Thekkady,Kerala

• Periyar National Park / Periyar Tiger Reserve
• Periyar Lake (boat cruises)
• Spice plantations and guided spice walks
• Kumily market (spice and souvenir shopping)
• Bamboo rafting and nature treks
• Elephant and animal-watching programmes
• Scenic viewpoints such as Chellarkovil and Murikkady

• Dense evergreen and moist deciduous forests of the Western Ghats
• Rich wildlife including elephants, sambar, gaur, langurs, and elusive tigers
• Large artificial lake (Periyar Lake) that enhances wildlife viewing
• Working spice gardens producing cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, cloves
• Close links to tribal culture and traditional ecological knowledge

• Boat cruise on Periyar Lake for wildlife viewing
• Guided jungle treks and nature walks with park naturalists
• Bamboo rafting and canoeing in designated zones
• Visiting spice plantations with demonstrations and tastings
• Birdwatching (early morning and late afternoon are best)
• Elephant rides and interactions at regulated centers (check ethics and permits)
• Shopping in Kumily for spices and local handicrafts

• Onam and Vishu — major Kerala festivals celebrated locally
• Local temple festivals in nearby villages (dates vary)
• Occasional wildlife awareness and eco-tourism events organized by the reserve
• Cultural performances arranged by hotels and spice farms (classical dance, Kalaripayattu demonstrations)

September to May — avoids the heavy southwest monsoon (June–August) and offers clearer skies and better wildlife-spotting conditions.

Tropical highland climate: cool to warm days and cooler nights. Typical temperatures range from about 15°C to 30°C depending on season and altitude. Monsoon months are wet and humid.

Nearest major airports: Cochin (Kochi) International Airport (~120–150 km by road) and Madurai Airport (similar distance from some routes). Nearest railway heads include Kottayam and Aluva; regular road services connect to Kottayam, Kumily, and nearby towns. Well-connected by state-run and private buses; many visitors travel by car or taxi from Kochi or Madurai.

2–3 days to cover the park boat cruise, a spice plantation visit, a short trek or bamboo rafting, and local markets. 4–5 days if planning longer treks or relaxed exploration.

Light layers for daytime, a warm layer for cooler mornings/evenings, waterproof jacket during monsoon, sturdy walking shoes, hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and binoculars for wildlife/birdwatching.

Try local Kerala cuisine: appam with stew, fish curries, and vegetarian dishes served on banana leaf (sadya) in season. Popular souvenirs include spices (cardamom, pepper, cinnamon), herbal blends, tea/coffee, and locally made handicrafts.