Thekkady Lake, also known as Periyar Lake, is nestled amidst the lush green forests of the Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala, India. The lake is an artificial reservoir formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar River. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its serene beauty and abundant wildlife.
Kumily, a plantation town on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, is located just 4 km from Thekkady. It is the main entry point to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and offers a variety of accommodation options for tourists.
Here's what you can expect on your trip to Thekkady Lake and Kumily:
- Boating on the lake: One of the most popular activities in Thekkady is taking a boat ride on the lake. This is a great way to spot wildlife, such as elephants, deer, and bison, that come down to the lake to drink. Boating on Thekkady Lake, Kerala
- Wildlife spotting: The Periyar National Park is home to a wide variety of animals, including tigers, elephants, gaur, lion-tailed macaques, and Nilgiri langurs. While spotting tigers is uncommon due to the dense forest, there's a good chance of seeing other animals on a trek, jeep safari, or boat ride. Periyar National Park, Kerala
- Spice plantations: The Thekkady region is known for its spice plantations. You can visit a spice plantation to learn about the different spices that are grown in the area, such as cardamom, cinnamon, pepper, and nutmeg. Spice plantations, Kerala
- Cultural experiences: Kerala is a state with a rich culture and heritage. You can experience this culture by visiting a Kathakali performance, a traditional dance form of Kerala, or by learning about Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine. Kathakali performance, Kerala
The best time to visit Thekkady Lake is from October to February, when the weather is pleasant and there is less chance of rain. However, Thekkady is a year-round destination, and you can visit it any time of year.
Here are some additional tips for planning your trip to Thekkady Lake and Kumily:
- Book your accommodation in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season.
- Pack comfortable shoes and clothes for exploring the park.
- Be sure to bring insect repellent and sunscreen.
- Respect the wildlife and the environment.