Explore The Rustic Life Of Thekkady With Lunch
Active
9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
The very sound of the word Thekkady conjures up images of elephants, unending chains of hills and spice-scented plantations. In the Periyar forest of Thekkady is one of the finest wildlife reserves in India and spread across the entire district are picturesque plantations and hill towns. On this day tour of Thekkady visit a coffee and spice plantation, learn about beekeeping, chocolate and poppadom making. Also visit a South Indian ashram (monastery).
Highlights
• Visit to a coffee & spice plantation
• Views from Valiyapara & Ottakathalamedu
• Santhigiri ashram
Available options
1-8 Travelers
Price per person for 1-8 travelers<br/>Pickup included
What's included
02 bottles of mineral water per person
Lunch (beverage excluded)
Local English speaking guide
Transport by private air-conditioned vehicle
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
You will be picked up from your hotel in Periyar and driven to a coffee plantation in nearby Thekkady. After the tour of the plantation you will also get to see how your daily dose of coffee is produced before it ends up in your cup.
Drive next to the vantage point of Valiyapara, which literally means ‘giant rock’. From here you can get a full view of Thekkady, its paddy fields and plantations.
Also visit a farm and learn about beekeeping and honey collection. See how your crunchy poppadoms are made.
2
The next stop is Santhigiri Ashram. Spend some time watching the residents as they make coir products and weave fabrics at their handlooms. You will also get a chance to interact with the Swamiji (head monk) and seek his spiritual guidance.
Take a break for lunch (beverage excluded) at a local restaurant.
3
After lunch, visit a spice plantation and see how spices like nutmeg, cardamom and pepper are grown.
4
Stop 4
Your next stop is Ottakathalamedu, a viewpoint on the top of a mountain that offers a spectacular view of the Thekkady Dam and surrounding hills.
End your visit of Thekkady with a performance of some folk dances of Kerala.
At the end of the tour, you will be taken back to your hotel in Periyar.
What's not included
Food or drink, unless specified
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
A moderate amount of walking is involved.
Not recommended for pregnant women and people with heart problems.
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Meeting point
We will pick up traveler from their hotels / fixed point within city center.
Important notes
Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.
About Thekkady
Thekkady is a picturesque destination nestled in the Western Ghats, renowned for its wildlife sanctuary and spice plantations. It offers a unique blend of nature, adventure, and cultural experiences, making it a must-visit for eco-tourists and wildlife enthusiasts.
Top Attractions
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
A renowned wildlife sanctuary and a major attraction in Thekkady, known for its diverse wildlife and scenic beauty.
Nature/Adventure
Half day to full day
Moderate (Entry fee around ₹500-₹1000 for foreigners)
Periyar Tiger Reserve
A part of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, this reserve is a crucial habitat for tigers and other wildlife.
Nature/Adventure
Half day to full day
Moderate (Entry fee around ₹500-₹1000 for foreigners)
Spice Plantations
Thekkady is famous for its spice plantations, offering guided tours and insights into the spice trade.
Cultural/Nature
1-2 hours
Budget to Moderate (Tour fees around ₹200-₹500)
Periyar Lake
A beautiful lake within the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, offering boat rides and stunning views.
Nature/Adventure
1-2 hours
Moderate (Boat ride fee around ₹300-₹500)
Kumaragiri Hill Station
A scenic hill station near Thekkady, known for its beautiful landscapes and trekking opportunities.
Nature/Adventure
Half day to full day
Budget (Entry fee around ₹100-₹200)
Thekkady Elephant Arrival Festival
An annual festival celebrating the arrival of elephants to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, featuring cultural performances and rituals.
Cultural/Festival
1 day
Free to attend
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kappa and Meen Curry
Tapioca cooked with fish curry, a traditional Kerala dish.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish and gluten-free
Appam with Stew
Soft, lacy pancakes made from rice flour and coconut milk, served with a spicy coconut milk-based stew.
Breakfast/Lunch
Vegetarian and gluten-free
Karimeen Pollichathu
Pearl spot fish marinated in spices, coated with egg, and fried to perfection.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish and gluten-free
Puttu and Kadala Curry
Steamed rice cakes served with a spicy black chickpea curry.
Breakfast/Lunch
Vegetarian and gluten-free
Popular Activities
Wildlife spotting
Trekking
Boating
Camping
Spice plantation tours
Houseboat cruises
Yoga and meditation
Visiting temples and historical sites
Best Time to Visit
October to May
This is the best time to visit Thekkady, with pleasant weather and ideal conditions for wildlife spotting and outdoor activities.
20°C to 32°C
68°F to 90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Malayalam
- Widely spoken: English, Hindi
- English: Widely spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Indian Rupee (INR)
Time Zone
IST (GMT+5:30)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Thekkady is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming local population. However, it's important to be cautious and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of wildlife when walking in and around the sanctuary.
- • Carry a map or use GPS as street signs can be limited.
- • Be cautious when eating street food, and choose vendors with high turnover and good hygiene practices.
Getting there
By air
- Cochin International Airport • 180 km
- Madurai Airport • 140 km
By train
Kumily Railway Station
By bus
Kumily Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common and affordable mode of public transport in Thekkady. They connect major attractions and nearby towns.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Ola, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Kumily
Thekkady Town
Day trips
Munnar
120 km • Full day
A picturesque hill station known for its tea plantations, waterfalls, and scenic landscapes.
Kumarakom
120 km • Full day
A serene backwater destination known for its houseboats, bird sanctuary, and beautiful landscapes.
Madurai
140 km • Full day
An ancient city known for its rich history, architecture, and vibrant culture.
Festivals
Thekkady Elephant Arrival Festival • April (dates vary)
Onam • August-September (dates vary)
Vishu • April (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Visit the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best chance of spotting wildlife.
- Join a guided tour or hire a local guide for a more immersive and educational experience in Thekkady.
- Explore the spice plantations and markets to learn about the rich history and culture of the spice trade in Kerala.
- Try local dishes and cuisine, such as seafood curries, appam, and puttu, for an authentic taste of Kerala.
- Carry a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent when exploring the wildlife sanctuary and nature trails.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
