7 Best Activities to Try in Thekkady, Kerala (2026 Travel Guide)

Planning a trip to Thekkady? Beyond its green forests and spice plantations, this beautiful destination offers cultural shows, lake boating, off-road jeep rides, forest treks and wildlife experiences.

Whether you're travelling with friends, family or your partner, here are 7 activities to try in Thekkady, with approximate costs, timings and booking tips to help you plan your trip.

1. Watch Kathakali & Kalaripayattu Shows

Experience Kerala's traditional art forms through two exciting performances.

• Kathakali: A classical dance-drama known for colourful costumes, facial expressions and storytelling.

• Kalaripayattu: A traditional martial art featuring impressive movements, flexibility and combat techniques.

• Approximate cost: ₹300 per person

• Show duration: Around 1 hour

• Usual show timings: Between 5 PM and 8 PM

Best for: Families, couples and travellers interested in Kerala's culture.

Tip: Confirm the day's show timings and ticket availability with the venue before visiting.

Place to visit for Kalari & Kathakali Shows

• Kadathanadan Kalari & Navarasa Kathakali Centre - https://maps.app.goo.gl/46nJibKAqFCVv1e78

• Thekkady Kalari Centre, Thekkady - https://maps.app.goo.gl/tUBPPxkjq9TgkMGi7

• Yodha Cultural Centre - https://maps.app.goo.gl/KR5LeLvQpo3PtgeW6

2. Enjoy Periyar Lake Boating

A boat ride on Periyar Lake is one of Thekkady's most popular experiences. Enjoy views of forest-covered hills and keep an eye out for birds and wildlife along the shoreline. Animal sightings are never guaranteed.

• Official KTDC online ticket: Around ₹450 per person

• Periyar Tiger Reserve boating ticket: Around ₹255 per adult

• Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours

• Official KTDC booking: https://www.ktdcboating.com/

• Forest booking portal: https://www.periyartigerreserve.org/

How to Reach the Boat Landing

Park your vehicle at the designated Anavachal parking area and take the forest department shuttle bus to the boat landing. Allow extra time for the transfer.

The official Periyar Tiger Reserve website advises visitors to report at the parking ticket counter an hour before departure and reach the boat landing 30 minutes before the ride.

Important: KTDC and Periyar Tiger Reserve operate separate ticketing arrangements, so check the correct reporting point and additional entry or shuttle charges for your booking.

Best for: Families, nature lovers and first-time visitors to Thekkady.

Parking Location and Bus Location for Shuttle Transfer - https://maps.app.goo.gl/r5MdRmVZyDVC7f1b6

Looking for a little adventure? Head towards Sathram for an off-road jeep ride through scenic forest landscapes, viewpoints and waterfall areas.

• Approximate cost: ₹2,500–₹3,000 per jeep

• Duration: Around 2–3 hours, depending on the operator

• What to expect: Forest trails, viewpoints and a waterfall stop, depending on the route and conditions

Best for: Friends, couples, photographers and adventure lovers.

Tip: Confirm the route, total duration, waterfall access and passenger capacity before booking.

4. Explore Gavi by Bus or Jeep

Gavi is an excellent option for travellers who want to experience Kerala's forest landscapes. The journey itself is a major part of the experience, with scenic roads and opportunities to enjoy nature.

Ways to Visit Gavi

Option 1: KSRTC bus

A bus service may operate from Kumily early in the morning, around 5 AM. Confirm the latest schedule and return service before planning your trip.

Option 2: Private jeep

• Approximate jeep cost: ₹4,000 per jeep, depending on the operator

• Forest entry/package charge: The quoted rate you have may be around ₹1,800 per person; confirm the current applicable tariff before booking.

Best for: Nature lovers, photographers and groups seeking a forest adventure.

Important: Gavi access, permits, vehicle restrictions and package charges can change. Confirm the complete cost with the authorised booking provider before travelling.

5. Visit a Spice Plantation

Thekkady is famous for its spice-growing regions. A guided spice garden visit is a simple way to understand how Kerala's famous spices are cultivated.

During the tour, you may learn about pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves and other spices. Many gardens also have shops where you can purchase spices to take home.

• Duration: Usually around 30–60 minutes, depending on the tour

• Cost: Varies by garden and package

• Best for: Families, food lovers and first-time visitors to Kerala

Tip: Ask whether the tour includes a guided walk and whether shopping is optional.

6. Visit an Elephant Camp

Some elephant-related tourist facilities around Thekkady advertise activities such as elephant rides, bathing experiences, timber-pulling demonstrations and photography.

However, the activities offered vary between operators, and not every camp provides all of them. Before booking, check animal-welfare practices, safety arrangements and whether close-contact activities are appropriate.

Best for: Travellers interested in learning about elephants and local tourism experiences.

Choose responsible, welfare-focused operators and avoid activities that involve distress, unsafe handling or forced performances

Places to visit for Elephant Camps in Thekkady

• Elephant Camp - https://maps.app.goo.gl/DjnALmMWiKBmuzqq7

• Elephant Junction Thekkady - https://maps.app.goo.gl/t96zN1KCACd7GDCXA

• Kalpavanam Elephant Camp - https://maps.app.goo.gl/qzKCo2zjbRj4W9X98

7. Try Bamboo Rafting at Periyar Tiger Reserve

For something more adventurous than a regular boat ride, consider the official bamboo rafting programmes at Periyar Tiger Reserve.

These experiences combine forest trekking with rafting on Periyar Lake and are designed for visitors who enjoy outdoor activities.

Available Official Programmes

Half-Day Bamboo Rafting

• Published price: ₹2,200 per person

• Schedule: Two listed slots, 7:30 AM–12:30 PM and 9:30 AM–2:30 PM

• Includes approximately 3–4 hours of trekking and around 1 hour of rafting.

• Packed food is provided.

Full-Day Bamboo Rafting

• Published price: ₹2,900 per person

• Duration: Approximately 8 AM–5 PM

• Includes trekking, around 3 hours of rafting, guides, tea, snacks and packed lunch.

These programme details and prices are listed on the official Periyar Tiger Reserve website. Check current availability, age restrictions, entry charges and shuttle fees before booking. Children below 12 are not permitted on these two rafting programmes, according to the published programme rules.

Other Periyar Eco-Tourism Experiences

If you have more time, the official booking portal also lists:

• Nature Walk: A guided walk to experience the forest environment.

• Green Walk: A short nature-based trekking programme.

• Jungle Scout: Guided night trekking experiences.

• Border Hiking: Longer forest hikes for experienced outdoor enthusiasts.

• Periyar Tiger Trail: Multi-day trekking and camping programmes.

• Watch Tower: A forest stay and birdwatching experience, subject to availability.

Programme rates and operating dates differ. Check the official programme list and booking portal for current details.

Quick Tips Before You Visit Thekkady

• Book popular activities early, especially boating and bamboo rafting.

• Carry comfortable shoes, water and sun protection.

• Follow forest department rules and your guide's instructions.

• Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.

• Check weather conditions before planning off-road rides or outdoor activities.

Price note: Activity prices in this guide are indicative figures collected for September 2026, along with published programme details checked in October 2026. Actual prices, timings, availability and entry charges may change. Always confirm directly with the official provider or operator before travelling.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best activities to try in Thekkady?

Periyar Lake boating, Kathakali and Kalaripayattu shows, Sathram jeep rides, Gavi trips, spice garden visits and bamboo rafting are popular options.

2. How much does Periyar boating cost?

The supplied indicative prices are ₹450 per adult through KTDC online booking and ₹255 per adult for the Periyar Tiger Reserve boating programme. Check the respective official websites for current fares and additional charges.

3. Can I book bamboo rafting online?

Yes. Visit the official Periyar Tiger Reserve website to check available programmes and booking slots.

4. Is Gavi suitable for a day trip from Thekkady?

It can be planned as a day trip, but travel time, forest entry rules and return arrangements need careful planning. Confirm the current permitted route and schedule before setting out.

5. Which activity is best for families?

Periyar boating, cultural shows and spice garden tours are good starting points for many families. Check age limits and safety requirements before choosing trekking or rafting.

Make the Most of Your Thekkady Trip

You don't need to fit every activity into one holiday. Choose a mix of culture, nature and adventure that suits your time and budget.

Planning a Kerala holiday? Wonder Gaze Tourism can help you organise your Thekkady stay, transport, sightseeing and activities as part of a customised travel package.