Best Time to Visit Thekkady

Best Time to Visit Thekkady

The beauty of Kerala is perhaps reflected most in Thekkady, the serene and spectacular location of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Immerse yourself in this pristine and thriving ecosystem, the aromatic spice plantations that envelope it, the countless flora and fauna that call it home — there are only but a few paradises left on earth, and one of them is right here waiting for you.

As with the rest of Kerala, this is an all-year destination, with tropical weather throughout. But the best time to visit Thekkady depends on different factors, primarily the different seasons and the activities that take place during these times.

Visiting Thekkady for a Special Summer

If you’re thinking of planning a summer tour to Thekkady, prepare yourself well for high levels of heat and humidity. Temperatures can go as high as 36 degrees, with extremely hot days and slightly cooler evenings. Anytime between March to May sees this weather pattern in play, but despite the uncomfortable conditions, this is the best time to visit Thekkady for wildlife spotting. To escape the heat, the animals of Periyar flock around the waterholes in the reserve, greatly improving your chances of watching these marvellous creatures in their natural habitat. A family of elephants or if you’re really lucky, the reclusive tiger, are some of the highlights to look forward to.

Another great advantage of visiting in the summer is the opportunity to experience the elusive Chitra Pournami Festival. Celebrated at the Mangala Devi Temple located deep inside the forest — visitors are only ever allowed here on this one occasion in the year. The ancient temple sits atop a peak, 1337 metres above sea level, and welcomes pilgrims during the special festival in the months of April or May. An important thing to remember is that you need permission to visit the area, though it can be easily arranged from the Wildlife Warden. While this isn’t the best season for trekking, you can still visit some of the nearby villages and plantations. Remember! Whatever activity you’re doing, don’t leave home without your trusted sunscreen. For added comfort, be sure to wear casual cotton clothing that’ll keep you feeling cool through the heat.

Visiting Thekkady in the Marvellous Monsoons

The sweltering summers make way for the rejuvenating rainfall every year between June to September — and Thekkady comes alive in a vivid palette of green. This is the ideal time to visit if you’re one for monsoon magic. Fresh forest air, cloud-filled skies and the sound of the rain as the calming background score to your serene escapade. If you love nature, you’ll fall in love with Thekkady in monsoon. And to top it all, you’ll get the benefit of off-season hotel prices — and nearby sights are still easy to access. You can also add to your Thekkady monsoon adventure by planning your visit around the Onam celebrations, a festival experience that’ll leave you enchanted. Don’t forget to pack an umbrella and other rain gear!

Visiting Thekkady in the Wonderful Winters

Between October and February, Thekkady experiences its winter season. With temperatures ranging between 15 to 21 degrees, the weather is ideal for all kinds of activities, from sightseeing to trekking to rustic village escapes. So of course, this is also the much-favoured tourist season (despite the odd shower or two). The Periyar Reserve organises a host of events and excursions — bird and wildlife watching, overnight forest tiger trails, daytime safaris, boating on the Periyar Lake, bamboo rafting — the list is endless! You’ll get to see wild animals up-close on the boat journey, especially some super rare species that are entirely exclusive to the reserve.

The winters also see Thekkady welcome many species of migratory birds into the pristine forests, making it the perfect occasion to put the binoculars to good use.

But it’s not all about the Reserve, the winters are a good time to really explore all that Thekkady has to offer. Some of the nearby sights are at their experiential best in this season — be it spice or tea plantations, tribal eco-tourism programs or even treks with a local guide. It is also a great time to catch one of the local Kathakali and Kalaripayattu performances, of which there are daily organised shows at the Mudra Cultural Centre at the nearby town of Kumily.

Soak in as much as you can of this incredible destination, in the kind of perfect climate that’s neither really hot, nor too cold either. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple or friends and family, this is the best time to visit Thekkady if you want to get the most out of your trip. But do account for the peak season prices! And just in case, remember to pack some light winter wear — even if it’s just one sweater — it’ll help after dark when temperatures are at their coolest.

Truthfully, the best time to visit Thekkady comes down your desired interests and wanderlust. No matter what you choose, you will get to take home some unforgettable experiences as lifelong memories. You’ll get stay options ranging from luxury hotels, offbeat eco-stays or rustic home stays, all surrounded by the most picturesque tropical paradise.

SOTC can help you pick a Thekkady tour packages from a wide range of Kerala tour packages and plan your itinerary so that you can have the most fulfilling time visiting this stunning destination, located in the beautiful Idukki district of Kerala.