Discover Thekkady: An Enchanting Haven in Kerala’s Heart
Unveiling the Natural Splendors of Thekkady
Nestled graciously in the embrace of Kerala, adjacent to the border town of Kumily in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, lies the serene paradise of Thekkady. Just 257 km (160 miles) away from Trivandrum, 114 km from Madurai Airport, 185 km from Cochin International Airport, and 114 km from Kottayam railway station, this haven boasts unparalleled beauty. Enveloped by dense evergreen, semi-evergreen, and moist deciduous forests, along with sprawling savanna grasslands, Thekkady is a sanctuary that thrives with life. It’s home to magnificent elephants, majestic tigers, graceful sambar, powerful gaur, playful lion-tailed macaques, and elegant Nilgiri langurs.
Exploring the Vastness of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Spanning across an expansive 777 km² (300 sq. miles), with a lush 360 km² (139 sq. miles) of thick evergreen forest, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary stands as a testament to nature’s grandeur. This haven was rightfully declared a Tiger Reserve in the year 1978. A magnificent artificial lake, born from the Mullaiperiyar Dam that spans the Periyar River, graces the park with an enchanting touch. However, the true allure of Periyar lies in the spectacle of wild elephants descending to the lake to frolic and play.
Nature’s Bounty: Thekkady’s Spice Trails
Immerse yourself in the aromatic embrace of natural spices, for Thekkady is renowned for being a haven of flavors. Black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, and clove thrive in abundance, painting the air with their fragrant symphony.
A Glimpse into Thekkady’s Treasures
Periyar National Park: Where Wilderness Thrives
Covering a sprawling 777 km², the Periyar National Park unveils a dense evergreen expanse teeming with exotic wildlife. Earning its stripes as a tiger reserve in 1978, the park boasts an artificial lake, a gift from the historic Mullaperiyar Dam, erected in 1895 across the Periyar River.
Murikkady: A Symphony of Spices
Just a stone’s throw away, approximately 5 km from Thekkady, lies Murikkady. Here, lush spice and coffee plantations create a verdant tapestry that enchants the senses and lures the curious.
Chellar Kovil: A Cascading Wonderland
Venture 15 km from Kumily, and you’ll find Chellar Kovil, a gateway to the Theni district in Tamil Nadu. Enveloped by waterfalls and cascades, this haven exudes tranquility and unmatched beauty.
Anakkara: The Spice Haven
Merely 13 km away from Kumily on the Kumily-Munnar road, Anakkara stands poised as an emerging spice tourism destination. It also holds the promise of a potential new airport, currently under the watchful review of the Airports Authority of India.
Mangala Devi Temple: A Sacred Summit
Located 15 km from Thekkady, perched at a majestic altitude of 1337 m above sea level, Mangala Devi Temple awaits. It reveals its splendor exclusively during the Chitra Pournami festival, offering an experience that is both mystical and divine.
Journey to Thekkady’s Heart
As you tread the grounds of Thekkady, you’ll find yourself immersed in a realm where nature’s symphony resounds, and every corner unravels a new wonder. From the sanctuary’s lush domains to the spice-scented air, Thekkady invites you to experience the grandeur of Kerala’s heart like never before.
