After enjoying a wholesome breakfast in the refreshing hills of Munnar, you’ll check out from your hotel and begin your scenic drive to Thekkady—a lush, green destination located in the Idukki district of Kerala, best known for its Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and spice plantations. The journey is approximately 100 km and takes around 3.5 hours, but the road itself is a treat to the senses.

As you descend from Munnar’s tea-covered slopes, the terrain gradually transforms into dense forests, cardamom estates, pepper vines, and thick bamboo groves. The air begins to smell of spices—cardamom, clove, and black pepper—grown abundantly in this region. Along the way, you’ll spot locals selling fresh fruits, forest honey, and handmade spice products. Feel free to pause at a roadside shop or viewpoint to stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery.

Upon reaching Thekkady, you’ll check into your hotel or eco-resort nestled amidst the greenery. Take some time to relax—perhaps enjoy a cup of spice-infused tea on the veranda, or simply take in the sounds of birds and rustling trees. Thekkady offers a peaceful escape into nature, and your stay here is designed to help you disconnect from city life and reconnect with the wild.

In the afternoon, prepare for an optional but unforgettable experience: a visit to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the most famous and well-preserved sanctuaries in Southern India. Spread across over 900 square kilometers, the sanctuary surrounds the Periyar Lake, a calm reservoir formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam. The best way to explore the sanctuary is by boat cruise on Periyar Lake (subject to availability and weather conditions).

The boat ride usually lasts about 90 minutes, and it’s during this tranquil cruise that you may spot elephants bathing along the banks, sambar deer grazing, wild boars, and sometimes even Indian bison (gaur). Bird lovers will enjoy spotting kingfishers, hornbills, herons, and other exotic bird species flying across the lake. The atmosphere is serene, with forested hills rising around you and the reflection of trees dancing on the water’s surface—an unforgettable wildlife experience in the heart of Kerala.

Once the boat ride is done, you can explore the area further with optional visits to spice plantations, where a guide will walk you through rows of cardamom, vanilla, cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, and other spices. You’ll learn about how these spices are cultivated, processed, and used—not just in cooking, but also in medicine and cosmetics. These tours are interactive and deeply enriching, offering a glimpse into Kerala’s agricultural soul.

As evening falls, Thekkady comes alive with its vibrant cultural programs. You have the option to attend a traditional Kathakali performance, Kerala’s ancient dance-drama known for its elaborate costumes, colorful makeup, and expressive storytelling through facial expressions and hand gestures. Alternatively, you may watch a thrilling Kalaripayattu martial arts show—one of the oldest martial arts in the world, developed in Kerala centuries ago. These shows are held in local cultural centers and are a must-see to understand the depth of Kerala’s heritage.

After a day filled with nature, culture, and flavors, return to your hotel for a restful night. The calm, cool air of Thekkady and the gentle symphony of crickets and distant animal calls will lull you into a peaceful sleep.

Overnight stay in Thekkady.