Fact File Area - 12.07 sq. km  Population - 17612  Altitude - 700 to 1900 m above sea level  Languages - Malayalam, Tamil, Hindi and English Best Time to Visit - September to March  STD Code - 0486  Hotels in Thekaddy

Introduction Thekkady is one of the major destinations of the state of Kerala, the God’s own country. Due to its unmatched natural beauty and serenity, this small town is visited by a large number of tourists every year. The town also houses one of world’s most fascinating natural wildlife sanctuaries. Thekkady is also the major base point to access some of the other exotic sites in Kerala as well as in Tamil Nadu. A visit to Thekkady also provides you the opportunity to see wildlife at close ranges, besides the varied vegetation and a wide variety of birds. Lying at an altitude of 700-1900 m above sea level, Thekkady has a cool and comfortable climate. Out here, you can also go for treks and mountain walks. Sightseeing Thekkady has a lot to offer you in sightseeing. The name Thekkady, for those who have already visited this place, brings to mind images of elephants unending chains of hills and spice-scented plantations. Moreover, the flora and fauna of the Periyar wildlife sanctuary is absolutely thrilling. The wildlife sanctuary here is the natural habitat of a wide variety of animal species. The Periyar Lake is a paradise for the nature lovers. It gives you an opportunity to observe the wild animals roaming in the jungle. The lake is also a birdwatcher’s delight. The greatest attraction of Periyar Lake, however, is the herds of wild elephants that come down to play in the lake. Moreover, the Sanctuary Watch Tower situated in the forest interior gives you a panoramic view of the park.  Excursions Thekkady has innumerable excursion destinations for you to visit. To start with Peermede, located at a distance of 44 km is an important site to visit. Apart from Peermede the palm-fringed backwaters of Kottayam and Kumarakom make both these places the must visit excursion points. Moreover, the exciting boathouses here also give you once in a lifetime experience to roam on a fully furnished ’house’ on the water. Madurai, located in the nearby state of Tamil Nadu is another interesting place to visit. Known as the temple city of India, Madurai also holds importance as a centre for learning. Kumily (a plantation town), Murikkady (known for its cardamom, coffee and pepper plantations), Pandikuzhi and Mangla Devi temple are some of the few more places to visit during your excursion from Thekkady.