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Thekkady
Thekkady, located 65 km from Idukki is one of finest wildlife reserves
in India. Spread across Idukki is picturesque plantations and holds great opportunities
for treks and mountain walks. This bird sanctuary is a peninsular land of 25 sq.
km formed between the branches of River Periyar. The rivers are rich in fish life
and are shallow for most of the year. The avifauna includes both resting indigenous
birds and water birds. The most notable of the birds are Malabar grey hornbill,
grey jungle fowl, heron, egret, jungle myna, wood pecker, rose winged and blue
winged parakeet. Rare birds like Ceylon frog-mouth, rose billed roller etc. are
also seen.
The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Lying close to the plantations,
in the rich jungles of Periyar in Thekkady is one of the world's most fascinating
natural wildlife reserves - the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Spread across 777
sq km, of which 360 sq. km is thick evergreen forest, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978. Noted for its geomorphology, diversity of
wildlife and scenic beauty, the Reserve attracts visitors from all over the world.
The
splendid artificial lake formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar River
adds to the charm of the park. This is the only sanctuary in India where you can
have the unique experience of viewing wildlife at close quarters from the safety
of a boat on the lake. The greatest attraction of Periyar, however, are the herds
of wild elephants that come down to play in the lake.
Kumily
Located
4 km from Thekkady is a plantation town situated in the outskirts of the Periyar
sanctuary. Kumily is an important shopping center and spice trade center.
Murikkady
Located
5 km from Thekkady, Murikkady is a panorama of cardamom, coffee and pepper plantations.
Pandikuzhi
Located
5 km from Kumily, Pandikuzhi is a picturesque spectrum of exotic flora, fauna
and gurgling streams is cradled between Chellarkovil and the Tamil Nadu border.
A popular picnic spot, Pandikuzhi offers great opportunities for trekking and
is a photographer's delight.
Mangala Devi Temple
Located
15 km from Thekkady this ancient temple is hidden in the dense woods at the top
of a peak 1337 m above sea level. The temple is built in the traditional Kerala
style of architecture.
Chellarkovil
Located
15 km from Kumily, this sleepy little village with its breathtaking view of the
plains and cascading waterfalls is a feast for the eyes. The village slopes down
to the famous coconut groves of Cumbum in neighbouring Tamil Nadu.
Vandiperiyar
Located
18 km from Thekkady, Vandiperiyar is a major trade centre, Vandiperiyar is also
home to a number of tea factories. The Government Agriculture Farm and Flower
Garden have a delightful array of rose plants, orchids and anthuria.
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