The Ultimate Traveller’s Guide On the Best Things to Do in Thekkady

Known as "God's Own Country," Kerala is home to many enchanting towns and islands that captivate every traveller who sets foot in them. The unparalleled beauty of these destinations leaves an indelible mark on visitors, often making them yearn to return again and again. One such gem nestled in the Idukki district of Kerala is Thekkady.

A haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, Thekkady is truly a miracle of nature. While there are many reasons for visiting this green paradise of Kerela, the main one is many things to do it offers. Whether you're exploring the dense forests, admiring the tranquil lakes, or spotting wildlife in their natural habitat, Thekkady offers a unique experience for everyone.

With so many things to do in Thekkady, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. To help you plan your unforgettable trip, we will guide you through what to do in Thekkady to make the most of your time in this enchanting land.

Best 10 things to do in Thekkady

From thrilling wildlife safaris in the renowned Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary to visiting spice farms and enjoying an elephant ride, there are so many things to do in Thekkady that you will fall short of days.

Here are some of the popular activities to do in Thekkady that you should definitely include in your itinerary: -

• Cruise the Periyar Lake
• Ride Through the jungle.
• Take a Peek Into the Past at Tribal Heritage Museum
• Shop Spices Off The Streets
• Go for Adventurous Bamboo Rafting
• Bath and Feed Adorable Elephants
• Become the Jungle Guard for a Night
• Follow The Tiger
• Embark on Guided Day Trek
• Hike to Thekkady’s Most Stunning Waterfall

Cruise the Periyar Lake

The first and foremost thing to do in Thekkady is take a scenic boat ride on Periyar Lake. The lake, which lies at the heart of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, is a place where you can spot wildlife such as elephants and various bird species drinking and resting while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding hills. If you are lucky, you might also get a chance to watch elephants playing with their babies.

Timings: 7 AM, 9:30 AM, 11:30 AM, 2 PM and 4 PM

Ride Through the Jungle

One of the most off-beat yet thrilling adventure activities in Thekkady is embarking on a jungle safari. This exhilarating experience allows you to ride through the dense, untouched forests of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, offering a chance to witness the region’s diverse wildlife in their natural habitat. During the safari, you can expect to encounter exotic wildlife, including elephants, deer, bison, and a variety of bird species. The jeep safari starts from Gavi at 6 a.m. and includes breakfast and lunch.

Take a Peek Into the Past at Tribal Heritage Museum

Located within the Mannan settlement, the Tribal Heritage Museum features fascinating artefacts related to ancient agricultural practices, marriage ceremonies, cultural events, rituals, and death ceremonies. Offering a deep insight into the ancient culture and practices of Southern India, it's definitely one of the must-see things to see in Thekkady, especially for history lovers and families with kids. You can also find artefacts like fishing gear, hunting weapons, indigenous medicine, bamboo furniture, cereals, medicinal herbs, and more, on display.

Timing: 8 AM to noon and then from 2 PM to 4 PM

Shop Spices Off the Street

Visiting Kerala and not shopping for spices at the spice capital, then did you even visit? With numerous spice plantations nearby, Thekkady boasts a vast collection of authentic spices, including cardamom, nutmeg, clove, vanilla, cumin, pepper, and many more. You can find a variety of shops selling organic, garden-fresh spices at reasonable prices. Don't forget to purchase small packets of spices as unique souvenirs to cherish the memories of your trip.

Go for Adventurous Bamboo Rafting

Among the best things to do in Thekkady is to go on a unique bamboo rafting adventure, where you sail close to the water’s surface, surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Kerala Tourism organizes this exciting experience, which begins at 8 a.m. with a guided trek through the dense forests of the Periyar Tiger Reserve, home to Sambars, Bisons, Elephants, Deer, and Tigers. Bamboo rafting is an integral part of the trek, providing you with a chance to glide along the serene waters of Periyar Lake on traditional bamboo rafts.

Timings: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm; daily

Bath and Feed Adorable Elephants

If you are an animal lover, then the Elephant Junction just might be one of the best places to visit in Thekkady for you. This park is dedicated to sheltering and caring for young elephants, offering a unique opportunity to interact with these gentle giants. Located in a scenic setting, the park allows visitors to feed, bathe, and even take photos with the elephants, making it a memorable experience for animal enthusiasts and families alike.

While elephant rides are also offered here, many animal rights organizations and environmental conservationists consider this activity to be cruel.

Become the Jungle Guard for a Night

Night patrol, or becoming a jungle guard, is one of the best adventure activities in Thekkady. As part of this thrilling experience, you’ll join forest authorities and guards for a late-night walk through the Periyar Tiger Reserve. The patrol typically runs from 7 p.m. to 4 a.m., and participants need to stay alert to any activity in the forest, gaining a firsthand understanding of jungle life. This activity is highly recommended for adventure seekers eager for an unforgettable experience.

Timings: 10:00 pm – 4:00 am; daily

Follow The Tiger

The uniqueness of the ‘Follow the Tiger’ program has made it one of the most popular activities to do in Thekkady. Led by former poachers from Periyar National Park, this program offers guided tours that allow participants to follow the trails of Nilgiri Langurs, elephants, and even tigers. Engaging in this program is a remarkable way to connect with nature while learning about conservation efforts in one of Kerala's most stunning landscapes.

Timings: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

Embark on a Peaceful Nature Walk

Thanks to Periyar's abundant natural beauty and expansive forest reserves, nature walking is one of the best things to do in Thekkady. The daily guided treks, spanning 4 to 5 km, provide fantastic opportunities to explore the region's diverse flora and fauna, including birds, butterflies, and various animal species. Each group can consist of up to five people, along with an additional tribal guide to enhance the experience.

Timings: 7:00 am – 10:00 am, 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm; daily

Hike to Thekkady’s Most Stunning Waterfall

Located at a distance of 15 kilometres from Thekkady, the Chellarkovil waterfall is one of the best things to see in Thekkady. This hidden gem is set against a backdrop of lush greenery and misty mountains, making it a picturesque spot for nature lovers. The waterfall cascades dramatically, especially during the monsoon season, transforming into a breathtaking sight that draws visitors from all over. In addition to the stunning views, Chellarkovil offers various activities to do in Thekkady, including trekking through scenic trails and visiting the nearby Chellarkovil Viewpoint, known as "God's Own Balcony”.

In conclusion, with so many things to do in Thekkady, it’s no wonder that it continues to be a top choice for travellers seeking a peaceful escape in the lap of nature. Whether you're looking to unwind amidst nature, indulge in adventure, or explore the rich biodiversity, Thekkady is undoubtedly one of the must-visit places in Kerala.

For a hassle-free and memorable experience, consider exploring the range of Thekkady tour packages offered by Veena World. Each package on our site is tailored to match the needs and preferences of every traveller, ensuring you have memorable experiences.