Exploring Nature: A Thrill-Seeker's Guide to Thekkady's Wonders!
Kerala has long been known as “God’s Own Country” and a place of calm beauty and Ayurvedic rejuvenation. However, beneath the peaceful hills and backwaters, there is an exciting thrill-seeking side to this South Indian state. Kerala offers a range of adventures that can awaken your senses and test your spirit.
The Western Ghats, Kerala’s verdant backbone, beckon you with trails winding through cardamom plantations, tea estates, and ancient forests. From gentle walks along Munnar’s rolling hills to challenging climbs through Wayanad’s dense jungles, each step unlocks breathtaking vistas, cascading waterfalls, and whispers of the wild.
Thekkady: Where Lush Serenity Meets Heart-Pounding Thrills!
From being a gentle muse, nature in Kerala transforms into an exhilarating playground for adrenaline junkies and thrill-seekers alike. Imagine dawn breaking over Nature’s Peak, painting the clouds gold, and surveying a kingdom of emerald green!
Let’s explore Thekkady!
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary – Meet The Animals
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is a treasure trove for those seeking adventure and exploration. The Asian elephants are the undisputed stars of Periyar, majestic giants that wander through the undergrowth, their trumpeting calls echoing through the dense foliage. Witness these gentle giants bathing in the lake, their wrinkled skin gleaming like polished ebony under the warm sun. Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive tigers, apex predators that roam the shadows with silent grace. The mighty gaur, the world’s largest wild cattle, grazes majestically in the grasslands. So, prepare to be captivated by the magic of Periyar. Pack your sense of wonder, lace up your boots, and be ready to embark on a lifetime journey!
Mangla Devi Temple – Pray For Well-Being
The sacred Mangala Devi Temple is nestled amidst the emerald hills of Kerala and veiled in the whispers of ancient legends. This place is not just a mere place of worship but a sanctuary of hope and faith. The temple’s history is woven with the tale of Kannagi, a wronged woman who became an embodiment of righteousness. The temple is dedicated to her as Mangala Devi, goddess of fortune and prosperity, and resonates with her unwavering spirit and the power of steadfast devotion. Every year, on the auspicious day of Chitra Pournami, the temple bursts into life. Devotees, with their faces aglow with hope, trek the 1337 meters to the summit. Whether you seek spiritual solace, a breathtaking adventure, or simply a touch of Kerala’s ancient magic, the Mangala Devi Temple awaits!
Murikkady – Gape At Vast Meadows
Murikkady is a charming village in the Idukki district of Kerala, India. It is situated approximately 5 kilometres away from Thekkady, which is a renowned tourist spot. The town is famous for its verdant hills, coffee and cardamom plantations, and diverse wildlife. Murikkady features numerous hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the hills and surrounding countryside. Thekkady National Park is also located nearby, where you can enjoy an exciting safari to catch a glimpse of wild animals such as elephants and tigers. The Mangala Devi Temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Mangala Devi, offers mesmerizing views of the surrounding regions. It is an excellent spot to unwind and appreciate the natural beauty of Kerala!
Kadathanadan Kalari Centre –The Kerala Culture
The Kadathanadan Kalari Centre is located in the lush hills of Thekkady, Kerala. It’s a martial arts school and a living museum that showcases Kalaripayattu, an ancient Indian martial art that dates back over 3000 years. The warriors of Kerala honed Kalaripayattu for centuries, perfecting its dynamic movements, including strikes, kicks, grapples, and weapon-based combat designed to enhance physical and mental prowess. Skilled instructors perform mesmerizing Kalaripayattu demonstrations that showcase the art’s rhythmic footwork, swift strikes, and controlled power. Visitors can enjoy Kathakali performances and immerse themselves in the ancient Indian holistic wellness system!
Kumily – Admire The Nature
Kumily, located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, India, is not just a town but a beautiful tapestry of natural wonders waiting to be explored. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a nature lover looking for relaxation, Kumily has something that will captivate your senses. The tea plantations and cardamom estates are a sight to hold. The gentle slopes merge into the horizon, creating a breathtaking panorama of verdant beauty. The Periyar River, the region’s lifeline, winds through the landscape. You can take a boat ride on its calm waters and witness the vibrant life along its banks – from playful otters to majestic elephants quenching their thirst. Explore the Periyar Tiger Reserve, a biodiverse treasure trove, and immerse yourself in the lush surroundings.
Chellarkovil- Watch Water Gushing
Chellarkovil is a place that evokes a sense of natural beauty and power. Its lush green surroundings and cascading waterfalls make it a haven for nature enthusiasts. The main attraction is Arippara, a waterfall that drops an impressive 120 meters, creating a stunning display of mist and rainbows. The dense forests hide other waterfalls, such as Valara Falls, Powerhouse Falls, and Meenmutty Falls, each with unique beauty. For a more adventurous experience, one can kayak around Arippara Waterfall’s base and feel the water spray on their face and hair. To immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of Chellarkovil, you can stay in one of the traditional village homestays.
Pandikuzhi – Perfect Picnic Spot
Pandikuzhi is a beautiful hill station between Chellarkovil and the Tamil Nadu border, just 5 kilometres away from Kumily. It offers an ideal setting for an unforgettable outdoor experience. With its emerald slopes, gurgling streams, and refreshing mountain air, Pandikuzhi is the perfect place for a picnic adventure. One of the best spots to enjoy the panoramic view of Pandikuzhi is the Rolling Hills, where you can relax and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Exploring the dense forests can lead you to hidden waterfalls with excellent sprays that refresh your face and energize you. If you ascend to the Pandikuzhi Viewpoint, that experience is truly unforgettable. You will have a wonderful experience at Pandikuzhi, which is guaranteed!
Thekaddy Lake – Ride & Explore The Surroundings
Thekkady Lake is a shimmering jewel nestled amidst the emerald embrace of Periyar National Park in Kerala, India. Glide across the lake’s calm surface on a traditional boat, letting the gentle ripples lap against the hull. Breathe in the fresh air, fragrant with cardamom and eucalyptus, and lose yourself in the breathtaking panorama. Keep your eyes peeled for the diverse residents of the national park who grace the lakeside. Watch playful elephants quenching their thirst, graceful deer emerging from the foliage, and exotic birds flitting through the trees. Relax on the shores, bathed in the warm sunshine, and let the gentle rhythm of the water wash away your worries. Breathe in the fresh air, listen to the forest’s whispers, and reconnect with nature’s serenity.
Anakkara – Watch Spice Plantations
Anakkara, the verdant village nestled amidst the rolling hills of Idukki district, Kerala, India, beckons you with its fragrant embrace. Witness the deep greens of cardamom leaves and pepper vines, the fiery red chillies peeking through the foliage, and the golden turmeric roots like buried treasures. Breathe in the air infused with the spicy warmth of black pepper, the citrusy zing of ginger, and the sweet earthiness of cardamom. Embark on a thrilling trek to hidden waterfalls, their cool spray refreshing your face as you navigate mossy paths and lush greenery. Keep your eyes peeled for the shy Nilgiri tahr clinging to rocky cliffs, playful macaques swinging through the trees, and even the majestic Asian elephant grazing in the grasslands.
Vandiperiyar – Paradise For Nature Lovers
Nestled amidst the rolling hills and verdant valleys of Kerala’s Idukki district lies Vandiperiyar, a village that whispers promises of adventure and serenity to every nature lover’s heart. Let the thunderous roar of Aruvikuzhi Waterfall, Kerala’s highest, send shivers down your spine. Hike through lush rainforest trails to discover hidden gems like Valara and Meenmutty Falls, their cool spray refreshing your soul. Hike through cardamom plantations, their heady aroma filling your lungs. Glide across the tranquil waters of Periyar Lake on a traditional boat, spotting playful otters and graceful birds dancing on the breeze. Please keep your eyes peeled for elephants quenching their thirst at the lake, Nilgiri tahrs clinging to rocky cliffs, and colourful birds flitting through the trees. Vandiperiyar is a haven for diverse wildlife!
Epilogue
Kerala isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience. It’s a chance to reconnect with nature, embrace cultural tapestry, and rediscover simple pleasures. So, let this conversation be a spark, igniting your Kerala adventure. Pack your sense of wonder, lace up your boots, and embark on your journey of discovery!
Remember, Kerala’s stories are endless, its beauty boundless. Keep exploring, experiencing, and falling in love with this enchanting land!