When you think of Kerala, most travelers picture serene backwaters, swaying coconut trees, and misty hill stations. But tucked in the heart of Kerala lies a gem for wildlife lovers, nature seekers, and cultural explorers – Thekkady. Home to the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, spice plantations, and scenic landscapes, Thekkady offers a blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation.
In this blog, we’ll explore Thekkady tour packages, the best places to visit, things to do, cost breakdowns, and insider tips – everything you need to plan a memorable trip in 2025.
Why Choose Thekkady for Your Next Trip?
Thekkady is not just another hill station – it’s where wildlife meets culture and adventure. Here’s why it stands out:
- 🌿 Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Famous for its elephants, tigers, and the scenic Periyar Lake.
- 🍃 Spice Plantations: Cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and vanilla farms where you can take guided tours.
- 🌄 Eco-tourism Activities: Trekking, bamboo rafting, border hiking, and nature walks.
- 🐘 Elephant Safaris: Get up close with elephants in ethical camps.
- 🌏 Cultural Experiences: Kathakali dance shows, Kalaripayattu (martial arts) performances.
- ❄️ Climate: Pleasant year-round, making it a great escape from city heat.
Best Time to Visit Thekkady
- Winter (Oct – Feb) → Best time for wildlife spotting and outdoor activities. Pleasant temperatures (15–25°C).
- Summer (Mar – May) → Hotter but good for spotting animals as they come near water sources.
- Monsoon (Jun – Sept) → Lush greenery, perfect for nature lovers, but heavy rain may disrupt safaris.
👉 Ideal season: October to March.
Popular Thekkady Tour Packages
Whether you’re a solo traveler, honeymoon couple, or family, there’s a package for everyone.
1. Thekkady Weekend Getaway (2 Days / 1 Night)
Perfect for quick trips from Kochi or Madurai.
Includes: Periyar boat ride, spice plantation tour, local sightseeing.
2. Thekkady & Munnar Combo (4 Days / 3 Nights)
Ideal for couples & families.
Includes: Munnar tea gardens, Eravikulam National Park + Thekkady wildlife sanctuary.
3. Kerala Wildlife Tour (6 Days / 5 Nights)
Covers Thekkady + Wayanad + Parambikulam.
Includes: Jeep safari, bamboo rafting, trekking.
4. Thekkady Honeymoon Package (3 Days / 2 Nights)
Romantic stays in eco-resorts & spice plantations.
Includes: Candlelight dinner, spice walk, private boat ride.
5. Luxury Kerala Tour (7 Days / 6 Nights)
Cochin – Munnar – Thekkady – Alleppey.
Includes: Luxury resorts, private houseboat in Alleppey, Jeep safari in Thekkady.
Top Places to Visit in Thekkady
- Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary & Lake
- The highlight of Thekkady. Famous for elephants, bison, deer, and over 300 bird species.
- Don’t miss: A boat cruise on Periyar Lake.
- Murikkady
- Stunning cardamom and coffee plantations. Great for photography.
- Mangala Devi Temple
- Ancient stone temple located on a hilltop. Offers panoramic views.
- Kumily Town
- Border town with spice shops and local markets. Great for shopping.
- Chellarkovil Viewpoint
- Breathtaking waterfalls and sunset views.
- Kadathanadan Kalari Centre
- Witness Kerala’s martial art – Kalaripayattu.
Things to Do in Thekkady
- 🛶 Boating in Periyar Lake → Morning or evening slots are best for wildlife spotting.
- 🚶 Nature Walks → Eco-tourism guided treks into the forest.
- 🚙 Jeep Safari → Explore offbeat trails around Thekkady.
- 🎭 Cultural Shows → Kathakali & Kalaripayattu in local theaters.
- 🐘 Elephant Rides & Feeding → Ethical camps let you interact with elephants.
- 🌿 Spice Plantation Tour → Learn how Kerala’s world-famous spices are grown.
Sample 3-Day Itinerary for Thekkady
Day 1 – Arrival in Thekkady → Spice plantation visit → Kathakali show.
Day 2 – Early morning Periyar boat safari → Jeep safari → Visit Kumily market.
Day 3 – Nature walk → Elephant camp → Departure.
Cost of Thekkady Tour Packages (2025 Estimate)
- Budget Package (2 Days) → ₹5,000 – ₹7,000 per person
- Standard Package (3 Days) → ₹9,000 – ₹15,000 per person
- Luxury Package (4–5 Days) → ₹20,000 – ₹35,000 per person
- Honeymoon Package (3 Days) → ₹15,000 – ₹25,000 per couple
💡 Prices vary depending on season, inclusions (hotel category, safari, meals), and customization.
How to Reach Thekkady
- By Air: Nearest airport is Madurai (136 km) or Kochi (190 km).
- By Train: Kottayam railway station (110 km) is the nearest major station.
- By Road: Well-connected by buses and taxis from Kochi, Madurai, and Munnar.
Travel Tips for Thekkady
- Book Periyar boat tickets in advance (they sell out quickly).
- Carry light woolens if visiting in winter (mornings can be chilly).
- Hire a government-approved guide for treks.
- Avoid plastic bottles – Thekkady is eco-sensitive.
- Respect wildlife – don’t feed or disturb animals.
Why Book Thekkady Tour Packages with IndiaTourPackages.com?
- ✅ Customizable Itineraries – Solo, family, or honeymoon, we design packages to suit your needs.
- ✅ Expert Local Guides – Licensed guides ensure safe and informative tours.
- ✅ Best Price Guarantee – Direct tie-ups with hotels & transport providers.
- ✅ 24/7 Support – Assistance throughout your trip.
FAQs About Thekkady Tour Packages
Q1. Is Thekkady good for honeymoon?
Yes, it’s perfect for couples who love nature, wildlife, and peaceful getaways. Spice plantation stays are romantic and unique.
Q2. How many days are enough for Thekkady?
2–3 days are ideal to cover wildlife safari, spice plantations, and cultural shows.
Q3. Which is better – Thekkady or Munnar?
Munnar is famous for tea plantations and hill station vibes, while Thekkady is better for wildlife and adventure. Many travelers combine both.
Q4. Is it safe to visit Thekkady with kids?
Yes, safaris and nature walks are family-friendly. Always follow forest department safety rules.
Q5. What should I pack for Thekkady?
Comfortable shoes, light jackets, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a good camera.
Final Thoughts
Thekkady is not just a destination; it’s an experience. From spotting wild elephants in Periyar Lake to breathing in the aroma of spice plantations, it offers a blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Whether you’re a honeymooner, family traveler, or wildlife enthusiast, Thekkady tour packages in 2025 promise memories that last a lifetime.
So pack your bags, book your Thekkady trip, and get ready to discover Kerala’s wild side!
