Spend your morning exploring one of the best-protected wild reserves in South India. Periyar National Park boasts a beautiful lake and a thriving diversity of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, sambar, gaur, and lion-tailed macaques. Consider taking a guided boat tour of the lake to maximize your chances of spotting the park's creatures. You might also visit the park's interpretation center for more information on the area's flora and fauna.
Kerala is famous for its spice trade, and a visit to a spice plantation will give you insight into this important agricultural industry. Smell, touch and taste the ginger, turmeric, cardamom, cloves, nutmeg, and other spices grown in the lush forests around Thekkady. You could also learn about the production of spices, tea and coffee, enjoy a walk through the plantation and capture some Instagrammable moments.
This small village overlooks the Idukki reservoir and is a peaceful spot to relax, with rolling green hills and coconut trees. You can take a leisurely stroll or do yoga to the backdrop of the reservoir view, a perfect activity for outdoor enthusiasts. When tired, have a relaxing Ayurvedic massage at one of the wellness centres here and you are sure to feel rejuvenated.
If you have more time, consider taking an Elephant ride at the Periyar National Park. Alternatively, you could take a boat ride to see the Mullaperiyar Dam and then relax around the dam and take some pictures. In case you have less time, leave out the Anakkara and spend half an hour walking around the local markets and pick up some souvenirs to take home.