Thekkady
is a popular hill station and a wildlife centre in central Kerala. Herds
of elephants and spice scented plantations are the highlights of this
city. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary of Thekkady, also known as
Thekkady
Wildlife Sanctuary here is one of the finest wildlife reserves of India
and the world and offers immense opportunities for trekking and nature
walks. Famous as the Tiger Reserve, one can see the great Indian tiger
in its natural habitat here along with herds of Indian elephants that
wander often to the artificial lake of the sanctuary to bather and play.
The unending chains of hills, the fragrance of spices and the crisp,
cool breeze of the Western Ghats make a visit to the sanctuary a
memorable experience.
Lying at an altitude of 4000-5000 ft, this sanctuary is also a bird
lover's paradise, especially around River Periyar, which is rich in fish
life and is shallow for most of the year. Rare and exotic birds like
Ceylon frog-mouth and rose billed roller have also been spotted here. A
calm and quiet boat ride in the lake is the perfect way to watch the
animals playing, hunting or just resting from a safe distance. However,
adventure lovers may trek up the hills of the forest. The Mullaperiyar
Dam across the Periyar River adds to the charm of the park.
Thekkady
also offers plantation tours featuring cardamom, pepper, coffee and tea
plantations, tea factories, tribal settlements and the surrounding hill
regions, elephant rides through the jungle, trekking, and the
opportunity to sight animals from the safety of a boat.
Shopping Attractions:
Kumily is a noted shopping and spice trade center, where one can buy
Pepper, Cardamom, Cinnamon, Cloves, Nutmeg and also Tea and Coffee along
with local handicrafts and handloom works.
