Thekkady, located in the southern Indian state of Kerala, is a picturesque and serene destination known for its lush greenery, abundant wildlife, and pristine landscapes. It is home to the famous Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Here's an overview of Thekkady:
Geography and Location:
Thekkady is situated in the Idukki district of Kerala, near the border with the neighboring state of Tamil Nadu. It is part of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its biodiversity and stunning landscapes. The town is nestled amidst the Western Ghats, offering panoramic views of rolling hills and dense forests.
Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary:
The main attraction of Thekkady is the Periyar National Park, which is spread over 925 square kilometers (356 square miles) and is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna. The centerpiece of the sanctuary is the Periyar Lake, an artificial lake created by the Mullaperiyar Dam. Visitors can take boat rides on the lake to spot wildlife along its shores, including elephants, deer, bison, and various bird species.
Wildlife Safari:
Thekkady is renowned for its wildlife safaris, which provide a unique opportunity to observe animals in their natural habitat. Jeep safaris and guided treks are available, allowing visitors to explore the forested areas and increase their chances of spotting elusive creatures like tigers and leopards. Elephant safaris are also popular and offer a unique way to traverse the jungle.
Flora and Fauna:
Periyar National Park is home to a wide range of wildlife, including Asian elephants, Indian gaurs (bison), sambar deer, barking deer, wild boars, and the occasional tiger and leopard. The sanctuary is also a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 300 species of birds, making it an excellent destination for ornithologists.
Boat Cruises:
The boat cruises on Periyar Lake are one of the major highlights of Thekkady. These cruises take you through the heart of the sanctuary and provide an opportunity to witness wildlife in a tranquil setting. The early morning and late afternoon cruises are ideal for spotting animals as they come to the water's edge to drink.
Spice Plantations:
Thekkady is known for its spice plantations, where you can learn about the cultivation and processing of spices like cardamom, pepper, cloves, and cinnamon. Many plantations offer guided tours where you can see how these spices are grown and harvested.
Kalaripayattu and Cultural Shows:
Kalaripayattu, an ancient martial art form, is practiced and showcased in Thekkady. You can attend performances and demonstrations of this dynamic and acrobatic martial art. Additionally, there are cultural shows that feature traditional dance and music from Kerala.
Access and Accommodation:
The nearest major town to Thekkady is Kumily, which is well-connected by road. The nearest railway station is Kottayam, and the nearest airport is Madurai in Tamil Nadu, both of which are around 140 kilometers (87 miles) away. Thekkady offers a range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts, ensuring that visitors can find suitable lodging for their needs.
Thekkady is a tranquil and rejuvenating destination where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, witness diverse wildlife, and experience the rich culture of Kerala. Whether you're interested in adventure, wildlife, or simply seeking a peaceful getaway in the lap of nature, Thekkady has something to offer every traveler.
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Thekkady, located in the southern Indian state of Kerala, is a picturesque and serene destination known for its lush greenery, abundant wildlife, and pristine landscapes. It is home to the famous Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Here's an overview of Thekkady:
Geography and Location:
Thekkady is situated in the Idukki district of Kerala, near the border with the neighboring state of Tamil Nadu. It is part of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its biodiversity and stunning landscapes. The town is nestled amidst the Western Ghats, offering panoramic views of rolling hills and dense forests.
Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary:
The main attraction of Thekkady is the Periyar National Park, which is spread over 925 square kilometers (356 square miles) and is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna. The centerpiece of the sanctuary is the Periyar Lake, an artificial lake created by the Mullaperiyar Dam. Visitors can take boat rides on the lake to spot wildlife along its shores, including elephants, deer, bison, and various bird species.
Wildlife Safari:
Thekkady is renowned for its wildlife safaris, which provide a unique opportunity to observe animals in their natural habitat. Jeep safaris and guided treks are available, allowing visitors to explore the forested areas and increase their chances of spotting elusive creatures like tigers and leopards. Elephant safaris are also popular and offer a unique way to traverse the jungle.
Flora and Fauna:
Periyar National Park is home to a wide range of wildlife, including Asian elephants, Indian gaurs (bison), sambar deer, barking deer, wild boars, and the occasional tiger and leopard. The sanctuary is also a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 300 species of birds, making it an excellent destination for ornithologists.
Boat Cruises:
The boat cruises on Periyar Lake are one of the major highlights of Thekkady. These cruises take you through the heart of the sanctuary and provide an opportunity to witness wildlife in a tranquil setting. The early morning and late afternoon cruises are ideal for spotting animals as they come to the water's edge to drink.
Spice Plantations:
Thekkady is known for its spice plantations, where you can learn about the cultivation and processing of spices like cardamom, pepper, cloves, and cinnamon. Many plantations offer guided tours where you can see how these spices are grown and harvested.
Kalaripayattu and Cultural Shows:
Kalaripayattu, an ancient martial art form, is practiced and showcased in Thekkady. You can attend performances and demonstrations of this dynamic and acrobatic martial art. Additionally, there are cultural shows that feature traditional dance and music from Kerala.
Access and Accommodation:
The nearest major town to Thekkady is Kumily, which is well-connected by road. The nearest railway station is Kottayam, and the nearest airport is Madurai in Tamil Nadu, both of which are around 140 kilometers (87 miles) away. Thekkady offers a range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts, ensuring that visitors can find suitable lodging for their needs.
Thekkady is a tranquil and rejuvenating destination where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, witness diverse wildlife, and experience the rich culture of Kerala. Whether you're interested in adventure, wildlife, or simply seeking a peaceful getaway in the lap of nature, Thekkady has something to offer every traveler.
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