Along the Tranquil Trails of Thekkady

Known for its pristine natural beauty, Thekkady is a very popular destination that people from all parts of the country frequent. The countless trails here and the varied wildlife can at once delight and overwhelm you during your visit to the region. Kerala is famous for its natural bounty. Its proximity to the ocean and the Western Ghats running through the state has made it a humid place, which is also blessed with perennial rainfall. This is the reason for its lush forests and hills and valleys that are covered with lush greenery and tumbling mountain streams. Thekkady Thekkady is about 200 km from Cochin, which is also the nearest airport. The Western Ghats help to sustain many rivers, and the Periyar River flowing through Thekkady is one such river, which is also the site of the Mulla Periyar dam. Thekkady is famous for its elephant and tiger reserves and trails. There are many tea and spice plantations through which herds of wild elephants travel regularly. Nature Trails Located at about 100 km from Munnar, Thekkady is a nature lover’s paradise. There are many trails around Thekkady for those interested in experiencing nature first hand. The place is cool and humid, and so the best time to visit is between September and May. The nearest airport is in Kochi, which is 200 km away, although there is a small airport in Munnar, which is about 95 km away. If you are a beginner, it is advisable to take one of the easier and shorter trails. However, if you are an experienced trekker, then you can explore these dense forests with their abundant wildlife that can take an entire day to cover with the assistance of an experienced tribal guide. However, local restrictions limit the number of people to 5 in the case of short trails and 10 in case of long trails. Therefore, plan your trip to Thekkady accordingly. Thekkady Tiger Trail The Tiger Trail is unique because the guides who take you on this trail are former poachers who have turned a new leaf and are doing their bit to help preserve and conserve our forests and its wildlife. Therefore, they have an unmatched intimate knowledge of these forests and the trails. Options include 2 days/1 night or 3 days/2 nights, depending on your schedule.  Typically, this trail will include 5 visitors, 5 guides and 2 forest officials, and a distance of 25–30 km should be covered. You will have to stay in pitched tents and eat vegetarian food prepared by your guides. The tough conditions of the trail indicate that only medically fit people between the ages of 15 to 65 can be admitted to the trek. Importantly, Thekkady offers fun for those who love adventure and Nature. It is advisable to prepare yourself beforehand and pack adequately to take these amazing trails into the dense forests.