Thekkady

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 engaging 2-day itinerary that the whole family will enjoy.

Day 1: Exploring Nature and Wildlife

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel or a local eatery. Try some traditional Kerala dishes like appam and stew or puttu with banana.
• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: After breakfast, head to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. 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 by the lake or head to a nearby restaurant. There are some lovely places that serve local cuisine, so don’t miss out on trying some Kerala fish curry!

Afternoon:

• Spice Plantation Tour: Post-lunch, visit a spice plantation. Many plantations offer guided tours where you can learn about various spices like cardamom, pepper, and vanilla. The kids will love exploring the lush greenery and learning about how spices are grown. Some places even offer a chance to participate in activities like planting or harvesting.

Evening:

• Cultural Show: After a day of exploration, unwind with a cultural show. Look for a venue that offers traditional Kathakali or Kalaripayattu performances. It’s a great way to introduce the kids to local culture and art!

Dinner:

• Head back to your hotel or a family-friendly restaurant for dinner. Try some local delicacies, and don’t forget to indulge in some delicious Kerala desserts like payasam!

Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation

Morning:

• Breakfast: Fuel up with breakfast at your hotel. Maybe try some dosa or idli with sambar!
• Elephant Ride: Start your day with an elephant ride! There are several places in Thekkady where you can enjoy a gentle ride on these majestic creatures. It’s a unique experience that the kids will cherish!

Lunch:

• After your elephant adventure, grab lunch at a local restaurant. You can try some biryani or a thali for a wholesome meal.

Afternoon:

• Bamboo Rafting: For some family fun, head to the bamboo rafting experience in Periyar Lake. It’s a peaceful way to enjoy the surroundings, and the kids will love the adventure of being on the water. Plus, you might spot some wildlife from a different perspective!

Evening:

• Shopping and Strolling: After your rafting adventure, take a leisurely stroll through the local markets. You can shop for spices, handmade crafts, and souvenirs. It’s a great way to engage the kids in picking out something special to remember the trip by.

Dinner:

• For your final dinner in Thekkady, consider a restaurant that offers a mix of local and international cuisine. Enjoy a relaxed meal, and maybe even share your favorite moments from the trip!

Tips for a Great Family Trip:

• Stay Hydrated: Thekkady can be warm, so keep water bottles handy.
• Comfortable Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring.
• Sunscreen and Hats: Protect yourselves from the sun, especially during outdoor activities.
• Camera Ready: Capture all those beautiful moments!

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories with your family in Thekkady! Enjoy your trip! 🌿🐘🌞