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Thekkady is a small town in Kerala, India, with big things happening in and around it.

It’s well-known mainly because it homes Periyar National Park. The sanctuary is 700+ square kilometres of forest, water and exotic wildlife, including elephants, tigers, snakes and over 300 types of bird.

Tigers worry you? This is one of the few places in India where you can take a safari by boat, meaning you’re safe. And those on foot normally travel with an armed guard. No risks are taken.

Aside from wildlife, the Thekkady area is also renowned for its spice plantations: black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon and clove all grow here. Tea and coffee are also abundant in the surrounding hills.

This is a relatively high altitude region. We’re talking 900 to 1,800 metres above sea level.

The best time to visit is between September and April.

Paliyans and Mannans, remote Indian tribal people, live in this area. You can take guided visits to observe their lives and traditions.

Other activities possible in Thekkady include: trekking, tea factory visits, bike hire, temple tours, elephant washing, Ayurvedic massage and yoga, kalikathi dance events and bamboo rafting.

In 30 seconds, this is the quick guide to Thekkady.

One more fact you might like to know: if you book before 30 September you can stay in one of our beautiful Thekkady Homestays for half price. Take advantage of this remarkable offer while it lasts.

Interested to know more? Visit our Thekkady Homestays page for a more detailed look.