Thekkady, best known for its lush forests and the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, is a haven for adventure lovers. Whether it’s bamboo rafting across a serene lake or trekking through tiger territory, Thekkady offers raw, nature-driven thrills for every kind of adventurer.
1. Bamboo Rafting in Periyar Lake
Why visit: Paddle silently through the heart of the Periyar Tiger Reserve, spotting birds and animals along the forest-edged waters.
Highlights: – Raft made of bamboo logs – Forest guide included – Wildlife sightings from the water
Timing: 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM (full-day) or 7:30 AM to 12:30 PM (half-day)
Entry: ₹2,000–₹3,000 per person
2. Border Hiking in Periyar Reserve
Why visit: A full-day guided trek along the outer limits of the sanctuary, often through tiger territory and off-the-grid terrain.
Highlights: – 15 km trek – Chance to see elephants, bison – Accompanied by armed forest guards
Timing: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry: ₹2,200 per person
3. Jungle Night Patrol
Why visit: Embark on a late-night guided walk into the sanctuary, experiencing the forest's nocturnal magic under moonlight.
Highlights: – Armed guard escort – Real-time wildlife tracking – Once-in-a-lifetime thrill
Timing: 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM & 10:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Entry: ₹1,000–₹1,200 per person
4. Nature Walk with Tribal Guide
Why visit: Trek along eco-trails led by tribal community members who share indigenous knowledge of plants and wildlife.
Highlights: – Educational insight – Close wildlife encounters – Eco-friendly routes
Timing: 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM or 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Entry: ₹750–₹1,000 per person
5. Jeep Safari to Gavi
Why visit: Drive deep into the Gavi forest zone, a rich part of the Periyar ecosystem with waterfalls, cardamom hills, and scenic views.
Highlights: – Off-road trail – Birdwatching – Forest entry pass included
Timing: 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry: ₹2,500–₹3,500 per jeep (4–6 people)
6. Boating on Periyar Lake
Why visit: Though more relaxed, this 90-minute boat ride offers potential sightings of elephants, deer, and wild boars at the water’s edge.
Highlights: – Double-deck boat – Panoramic views – Chance encounters with wildlife
Timing: 7:30 AM, 9:30 AM, 11:30 AM, 1:45 PM, 3:30 PM
Entry: ₹255–₹450 per person (depending on seat and season)\
7. Spice Plantation Trek
Why visit: Walk through aromatic spice gardens, learning about cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and their cultivation process.
Highlights: – Farmer-led walks – Organic produce – Spice tasting
Timing: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Entry: ₹200–₹500 per person
8. Elephant Safari & Interaction
Why visit: Get up close with elephants through short rides, feeding sessions, and bathing rituals in ethical care centers.
Highlights: – Short jungle trail rides – Safe for families – Great photo ops
Timing: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry: ₹500–₹1,500 per package
9. Rock Climbing & Rappelling (Private Estates)
Why visit: Climb rugged terrain and descend steep rocks at adventure zones in Thekkady’s outskirts.
Highlights: – Rope gear included – Beginner to expert routes – Scenic surroundings
Timing: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: ₹800–₹1,200 per session
10. Cycling Around Kumily
Why visit: Rent a mountain bike and explore tea gardens, spice villages, and winding forest-edge roads on two wheels.
Highlights: – Village life glimpses – Tea shop breaks – Self-guided or guided options
Timing: 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM
Entry: ₹300–₹500 per cycle/day (₹800–₹1,200 for guided tour)
