Kerala is one of the most preferred tourist destinations in India for many national and foreign tourists. The lush greenery and mesmerizing landscapes are the prime attraction of this state. This small South Indian state has been blessed with everything. Popularly known as the ‘God’s Own Country, this state has unexplored, rich and elegant natural beauty. There is a lot to explore in this state such as sparkling backwaters, lush greenery, and clear blue sky. The rolling hills, majestic valleys and immaculate beaches of this state take the breath of each tourist away. Thekkady is one of the must-visit hill stations in Kerala with lot of tourist attractions. Contact KSU or visit their website www.ksu.in to get more details about Thekkady and the popular tourist attractions in and around this hill station.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
One of the major tourist attractions in Thekkady is the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Spread across an area of around 777 sq. km, this outstanding conservation park is famous for its tiger reserve. Situated around a man-made lake, this sanctuary is home to several endangered species like Nilgiri Langur, lion-tailed macaque and Indian bison. Visitors can also spot animals like elephants, bear, gaur, sambar and deer in this picnic spot. Many people find it an ideal place for a casual evening picnic with family or friends.
Periyar Lake
The gorgeous Periyar Lake is another eye-catching feature of Thekkady. People to this hill station love to spend a tranquil and calm evening by enjoying boating in this placid lake. The surroundings of this lake are serene and scenic. If you are lucky enough, you will be able to get chances to watch herds of elephants bathing on the lakeside.
Kumily
Nestled between extensive cardamom hills, Kumily is a beautiful and warm town in the Idukki district of Kerala. It is an interesting tourist spot ideal to enjoy the rural lifestyle of the local folklore. The extensive spice and tea plantations of Kumily give refreshing travel experience to each visitor. In fact, a trip to this destination takes you to an enchanting and pollution-free world in the midst of rich green landscape. It is also a wonderful place to taste authentic homemade Kerala dishes.
Murikkady
Situated around 5 kilometers away from Thekkady, Murikkady is a beautiful tourist spot famous for its mind-blowing vistas of spice plantations. This picture-perfect picnic spot allures travelers with its rich green valleys, large tea, pepper and cardamom plantations and misty mountains. If you are on a honeymoon, this is a good place to spend a romantic evening with your partner.
Pandikuzhi
The idyllic and tranquil town of Pandikuzhi draws visitors with its lush vegetations and small wild streams. It is a great picnic spot and people get enthralled because of its heavenly nature. This lovely tourist spot is approximately 10 kilometers away from Idukki. It is also an ideal place to enjoy a bit of trekking.
Mangala Devi Temple
Visiting the 2000-year old Mangala Devi temple shall be a unique experience for each visitor. Popular for the exquisite Pandian style of architecture, this ancient monument is at a distance of around 15 kilometers away from Thekkady. Dedicated to Goddess Mangala or Kannagi, this temple is nestled on the top of a cliff encircled by trees. Even though it is a popular tourist attraction in Thekkady, visitors need to take prior permission from the wildlife authorities to visit this temple.
Vandanmedu
Vandanmedu is truly a wonderful place to enjoy the aura of nature. Located in the high mountain ranges of the Western Ghats, this hilly town is famous as an auction center for cardamom. In fact, the air in this destination is filled with the enduring fragrance of this aromatic spice. Vandanmedu is also popular for the large cultivation and production of cardamom in the world. The soil and climatic conditions of this region are suitable for the production of this spice. Most of the area of this hill station is covered with rough mountains and dense forest. You can plan for a guided tour if you are interested to learn about the cultivation of cardamom in detail.
Kadathanadan Kalari Center
Watching the Kalaripayattu, one of the ancient martial art forms in the world, is a delightful experience for each traveler to Kerala. It is derived from two words, kalari and payattu and its meanings are school and to fight respectively. This art form can be trace back even to 2000 B.C. The practice of this martial art form was used in conflicts between the Chera and Chola dynasties. You can watch a 60-minute demonstration of this art form by nearly 6 performers by visiting the Kadathanadan Kalari Center in Thekkady. Lighting of traditional lamps is the starting of the show followed by offering flowers to the deity and a brief introduction. Approximately 27 different weapons demonstrated in this show with an explanation of each one. Don’t forget to participate in this demonstration.
Pullumedu
Pullumedu is a place worth visiting during your trip to Thekkady. Literally means, ‘green meadows’, it is a small town nestled on the banks of River Periyar blessed with abundant natural beauty. You can watch panoramic green canopies of rich trees at this destination. It is an ideal place to unwind and relax in peace. One of the great advantages of visiting this place is that the well known Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple can be watched from this place. But you need to take prior permission from the forest department to visit Pullumedu.
Chellarkovil
Chellarkovil is another beautiful tourist place near Thekkady famous for panoramic valleys and gorgeous waterfalls. If you are a nature lover, you must include this place in your Thekkady travel itinerary. The small mountain brooks and the overall natural beauty of this place are truly alluring. Located near Cumbum, Chellarkovil is known for lush coconut groves. Watching the imposing and charming coconut groves from this spot shall be a fantastic experience for each visitor.
If you look at the list above, you will realize that Thekkady is a heaven on earth. A trip to this marvelous hill station will give you several beautiful memories that may last long. There are many fine hotels and resorts in this destination if you wish to stay here to explore the beauty of Thekkady.