Located by the side of the river Periyar, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is the main attraction of Thekkady. Spread over an area of about 777 sq km with about 360 sq. km of which is thick evergreen forest, the sanctuary was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978. However, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary can also be recognised as one of the natural treasure houses of some of the rare species of flora and fauna. The flora of the park includes over flowering plants, grass species, species of orchids and the only South Indian conifer Podocarpus Wallichianus. Apart from the tigers, the fauna of the park includes wild elephant, gaur, sambar deer, wild boar, Nilgir Tahr, lion tailed macaque, bonnet macaque, Malabar giant squirrel, flying squirrel, tiger, jungle cat, sloth bear, hornbill, stork, woodpecker, kingfisher, raptor, cormorant, grackle, darter, cobra, viper, krait, monitor lizards, frogs, toads, masheer (famous and endangered game fish of India) and otter. Noted for its geo-morphological diversity of wildlife and scenic beauty, the Reserve attracts visitors from all over the world. The splendid artificial lake formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar river adds to the charm of the park. This is the only sanctuary in India where you can have the unique experience of viewing wildlife at close quarters from the safety of a boat on the lake. The greatest attraction of Periyar remains the large herds of wild elephants that come down to the lake's edge.
Periyar Lake
The lake of the Periyar wildlife sanctuary makes an important site to visit in Thekkady. This splendid artificial lake formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar River adds to the charm of the park. A wonderful palace located in the heart of the Periyar Lake attracts a lot of visitors. The greatest attraction of Periyar Lake however is the herds of wild elephants that come down to play in the lake. Periyar is the only sanctuary in India where you can have the unique experience of viewing wildlife at close quarters form the safety of a boat on the lake.
The Periyar Lake attracts grey heron, ibis, the great Malabar hornbill and grey hornbill. The other birds include kingfishers, ospreys and kites as well as orioles, hill mynas, racket tailed drongos, parakeets, including the unusual blue winged parakeet and flycatchers
Murikkady
Located at a distance of just 5 kilometres from Thekkady, Murikkady is another important site to visit. Murikkady is particularly famous for its panorama of cardamom, coffee and pepper plantations. A must visit to include in your excursion itinerary.
This vantage view point is located at a distance of 5km from Thekkady. Breathtaking views of the spice and tea plantations, the mist clad mountains and verdant valleys could be enjoyed at Murikkady. The area is famous for cardamom plantations, tea plantations and pepper cultivation. The salubrious climate here is seasoned with the tantalizing fragrance of exotic spices.
Pandikuzhi
This place, Pandikuzhi, is a picturesque spectrum of nature's flora, fauna and gurgling streams. It is the starting point of the Chellarkovil Waterfalls. Sandwiched between Chellarkovil and the Tamil Nadu border, it makes an important excursion point for every tourists visiting Thekkady.
A considerable number of visitors come to this place every year. Being an ideal picnic, trekking, and photographic spot, it is also the favorite day and weekend destination for the localities as well. Pandikuzhi is any photographer’s delight, for the place has amazing surroundings. This place is located at a distance of about 5 kilometers from Thekkady and 4 kilometers from Kumily. View More
Peermede
Located at a distance of 44 kilometres from Thekkady, Peermede is an important excursion destination one should not miss. Peermede is situated at an altitude of 915 -1100 m above sea level and is a famous plantation town.
The name of the town has been given after Peer Mohammed, a famous Sufi saint who was also a close associate of the erstwhile royal family of Travancore. Peermede is also known for its tea, cardamom, rubber and coffee plantations interspersed with sculptural rocks, meadows and mist-cloaked hilltops. Moreover, Kuttikanam, (a place for adventure tourism and trekking), Thrissanku Hills (a haunt of trekkers and picnickers), Mausoleum of the Sufi saint, the summer palace of the royal family, residence of the Diwan, and the many lofty peaks and streams are some of the other major attractions of this place.
Peeremede is a lovely hill station, an ideal retreat in the Western Ghats and a choice break for tourists en route to the Periyar Tiger Reserve.
Sprawling gardens of tea, coffee,cardamom, rubber and eucalyptus lying side by side with natural grasslands, pine forests and waterfalls make this an ideal summer resort. The summer palace of Rajas of erstwhile Travancore is today an important monument here. Peeremede and its surroundings are suitable for trekking, cycling and horse riding. Kuttikanam a place for adventure tourism and trekking is just 3 km from Peeremede.
Another attraction here is Thrissanku Hills four km away. The rolling hills, the lovely landscape and the gentle breeze make this a choice spot for long walks. The hills offer a breathtaking view of the sunrise and sunset. View More
Chellarkovil
Chellarkovil is a sleepy, wind-stricken village of verdant landscape and cascading waterfalls. This village offers a bird's eye view of the extensive coconut groves of Kamabam and the plains of Theni in neighboring Tamil Nadu. Chellarkovil is a beautiful village in Kumily of Idukki district. It has cascading waterfalls set in a breathtaking landscape. This place lies at a height of 1200 meters above sea level. The village is known for its unique eco tourism project. Due to this project, the tourists can come across a number of huts, pathways, medicinal plants, watch tower, tourist amenity centre and many more such attractions and facilities. At the watch tower at Chellarkovil one can see a telescope placed in the balcony which has the name of ‘God’s Own Balcony’. This place is located at a distance of 15 kilometers from Thekkady and Kumily. The best time to visit the place is from September to May. View More
Vandiperiyar
The river Periyar flowing through the centre of this town nourishes its vast tea, coffee and pepper plantations. A major trade centre, Vandiperiyar is also home to a number of tea factories. The Government Agriculture Farm and Flower Gardens have a delightful array of rose plants, orchids and anthurium.
The River Periyar flowing through the centre of this town nourishes its vast tea, coffee and pepper plantations. A major trade centre, Vandiperiyar is also home to a number of tea factories. The Government Agriculture Farm and Flower Garden have a delightful array of rose plants, orchids and anthuria.
Calvary Mount
Calvary or Kalvari Mount is both a pilgrim destination and trekking track. The panoramic view of the Idukki Arch Dam from here is sure to enthrall you. The State Forest Department conducts trekking expeditions exploring the wilds.
This place is located at just 5 kilometers from the town of Idukki and it lies on the Idukki Kattappana route. It acts as a Christian pilgrimage centre called the Kurisumala. The place also gives great views of Kamakshy and Mariyapuram, the two prominent tribal villages of Thekkady. The best time to visit this location is when the shutters of the dam is open. This place is also best for those who love photography, trekking and so on.
Managala Devi temple
The 1000 year old temple dedicated to Kannaki is situated on the top of a hill in Periyar Tiger Reserve. According to the legends, Kannaki was betrayed in this place and she transformed into a divine lady with all her grudge to shower her blessings on her people and hence getting the name Mangaladevi.
You have to cover 12kms of rough forest road to reach here. The temple opens only once in a year for the public during the annual Chithrapournami festival. The temple is open from 7:00 am in the morning and closes by 7:00 pm at night. View More
Gavi
The picturesque place of many choices of trekking, bird watching, outdoor camping and boating. Heading towards Gavi by Periyar Tiger Reserve is a thrilling experience as the ride goes past hills and valleys, tropical forests and abundant plantations giving you the closest look at wildlife. This place is located in the district of Pathanamthitta in Kerala. It is among the leading Eco-Tourism centers of India. You can see over 260 bird species like Great Pied Hornbill, Kingfisher and Woodpecker, who have made Gavi their home. It is also known for its wildlife of Nilgiri Thar and Lion Tailed Macaque. It is at a distance of 14 kilometers from Kumily and 28 kilometers from Vandiperiyar. View More
Ramakalmedu
This mountain peak that overlooks eastern slpoes of the Western Ghats and the vast plains of Tamil Nadu. The place owes its name to the tale that the lord Sree Rama, the Hindu mythological god had set his foot on this rock. Also, Kerala's biggest statue, Kuravan & Kurathy treats you here. The rocks, between which the Idukki Arch Dam was built, are named Kuravan & Kurathy, two histrical characters of the local comminity.
Rolling green hills and the fresh mountain air make Ramakalmedu and enchanting retreat. The hilltop also offers a panoramic view of the picturesque villages of Bodi and Cumbum on the eastern slope of the Western Ghats. View More
Parumthumpara
From the top of a cliff here, enjoy the panoramic view of forests and plantations seen as and endless carpet of greenery. It is a very beautiful place just five Kilometer away from Peermade and ten Kilometer away from Vandiperiyar.It looks like a vast stretch of rook spotted with lush green grass.The word parunth in the local language means Eagle and para means rock.It is called Parunthumpara or eagle rock because we can see a large area around like an eagle could see from height.
Parumthumpara has a panoramic view of High peaks and trenches.One can also see the Trishanku hills of Kuttikanam and the Pattumala church from here.It was like a 360 degree view of the High-range. It is said that it is possible to see the divine light the "Makaravilaku of the Savirimala from here. View More
Ottakathalamedu
An off-beat trekking spot, at a distance of 4 kilometers from Thekkady, Ottakathalamedu has become popular among the tourists recently. This place is located at an altitude of 1300 meters above sea level. This place offers a breathtaking view of the attractions like Kumily, Periyar Tiger Reserve, Spice gardens as well as some of the villages at Tamil Nadu. With the guidance of Tourist Amenity Centre here, you can explore nature and go adventurous. Ottakathalamedu is an apt location for those who love adventure, biking, photography and nature. Being a newly discovered tourist location, it is not much explored and hence, if planning a trip to this place, do make sure to carry the things that you would need.
Kurisumala
A trekker's paradise and the highest peak in Thekkady. Literally means the 'mountain of the cross', this hill offers a panoramic view of surroundings including a glimpse of Periyar Lake, Kumily town and vast areas of nehbouring Tamil Nadu state. 3 km from Vazhikkadavu is this renowned Christian pilgrim centre where hundreds of devotees from far and near converge during the holy week and after, to climb the hill in faith, carrying small wooden crosses. The peaceful Monastry at the top of the hill, the silence of the hills, the cool mountain air and the lush green landscape are all soothing to the soul. On the eastern side of the hill is Muruganmala housing a rock cut temple dedicated to Murugan (son of Lord Shiva).
Pullumedu
The winding journey to this hill along the Periyar River, offers a stunning view of hills draped in lush greenery. Velvet lawns and rare flora and fauna add to the beauty of Pullumedu. The famous Sree Ayyappa Temple at Sabarimala and the Makara Jyothi illuminations at the shrine are visible from here.
On the banks of Periyar River in Kerala lies a beautiful hill station wrapped with the lush greenish nature and mist. The term 'Pullumedu' means green meadows and coming here you will find the name given to this place is very apt. Be away from the hustles and bustles of the city life and get charged yourself, indulging into the peace and serenity of the nature. Pullumedu is one of the most wanted tourist destination in Kerala. The untouched beauty of the nature always attracts the tourist to its vicinity. Pullumedu is ideally placed 43 km away from Thekkady and around 26 km from Periyar. So, those who are planning a trip to Thekkady cannot miss this beautiful destination at any cost. Pullumedu is not only famous for its scenic beauty but also a place famous for its spiritual elements and also a great spot for the academicians too. Pullumedu has its links connected to the famous Sabarimala temple and the 'Makarajyothi celebration' there.
The view of the Sabarimala Ayyappa temple from here seems to be fantastic. During the Makarajyothi celebration, thousands of devotees gather here to witness the Makarajyothi (celestial light) from here. From Pullumedu it is quite easy to watch the 'Jyoti' which appears on the sky. The Makarajyothi celebration is organised every year in the month of January. Coming here you will be able to experience the remnants of the 2011 tragedy that occurred in Pullumedu. The stampede occurred during the Makarajyothi celebration. The devotees who came to witness the 'Makarajyothi' were the victims. Around 106 devotees were killed and many were injured. The reason for the stampede still remains a mystery. Apart from its religious significance, Pullumedu is also rich with its wide varieties of flora and fauna. You can find here rare species of plants, which makes this place unique. There are few remote areas in Pullumedu, which is not so easy to access. This has maintained the balance of eco-system here and also retained the original beauty and charm of the nature without any disturbance. You can make a visit to Pullumedu during the months from September to December. The rainy season is not advised as it may spoil the fun of your journey. During these months you can find a pleasant climate here, the environment will be cool. The fresh green grass would have become a blanket to the hilly terrain. You can have a lazy walk through these hilly areas and can experience the cool air around you. Pullumedu Hill station is easily connected through rail, road and air. The Ernakulam-Thekkady road will lead you to this beautiful picnic spot. The nearest railway station is Kottayam and the nearest airport is Cochin International Airport. You will have to seek prior permission from the Wildlife Preservation Officer at Thekkady or the Range Officer at Vallakkadavu to visit Pullumedu. View More
Watch Tower
This vantage view point is located at a distance of 5km from Thekkady. Breathtaking views of the spice and tea plantations, the mist clad mountains and verdant valleys could be enjoyed at Murikkady. The area is famous for cardamom plantations, tea plantations and pepper cultivation. The salubrious climate here is seasoned with the tantalizing fragrance of exotic spices.