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 Thekkady is one of the best and finest wildlife reserves in India. The pride of Kerela and a testimony to nature's splendor and human innovation, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is situated on the banks of the Periyar lake - an artificial lake, at Thekkady. The drive to Thekkady itself as enchanting as the road winds the high ranges and also brings to mind the images of elephants in their original exposure. Thekkady, better known as Tiger Reserve is a rich diversity of vertebrates. The diverse forest types, vayals, marshes, and a large aquatic habitat together support 62 species of mammals, 320 species of birds, 45 species of reptiles, 27 species of amphibians, and 38 species of fishes. Thekkady, is an example of nature’s bounty, with great scenic charm, rich bio diversity and providing veritable visitor satisfaction. Sprawled over an area of 777 Sq .km., Periyar is one of the 27 tiger reserves in India.
Transport and Communication :-
Air - Nearest airport – Cochin International airport (NEDUMBASSERY - 200 Kms). Madurai airport 162 Kms.
Rail -Nearest railway station is Kottayam 114 km. Ernakulam 210Km, Aluva is just 195 Km and Madurai 140 Km .
Road – The excellent road network links to the wildlife resort of Thekkady with the other important places of Kerala. It is well connected with places in Tamil Nadu also like Madurai and Coimbatore
Around Thekkady :-
Kumily : (4 km ) This plantation town, closely associated with Thekkady, is situated on the outskirts of the Periyar Sanctuary. It is an important shopping centre and spice trade centre, the main bus station and most of the medium range accommodation in the Periyar region is in Kumily.The scenic beauty of the area is further accentuated by its crisp blue skies, lush greenery and mist drenched mountains. This hub of spice trade is located at the vicinity of the Periyar wildlife sanctuary and makes a perfect base to explore the region .
Murukady : (6 Kms) This vantage view point is located at a distance of 5km from Thekkady. Breathtaking views of the spice and tea plantations, the mist clad mountains and verdant valleys could be enjoyed at Murikkady. The area is famous for cardamom plantations, tea plantations and pepper cultivation. 
Mangala Devi Temple : This ancient temple built in the Pandian style sits amidst dense woods at a distance of about 15 km from Thekkady. The temple is perched on top of a cliff at an altitude of 1337 meters above the sea level. The place is open to visitors only on the festive day of Chithirapournami, when pilgrims from Tamil Nadu and Kerala flock to the temple. Panoramic views of the nearby areas could be enjoyed from the cliff. Prior permission from the wildlife authorities in Thekkady is required to visit the area.
Vellaramkunnu : (10 Kms) Tea, Coffee, Cardamom, Pepper, Vanilla growing areas. A walk through the spice plantations of these areas can be a memorable experience.
Ramakalmedu : This sleepy hamlet is located at a distance of 16 km from Nedumkandom along the Thekkady – Munnar road. This hilltop vantage point offers breathtaking views of the picturesque towns lying at the foot of the mountain. It lies on the border of Tamil Nadu.
Vandanmedu : (25 Kms) The fragrance of the cardamom permeates this town. It is one of the worlds largest auction centers of cardamom.
Kuttikanam : (35 Kms) A hill station, the place for the adventure tourism and trekking. The hotels of Kuttikanam keep you cool on sunny days. Generally the area is cool, often filled with mist. 
Wagamon : (60 Kms) The cool mountain air, mist, grass-covered hills, velvet lawns etc amek Wagamon a perfect holiday resort. The chain of three hills Thangal Hills (Muslim name) Murugan Hills (Hindu name) and Kurisumala (Christian name) isa mark of religious harmony.
Thrissanku Hills : ( 4 km from Peermedue, 1/2 km from Kuttikanam) The rolling hills the lovely landscape and the gentle breeze make this an ideal spot for long walks. The hills offer a breathtaking view of the sunrise and sunset.
Grampi : ( 5 km from Peermede) is also known as Parunthupara (eagle rock) because of the panoramic view from its high peaks. Rocky plains, lush hillsides, forests trekking trails and picturesque views lend charm to this destination. The road to Grampi is flanked by unending stretches of cardamom, tea and coffee plantations.
Activities in Thekkady :-
1. Forest Trekking and Mountaineering through the dense woods and sprawling tea and spice plantations .
2. Boat cruises in Periyar lake.
3. Mountain Hiking 3 hour hiking to a hill called Kurishumala - a spectacular view point.
4. Bamboo Rafting Rafting on traditional bamboo rafts in the Periyar Lake.
5. Jungle Jeep Safari Jeep Safari to Gavi - Great chance for wildlife encounters.
6. Overnight Trekking Trekking and Camping in the PTR.
7. Wilderness Camps Camping in Tents and trekking inside the forest.
8. Plantation Visit Guided tour to learn about the plantations in and around Thekkady.
9. Elephant Safari The cool experience of riding an elephant.
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