Thekkady

Thekkady is the gateway to the Periyar Tiger Reserve, spreading across 925 sq km of evergreen forest in the Cardamom Hills. The region is a fragrant mosaic of spice and tea plantations, famous worldwide for cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon. The iconic Periyar Lake cruise allows visitors to spot wild elephants and sambar deer along the shoreline, while jungle patrols and guided spice plantation walks offer a deeper dive into the natural surroundings. Visitors can also interact ethically with elephants, shop for fresh spices at Kumily Bazaar, and witness captivating traditional Kalaripayattu martial arts performances. It is a thrilling blend of wildlife, culture, and nature.