Boating in Periyar Lake
A boat safari on Periyar Lake is one of the most relaxing experiences in Thekkady. Visitors can enjoy beautiful lake views while spotting wildlife near the forest shoreline.
4. Try Bamboo Rafting
Bamboo rafting is a unique eco-tourism activity that combines forest trekking and rafting through calm waters inside the Periyar Tiger Reserve.
Highlights
Adventure and nature combined
Guided forest exploration
Bird watching opportunities
Peaceful wilderness experience
5. Explore Spice Plantations
Thekkady is famous for its spice gardens and plantation tours. Visitors can walk through cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and clove plantations while learning about spice cultivation.
6. Watch Kathakali and Kalaripayattu Shows
Enjoy Kerala’s traditional art forms and cultural performances in Thekkady.
Cultural Experiences
Kathakali dance performances
Kalaripayattu martial arts shows
Traditional music performances
7. Go Trekking and Nature Walking
Thekkady offers several trekking routes through forests and hills, making it ideal for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Popular Trekking Activities
Jungle trekking
Border hiking
Nature walks
Wildlife tracking
8. Visit Scenic Viewpoints
Thekkady is surrounded by beautiful hill viewpoints and valleys that offer breathtaking scenery.
Popular Viewpoints
Chellarkovil
Ottakathalamedu
Parunthumpara
Ramakkalmedu
9. Enjoy Elephant Activities
Visitors can enjoy elephant interaction experiences at Elephant Junction and nearby attractions.
Activities
Elephant rides
Feeding elephants
Elephant bathing
Photography sessions
10. Shop for Kerala Spices and Handmade Products
Shopping is another popular activity in Thekkady. Visitors can buy fresh Kerala spices, homemade chocolates, Ayurvedic products, and local handicrafts.
Popular Purchases
Cardamom
Pepper
Cinnamon
Cloves
Homemade chocolates
Herbal products
Thekkady offers a complete travel experience filled with adventure, wildlife, relaxation, and cultural beauty, making it one of Kerala’s must-visit tourist destinations.
Thekkady Jeep Safari Places
Thekkady jeep safari is one of the most exciting adventure experiences in Kerala, offering travellers the chance to explore off-road forest trails, scenic hill routes, waterfalls, plantations, and hidden viewpoints. Jeep safaris in Thekkady are popular among nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and adventure seekers looking to experience the untouched beauty of the Western Ghats.
Gavi
Gavi is one of the most popular jeep safari destinations near Thekkady. Surrounded by dense forests, tea plantations, and peaceful lakes, Gavi offers a perfect eco-tourism experience filled with natural beauty and wildlife sightings. The jeep safari route to Gavi passes through forest roads and scenic mountain landscapes, making the journey itself a memorable experience.
Sathram
Sathram is a peaceful forest region known for its off-road jeep safari adventures and untouched natural beauty. The route takes visitors through rugged mountain roads, forest trails, and remote landscapes, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking less crowded adventure experiences near Thekkady.
Ottakathalamedu Viewpoint
Ottakathalamedu is one of the most scenic jeep safari locations in Thekkady, famous for its breathtaking sunset views and mist-covered valleys. The off-road drive to the viewpoint offers thrilling adventure experiences combined with panoramic views of hills and forests.
Pullumedu
Pullumedu is a beautiful hill destination known for rolling grasslands, cool climate, and peaceful natural surroundings. Jeep safaris to Pullumedu offer scenic drives through mountain roads and forest landscapes, making it a popular destination for photography and sightseeing.
Parunthumpara
Parunthumpara is a picturesque hill viewpoint near Thekkady famous for winding roads, green valleys, and scenic landscapes. The jeep safari journey through this region offers travellers stunning views of Kerala’s hill countryside and refreshing mountain weather.
Panchalimedu
Panchalimedu is another popular jeep safari destination near Thekkady, known for its mythological significance and panoramic hill views. Surrounded by misty mountains and lush greenery, the destination is perfect for nature lovers and adventure travellers.
Vagamon Off-Road Routes
Many travellers combine Thekkady jeep safari experiences with nearby Vagamon off-road adventures. The route includes pine forests, grass-covered hills, tea plantations, and beautiful viewpoints, offering one of the best adventure experiences in Kerala.
Thekkady jeep safari experiences provide the perfect combination of adventure, nature, scenic beauty, and wildlife exploration, making them one of the top things to do while visiting Thekkady.
Best Time to Visit Thekkady
October to February: The weather is cool and pleasant, making it the best season for sightseeing, safaris, trekking, and outdoor activities.
March to May: Summer is suitable for wildlife spotting as animals often come near water sources.
June to September: Monsoon transforms Thekkady into a lush green paradise. It is ideal for nature lovers and peaceful vacations.
How to Reach Thekkady
By Air
Nearest Airport:
Cochin International Airport
Madurai Airport
By Train
Nearest Railway Stations:
Kottayam
Madurai
By Road
Thekkady is well connected by road from:
Kochi
Munnar
Alleppey
Madurai
Kumarakom
Travel Tips for Visiting Thekkady
Book safari tickets in advance during peak season
Carry comfortable trekking shoes
Early morning safaris offer better wildlife sightings
Keep cameras and binoculars ready
Respect forest and wildlife rules
Carry light jackets during winter evenings
Conclusion
Thekkady is a perfect destination for travellers who love wildlife, adventure, nature, and peaceful hill landscapes. From thrilling jeep safaris and bamboo rafting to scenic viewpoints and spice plantations, every experience in Thekkady creates unforgettable memories.
Whether you are planning a romantic honeymoon, family vacation, wildlife tour, or adventure holiday, Thekkady offers some of the best travel experiences in Kerala.
If you are looking for customised Kerala tour packages including Thekkady, explore handpicked travel experiences with comfortable stays, guided sightseeing, and unforgettable safari adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Thekkady famous for?
Thekkady is famous for the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, exciting jeep safaris, scenic Periyar Lake, spice plantations, and adventure activities. It is one of Kerala’s top eco-tourism destinations, known for wildlife experiences, trekking, bamboo rafting, elephant sightings, and beautiful forest landscapes in the Western Ghats.
2. How many days are sufficient for Thekkady?
2 to 3 days are usually sufficient for exploring Thekkady comfortably. This duration allows visitors to enjoy wildlife safaris, Periyar Lake boating, spice plantation tours, jeep safaris, trekking, cultural shows, and nearby scenic viewpoints without rushing.
3. What is the cost of Jeep Safari in Thekkady?
The cost of Jeep Safari in Thekkady usually starts from around ₹1,800 to ₹2,500 per jeep for standard safari routes. Medium and longer safari packages generally cost between ₹2,800 and ₹4,000, while deep forest and full-day Gavi jeep safaris can range from ₹4,500 to ₹10,250 per jeep depending on the route, duration, and inclusions. Most jeeps can accommodate up to 6 people.
4. Which safari is best in Thekkady?
The Periyar Lake Boat Safari is the best safari in Thekkady for wildlife spotting and scenic views, while the Gavi Jeep Safari is best for adventure and off-road forest experiences.
5. What is the entry fee for the Thekkady tiger Reserve?
The entry fee for Periyar Tiger Reserve in Thekkady is approximately ₹45 per adult for Indian visitors and ₹500 per adult for foreign tourists. Children’s tickets are available at lower rates. Additional charges apply for activities like boat safari, trekking, bamboo rafting, and camera usage.
6. What time is Periyar boating in Thekkady?
Periyar boating in Thekkady usually operates in multiple time slots between 7:30 AM and 5:00 PM. The most popular boating timings are early morning and evening, as these hours offer better chances to spot wildlife near Periyar Lake.
