Start your two-day trip by exploring the Periyar National Park, one of the best-known wildlife sanctuaries in South India. The park is home to over 1,000 elephant herds, as well as Bengal tigers, Indian bison, and a variety of exotic birdlife. The Periyar Lake boat ride is a great way to spot some of the park's animals and enjoy the picturesque scenery. The park also conducts several activities like jungle jeep safari, bamboo rafting, and elephant safari, which can be pre-booked.
Once you've had your fill of nature, head to the Mangala Devi Temple, which is located atop a hill and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and landscape. The temple is considered highly sacred and is visited by locals and tourists alike. The architecture of the temple is centuries old and is an excellent example of the traditional Kerala style of temple architecture. Note that the temple is open only on some days, so check the schedule before heading there.
To round up your day, head to the Kadathanadan Kalari Centre, which offers a glimpse into the ancient martial art form of Kalaripayattu. The show features skilled performers putting on various acts of weaponry, acrobatics, and agility, and is a must-see when in Thekkady. The duration of the show is about one hour, and pre-booking is recommended to ensure available slots.
Start your second day by exploring the famous Thekkady spice market, where you can find a vast selection of spices and herbs. The market is bustling with activity, and you can interact with the locals and learn about how the spices are grown, harvested, and sold. You can purchase from small packets of spices to large bags of varying qualities. Don't forget to barter to get the best deals.
After visiting the spice market, head to the Elephant Junction, where you can interact with these gentle giants in a humane and responsible way. Visitors can participate in various activities like elephant safari, elephant bath, feeding, chaining training, and trekking. It's a unique experience to watch the elephants' actions, listen to their communication, and be a part of their world. Do ensure to book in advance to secure a slot during peak timings.
End your trip by visiting Abraham's Spice Garden, a small, picturesque spice farm that offers guided tours through their selection of organic herbs and spices. These tours provide insight into the local farming methods and the importance of spices in the region. Visitors will also have a chance to taste some of the spices, and purchase some of their products. You can also meet the family members of Abraham to listen to their family tales and old farm stories.
If you have more time to spare, you can consider taking a boat ride to explore the Periyar River, which is part of the national park. Alternatively, you can visit the nearby town of Kumily, which has several local markets and shops selling handicrafts and souvenirs. If you have less time, you can consider visiting either the national park or Elephant Junction in one day, and the spice market or Abraham's garden in the other day, depending on your interests and preferences. Do remember to wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen during the day and carry mosquito repellent as required. Always check with the locals/booking sites for latest updates on opening and closing hours.