Thekkadi

Thekkady is a beautiful destination, perfect for a family getaway. With its lush greenery, wildlife, and serene atmosphere, you’re in for a treat! Here’s a fun and family-friendly itinerary for your two days in Thekkady.

Day 1: Exploring Nature and Wildlife

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel or a local café. Try some traditional Kerala dishes like appam and stew or puttu with kadala curry.
• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: After breakfast, head to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. It’s a great place for families! You can take a guided nature walk or opt for a boat ride on Periyar Lake. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, deer, and a variety of birds. The boat ride is especially fun for kids, and you might even spot some wildlife along the shores!

Lunch:

• Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the designated spots in the sanctuary or head back to a local restaurant. Try some delicious Kerala-style meals, perhaps some fish curry or dosa.

Afternoon:

• Spice Plantation Tour: After lunch, visit a spice plantation. Many plantations offer guided tours where you can learn about various spices like cardamom, pepper, and vanilla. Kids will love exploring the plantation and seeing how spices grow. Some places even have interactive sessions where they can participate in activities like planting or harvesting.

Evening:

• Kalaripayattu Show: In the evening, consider attending a Kalaripayattu martial arts show. It’s an ancient form of martial arts from Kerala, and the performances are thrilling and engaging for all ages. It’s a great way to introduce your family to the local culture!

Dinner:

• Head back to your hotel or a nearby restaurant for dinner. Enjoy some more local cuisine, and don’t forget to try the famous Kerala banana chips for a snack!

Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation

Morning:

• Breakfast: Fuel up with breakfast at your hotel. Maybe try some idli and sambar this time!
• Elephant Ride: Start your day with an elephant ride at one of the local elephant camps. It’s a unique experience that kids will absolutely love! Some camps also offer opportunities to feed and bathe the elephants, which can be a memorable experience for the whole family.

Lunch:

• After your elephant adventure, enjoy lunch at a local eatery. You can try some traditional Kerala thali, which offers a variety of dishes on one plate.

Afternoon:

• Nature Walk or Bamboo Rafting: Post-lunch, you can either take a leisurely nature walk in the surrounding hills or opt for bamboo rafting on the Periyar River. Bamboo rafting is a fun and unique way to explore the area, and it’s safe for families. You’ll get to enjoy the serene beauty of the river and the surrounding forest.

Evening:

• Shopping and Local Markets: Spend your evening exploring the local markets. You can shop for spices, handmade crafts, and souvenirs. It’s a great way to support local artisans and bring home a piece of Thekkady with you!

Dinner:

• For your final dinner in Thekkady, consider dining at a restaurant that offers a cultural experience, perhaps with live music or dance performances. It’s a lovely way to end your trip!

Tips:

• Make sure to carry water bottles, sunscreen, and hats for the family, especially during outdoor activities.
• Check the timings for the wildlife sanctuary and other activities in advance to plan your day smoothly.
• Don’t forget your camera to capture all the beautiful moments!

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic time in Thekkady with your family! Enjoy the lush landscapes, the wildlife, and the rich culture! 🌿🐘