Thekkady - Home to the country's largest Tiger Reserve- Periyar, Thekkady is a great way to enjoy a jungle vacation.
The closest airports to Thekkady are Madurai (140 kms) and Cochin International Airport (190 kms). Both airports are served by all major domestic airlines. One can use the state transport bus services offered by the Kerala State Government to reach Thekkady. You may also book a pre-paid cab from the airport.
September to April is the best time to visit Thekkady because of the favourable weather conditions. March and April are the driest months, where a lot of animals gather near the water bodies, and hence it is the best time to spot animals. Monsoons bring freshness and greenery along with it and make the area even more beautiful.
Periyar National Park, being a major attraction, is one place where you can enjoy bamboo rafting in the catchment area of Mullaiperiyar Dam, hiking, and in the midst of the wilderness, shopping! Popular for its good eating joints, you can also enjoy its vast stretches of spice gardens and various adventure sports. You can also enjoy a night trek in the wilderness of Periyar. The early morning ride in the boat within the sanctuary is an extremely awesome experience and you might be able to spot wild elephants, bisons, wild boars, various kinds of birds, etc. Anakarra is also located nearby which is a great place to enjoy nature. Murikaddy is located around 5 km from the city and is famous for coffee and spices plantations. Chellar Kovil is another area located nearby with a lot of picturesque waterfalls and cascades. Mangala Devi Temple, located at an altitude of 1337 m and at a distance of around 15km from Thekkady opens only on the Chitra Pournami Festival.