Top 20 Places to Visit in Thekkady During Family Vacation

Nestled snugly on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border is the lush green town of Thekkady. A respite from the topical and humid Kerala, Thekkady is home to sprawling forests and plantations which makes it just the perfect abode when winding down with family is your top priority. The twirling Ghaats that take you to this heart-warming town are nothing less than a sight themselves with you feeling snuggled amidst nature and chirping birds all the way to Thekkady. Sightseeing in Thekkady might be the first thing you want to consider when planning a trip to this town. There is no dearth of places to make you feel like you have landed in a prototype of heaven.

Also Read: Captivating Thekkady – Welcome to Three Days of Excitement and Serenity

The top 20 places to visit in Thekkady

1. Periyar National Park

2. Thekkady Lake

3. Spices Plantation Visit

4. Connemara Tea Factory

5. Santhigiri Ashram

6. Gavi

7. Kumily

8. Tribal Heritage Programme

9. Suruli Waterfalls

10. Paraunthumpara Hill Viewpoint

11. Murikkady

12. Peermade

13. Pandikuzhi Waterfalls

14. Chellarkovil

15. Mullaperiyar Dam

16. Mangla Devi Temple

17. Kadathanadan Kalari Centre

18. Vandanmedu

19. Thekkady Tea Estate and Waterfall Jeep Safari

20. Ramakkalmedu

1. Periyar National Park

Thekkady is best known for the Periyar National Park which sprawls over 250 square miles in area and is easily one of the most bio-diverse reserves of India. When planning about the places to visit in Thekkady, this reserve deserves most of your attention. The national park has many species apart from the Tigers that it is the most famous for. Other species include Indian Elephants, Sloth bears, Wild pigs, Giant squirrels and the likes along with an array of fish and a variety of flora/fauna thanks to the two rivers Pamba and Periyar that cross the reserve.

Known for its serene greenery and the marvellous cohabitation of thousands of species, Periyar National park is the most sought-after place when you start sightseeing in Thekkady. It does not really matter if you are a wildlife enthusiast, a keen photographer or not interested in wildlife at all; this reserve is bound to captivate you with its sheer magnificence and leave you wondrous about how such places are so ironical with the real life of humans where coexisting is mostly a struggle. The fresh air, the trails, nature walks and the quiet lakes make you want to keep walking alongside the countryside for hours together! Apart from the trails, this reserve also offers night safaris, rafting, museum visits and the likes to the thousands of travellers that visit Thekkady every year. Don’t forget to try out the Elephant Safari for a unique experience, amongst other things!

The Periyar National Park is also known as the Periyar Tiger Reserve because of a wide variety of White and Bengal Tigers that reside here. With over 35 tigers in the reserve, the very famous tiger trail provides the visitors with an opportunity to spot the tigers around them in the sanctuary. This is one of the reasons why Periyar Tiger Reserve is a must-visit in the list of places to visit in Thekkady. There are different trekking programs organised by the authorities which may include camping overnight in the forest too. The trek might be 20-30 Kilometres long and each flock of visitors is accompanied by the local guides and armed guards.

One of the most prominent places to visit in Thekkady, Periyar National Park is open from 6 am to 7 pm every day. Indian adults have to pay Rs 33 for entry and the same for a child is Rs 5. Contrastingly, non-Indian nationals have to pay Rs 450 for an adult and Rs 155 for a child.

2. Thekkady Lake

A boat ride across the Thekkady lake, also known as the Periyar lake, is a must-do in the checklist of sightseeing in Thekkady. This lake that came into shape due to the Mullaperiyar Dam back in the 19th century, is one of the most sought-after tourist attractions in Thekkady owing to the expanse it covers and the visual scenic beauty it has to offer. This lake also is the most important source of water for all the species dwelling in the Periyar National Park.

Hop on to the 15/25-seater boats that take you for the joy rides into the wilderness. The boat rides last for 1.5-2 hours and the charges are around Rs 280 for Indian adults and ~Rs 500 for Foreign nationals. There are 5 boating slot timings available between 7.30 am to 3.30 pm. You shall be able to spot different species of monkeys, bears, goats, wild elephants and an immense variety of fish in the late. Forest inhabitants can be commonly seen at the banks cleaning themselves and splashing the water around. It makes for a pleasurable sight to be experienced from the comfortable safety of the boat.

You can even enjoy the bamboo rafting at the Thekkady lake which is coupled with some hiking into the thick forest with a mysticism that you have to see with your own eyes to experience. Facilitated by the community-based eco-tourism program, this one-of-its-kind voyage is extendable to a day-long trip that starts at 7.45 am. Apart from spotting various species of animals on the riverbanks bathing themselves or just have a gulp of water, you can also see a variety of fish in the lake and right up front. Always supported by armed guards and guides, you shall be in good hands while exploring nature here.

Even though you can book the boat-tickets on the spot; it is always advisable to pre-book the tickets online. This is advised in order to make sure you don’t miss out on one of the best places to visit in Thekkady.

3. Spices Plantation Visit

Kerala is famous for the variety of spices it grows and also uses in its cuisine. Hence, a spice plantation is a must amongst the places to visit in Thekkady. A delectable aroma infuses into your senses as you tread along the twisting paths of these spice gardens. Fragrances like fresh-from-the-soil cardamom, nutmeg and cloves, among several others, will not leave your memory for some days to come. The spice plantations at Kumily are exceptionally pure as the climatic conditions of the region are very favourable to the growth of these spices. Most of these spice gardens charge somewhere between INR 100 to INR 200 per visit and are open throughout the day. You are accompanied by a guide, who while informing you about the benefits of each spice, shall insist you taste them, and you should definitely oblige him!

Kerala contributes to more than 70% of India’s total cardamom produce and has one of the best climatic conditions to grow pepper plantations. Travellers can also get an insight into how these spices are grown, processed and made ready for daily use. Most of these spice plantations in and around Thekkady sell their products to visitors too. If you want to see how cardamom is peeled out of the plants or how vanilla is extracted through hand-pollination, we suggest you spend some time and take a detailed guided tour. While the aromas will leave you wanting for more, you can also witness the harvesting and usage of other parts of these plants in the making of cosmetics and perfumes, etc.

4. Connemara Tea Factory

Located at Vandiperiyar–15 kilometres away from Thekkady–Connemara tea factory is one of the oldest ones of its kind in Kerala. The panoramic view of the tea estate right upon entry makes you fall in love with the place instantly. You can reach here via Kumily; the place has buses leaving for Vandiperiyar every 30-40 minutes. Having been built in 1940, this tea factory is your window into understanding what goes into the process of converting tea leaves to the tea form we consume every day. The entrance fee is in the range of INR 150-200 per person, and the factory is open to visitors every day from 9 to 4 PM barring Sundays.

The tour starts with an audio-visual comprising a tutorial of the whole process of crushing, curling, fermenting and drying of the tea leaves before they reach a consumable state. You can even try your hand at making tea and buy packets of freshly processed tea leaves. It is a guided tour and might just make you want to have a plantation of your own! The lingering fragrance of the tea leaves will remain on your fingers and will make you want to go back to this very enjoyable and educational tour visit. When thinking of the places to visit in Thekkady, this tea factory is an absolute must! The factory guides provide you with all the information you desire and are delighted to answer any questions that you might have.

5. Santhigiri Ashram

If you believe in spiritual healing then Santhigiri Ashram is a place you would not want to miss. People from all over the world come here for physical and mental healing. It is a place where the calmness and peace just transcend on you and a trance-like state takes over as you take in the greenery and immerse yourself in the various activities the ashram has to offer.

You can meet and have an enlightening conversation with the Guruji or branch out into their organic farms, plantations or the production units. The lunch served at the ashram is a spectacular treat. Traditional Kerala cuisine infused with the purity of this serene abode, makes for a scrumptious meal. Even a simple meal of some curries and rice on a banana leaf can taste utterly divine.

6. Gavi

Situated in the Idukki village, Gavi is a small village tucked away around 14 Km from Thekaddy. Located between the tea estates and sprawling forests, the Kerala Forest Development Corporation has identified Gavi as the eco-tourism project. Gavi is the chosen one for this project because of the wide expanse of flora and fauna it offers and the involvement of the locals in all tourism-related activities as well as in preserving the place as-is.

The Gavi waterfall and Gavi hilltop are just a few of the many places to visit and admire the lush green beauty of nature that surrounds this village. Our recommendation would be to leave early morning from Thekkady to visit Gavi because even the road leading to the village goes through various tea plantations, tiny water streams and enchanting valleys making for breath-taking views. In addition, there are activities like trekking, hiking etc that keep you busy if you decide to stay on at Gavi for the night. The eco-lodge, Green Mansion, is warm and beautiful place to make your abode and gives you a lovely view of the Gavi lake.

At Gavi, the tribals are your guides and they make your experience absolutely delightful. Camp in the forests with them, go on a quiet canoe ride on Gavi lake or just talk to them about their life in general; their simplicity of thoughts will strike you as uncanny.

Gavi also makes for a paradise for birdwatchers and wildlife lovers with many endangered species that are spotted on the outskirts and also over 200 species of birds dwelling in the surroundings. Even Sabarimala, the pilgrimage, is only a short trek away from Gavi. Gavi is the place where wilderness comes alive and tranquility finds its home, all at the same time. Sightseeing in Thekkady can never be complete without visiting this village.

7. Kumily

Also fondly referred to as the ‘Plantation Town’, Kumily is an amazing holiday destination housing an exuberant amount of attractions to see and activities to indulge in. Being one of the best places to visit in Thekkady, Kumily witnesses the hustle bustle of numerous tourists throughout the year. This small village located in the Idukki District of Thekkady is always teeming with wonderful activities which lures in every type of visitor.

Housing a plethora of tea and spice plantations, this town forms an essential part in the commercial front of Kerala. Large volumes of spices are traded through this town making it one of the most prominent commercial hubs in Thekkady. The local markets are filled with an array of choices in spice which are very fresh and are of the highest quality.

Being situated at the intersecting border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, this tourist destination is well connected by all the nearby cities, towns and villages of both the states. The activity of plantation walks in Kumily forms an essential part of sightseeing in Thekkady as it offers the most surreal experience of exploring the spice and tea plantation which this region is known for.

This town also encompasses a portion of a wildlife reserve which can be travelled through in search of spotting the exotic wild beasts inhabiting here. Other activities which offer the most unforgettable experience include boating through the river and trekking amidst nature. Do visit the Elephant junction and the Yodha cultural village for a revelling feel of the local culture. You may even indulge in the Kathakali performances which shall leave you spellbound. The painted faces, the vigour and the stories they tell through the dance stay in your mind as mystical memories for a very long time to come.

8. Tribal Heritage Programme

One of the most beautiful things about the Periyar National Park and the authorities that maintain it is their harmony with the local tribes that reside around the reserve. The authorities ensure that the guides are from the local tribal communities, too. The intent behind these walks is to introduce the travellers to the local culture and get them to experience the real flavour of Thekkady and its villages.

A typical walk starts with a visit to the Tribal Heritage Museum that houses ancient artefacts. This place is a good source of information on age-old agricultural initiatives or for insights into local culture–marriage customs and ceremonies, food habits, et al. In all, there are around five tribal communities that accommodate the national park. The museum also has a lot of insight into the hunting practices of the tribes in ancient times.

A walk across the tribal settlements brings you very close to reality for those few moments. It is overwhelming to know that such tribes still exist in large numbers and that they manage to live in harmony with each other, and with the reserve’s authorities. The tribal guides will win your hearts with their innocence and eagerness to educate you about their unknown lives. The program starts at 8 AM, 10 AM and noon every day.

9. Suruli Waterfalls

If you are camping in Thekkady, there are many must-see places to visit in Thekkady and also around it. Located at a distance of 22 kilometres from Thekkady is the Suruli Falls. Hidden in the middle of a deep forest that will require you to trek for one to two kilometres before you reach there, Suruli Waterfalls are so mesmerising, it is difficult to take your eyes off of them. Starting at the Megamalai slope and gushing down from a height of 150 feet, it is magnificent, to say the least!

Apart from its magnificence, the beauty of this waterfall is that its waters cascade all through the year and there is no particular season when they dry up. It flows between more than 18 caves, the most prominent of them being the Kailasanathar Temple Cave among others. This cave is located at the height of 800 metres. Also, Tamil Nadu hosts its much renowned Summer Festival with Suruli Falls in its backdrop, organised by the Tamil Nadu Tourism Department. Many tourists from all over the world come together to be a part of this joyous festival.

There are also the Kailasanatha, and Suruli Velappar sanctuaries very close to Suruli falls and can be an excellent detour when visiting the falls. Wear comfortable shoes when out on this day since it is quite a bit of a walk. Also, be prepared for some significant humidity on your way to the falls.

10. Paraunthumpara Hill Viewpoint

Also known as the Eagle Rock, the Paraunthumpara Hill Viewpoint offers a magnificent sight of the towering hills covered with a blanket of lush greenery. Additionally, the small valleys carving their own paths along the mountains is a sight to behold. There are waterfalls to soak in here, along with an ever-effervescent view of the hilltops calling out to you.

More suitable to be visited after lunchtime, the walk to this hilltop can prove to be a bit arduous for some visitors. However, it is a magical feeling to have completed the trek. Indulge in some photography as the world becomes your canvas or just sit there and soak in the tranquillity that nature has to offer. Take your time with the trek and relax as you go up by making pit stops. Thekkady is only 30 kilometres from the Eagle Rock. This place is considered auspicious around Makar Sankranti as it offers views of the Sabarimala Forest and the pilgrims from Sabarimala visit the Eagle Rock to get a glimpse of the Makarajyothi that stands for celestial light. It is visible from very few places, and the Eagle Rock is one of those places.

Having said the above, we suggest you avoid this place once the sun begins to set. Since it does have any railings, it becomes a bit of a risk to move around on slippery hilltops like these.

Also Read: Kerala Itinerary - How to Spend 10 Days in Kerala (Wildlife Special)

11. Murikkady

How long has it been since you last ventured out on a picnic? And what if we tell you that your picnic can be amidst the mountains, in lush green grass and surrounded by chirping birds and an aroma of select spices? Yes, that is Murikkady for you! Located around 5 kilometres from Thekkady, Murikkady is best known for being a quick getaway from tourist life and straight into the arms of tranquil nature that cradles you. You might just want to build a house here!

Murikkady is known for coffee and cardamom, amongst other things. If you are on a short visit to Thekkady, then it is advisable to add Murikaddy as a pit stop in your list of places to visit in Thekkady. You may pack your picnic and trek along the mountains into the mysterious forests and plantations to find the spot that is just perfect. Just relax your mind and soul here with the misty wind in your hair and indulge in some lovely wines. Whoever said holidays need to be a rushed sightseeing adventure? Your vacation at Thekkady can be the epitome of peace and will leave you invigorated with visits to places like Murikaddy. The coffee and tea plantations all round serve as the perfect backdrop to relax with your family and will bring you close to nature in its purest form. Whip out that camera and take a walk into the denser areas to capture the never-before-seen beauty of nature. You can camp at Thekkady and visit Murikaddy as often as you like for the best enchanting experiences.

12. Peermade

If you are done reminiscing in the various places to visit in Thekkady, you can head to Peermade which is a spectacular hill station located only 25 kilometres from Thekkady. It takes about 45 minutes to get here. Peermade is one of the popular weekend getaways encompassing sprawling spreads of estates and several interesting places. As soon as you enter this region, you will be welcomed with gorgeous sights of tea, coffee, cardamom, rubber and pepper plantations which are sure to ignite your sense of smell as well. Experience this serene place with cold winds and foggy surroundings which is sure to leave you mesmerised.

The word ‘Peer’ in Peermade is in relevance to a Muslim saint, Peer Mohammad who had close ties with the Travancore royalty during the early times. He eventually became famous as the very first trader of spices, and that is how this hill station near Thekkady came to be known as Peermade. This place has a long history of serving as the summer abode of several generations of royalty living in the surrounding regions.

This quiet hill station away from the hustle bustle of big cities accommodates several natural wonders which must be visited by every nature enthusiast. Some of these places are mentioned below.

• Kuttikanam

One of the best ways to enjoy a hill station is by indulging in trekking. Kuttikanam offers several trekking trails which every adventure enthusiast will love exploring.

• Madammakkulam

If you want to enjoy a peaceful time amidst nature with the peaceful sounds of water trickling, and chirping birds, then Madammakkulam is the place to head to.

• Panchalimedu

This place holds historic relevance in the well-known tale of Mahabharata. One of the most influential characters, Draupadi is believed to use the pond in this place for bathing.

Other places which would complete your experience of exploring this hill station includes Grampi, Amritha Medu, Peeru Hills, Summer Palace, among several others.

13. Pandikuzhi Waterfalls

If you want to spend your vacation in the lap of nature, then your plan of sightseeing in Thekkady must include Pandikuzhi Waterfalls which are located just 5 kilometres from Thekkady. This waterfall is in the vicinity of a humble village–Pandikuzhi–known for its picturesque landscapes. The captivating scenic beauty and the thrilling set of activities offered by this place lure several photographers, nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Witness the cascading waterfalls here which fall from almost a height of 1200 feet. The splashing and the sprinkling of fresh cold water is sure to rejuvenate your senses. This place also accommodates a variety of vibrant flora and fauna which are worth marvelling at. If you want to enjoy trekking or just want to relax and enjoy a peaceful time with family, Pandikuzhi is one of the best places to visit in Thekkady. The lush greenery encompassing the hills with clear water gushing downwards offer much-needed tranquillity and peace away from the busy and lightning fast life in the cities. The captivating sights offered by this place is sure to leave you energised.

The quaint village of Pandikuzhi is located in the Kumily area near Thekkady and can be easily reached from any part of Thekkady by hiring a cab or by sharing space in an auto. This place can be visited at any time of the year, and there is no entry fee to watch these enchanting waterfalls. Pandikuzhi displays heavenly views during the monsoon season, but a certain amount of precaution needs to be taken as the slopes are pretty slippery during this season, thus posing serious risks.

14. Chellarkovil

15 kilometres from the scintillating Thekkady town is a humble village–Chellarkovil–offering immense beauty of nature’s bounty. It is in close proximity to the Tamil Nadu-Kerala border in the region of Anakkara Panchayath. Considered to be one of the best places, you must definitely add this to your list of places to visit in Thekkady. With booming tourism, this town attracts travellers and explorers in huge numbers from every nook and corner of the world.

The welcoming sight of the towering mountains filled with lush greenery is sure to leave you awestruck. This town is dotted with several cascading waterfalls and picturesque scenic beauty which adds an extra bit of charm to the grand splendour of this destination. This beautiful town follows a unique eco-tourism project which makes this village even more special. Here, you can catch several glimpses of this project through the many pathways, huts, herbarium, watchtowers, and the tourist amenity centre, among others.

Have fun exploring the natural beauty through a guided trekking tour, soak in the natural splendour of this place from the watchtowers, know about the locally cultivated spices and medicinal plants in the ayurvedic centres and do so much more, all at Chellarkovil. The best time to visit is before May and after September.

This village houses a watchtower which is a must visit place when travelling to Thekkady. You can catch a glimpse of the breathtaking sunrise and sunset from here through the telescopes. These telescopes are strategically placed atop the balcony in this watchtower–famously called the ‘God’s Own Balcony– from where you get some of the best views of the sprawling landscapes of Thekkady and other nearby cities.

15. Mullaperiyar Dam

When you think about sightseeing in Thekkady, the highly alluring scenes of coffee, tea and spice plantations, spreads of lush greenery, trickling waterfalls and the vibrant wildlife come to mind. The establishment of this dam has led to the creation of a wonderful artificial lake which is surrounded by thriving wildlife. This area is famously known as the Periyar Tiger Reserve and is one of the most popular places to visit in Thekkady. The name of this dam was coined with relevance to its location which is at the confluence of the rivers Periyar and Mullayar.

The main purpose for which this dam was established in the year 1887 was to divert the water flow of Periyar River to the eastern area which constitutes the districts Madurai, Theni, Ramanathapuram and Sivagangai. Through the years, this change in the direction of its flow has led to many barren lands become fertile and thrive with plenty of cultivation opportunities.

The major attraction lying close to this dam which draws several Thekkady visitors is the forest sanctuary which accommodates plenty of species of birds, reptiles and animals. This entire forest reserve sprawls a large portion till the Idukki District of Kerala. The most popular inhabitants of this wildlife reserve are the majestic tigers which are a part of the ‘Save The Tiger’ project.

Apart from visiting this wildlife reserve, you can also indulge in some leisurely cruising through the waters of the artificial lake. Hop on a boat and glide through the clear waters while enjoying the mesmerising natural surroundings.

The dam is about 25 kilometres away from Thekkady and is open from 6 AM to 6 PM. Indian adults will have to pay an entry fee of INR 25 whereas the same for Foreign nationals is INR 300. Although the dam is quite a sight and a must when you are sightseeing in Thekkady, it is in all its glory between September and February.

16. Mangla Devi Temple

This temple sanctuary holds a 1000-year-old history and is just 15 kilometres from Thekaddy. Mangala Devi is the presiding goddess here to whom this temple is specially dedicated to. This establishment displays magnificent architectural designs which are worth marvelling at. The religious structure here is one of the most popular places to visit in Thekkady with family as it holds a strong association with several historic legends which are very interesting to discover. The most popular tale related to this cultural establishment is related to a lady who was named Kannaki. The story revolves around how she magically transformed into an alluring celestial body and showered gifts over the town where this temple is located. Not just the pilgrims but the curiosity of this temple legend also draws tourists to this place.

The road trip to this temple from central Thekkady is a truly rewarding experience as you can witness the thickly packed forests and interesting spreads of greenery throughout the journey. On reaching this place, you will see that the temple is the most prominent structure which will grasp your attention. The well-known Pandayan architecture is reflected by this magnanimous structure that draws several history enthusiasts to it. It is located well within the boundaries of the famous Periyar Wildlife Reserve, and you can even indulge in a safari tour to explore the wildlife once you are done marvelling the temple’s architecture. It accommodates several quiet spots wherein you can have a divine experience. With such intense backgrounds, this structure offers several spots for clicking extraordinary pictures.

If you are visiting Thekkady in March, then the Mangladevi temple ought to be in your list of places to visit in Thekkady. Mostly because the temple opens to the public only in the month of March during Chitra Poornima which is an annual festival of the region. There is no fee to enter the temple but please note the timings that the temple is open to visitors for.

Timings: 06:00 AM to 10:00 AM, 12:30 PM and 04:00 PM to 08:30 PM

17. Kadathanadan Kalari Centre

One of the ways to experience the unique cultural heritage of Kerala is by experiencing the martial art form Kalaripayattu. Kadathanadan Kalari Centre is one of the most famous places to visit in Thekkady to witness this art form, unique to the state of Kerala. This centre provides the perfect platform for talented artists to perform and showcase their expert abilities in this art form. This entire area encompassed by this centre is designed in the most beautiful way, keeping the security and safety of the visitors as the primary concern. The event takes place on a daily basis in a spacious gallery which ensures that all the visitors get a clear view of the ongoing performance.

Not only are the martial arts performed here for the purpose of entertaining visitors but you can also participate in learning the techniques of this form of art for effective self-defence. The instructors here are trained to exhibit and pass on the knowledge of this form of martial arts in the most efficient way. You can start with the basic level of training and then move on to intermediate and advanced levels. You can ultimately train for being an instructor. This centre is located in the tiger reserve at Kumily Road and is open from 8 AM to 10 PM. You may visit as per your schedule but do keep in mind that the centre charges an entry fee of INR 200.

18. Vandanmedu

Vandanmedu is a famous site known for the cultivation of cardamoms, located on the Munnar highway just 20 kilometres from Thekkady. Housing some of the largest auction centres of the world, you can smell the fresh aroma of this spice the minute to set foot into this place. This is one of the best places to visit in Thekkady as a casual walk through the cardamom plantations, filled with an intense aroma, is an unforgettable experience. Along with the bustling commercial spaces, Vandanmedu is also known for the serene views of widespread landscapes with some old buildings amidst a rural atmosphere.

Being set atop one of the highest hills in the western ghats, this wonderful village forms an essential part of the Idukki District attracting several tourists from all over the world. The mesmerising sights offered by this hill station, along with the pleasant weather, make it the perfect weekend getaway destination away from the crowded streets of Thekkady. The good climatic conditions along with the fertile soil here make it an ideal place to grow and produce cardamoms in large quantities. A large portion of this village is densely covered with green forests and towering mountains making it an ideal vacation spot for a fun-filled experience with family and friends.

The British planters were the ones who first introduced the concept of using the village land for spice production. It houses several ancient innovative buildings which were established during the British reign in this region. The exquisite architecture displayed by these structural wonders is highly appealing. The moment you enter this village, the monuments landmarks and the setup of the whole village will take you back in time. Apart from cardamom, this village also accommodates a spread of coffee and pepper plantations. You must avoid visiting this village during the summer and monsoon seasons as this region experiences extreme weather conditions during this time which is highly unsuitable for travellers and explorers. The best time to visit would be from December to February.

19. Thekkady Tea Estate and Waterfall Jeep Safari

Thekkady hosts some most captivating tea estates, and they are the best places to visit in Thekkady. This place is gifted with exceptional stretches of nature’s beauty full of lush greenery and vibrantly coloured flowers. Thekkady also houses some alluring waterfalls as well. These sites form a very peaceful environ which offer a completely quiet and serene atmosphere. This beguiling beauty of the several tea estates and the cascading waterfalls encompassed by Thekkady can be explored in the best way through a jeep safari. Hop on the jeep and pave your way through the picturesque landscapes, soak in the dazzling view of the soaring hills in the western ghats, click several pictures all along the way and build great memories with family and friends. As soon as you start nearing the tea estates, you can smell the whiff of aromatic tea. You will also pass through most of the waterfall areas where you will be welcomed with sprinkles and splashes of fresh cool water. This is truly an enthralling experience which must be tried out by every visitor who plans on visiting Thekkady.

You can choose any starting point within the Thekkady city premise as per your convenience and pick out the best preferred time for the jeep safari as well. At least two passengers are required per vehicle for the commencement of the safari. Once you are done with this exhilarating private tour, you will be dropped at the drop-off location from where you can easily get transport to your hotel. The estates are normally open from 6 AM to 5 PM but ensure to apply enough sunscreen and carry a water bottle, hat and sunglasses to combat the scorching rays of the sun.

20. Ramakkalmedu

Sightseeing in Thekkady and around this place is a highly rewarding experience. Ramakkalmedu is one such enchanting retreat near Thekkady which is filled with fresh weather, vast spreads of greenery and towering mountains. It is located in the Idukki District just 40 kilometres from Thekkady. If you are looking for places to visit in Thekkady for a rejuvenating experience, take a small deviation and head straight to Ramakkalmedu. This is one of the most visited hill stations near Thekkady due to its highly alluring climate and breathtaking scenic views. This place is named after Lord Rama who has been believed to set foot here, the legendary evidence of which lays in the form of a footprint of Lord Rama on a rocky surface.

This place can be reached easily from the popular nearby destinations like Thekkady, Nedumkandam, among others. The perfect way to set course to this vacation spot is by road as the pathways leading to this mesmerising hill station offers an array of eye-catching sights and natural visuals.

This hill station is not only known for the panoramic view of the surrounding natural beauty but also for a tall structure resembling a pillar-like figure which faces the eastern side of this region. This stone figure is almost 300 metres tall and has stood erect retaining almost all the original detailing through several years.

Being one of the windiest regions in the whole of Asia, the major source of power in this region is obtained through wind energy. The vast spreads of windmills form a magnificent background perfect as a photography spot. Other major attractions which must be visited in Ramakkalmedu village include Turtle Rock and Frog Rock.

This town also encompasses a portion of a wildlife reserve which can be travelled through in search of spotting the exotic wild beasts inhabiting here. Other activities which offer the most unforgettable experience include boating through the river and trekking amidst nature. Do visit the Elephant Junction and the Yodha cultural village for a feel of the local culture. You may even indulge in the Kathakali performances which shall leave you spellbound. The painted faces, the vigour and the stories they tell through the dance stay in your mind as mystical memories for a very long time to come.

This town is mostly frequented by the Sabarimala devotees, but other travellers can also fish out plenty of memorable experiences from here.

Also Read: Top 30 Places To Visit In Munnar With Family

Here is a detailed Kerala tourism guide to know more about places to visit, things to do in Thekkady & best time to visit Thekkady to make the most of your family vacation.

We, at Club Mahindra, heartily welcome you to come to stay with us at the Club Mahindra resort in Thekaddy. Our resort is the perfect abode for you in this beautiful town, and we have created it to be an extension of the serene town itself. Our rooms are spacious and comfortable enveloped in greenery. Our in-house restaurant that appears as our USP in most of the Club Mahindra reviews is a place you can’t have enough of. We serve authentic, local cuisine to give you a taste of Kerala that you shall never forget!

So what are you waiting for? Plan a vacation with Club Mahindra today & have a pleasant and memorable stay at Thekkady resort in Kerala.