The Charisma of nature

The nature’s amazing abundance on Kerala has its manifestations all over the state. With a variety of offers at her disposal, Kerala has everything to satisfy all the guests who come here seeking nature’s love and blessing. Of the many destinations frequented by tourists from around the world, Thekkady has a prominent place because of the splendour and charisma it offers.

Located at an altitude of 700-1900 metres above sea level with temperature varying from 11° to 27° C, Thekkady is one of India’s most fascinating natural wildlife sanctuaries. The region has a rich wealth of green vegetation, several species of birds, animals, reptiles and much more. The ecological pattern of the region is unique, that even a casual visitor to this place will differentiate it very easily. The unending chains of hills, spice plantations, cool breeze that blows form the Western Ghats and the marvel of nature converts the whole atmosphere ideal for an enchanting holiday.

The Periyar Wild Life Sanctuary is one of the finest wildlife reserves in the country. It offers enormous opportunities for lovers of wildlife to have a close insight of the forest. There are also facilities for trekking and mountain walking for the adventure loving. For those who wish to watch and photograph nature’s beauty and wildlife, this is the right place. Gaur, Sambar deer, Barking deer, Mouse deer, Nilgiri langur, Bonnet macaque, Lion-tailed macaque, Tiger, Leopard, Jungle cat, Wild dog, Bear, Porcupine, Jackal, Indian Giant Squirrel, Malabar flying squirrel, Wild boar, small Indian Civet, Mongoose Pangoline etc can be sported here, though elephants are the major attraction. A cruise through the waters of Periyar Lake around which the wildlife sanctuary is situated gives an opportunity to have a closer look of the wildlife. Herds of elephants can be sported which come to the lake to drink water. If fortunate enough, several other animals including tigers could be seen from the boat.

The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary spreads over 777 sq. km of which 360 sq. km is thick evergreen forest. Declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978, it is noted for the geo-metrological diversity of wildlife and scenic beauty that attracts visitors from across the world. The artificial lake formed as a result of the construction of Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar River gives an additional charm to the region. The 175 feet tall and 5704 feet long dam was built by the British in 1895 for watering the paddy fields of Tamil Nadu.

To facilitate tourists to observe the wildlife, three watch towers are set up at Edappalayam, Manakkavala and Thannikudi.
Kerala could be described as the ‘spice capital’ of the world and the regions in and around Thekkady is the fertile land for growing spices. Over twelve varieties of spices including ginger, garlic, cardamom, vanilla, pepper, cinnamon, coffee, tea, clove and nutmeg is cultivated here. Travellers reaching here can visit these plantations which will be a varied experience.

The journey to this heavenly sport too is an enchanting experience as both the sides of the road winding up to Thekkady is lined by rich plantations and thick forests. Thekkady is 60 km from Idukki, 190 km from Cochin and 114 kms from Kottayam and is open throughout the year.

Accommodation facilities are available in the vicinity according to the budget of the tourists. It is sure that each and every person who reaches this heavenly destination will return with mind full of memories to come back again. ••