Planning your trip around the best time to visit Thekkady, ensures an unforgettable experience. Thekkady, derived from the word "thekku" which means teak, is a town, situated in the Western Ghats of Kerala, it is nonetheless a paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone who is looking for relaxation from the busy city life. The town offers a remarkable experience throughout the year with its nearby Periyar National Park, which has a wildlife sanctuary, spice plantations, and beautiful landscapes. But to truly make the most of your trip, knowing the best time to visit Thekkady is essential. This guide breaks it down for you so that you can plan your trip perfectly.
Best Time To Visit Thekkady: Seasonal Insights
The weather in Thekkady is majorly split into 3 seasons, Summer, Monsoon, and Winter. All seasons offer their charm and beauty to the place, with temperature varying in all the seasons. Keep reading further to know about the details of each season.
Winter: The Ideal Season
Thekkady in Winter is considered the best time to visit. Due to the mild winter, the season becomes ideal for most outdoor activities. Thekkady’s local culture comes alive during the winter months. From vibrant festivals to cultural performances, you’ll get a chance to immerse yourself in the traditions of Kerala and explore all the best places to visit in Thekkady. The cityblooms up in wildlife in winter, hence offering many sightseeing activities too. Winters are the most popular time for honeymooners due to the abundance of activities.
Things To Do In Thekkady In Winter:
- Jungle Safari: Explore and experience the jungle safari, elephant rides, and migratory birds.
- Water activities: Experience canoeing and bamboo rafting in the Periyar River.
- Plantations: Visit Abraham’s spice gardens, murikkady, and Kadathanadan Kalari Center.
Places To Visit In Thekkady In Winter:
- Periyar Lake: Ideal for boat rides amidst serene surroundings and wildlife sightseeing. Enjoy wildlife safaris and boat cruises on Periyar Lake to spot elephants, tigers, and exotic birds.
- Abaraham’s Spice Garden: Walk through the aromatic spice gardens and learn about the cultivation of different spices.
Summer: For A Serene Retreat
March, April, and May bring a warm tone to the picturesque Thekkady. The temperature in Summer rises to 36ºC, which makes it an ideal time for trekking, and exploring the plantations. You should consider going to Thekkady in the summer if you are a wildlife lover as you can spot wild animals around the Periyar River and Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Due to the hot temperature, the place is less crowded than other seasons making it easy to find the best deals on flights and hotels and indulge in many things to do in Thekkady.
Things To Do In Thekkady In Summer
- Jungle Camping: Spend a night in the wilderness under a starlit sky
- Photography: Capture stunning landscapes covered in hues of golden sunlight.
- Mangla Devi Temple: Visit the temple as it attracts a huge number of pilgrims in May.
Places To Visit In Thekkady In Summer
- Kumily: A bustling town near Thekkady, ideal for shopping for spices, handmade chocolates, and souvenirs.
- Vandiperiyar: A summer retreat known for its tea estates, cool breeze, and scenic beauty.
Monsoon: To Enjoy The Lush Green Glory
The average temperature falls near 20ºC, giving the place a cool breeze from its warm summers, Thekkady receives heavy rainfall in July and August. If you count yourself as a rain lover, monsoons vow stunning views of the hills and Periyar Lake, and it is a refreshing time for you to visit Thekkady as you can discover the beauty of misty hills and the petrichor. The wild frames and the landscape settings of Periyar are worth watching during this span of the year. So, traveling during the monsoon period can be delightful.
Things To Do In Thekkady In Monsoon
- River Rafting: Experience the thrill of River rafting in the famous Periyar River
- Ayurvedic Treatments: Rejuvenate your mind and body through ayurvedic treatments, as it is considered the best time for such treatments in Kerala
- Chellarkovil: Enjoy the green blanket of monsoons and shimmering waterfalls at Chellarkovil.
Places To Visit In Thekkady In Monsoon
- Peeru Hills: Make your trip adventurous by traveling to the beautiful gorges of Peermede to view the gorgeous Peeru Hills.
- Kalariyapattu: Witness Kerala's traditional martial arts performances, perfect for cultural exploration.
Conclusion
Thekkady’s charm lies year-round, with each season offering an exclusive view and beauty to the peaceful location. While the consistently pleasant weather makes it a serene spot throughout the year, winter is the best time to visit, with its cool, harmonious air, giving it a spot for a perfect getaway from the monotony of urban life. Thekkady strikes a perfect balance between relaxation and adventure. Plan your next Kerala vacation to see this scenic beauty of God’s own country at its best and create unforgettable memories in the lap of nature.
FAQs
1. Is one day's visit enough to explore Thekkady?
If you live near Kochi or Mudrai, you can visit Thekkady in one day, while it's ideal to plan a trip for at least 2-3 days.
2. Is there any fee for boating in Thekkady?
Yes, there is a fee for boating in Thekkady, it's Rs 500 for Indians and foreigners.
3. Which is the best season to visit Thekkady?
Winter is the best season to visit Thekkady, offering a range of activities to explore in
peaceful weather.