Thekkady

Thekkady, located 65 km from Idukki is one of finest wildlife reserves in India. Spread across Idukki is picturesque plantations and holds great opportunities for treks and mountain walks. This bird sanctuary is a peninsular land of 25 sq. km formed between the branches of River Periyar. The rivers are rich in fish life and are shallow for most of the year. The avifauna includes both resting indigenous birds and water birds. The most notable of the birds are Malabar grey hornbill, grey jungle fowl, heron, egret, jungle myna, wood pecker, rose winged and blue winged parakeet. Rare birds like Ceylon frog-mouth, rose billed roller etc. are also seen. The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Lying close to the plantations, in the rich jungles of Periyar in Thekkady is one of the world's most fascinating natural wildlife reserves - the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Spread across 777 sq km, of which 360 sq. km is thick evergreen forest, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978. The splendid artificial lake formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar River adds to the charm of the park. This is the only sanctuary in India where you can have the unique experience of viewing wildlife at close quarters from the safety of a boat on the lake. The greatest attraction of Periyar, however, are the herds of wild elephants that come down to play in the lake.

Kumily: Located 4 km from Thekkady is a plantation town situated in the outskirts of the Periyar sanctuary. Kumily is an important shopping center and spice trade center.

Murikkady: Located 5 km from Thekkady, Murikkady is a panorama of cardamom, coffee and pepper plantations.

Pandikuzhi: Located 5 km from Kumily, Pandikuzhi is a picturesque spectrum of exotic flora, fauna and gurgling streams is cradled between Chellarkovil and the Tamil Nadu border. A popular picnic spot, Pandikuzhi offers great opportunities for trekking and is a photographer's delight.

Mangala Devi Temple: Located 15 km from Thekkady this ancient temple is hidden in the dense woods at the top of a peak 1337 m above sea level. The temple is built in the traditional Kerala style of architecture.

Chellarkovil: Located 15 km from Kumily, this sleepy little village with its breathtaking view of the plains and cascading waterfalls is a feast for the eyes. The village slopes down to the famous coconut groves of Cumbum in neighbouring Tamil Nadu.

Vandiperiyar: Located 18 km from Thekkady, Vandiperiyar is a major trade centre, Vandiperiyar is also home to a number of tea factories. The Government Agriculture Farm and Flower Garden have a delightful array of rose plants, orchids and anthuria.