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Discovering Thekkady – A Peaceful Jungle Escape in Kerala
Some places aren’t just destinations—they’re feelings. That’s exactly how I would describe Thekkady, a quiet, green paradise in Kerala where the forest feels alive and time moves a little slower. Tucked into the Western Ghats and home to the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady turned out to be one of the most peaceful and refreshing trips I’ve ever taken—with the person I love by my side.
First Impressions: Nature All Around
From the moment we arrived, it felt like we’d entered a completely different world. Towering trees, misty hills, chirping birds, and that earthy forest smell—it was pure bliss. The air was cooler, cleaner, and calmer than anywhere else we’d been in Kerala.
Thekkady is mostly known for the Periyar Tiger Reserve, and even though spotting a tiger is rare, the idea of walking through a forest that wild and real is thrilling on its own. We were lucky to see elephants from a distance, a herd grazing near the lake, and plenty of monkeys playfully jumping through the branches.
Periyar Lake – A Boat Ride We Won’t Forget
One of the highlights of our trip was the boat ride on Periyar Lake. It’s a peaceful, one-hour ride across a man-made lake inside the forest. We went early in the morning, just as the mist was lifting off the water. The silence around us was surreal—no traffic, no crowds—just the sound of the boat cutting through the calm water and birds calling from deep in the forest.
We kept hoping we’d see a tiger come down for a drink (no luck!) but we did spot deer and a few wild boars on the shore. The lake, with its half-sunken tree stumps and forest reflections, looked like something out of a painting.
And yes—we took a bunch of selfies on the boat, the forest in the background and our hair slightly messy from the cool wind. Little things like that made the whole trip feel more personal and beautiful.
Into the Jungle: Trekking and Rafting
We also signed up for a guided jungle trek and bamboo rafting experience. Walking through the forest trails with our guide, who was a local tribal member, gave us a deeper connection to the place. He pointed out animal tracks, medicinal plants, and even mimicked bird calls.
At one point, we sat down on a bamboo raft in complete silence, just floating gently. It was honestly one of the most peaceful experiences of my life. There’s something special about drifting on water in the middle of the forest with your favorite person beside you. No phones, no distractions—just nature and us.
Spices, Culture & Elephants
Thekkady is also known for its spice plantations. We took a walk through one, learning about cardamom, pepper, cloves, and cinnamon. The smell of fresh spices in the air was unreal—it felt like walking through a living kitchen garden.
In the evening, we watched a Kathakali performance, where dancers tell stories through facial expressions and hand movements, and a Kalaripayattu martial arts show that was surprisingly intense and energetic. It gave us a glimpse into Kerala’s deep-rooted traditions.
There are also places offering ethical elephant experiences, where you can feed and gently bathe elephants. We visited one such spot but mostly just observed from a distance to respect the animals. Seeing elephants up close was a humbling experience.
Getting There & Staying
Thekkady is well connected by road, and we came via Munnar, which made for a scenic drive full of tea gardens and small waterfalls. The closest airport is Madurai, and the nearest railway station is Kottayam.
We stayed at a cozy homestay tucked into the hillside. The balcony looked straight into the forest, and in the early morning, we could hear birds and sometimes even spot a deer far off in the distance. There are also eco-lodges, luxury resorts, and even treehouse stays, depending on your vibe and budget.
Best Time to Visit
We visited in January, and the weather was absolutely perfect—cool mornings, sunny days, and clear skies. The best time to visit Thekkady is from October to March, especially if you’re planning outdoor activities. Monsoons (June to September) are also beautiful here, though treks can get limited.
What Made It So Special
For us, Thekkady wasn’t about ticking off places to see. It was about slowing down, breathing deeply, and just being present—with each other and with nature.
We spent hours just sitting by the lake, taking photos, talking about life, and watching the forest. It reminded us how peaceful life can be when we’re not rushing from one thing to the next. That’s what Thekkady gave us—a pause, a memory, and a moment of calm we’ll never forget.
You can see a few of our travel moments on my Instagram: @jaswantprajapatii
Final Words
If you ever find yourself in Kerala, don’t skip Thekkady. It might not have beaches or nightlife, but it has something better—peace, wild beauty, and that rare feeling of being completely surrounded by nature. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with someone special, Thekkady has a way of making you feel at home in the forest.
Take the boat ride. Walk the trails. Watch the sunset with someone you love. Thekkady isn’t just a destination—it’s a feeling you’ll want to hold onto long after the trip ends.
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