- Best time
- Sep–May
- How long
- 2–3 days
- Stay a night
- ₹1,000–10,000
- Food a day
- ₹350–1,600
- Nearest railhead
- 110 km away
- Nearest airport
- 140 km away
Plan Thekkady in a minute. Day-by-day plan, stays, budget and trains — free on JrnyLoop.
Plan this tripAbout Thekkady
Kerala’s spice country around Periyar Tiger Reserve — boat cruises on the lake, bamboo rafting, cardamom estates and Kalaripayattu.
Things to do in Thekkady
Periyar Lake Boat Cruise
A peaceful boat ride across the waters of Periyar Lake in Thekkady. You can watch elephants and gaur roaming right at the water edge as the boat glides along.
Tip: Book your tickets in advance online or at the official counter to secure your spot.
Bamboo Rafting
Bamboo Rafting is a full-day guided trek and raft experience in Thekkady, Kerala, led by forest guards. It takes you through lush wooded areas and tranquil waters for a close encounter with nature.
Tip: Wear sturdy walking shoes and carry adequate drinking water for the long trek
Spice Plantation Tour
Spice Plantation Tour in Thekkady, Kerala, India offers a guided walk through fragrant estates where cardamom, pepper and vanilla grow. Visitors can see these cash crops up close and learn how local spices are cultivated in the hills of Kerala.
Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes for the earthy paths
Kalaripayattu Show
Kalaripayattu is Kerala's ancient martial art and one of the oldest fighting systems in existence. This live evening show in Thekkady lets travellers witness traditional combat techniques, agile weapon handling, and high-energy defensive arts.
Ramakkalmedu
Ramakkalmedu is a windy hilltop and hamlet in Idukki district, Kerala, overlooking the plains of Tamil Nadu. Known for its panoramic beauty, the destination features numerous large windmills.
Gavi
Gavi is a forest village in Kerala known for its eco-tourism package. It gained major popularity as a tourist destination after the Malayalam movie Ordinary was shot here.
Where to stay in Thekkady
Kumily town
Budget hotels and shops.
Thekkady Lake Road
Hotels near the park gate.
Spice-plantation resorts
Cottages in cardamom estates.
What to eat
Kerala sadya
Banana-leaf feast.
Kappa & meen curry
Tapioca with spicy fish curry.
How to reach Thekkady by bus
Kochi to Thekkady bus
Board at: Ernakulam KSRTC Bus Station, Vytilla Hub
Run by: KSRTC, private non-AC buses
When: Morning and evening departures
Book tickets in advance during peak tourist season.
Ready-made Thekkady itineraries
Good to know
- The first lake cruise of the day has the best wildlife — tickets sell out.
- Buy spices from co-op shops, not roadside sellers.
Going to Thekkady? Build the plan, split costs with your group and keep tickets in one place.
Plan this trip