Thekkady is the place for all nature lovers. There are a lot of things that you can do here. Yes, you’ll be spoilt for choices so, plan your trip accordingly.
Thekkady Boating Tours
In the heart of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary experience nature and see a series of animals, butterflies, birds etc. You could see the animals of the sanctuary bathing, drinking, resting, or searching for food. The lucky ones may even spot elephants playing with their babies.
The two-hour boat service is provided 5 times daily by KTDC and the forest department.
The bamboo rafting programme is available in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. It takes you through the main forest tracts of the dense forest where you will find rich flora and fauna. It starts with a hike in the forest where you’ll be able to spot several species of animals and birds. After which is a 3 hour ride on bamboo rafts. This activity can have upto a maximum of 10 people per boat.
An armed guard and 4 guides accompany each group.
Timings: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm; daily
Border Hiking
These treks happen on a daily basis, twice a day. You will be accompanied by 2 guides and an armed guard. Trekking will be at an altitude of upto 1300 m, this makes it easy for trekkers to see the high lofty mountains, deep valleys and the beautiful Periyar river. The hikers can spot several species of birds and animals during their trek.
Timings: 8:00 am – Late evenings; daily
Jungle Night Patrol
Not many people who visit Thekkady are aware of such an activity. In this particular activity you get to patrol in The Tiger Reserve forest at night . Each night, a maximum of two teams of 5 – 8 patrollers are allowed. Each team is accompanied by 2 guides and an armed forest guard.
Timings: 10:00 pm – 4:00 am; daily
Nature Walking
The diverse habitats of Thekkady make for a great walk. The daily guided nature treks are 4 km – 5 km and is an excellent opportunity to explore and study the various species of birds, butterflies and animal species. A maximum of 5 people and an additional tribal guide can be a part of one group.
Trek through a tribal village which is in the periphery of the Periyar Tiger Park. The key attraction though is the tribal heritage museum that features artefacts related to the ancient agricultural practices, marriage ceremonies, cultural events, rituals, and other ceremonies. On display you’ll find fishing gear, hunting weaponry, bamboo furniture, indigenous medicines, and more.
Timings: 8:00 am – 10:00 am, 10:00 am – 12 noon, 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm; daily
Spice Plantations and Elephant Ride
An hour with the Elephant is a pilot programme offered by the Periyar Tiger Park and spice plantations in Thekkady. One of the most popular activities in Thekkady, the programme includes elephant rides, elephant bath, photo sessions, elephant shower, and elephant feeding.
Timings: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm; 30 minutes for each ride; daily
Jeep Safari
The Jeep Safari to Gavi covers the dense forests, waterfalls, spice plantations, and green vegetation. Jeep safari is a perfect substitute to hiking tours for those who do not wish to explore the beauty of the quaint lands on foot.
Timings: 6:00 am – 5:00 pm; daily
Follow the Tiger
This is a fairly unique program which involves the ex-poachers of Periyar National Park organize guided tours that involve following the trails of Nilgiri Langurs, elephants, and even tigers and while the poachers share their experiences.
Kalaripayattu
Originally a traditional form of martial art that started in Kerala, Kalaripayattu or kalari is the science of war, treatment and marma therapy believed by the historians to be one of the oldest existing martial arts in the world. It's all about inner peace and fluid animal movements.
Campfire
An adventurously fun filled and exciting feature of lighting a fire that thrills the entire family. For those who enjoy picnicking and camping what is vacation without campfire, right?