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| Thekkady |
Thekkady is a popular tourist destination located in Idukki district of Kerala, India. It is famous for its spectacular natural beauty, wildlife and spice plantations. The main attraction of Thekkady is the Periyar National Park, a protected area and tiger sanctuary that offers visitors an opportunity to get up close and personal with wildlife and nature. Here are some details about Thekkady and its attractions:
1. Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary: Periyar National Park is one of the most popular attractions in Thekkady. It is home to a variety of wildlife including elephants, tigers, deer and various species of birds. The park is located around the Periyar Lake where you can enjoy a boat ride to spot the animals and admire the beautiful surroundings.
2. Boat Cruises: Boat cruises on Lake Periyar offer a great opportunity to see wildlife in their natural habitat. Morning and evening boat rides are popular options and offer different perspectives of the park and its inhabitants.
3. Spice Gardens: Thekkady is also famous for its spice gardens including cardamom, black pepper, cinnamon and cloves. Visitors can take a guided tour of these gardens to learn about the cultivation and processing of spices.
4. Elephant Rides and Interactions: Many places in Thekkady offer elephant rides and interactions, allowing you to get up close to these majestic creatures and participate in activities like elephant bathing.
5. Nature Walks and Trekking: Thekkady offers trekking and nature walking options that allow you to explore the surrounding forests, hills and gardens. There are various routes of varying difficulty levels, suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers.
6. Kathakali and Kalaripayat Performances: Experience traditional Kerala art forms by participating in Kathakali dance performances and Kalaripayat martial arts performances.
7. Chellarkovil: A quiet village near Thekkady known for its breathtaking views of plains and waterfalls.
8. Mangala Devi Temple: Perched on a hilltop, this ancient temple offers a challenging trek and rewards visitors with panoramic views of the surrounding area.
How to reach Thekkady:
Thekkady is well connected by road from various towns and cities in Kerala and neighboring states. The nearest major town is Kumali at a distance of 4 km. Following are the main routes to reach Thekkady:
1. By Air: The nearest airports are Madurai Airport (Tamil Nadu) and Cochin International Airport (Kerala). From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Thekkady.
2. By Train: The nearest railway station is Kottayam Railway Station which is about 114 km away. From there you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Thekkady.
3. By Road: Thekkady is well connected by road. Both government-owned and private buses ply regularly to major towns and cities in Kerala. You can hire a taxi or drive your own vehicle.
Please note that there may have been developments or changes since the last update in September 2021. It is recommended to check the current status and details before planning your trip.