Exploring Thekkady's Enchanting Beauty in December

Thekkady, a captivating haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife aficionados, beckons travelers from all corners of the country to experience the serene charm of Kerala. Nestled in the Idukki district of Kerala at an elevation of 2800 meters, Thekkady stands as an inviting retreat for those seeking a rendezvous with nature's bounty. Whether you are enticed by the natural splendor or eager to embark on thrilling water sports adventures, Thekkady promises an unforgettable experience. Here, we delve into the details of this tranquil destination, especially in December 2022.

December Temperatures in Thekkady

Thekkady, a perennial favorite among Kerala's destinations, attracts nature enthusiasts and vacationers throughout the year. Despite the seasonal shifts, Thekkady's temperature remains relatively stable. However, the dry winters in December create a comfortable atmosphere for sightseeing and exploration, rendering it an ideal time to visit, especially for couples seeking a romantic getaway.

Discover the Best Activities in Thekkady for a Memorable December Vacation:

1. Boating on Periyar Lake

Embrace the enchanting experience of boating on Periyar Lake, one of Thekkady's most renowned attractions. Situated within the heart of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, this lake offers a unique spectacle of sanctuary inhabitants going about their daily rituals - from drinking and bathing to resting and foraging. It's not uncommon to spot playful elephants here. The boat ride extends for a captivating two hours, allowing you to capture astounding vistas.

Operating Hours: 7 am, 9:30 am, 11:30 am, 2:00 pm, and 4:00 pm

2. Bamboo Rafting in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

For a more immersive wildlife encounter, opt for the bamboo rafting program in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. This adventure takes you deeper into the lush forest, providing a closer view of the resident wildlife. In December, you can also witness the migration of numerous vibrant bird species. Each bamboo raft accommodates up to ten tourists, and the excursion spans an exhilarating three hours.

Operating Hours: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

3. Adventurous Hiking

Among the myriad adventures Thekkady offers, hiking stands as a beloved choice among travelers. The border hiking experience takes two groups of ten hikers each on captivating wildlife conservation treks, led by two guides and a forest guard. As you ascend to altitudes of 1000-1200 meters, the landscape unfolds with breathtaking slopes and expansive plains, offering glimpses of diverse bird species.

Operating Hours: 8:00 am – Late evenings

4. Enriching Nature Walks

For nature enthusiasts, Thekkady presents the opportunity for daily guided nature treks spanning 4-5 kilometers. These treks offer an exceptional chance to explore the region's unique flora and fauna, including birds, butterflies, and wildlife. When visiting Thekkady in December, these excursions are a must, with each trek limited to a group of five individuals.

Operating Hours: 7:00 am – 10:00 am, 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Explore Thekkady's Gems in December:

1. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Situated along the banks of the River Periyar, this wildlife sanctuary boasts an extensive array of flora and fauna, providing captivating wildlife encounters. Here, you can also partake in bamboo rafting and boat rides.

2. Mangla Devi Temple

A visit to the picturesque Mangla Devi Temple in Idukki is a must. This temple, located within the Periyar Tiger Reserve, is a significant attraction in Thekkady, known for its association with Kannaki, a symbol of moral strength.

3. Murikkady

Murikkady is renowned for its scenic spice, coffee, and cardamom plantations. While Kerala is celebrated for its spice plantations, Murikkady stands out with its diverse range of spices, including cloves, ginger, turmeric, tea, and vanilla.

4. Kumily

A mere 4 kilometers from Thekkady, Kumily offers breathtaking views of spice and tea plantations. This tranquil destination promises panoramic vistas of Kerala's mesmerizing landscape.

Best resorts in Thekkady - Mystic Mayapott

Reaching Thekkady:

By Air

The closest airport to Thekkady is Madurai Airport, approximately 136 km away. A cab ride from the airport will take you to your destination. Alternatively, you can opt for Cochin International Airport, situated 190 km from Thekkady, and complete the journey with a cab ride from there.

By Road

Bus services connect Thekkady to nearby cities like Cochin, Trivandrum, and Kottayam, offering both private and government options to suit various budgets. This mode of transportation is the most economical way to reach Thekkady in December.

By Rail

Kottayam Railway Station, located about 114 km away, serves as the nearest railway station to Thekkady. It offers connectivity to all major railway stations across India. Upon reaching Kottayam, local taxis are readily available for the final leg of your journey to Thekkady.