Discovering Thekkady: Kerala’s Natural Haven
Set amidst the Western Ghats, Thekkady is a haven for adventure and for experiencing tranquillity and culture among travellers. Thekkady is probably most famous for its wildlife sanctuary as well as the beauty of its natural scenery, offering abundant activity for nature lovers, thrill-seekers, and couples. Be it the lush flora and fauna of Kerala or a day in serenity, Thekkady has it all. Let us break down into detail what makes Thekkady one of the best romantic getaways in Kerala.
How to Reach Thekkady
It is easy to reach the place, considering the good connectivity through roads, rails, and airways.
- By Air: The closest airport to Thekkady is the Madurai International Airport in Tamil Nadu, which is 140 km away. Another international airport from where you could board a flight is Cochin International Airport about 190 km from here. From either of the two places, you can hire a taxi and bus facility to reach Thekkady.
- By Rail: The nearest train station to Kottayam is situated 107 kilometers away, and regular train services are available from major cities in Kerala and nearby states to Kottayam. Travelers can easily find buses and taxis for onward journeys from Kottayam.
- By Road: Thekkady has a strong network of state highways connecting it to Kochi (190 km), Madurai (140 km), and Trivandrum (265 km) among other cities. Buses also run regularly from towns and cities to Thekkady making it an ideal halt for those on a Kerala holiday package.
Best Time to Visit Thekkady
The best months to explore Kerala through Thekkady are October to March, as the climate is fresh and pleasant. At that time, it offers the perfect weather for one to sightsee, trek, or go boating. Still, if you want to witness Thekkady in all its monsoonal glory, June to September is perfect for experiencing the verdant freshness of the area although a few activities would be limited due to heavy rains.
Things to do in Thekkady
Thekkady is an ideal haven for any outdoor enthusiast who will be thrilled at the phenomenal opportunities that this city provides to experience the richness of Kerala. Here are the top things to do in Kerala.
1. Boating at Periyar Lake – Best Experience in Kerala
Boating at Periyar Lake is the most enjoyed activity in Thekkady, which not only gives you a front-row seat to the wildlife within Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary but also has a picture of serenity- the thick forests on all sides of this very serene lake may make you catch a glimpse of elephants, sambar deer, or even the elusive tiger while you are drifting along the calm waters of this lake. A boat ride at sunrise or sunset is particularly enchanting and an excellent way to explore Kerala at its best.
2. Visit Spice Plantation
Thekkady is known for spice plantations and you can explore Kerala as the spice capital of India through a spice plantation tour. Walking through luscious green cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and vanilla plantations will be a feast for your senses. Guided tours give an insight into the farming process and exposure to rich aromas defining Kerala cuisine. This tour needs to be experienced during any Kerala holiday package.
3. Traditional Martial Art Shows & Kathakali Performance
No tour to Kerala can be said to be complete unless it experiences the bright cultural aspect of the land. In Thekkady, you can see traditional martial arts shows such as Kalaripayattu, an ancient fighting system that has survived the test of time.
The agility of the performing artists is only a source of joy. Equally mesmerizing are Kathakali performances, Kerala’s classical dance-drama that expresses itself through elaborate facial expressions, hand gestures, as well as orchestration. This experience, perhaps one of the best in Kerala, is sure to deepen your understanding of the state’s culture.
4. Bamboo Rafting with Trekking- Best Thing to do in Kerala
For those who would love the adventurous, bamboo rafting along with trekking through the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary forests is a must-do. This full-day eco-tour is the best way to explore Kerala’s wilderness. Float down the Periyar River on a bamboo raft surrounded by the forest sights and sounds and then trek deeper into the sanctuary, get wildlife spotting, birdwatching, and just wonderful landscape views.
5. Full-Day GAVI Excursion
Gavi, an eco-site within the Periyar Tiger Reserve in Kerala, has been ranked one of the best places in the world for its unspoiled land and abundant bio-diversity. Gavi has become famous worldwide, and it is one of India’s best options for eco-tourism.
Here, tourists can experience unexplored nature with chances of sighting rare animals such as Nilgiri Tahr, lion-tailed macaques, and elephants or engage in bird watching, which has more than 260 species, including the great pied hornbill and woodpecker.
Gavi values sustainability- it asks visitors to leave just footprints and take away memories. Gavi is an eco-tourism centre, preserving and encouraging activities such as trekking, camping, and boating in an environment that was designed in such a way that human impact on nature is barely perceptible.
A drive to Gavi is a great adventure by roads passing through dense forests, waterfalls and rolling hills. This hub is perfect for a nature lover as well as a wildlife enthusiast who wants to enjoy wildlife in a responsible and sustainable manner in Kerala.
The Gavi trip is one of the best experiences in Kerala with the raw biodiversity of the state at its finest. It is thus indeed an unforgettable journey for both couples and solo travellers as well. Thick forests and waterfalls and pristine lakes are always looming large over there.
Why Thekkady is the Best Kerala Romantic Getaway
Thekkady is the perfect romantic getaway with serene landscapes, cultural richness, and thrilling activities. The Western Ghats’ beauty, misty mornings, and opportunities for quiet moments in the wild make it the ideal environment for reconnecting. Whether it is a boat ride on Periyar Lake at sunset a quiet walk through spice plantations, or even dinner with candles lit and a view of the hills unobstructed, Thekkady gives scope for the most romantic getaways in Kerala.
Conclusion
Thekkady is not to be missed if one ever plans to explore Kerala. Whether you prefer a Kerala holiday package full of adventure and cultural immersion or one filled with relaxation, Thekkady has something for all. From the serene waters of Periyar Lake to the loud Kathakali shows, from the rustic aroma of spice plantations to the thrill of bamboo rafting, you add a unique page to your Kerala journey.
For couples, it is one of the best romantic getaways because it brings together just the right amount of romance and adventure amidst the great outdoors. So pack your bags, and let Thekkady be your next holiday destination in Kerala!