Destination Thekkady
Destination Thekkady, India
Thekkady, located in the Idukki district of Kerala, India, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and rich biodiversity. It is home to the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, a major tourist attraction known for its elephants, tigers, and other wildlife. Thekkady is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, offering a serene environment and a plethora of activities.
Surrounding Cities
- Kumily: A small town located just 4 km from Thekkady, Kumily is known for its spice plantations and as a gateway to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Kottayam: Approximately 114 km away, Kottayam is a major city known for its rubber plantations and as a cultural hub.
- Madurai: Located about 140 km away in Tamil Nadu, Madurai is famous for its historic Meenakshi Amman Temple and vibrant culture.
- Munnar: About 110 km from Thekkady, Munnar is a popular hill station known for its tea plantations and scenic landscapes.
Top Hotels in Thekkady
The Elephant Court- A luxury resort offering comfortable rooms and amenities such as a swimming pool, spa, and multi-cuisine restaurant.
- An eco-friendly resort inspired by tribal huts, providing a unique blend of comfort and nature.
- A premium resort set amidst lush greenery, featuring modern amenities and a tranquil environment.
- Located near the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, this resort offers well-appointed cottages and excellent hospitality.
Nearest College
Government College, Kattappana: Located about 39 km from Thekkady, this college offers various undergraduate and postgraduate courses. It is one of the nearest higher education institutions for students in the region.
Shopping Areas
- Kumily Market: A bustling market offering a wide range of spices, handicrafts, and souvenirs. It's a great place to buy authentic Kerala spices and local products.
- Abraham’s Spice Garden: A well-known spice plantation where visitors can buy fresh spices and learn about their cultivation.
- Periyar Tiger Reserve Shop: Located at the entrance of the reserve, this shop offers eco-friendly products and souvenirs.
Local Foods
Thekkady is known for its traditional Kerala cuisine, which is rich in spices and flavors. Some must-try dishes include:
- Kerala Sadya: A traditional vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf, featuring a variety of dishes such as rice, sambar, avial, and payasam.
- Appam with Stew: A popular breakfast dish made of rice pancakes served with a vegetable or meat stew.
- Karimeen Pollichathu: Pearl spot fish marinated in spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and grilled to perfection.
- Spicy Prawn Curry: A flavorful curry made with fresh prawns and a blend of spices, coconut milk, and tamarind.
Celebrations
- Onam: The biggest festival in Kerala, celebrated with great enthusiasm in Thekkady. It includes traditional games, music, dance, and a grand feast known as Onam Sadya.
- Vishu: Celebrated in April, Vishu marks the Malayalam New Year with rituals, fireworks, and a special feast.
- Thekkady Cattle Fair: An annual event held in Kumily, showcasing a variety of cattle breeds and traditional folk performances.
Population and Ranking
As of the latest census, Thekkady has a population of approximately 12,000 residents. It is a small town, yet it plays a significant role in Kerala's tourism industry due to its natural attractions and wildlife sanctuary. While Thekkady itself is not ranked separately in terms of population within India, it contributes to the tourism sector of Kerala, which is a prominent state in the country.
थेकेडी, भारत: थेकेडी केरल राज्य के इडुक्की जिले में स्थित है। यह पेरीयार वन्यजीव अभयारण्य के लिए प्रसिद्ध है, जहां हाथी, बाघ और अन्य वन्यजीव पाए जाते हैं। थेकेडी प्राकृतिक सुंदरता और जैव विविधता के लिए जाना जाता है।
Thekkady is a gem in Kerala's tourism crown, offering visitors an unparalleled experience of nature, wildlife, and culture. From luxurious resorts to local delicacies, and from vibrant markets to serene wildlife sanctuaries, Thekkady has something for everyone. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a taste of authentic Kerala, Thekkady is a destination worth exploring.