Thekkady Tourist Attractions

For visitors deciding what to include in their itinerary, these are the Top 15 Tourist Attractions in Thekkady worth considering. You can also plan your trip to Thekkady by booking a customized Kerala tour package from Travfolks Holidays, one of the leading travel and tour operators in India. Get in touch with us and we will offer the best packages for Kerala as per your choice and budget. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Thekkady and other destinations in Kerala with Travfolks Holidays.

Periyar Tiger Reserve

Periyar National Park

The Periyar Tiger Reserve is unquestionably the star attraction of Thekkady and one of the most important wildlife destinations in Kerala. The protected landscape is home to Asian elephants, Bengal tigers, Indian gaurs, sambar deer, wild dogs, leopards, wild boars and numerous bird species. The reserve also supports an impressive variety of flowering plants, grasses and orchids.

One of the best ways to experience the reserve is through activities organised within the protected area, including boating, trekking and nature-based programmes. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, so visitors should approach a safari as an opportunity to observe the forest ecosystem rather than simply a hunt for a particular animal.

Best for: Wildlife lovers, photographers, families and nature enthusiasts.

Periyar Lake

Periyar Lake is an integral part of the Thekkady experience. The lake was formed following the construction of the Mullaperiyar Dam and winds through the forested landscape of the Periyar reserve.

A boat cruise provides a different perspective of the forest. Visitors may spot elephants near the water, sambar deer, gaur, birds and other wildlife from the lake. The peaceful combination of water, forest and mountains makes the cruise particularly memorable in the early hours or later in the day.

For first-time visitors, a Periyar Lake cruise is among the must see tourist places in Thekkady and experiences that should be booked in advance during busy holiday periods.

Mangala Devi Temple

Mangala Devi Temple is one of the most distinctive cultural attractions around Thekkady. The ancient shrine stands at a high elevation within the forested landscape and is associated with the Tamil-Kerala border region.

Unlike many temples that welcome visitors throughout the year, public access to Mangala Devi Temple is traditionally associated with the annual Chithrapournami festival. The temple’s elevated location also offers impressive views of the surrounding forest and mountains.

Because access can be restricted, visitors should check the latest local arrangements before including the temple in their itinerary.

Best for: History enthusiasts, devotees, photographers and hikers.

Gavi

Gavi is an excellent choice for visitors looking beyond the conventional attractions of Thekkady. Located within the wider Periyar landscape, this eco-tourism destination is known for forests, hills, plantations, boating, trekking and birdwatching.

The journey itself can be part of the experience, with forest roads passing through scenic valleys and dense vegetation. Gavi is also known for its rich birdlife and opportunities to observe wildlife in a relatively quiet natural setting.

Gavi is particularly appealing to visitors who prefer outdoor experiences and want to spend more time in nature.

Best for: Birdwatchers, trekkers, photographers and adventure seekers.

Chellarkovil Viewpoint

Chellarkovil is among the most scenic places to visit near Thekkady. The area is known for its dramatic mountain scenery, green valleys, waterfalls and views extending towards the plains of Tamil Nadu.

The landscape changes considerably with the seasons. During and after the monsoon, the waterfalls and greenery become particularly attractive, while clearer weather can provide expansive views across the surrounding countryside.

For photographers, Chellarkovil is one of the top tourist places in Thekkady for landscapes and sunset views.

Murikkady

If you want to understand why Thekkady is associated so strongly with spices, Murikkady deserves a place on your itinerary.

The area is surrounded by plantations where visitors can experience Kerala’s agricultural landscape, particularly spice cultivation. Depending on the plantation or tour, visitors may learn about crops such as cardamom, pepper, coffee and other tropical plants.

A plantation visit is more than a sightseeing stop. It provides insight into the agricultural traditions and economic importance of spices in the Western Ghats.

Best for: Families, couples, food lovers and visitors interested in plantation tourism.

Kumily

Kumily is the main settlement adjoining Thekkady and serves as an important base for exploring the surrounding attractions. The town is closely connected with wildlife tourism, spice plantations, local markets, restaurants and accommodation.

Spending some time in Kumily allows visitors to experience a more everyday side of the destination rather than limiting their holiday to the forest. The local market is also a good place to look for Kerala spices, tea, coffee and regional products.

Thekkady and Kumily are closely linked in practical travel terms, so accommodation in Kumily can be convenient for visitors exploring Periyar and nearby attractions.

Pandikuzhi

Pandikuzhi is a peaceful green valley located close to Thekkady and is particularly attractive to visitors looking for a quieter natural setting.

Surrounded by hills, plantations and forests, the area is suitable for short walks, photography and enjoying the landscape away from the busier tourism zones. Its scenic setting also makes it an attractive stop for families and couples.

Pandikuzhi can be combined with other nearby sightseeing locations to make the most of a full day around Thekkady.

Pullumedu

Pullumedu offers a more elevated and tranquil experience in the hills surrounding the Periyar landscape. The area is known for its rolling green scenery and panoramic views.

The route and access conditions can vary, particularly during monsoon periods, so visitors should confirm local accessibility before travelling. For those who enjoy mountain landscapes more than commercial sightseeing, Pullumedu can be a rewarding addition to a Thekkady itinerary.

Mullaperiyar Dam

The historic Mullaperiyar Dam is closely connected with the formation of Periyar Lake and therefore with the landscape that makes Thekkady famous.

The reservoir surrounded by forested hills creates a striking setting, while the wider Periyar area offers opportunities for appreciating the relationship between the lake, forest and wildlife habitat. Kerala Tourism also lists Mullaperiyar Dam among the notable attractions around Thekkady.

Visitors should follow all restrictions and safety instructions around the dam and reservoir area.

Vandanmedu

Vandanmedu is one of the important spice-growing areas in the highlands around Thekkady. It is particularly associated with cardamom cultivation and offers a glimpse into the plantation landscape of Idukki.

The journey through the surrounding hills is itself scenic, with green plantations, winding roads and mountain views. A visit here can complement a wildlife-focused holiday by introducing visitors to the agricultural heritage of the region.

Best for: Nature lovers, plantation enthusiasts and photographers.

Ramakkalmedu

Ramakkalmedu is a spectacular hill destination in Idukki known for its elevated viewpoints and sweeping views towards the plains of Tamil Nadu.

The destination combines natural scenery with local legends and distinctive rock formations. Strong winds are also characteristic of the area, making it an interesting stop for visitors who enjoy dramatic hill landscapes.

Although it is farther from central Thekkady than several attractions on this list, Ramakkalmedu can be considered by visitors staying longer in the region.

Elephant Junction

For visitors interested in learning about elephants and experiencing Kerala’s traditional relationship with these magnificent animals, Elephant Junction is a popular attraction around Thekkady.

Activities and experiences can vary, so visitors should choose responsible operators and prioritise animal welfare. The attraction is particularly popular with families looking for an activity outside the forest safari experience.

Best for: Families and visitors interested in elephant-related experiences.

Kadathanadan Kalari Centre

Kadathanadan Kalari & Navarasa Kathakali Centre

Thekkady is not only about wildlife. Its cultural attractions provide an opportunity to understand Kerala’s performing arts, particularly Kalaripayattu, one of the traditional martial arts associated with the state.

A visit to a Kalari performance can add a cultural dimension to a Thekkady holiday. Visitors can witness traditional movements, techniques and demonstrations in a performance setting. The attraction is also associated with Kathakali and other cultural presentations.

For visitors with limited time, an evening cultural performance can be an easy way to experience Kerala’s heritage after a day of sightseeing.

Anakkara

Anakkara is another excellent destination for experiencing the spice-growing landscape around Thekkady. Located in the highlands of Idukki, the region is surrounded by plantations and green countryside.

A visit to Anakkara can introduce visitors to the cultivation and processing of spices that have made Kerala internationally famous. It is especially worthwhile for those interested in plantation tourism, local agriculture and Kerala’s culinary traditions.

Best Things to Do in Thekkady

Thekkady becomes much more enjoyable when visitors combine sightseeing with experiences. Depending on the length of your stay, consider adding a Periyar Lake boat cruise, wildlife-oriented activities, guided forest walks, trekking, bamboo rafting, birdwatching, spice plantation visits and traditional cultural performances.

The Periyar ecosystem is particularly valuable for nature-based tourism. Government sources note that the reserve supports more than 60 mammal species, including Asian elephants, Bengal tigers, Indian bison, sambar deer, wild dogs and leopards, along with extensive plant diversity.

Wildlife sightings depend on season, weather, animal behaviour and luck. The most rewarding approach is to enjoy the entire forest environment rather than expecting a guaranteed tiger or elephant sighting.

How Many Days Are Enough for Thekkady?

A 2-night, 3-day Thekkady trip is suitable for most first-time visitors.

On the first day, explore Kumily and nearby attractions or visit a spice plantation. On the second day, dedicate substantial time to Periyar Tiger Reserve and Periyar Lake. The third day can be used for Gavi, Chellarkovil or another nearby attraction depending on your interests.

Visitors with only one day should prioritise the Periyar experience and select one or two nearby attractions rather than trying to cover everything.

How to Reach Thekkady

Thekkady is primarily accessed by road. Kumily is the main transport hub and is located close to the principal tourist areas.

According to the District Tourism Promotion Council, Kumily Bus Stand is about 1.5 km away, while Kottayam Railway Station is approximately 106 km away and Cochin International Airport is approximately 142 km away.

Visitors arriving by air can generally consider Kochi as a major gateway, followed by a road journey to Thekkady. Those arriving by train can consider Kottayam and continue by road.

For attractions with restricted or seasonal access, such as Mangala Devi Temple, verify the latest local arrangements before travelling.

Keep your itinerary flexible. Thekkady is a destination where weather and wildlife conditions can influence the day’s experience.