Thekkady is generally a short stay for most of the visitors in Kerala. However, even during this short stay, you’ll be spoiled for choice. However, there is a wide range of activities and things to do in Thekkady that offer great fun for couples, families and children.

1. Serene Boating Tours

Boating at Periyar Lake is one of the most popular things to do in Thekkady. The lake, which lies at the heart of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, is a place where the animals of the sanctuary can be seen swimming, drinking, resting or searching for food. Lucky ones can even spot elephants playing with their babies. The two-hour boat service is provided 5 times a day by KTDC and the Forest Department.

Timings: 7 am, 9:30 am, 11:30 am, 2:00 pm, and 4:00 pm

2. Bamboo Rafting And Hiking

The bamboo rafting program takes place in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, similar to the boating tours. What makes it different is that it takes you through the richest forest areas of the dense forest. The tour starts with a walk to the forest where you can see a variety of species of animals and birds. It’s followed by a three-hour cruise on bamboo rafts. Among the most popular adventure activities in Thekkady, the Bamboo rafting tour caters to 10 tourists at a time. Each group is accompanied by an armed guard and four guides.

Timings: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm; daily

3. The Hill Stations

One of Hill Station in Thekkady — Credits: https://www.pexels.com/

Being close to the hills, Thekkady is very close to the scenic and picturesque valleys that have emerged over the years as the best offbeat places in Kerala. We ‘re talking about the picturesque Ramakkalmedu and the evergreen Panchalimedu hill stations. Around 40-50 km away, a 2-day trip is definitely a must when you visit Thekkady.

Timings: NA

4. Nature Around Mangaladevi Temple

The ancient structure stands high between the jungles of Periyar. The historic Mangaladevi Temple has located about 15 km from the main town of Thekkady. The temple is close to the Tamil Nadu border and well surrounded by lush greenery, as you can see the Eastern Ghats on the Tamil Nadu side. It’s just a spot to enjoy the natural beauty of Kerala, rather than to explore the spiritual side.

Timings: 6:00 am – 6:00 pm

5. Explore The Chellarkovil

Chellarkovil View Point — Credits: https://commons.wikimedia.org/

The sleepy town of Chellarkovil overlooks the green side of Thekkady with a stunning view of the plains and the waterfalls. Considered one of the best tourist attractions in Kerala, you will certainly feel nostalgic at Chellarkovil. It ‘s certainly worth a visit during the monsoons to see the misty town and the clouds hitting the mountains.

Timings: NA

6. Trek To Land Of Gavi

The supreme land of Gavi is an eco-tourism hotspot, one whose mesmerizing beauty, combined with its untouched nature, will make you feel special. Trekking in the high hills standing in tandem would be a great way to explore the magnificent tourism of Thekkady. Make sure you ride the trails and discover the jungles of Thekkady in a different way.

Timings: NA

7. Bullock Cart Discoveries

There’s something unique here now. Would you like to explore the jungles of Periyar in a bullock cart? Here’s your chance to visit the villages and discover the rural life of Kerala in the bullock carts that will take you to the farmlands. The activity involves a guide who takes a group in a cart and one where you can shoot some amazing pictures of the landscape.

Timings: 6:00 am – 2:30 pm

8. Shop Spices

Visiting Kerala and not buying spices from the capital of spices is a total error. With plenty of spice plantations in the area, you’ll find the largest selection of authentic spices gathered from local plantations. However, some of the spices on offer include green pepper, nutmeg, anise star, cloves, coriander and fenugreek. And yes, you ‘re still going to find delicious banana chips on the markets.

Timings: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm

9. Day Visit To Spring Valley Mountain

While being on many hiking expeditions, there is something different that Spring Valley Mountain offers, otherwise known locally as ‘Kurisumala.’ Best for the hiking crowd, you’ll find a cross-church at the pinnacle of the mountain. That’s when you reach the top, looking out over the dazzling Periyar Tiger Reserve.

Timings: 4:00 am – 8:30 pm (the church at the top); otherwise the peak is open always

10. Admire The Pandikuzhi

Nature lovers will dance and sing while visiting the enigmatic Pandikuzhi. A haven for nature enthusiasts and those who want to take part in activities in the lush valleys. Glorifying views, freezing streams, rich flora and fauna, deep valleys, cascading waterfalls, serene lakes are all worth a picture-perfect memory. However, the scenery and environment of Pandikuzhi can draw you so much that you’d like to visit it again and again.

Timings: Open always

11. Border Hiking

Border hiking is another of the best things to do in Thekkady. Every day, two groups of 10 hikers go on long wildlife conservation treks. Also, each group is accompanied by two guides and an armed forest guard. Trekking at altitudes of between 900 and 1300 m, trekkers can see the lofty slopes surrounding the park and the vast plains. In Addition to this, trek hikers can spot several species of birds and animals.

Timings: 8:00 am – Late evenings; daily

12. Jungle Night Patrol

Jungle Patrol — Credits: https://en.wikipedia.org/

Jungle Night Patrol is one of the popular activities in Thekkady that people choose to do, provided they are aware of it. Also, as part of the search, you ‘re going for a late-night walk in the Periyar Tiger Reserve. A maximum of two teams of 5 – 8 patrollers are allowed every night. However, each team is supported by two guides and an armed forest guard.

Timings: 10:00 pm – 4:00 am; daily

13. Nature Walks

Nature Walking through diverse habitats is next to our list of things to do in Thekkady. Also, daily guided nature treks are 4 km – 5 km away and offer excellent opportunities to explore the flora and fauna – birds, butterflies, animal species and more.

Timings: 7:00 am – 10:00 am, 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm; daily

14. Tribal Walks

The Tribal Heritage Walk is another interesting experience, and only very few people want to try it out. Also, many Indian visitors choose the least part of the number of things to do in Thekkady. The program involves trekking through a tribal village in the vicinity of Periyar Tiger Park, guided by a tribal guide. However, the main attraction is the Tribal Heritage Museum, which features artefacts related to ancient agricultural practices, marriage ceremonies, cultural events, rituals and ceremonies. You will find on display fishing gear, hunting weapons, bamboo furniture, indigenous medicines, and more.

Timings: 8:00 am – 10:00 am, 10:00 am – 12 noon, 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm; daily

15. Spice Plantations And Elephant Rides

One Hour with Elephant is a pilot program provided by the Periyar Tiger Park and the Thekkady spice plantations. In Addition to this, one of the most common events in Thekkady, the system includes elephant rides, elephant baths, photoshoots, elephant washing, and elephant feeding.

Timings: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm; 30 minutes for each ride; daily

16. Exciting Jeep Safari

A popular off-road activity in Thekkady, the Jeep Safari to Gavi covers dense forests, waterfalls, spice plantations and green vegetation. However, for those who do not want to experience the beauty of quaint lands, jeep safari is a good replacement for hiking tours.

Timings: 6:00 am – 5:00 pm; daily

17. Follow The Tigers

The popularity of the ‘Follow the Tiger’ system has made it one of the most famous things to do in Thekkady. Also, the ex-poachers of Periyar National Park share their experience and arrange guided tours of Nilgiri Langurs, elephants and even tigers.

Timings: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

18. Thekkady Sightseeing Tours

Sightseeing tours in Thekkady provide an opportunity to explore the picturesque hill towns, hillsides, spice and tea plantations and wildlife sanctuaries. The Periyar Lake and Tiger Park, the Mangla Devi Temple, Also Chellarkovil waterfalls and various spice plantations are some of the most popular places to visit in Thekkady.

Timings: NA

So, what of these things do you intend to do in Thekkady on your trip to the wildlife haven? Whatever it may be, we ‘re sure that anything from planning a Thekkady trip with Pickyourtrail and eventually leaving the place will serve you on a long-term basis.

If you are looking for a perfect international trip, Pickyourtrail offers you the best International tour packages where you can customize your itinerary.

FAQ

When is the best time to visit Thekkady?

October to February is the best time to visit Thekkady, since the heavy rainfalls of the monsoon season would have passed.

What are the local dishes of Thekkady?

The famous food specialties of the region are Idly, Dosa and Kappa. Apart from it, Rice and Curry make up fish and vegetable is the main food of the locals of Thekkady region.

What is the best way to get around Thekkady?

Buses, Autorickshaws and Taxis make up the means of transport around the city. Autorickshaws have fixed prices for the distance covered.

How many days are enough for a trip to Thekkady?

1-2 Days are enough to explore the city of Thekkady, the magnificient Periyar lake and other sigghtseeing places would take a day and the Safari would take about a day. It is ideally a 2 night stay kind of getaway.