In “God’s own land” i.e. the State of Kerala a popular tourist destination called “Thekkady” located in the Idukki district. This region is known for its rich flora and fauna. It is also popular for variety in birds. It also houses a famous sanctuary called “Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary”. The wildlife seen commonly in this region includes elephants, bison, deer etc. So if you are a wildlife lover, a birdwatcher, or a wildlife photographer then “Thekkady” is the ideal destination for you to visit.
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How to get there?
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By train:
The nearest railway station is in Kottayam. The Kottayam Railway Station is located at a distance of 114 km from Thekkady. This railway station is well linked to many of the major cities and towns in the country. Taxi services from Kottayam Railway Station to Thekkady are available.
By Road:
A number of Kerala State Transport Buses are available from places like Kottayam, Cochin, and Trivandrum to Thekkady. Kottayam and Kochi are starting points that are located in close proximity to Thekkady.
a. How to reach Thekkady from Kochi : The shortest route to reach Thekkady from Kochi is via NH183 as depicted in the map above. Alternatively, click on the Google Maps link here to view on Google Maps.
b. How to reach Thekkady from Kottayam : The fastest route from Kottayam to Thekkady is via NH183 and the route map is depicted above. Alternatively, click on the Google Maps link here to view on Google Maps.
By flight:
The closest airport to Thekkady is in Madurai. The Madurai Airport is well connected to most of the major cities and towns in the country. This airport is located at about 136 km away from Thekkady. The nearest international airport is in Cochin.
Climate and the best time to visit Thekkady
The climate in Thekkady can range from “hot to pleasant”. The summer which begins in March and ends in May is hot with the temperature ranging from 26 degrees to 36 degrees. The rainfall received during monsoons which begin in June and extends to September is heavy. Landslides are observed quite often during this period. While the winter months that begins in October and ends in February is pleasant with the temperatures varying from 15 degrees to 21 degrees. The ideal time to visit is in between September to March.
Things to do
- Kumily: Is renowned for its spice and beautiful tea plantations. It attracts a large number of tourists due to its extremely beautiful landscapes. This small town is frequently visited by Sabarimala devotees.
- Mangala Devi Temple: Is a temple built within the premises of the famous “Periyar Tiger Reserve” and, is located at the northern end. This temple is dedicated to Mangaladevi.
- Abraham’s Spice Garden: Is a beautiful organic garden of spices. This garden is surrounded by scenic beauty. It is also the ideal place for those interested to learn the basics of spice cultivation, organic farming, and Ayurveda.
- Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Is a famous sanctuary located on the banks on the River Periyar. This sanctuary is renowned for its beautiful lush green environment and scenic beauty. A number of wild elephants and other animals bathing in the lake can be seen. It is a major tourist attraction in Thekkady.
- KadathanadanKalari Centre: Is a centre renowned for an ancient form of martial arts of Kerala called “Kalaripayattu”. It is a major tourist attraction in Thekkady.
- Murikkady: Is renowned for supposedly possessing the world’s finest spice plantations.
Accommodation – Hotels, Resorts and Home Stays in and around Thekkady:
Click on the link here to check out the places to stay near Thekkady, Kerala on Google Maps.
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