Top 5 Places to Visit in Thekkady
By ADITI : [28/June/24] Nestled on the border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, Thekkady is a verdant town surrounded by lush greenery. Offering a welcome break from Kerala's warm and humid climate, Thekkady boasts expansive forests and plantations, making it an ideal destination for families seeking relaxation. The winding Ghaats leading to this charming town offer a scenic journey through nature, accompanied by the melodic sounds of birds. Exploring Thekkady's attractions should be at the top of your list when planning a trip here, as the town offers numerous places that create an idyllic heaven-like atmosphere.
Located in the Idukki district, this beautiful destination sits at an altitude of around 900–1800 meters. It is especially popular among wildlife lovers and families looking for a calm and refreshing holiday. From jungle safaris to scenic viewpoints, there are many amazing Thekkady tourist attractions that you should not miss.
Let’s Explore the Best Spots of Thekkady
Periyar National Park - The Highlight of Thekkady
One of the most famous places to visit in Thekkady, Periyar National Park is known for its rich wildlife and scenic beauty. Spread across a vast area, this reserve is home to elephants, tigers, deer, and many bird species. The biggest highlight here is the boat safari on Periyar Lake. It gives you a chance to spot animals coming near the water, especially elephants in the morning hours. The Periyar National Park, spanning over 250 square miles, is renowned as one of India's most biodiverse reserves in Thekkady. Besides its famed tigers, the park hosts a diverse array of wildlife such as Indian elephants, sloth bears, wild pigs, and giant squirrels, thriving amidst varied flora and fauna nourished by the Periyar and Pamba rivers.
Things to do:
⠂ Boat safari (early morning recommended)
⠂ Bamboo rafting
⠂ Guided jungle trekking
⠂ Nature walks
Travel tip: Morning safaris offer better wildlife sightings compared to evening slots.
Elephant Junction
Elephant Junction is one of the most popular things to do in Thekkady, especially for families. It offers interactive experiences where visitors can learn about elephants in a natural environment. You can watch feeding sessions, understand their daily routine, and even take part in guided activities designed around awareness and conservation.
Why visit:
⠂ Close interaction with elephants
⠂ Educational experience for kids
⠂ Short activity options (mostly around 1 hour)
⠂ This place adds a different dimension to your Thekkady trip beyond just sightseeing.
Anakkara
If you want to explore offbeat places to visit in Thekkady, Anakkara is a great choice. This peaceful village is surrounded by lush spice plantations and rolling hills. It is perfect for travelers who enjoy slow travel and scenic beauty.
Top highlights:
⠂ Aruvikuzhi Waterfalls
⠂ Spice plantation tours
⠂ Trekking trails
⠂ Sunset viewpoints
You can also stay in homestays here for a more local and authentic experience.
Ramakkalmedu
Ramakkalmedu is a scenic hilltop destination located on the Western Ghats. It is known for strong winds and panoramic views of Tamil Nadu villages. This is one of the best Thekkady tourist attractions for photography lovers and nature enthusiasts.
What makes it special:
⠂ Cool and windy climate
⠂ Stunning valley views
⠂ Peaceful environment
Travel tip: Avoid visiting during monsoon as the winds can be too strong.
Parunthumpara Viewpoint
Parunthumpara, also called Eagle Rock, is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Thekkady for nature lovers. It offers breathtaking views of hills, valleys, and dense forests. This viewpoint is less crowded compared to other tourist spots, making it ideal for a peaceful outing.
Why you should visit:
⠂ Wide panoramic views
⠂ Perfect for sunset photography
⠂ Calm and less crowded
During certain times of the year, this place also attracts visitors for its spiritual significance linked to nearby forest regions.
How to Plan Your Thekkady Trip
To make the most of your visit:
⠂ Plan at least 2–3 days
⠂ Book safaris and activities in advance
⠂ Choose hotels near Kumily for better access
⠂ Combine with nearby destinations like Munnar
Exploring the places to visit in Thekkady is all about enjoying nature, wildlife, and peaceful surroundings. Whether it’s spotting elephants in Periyar, walking through spice plantations, or watching sunsets from hill viewpoints, Thekkady offers a complete travel experience.
Plan Your Trip Now
Want to make your trip hassle-free?
Plan your journey in advance, book your stays near key attractions, and secure your safari slots early. A well-planned itinerary will help you explore all the best Thekkady tourist attractions without missing anything.
Start planning today and experience the beauty of Thekkady like never before.
