An
Overview :
Located on the Idduki district of Kerala in the southern part of India,
Thekkady is popular as a hill station and for its wildlife sanctuary. The
city is renowned for its spice plantation and picturesque hill towns with a
salubrious climate that holds tremendous opportunities for trekking and
mountain climbing. The city houses one of the finest wildlife reserves in
India known for its rich variety of flora and fauna.
Climate :
The climate of the city is tropical in nature. The average maximum and
minimum temperatures of the city is 31 and 16 degrees C respectively. Though
the climate of the city is pleasant throughout the year but the city can be
best visited during September to May.
Tourist Attractions :
» Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary - Spreading over an
area of 777 sq. km., it is one of the most exciting wildlife reserves in
India. The sanctuary became a Tiger Reserve in the year 1978 and attracts
wildlife enthusiasts for its diverse wildlife and scenic beauty. Though it
is a tiger reserve, the sanctuary is known for its herds of Indian
elephants. It also offers boating facilities for its visitors on the
picturesque Periyar Lake.
» Kumily - Situated near the sanctuary, the
plantation town Kumily is one of the major spice trading centres of the
state.
» Murikkady - This plantation town is located at a
distance of 5 km from Thekkady and known for its cardamom, pepper and coffee
plantations.
» Mangla Devi Temple - The ancient temple is
located at a distance of 15km from the hill station Thekkady and is an
excellent example of traditional Kerala style of architecture. The temple
also popular for its Chithra Pournima festival held annually.
» Vandanmedu - Located at a distance of 25 km from
Thekkady, the town is known as a large auction centre for cardomom. A visit
to its spectacular spice plantations offers a unique experience.
Getting to Thekkady :
»
By Air - The nearest airports are at Madurai and Kochi, which are well
connected to all the major cities of India.
» By Rail - Kottayam, Madurai, Teni, Changanaserry
are the major railheads near Thekkady.
» By Road - The city is connected to various
destinations of South India by frequent bus services.
» Local Transport - Mini buses, taxis and auto
rickshaws are the major modes of its local transport.
