What are the Best Places to Visit in Thekkady?
Top Attractions, Hidden Gems, and Local Favorites
What are the top tourist attractions in Thekkady?
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Kadathanadan Kalari Centre
Kadathanadan Kalari Centre offers visitors an opportunity to experience Kerala’s ancient martial art, Kalaripayattu, through live performances. Skilled practitioners showcase feats of agility, strength, weapon techniques, and traditional combat forms in a kalari arena. The performances highlight Kerala’s cultural heritage and provide a glimpse into one of the world’s oldest martial arts traditions.
Elephant Junction
Elephant Junction offers visitors an opportunity to interact with elephants in a natural setting. Guests can enjoy activities such as elephant feeding, bathing demonstrations, and educational experiences that provide insight into the care and behavior of these giants. It is a memorable experience for all age groups. Visitors can also take photos with the elephants.
Periyar Lake
Periyar Lake is a scenic reservoir within Periyar Tiger Reserve, known for its calm waters and wildlife surroundings. Visitors can enjoy boat cruises while observing elephants, deer, and birds along forested banks. The lake is famous for its misty landscapes and submerged tree trunks that create a natural view. It is one of the most iconic relaxing experiences in Thekkady. Visitors often spot wildlife close to water.
Suggested day trips from Thekkady
Discover Thekkady's Hidden Gems beyond the popular tourist attractions
Gavi Forest
Mangala Devi Temple
Mangala Devi Temple is an ancient hilltop shrine located amidst the forests of Periyar Tiger Reserve, offering a blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty. The temple is associated with the legendary Kannagi of Tamil literature. Visitors are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a significant cultural and scenic attraction.
Top local favourites in Thekkady
Boating at Periyar Lake
Boating at Periyar offers visitors a serene wildlife experience on the calm waters of Periyar Lake within Periyar Tiger Reserve. The boat cruise takes you through forested shores where elephants, deer, and a variety of birds can often be spotted in their habitat. With misty landscapes and floating dead tree trunks, the journey provides a peaceful and memorable way to explore Thekkady’s wilderness.
Ottakathalamedu View Point
Ottakathalamedu View Point is a scenic hilltop destination near Thekkady known for breathtaking panoramic views of the Western Ghats and surrounding valleys. Popular for sunrise and sunset visits, it offers a peaceful atmosphere with mist-covered hills and distant landscapes stretching into Tamil Nadu. The viewpoint is ideal for photography and nature appreciation away from crowded tourist spots.
