Thekkady is a small town in Idukki district, and is a part of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. It covers 777sq km area of thick jungle. It is home to Indian bison, Sambar, Nilgiri Tahr, Elephant, and 46 Tigers. The most appealing sight in Periyar is the artificial lake which was made by a British engineer, Colonel J Pennycuick. He diverted the water of the River Periyar towards Tamil Nadu and thus the lake was formed flowing through the forests of Western Ghats. The sanctuary was later declared as a Tiger Reserve in 1978. The Forest is unpolluted as there are no vehicles allowed into the forest.
The lake is the only means of transport inside the sanctuary. Therefore trekking is not on adventurous here but also healthy and refreshing. Those who are Fond of wildlife and are hardcore nature fans will never leave Thekkady unsatisfied. Tribal communities such as “mannans”, “uralis” and many other live in the Periyar forests. Many of them are trained guides and guards of the wildlife sanctuary as they know the woods well are alert to every movement inside the forest. Thekkady is also known for its spices. The spice plantations in Thekkady are worth a visit, as the aroma of famous Indian spices that is spread in and around the plantation seduce you, touching your highest senses. The visitors can learn how these spices are cultivated, harvested and processed.
Thekkady is on the border with the state of Tamil Nadu , in fact just 5 kilometers from the border town of Kumily which is very well connected by bus to both Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Notable among the denizens of Periyar are the tigers, the majestic Asiatic wild elephants and the distinctive Nilgiri langur. Other animals include the wild boar, wild dog, bison, bear and leopards. Amongst the avifauna, the most profuse are herons, egrets, darters, kingfishers and the great Malabar grey hornbill. A cruise through the waters of Periyar lake around which the wild -life sanctuary is situated, offers a soul - stirring pleasant experience.
