“10 Offbeat Things to Do in Thekkady for a Unique Experience”
Tucked in the lush hills of Kerala, Thekkady is widely known for the Periyar Tiger Reserve and its wildlife safaris. But beyond the typical tourist path lies a treasure trove of offbeat activities waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a nature lover, culture enthusiast, or adventure seeker, Thekkady offers countless hidden gems that will make your trip truly unforgettable.
If you’re planning a getaway and want to move beyond the usual sightseeing checklist, here are 10 offbeat things to do in Thekkady that promise a unique and enriching experience.
1. Experience an Ethical Elephant Encounter
While elephant rides are a traditional attraction in Thekkady, consider a more responsible and interactive experience. Several centers offer opportunities to feed, bathe, and learn about these gentle giants in a humane setting. Watching an elephant splash in the water or enjoying a banana snack is not only delightful but also educational.
2. Watch a Live Kathakali or Kalaripayattu Performance
Add some culture to your evening with a live performance of Kathakali, Kerala’s traditional dance-drama known for its colorful costumes and expressive storytelling. Or witness the thrilling martial art of Kalaripayattu, where performers display incredible agility and skill with swords, shields, and somersaults.
These performances often take place in small local theatres and give you a deeper insight into Kerala’s rich cultural heritage.
3. Go on a Tribal Heritage Walk
Thekkady is home to indigenous tribal communities that have lived in harmony with the forest for generations. Take a tribal heritage tour led by local guides who walk you through tribal hamlets, ancient customs, and forest-based survival techniques. You’ll also get to see tribal huts, medicinal gardens, and traditional tools.
4. Try Bamboo Rafting in Periyar Lake
Looking for something more adventurous? Sign up for bamboo rafting in the Periyar Tiger Reserve, an offbeat alternative to the regular boat ride. Glide through still waters surrounded by dense forest, listening to the sounds of nature and spotting wildlife along the banks.
This full-day program usually includes trekking and rafting, perfect for those who love being close to nature.
5. 🍛 Take a Kerala Cooking Class
What better way to connect with a culture than through its cuisine? Many homestays and eco-lodges in Thekkady offer authentic Kerala cooking classes. Learn how to prepare flavor-packed curries, coconut chutneys, and fresh seafood dishes using local spices straight from the plantation.
You’ll not only enjoy the delicious meal you make but also take home a skill you’ll use again and again.
6. Explore a Spice Plantation on Foot
While spice plantation tours are fairly popular, opt for a walking tour led by a local farmer to gain a truly offbeat perspective. You’ll discover the behind-the-scenes of cardamom, pepper, nutmeg, and clove farming, all while learning about organic farming practices and the spice trade history of Kerala.
These immersive tours often end with a tasting session or a traditional meal flavored with fresh plantation spices.
7. Go Fishing in the Backwaters
Although Thekkady is known for its hills and forests, the nearby village backwaters offer a peaceful escape for angling enthusiasts and nature photographers. Join a local fisherman on a canoe or relax by a calm pond while learning traditional Kerala fishing techniques.
It’s a calming and meditative experience, far from the crowds.
8. Try Offbeat Trekking Routes
While many tourists stick to the main Periyar trails, Thekkady offers several lesser-known trekking paths through tribal villages, spice plantations, and dense forest areas. Choose sunrise or sunset treks for breathtaking views and cooler temperatures. You may even spot rare birds and butterflies along the way.
Some treks are guided by forest officials or tribal members, adding a layer of authenticity and safety.
9. 🛶 Take a Sunset Canoe Ride in a Forest Canal
Instead of the usual day cruise, try a sunset canoe ride through the forest-fed canals and small inlets around Thekkady. As the golden light filters through the trees, you’ll witness kingfishers diving, monkeys playing in the canopy, and the serene calm of untouched nature.
These trips are ideal for bird watchers and couples seeking a romantic, offbeat experience.
10. Join a Forest Yoga or Meditation Session
For a truly spiritual experience, join a yoga or meditation class held in the midst of nature. Several eco-lodges and wellness retreats offer early morning or sunset sessions right in the heart of the forest. The sounds of chirping birds, rustling leaves, and distant waterfalls create a tranquil ambiance for deep relaxation.
It’s the perfect way to end your day in Thekkady and reconnect with yourself.
Final Thoughts: Thekkady Beyond the Usual
Thekkady is often celebrated for its wildlife sanctuary and boat rides, but its real charm lies in the lesser-known, immersive experiences that bring you closer to Kerala’s soul. From tribal walks and bamboo rafting to cultural performances and forest yoga, there are so many offbeat things to do that make your journey personal and unforgettable.
So, the next time you plan a trip to Thekkady, skip the beaten path. Choose the local, the authentic, and the unexplored. You’ll come back with not just photos, but stories worth telling.
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