SIGHTS AROUND THEKKADY Murikkady (5kms from Thekkady)
Washed in the fresh spice scented air, Murikakdy is a panorama of cardomom,coffee and pepper plantations.
Pandikuzhi (5 kms from Kumily)
This picturesque spectrum of exotic flora , fauna and gurgling streams is cradled between Chellarkovil and Tamil nadu border. A popular picnic spot , Pandikuzhi offers great opportunities for trekking and is a photographer's delight.
Mangala Devi Temple (5 kms from Thekkady)
The ancient temple is hidden in the dense woods at the top of a peak 1337 m above sea level. The temple is built in the traditional Kerala style of architecture. Visitors are allowed here only on the Chithra Pournami festival day. The peak commands a panoramic view of the eastern slopes of the ghats and some hill villages of Tamil Nadu. Permission to visit the area can be obtained from the Wildlife Warden, Thekkady. Tel. : 91-486-322027.
Chellarkovil ( 15 km from Kumily)
This sleepy little village with its breathtaking view of the plains and cascading waterfalls is a feast for the eyes. The village slopes down to the famous coconut groves of Cumbum in neighbouring Tamil Nadu.
Vandiperiyar ( 18 km from Thekkady)
The river Periyar flowing through the centre of this town nourishes its vast tea, coffee and pepper plantations. A major trade centre, Vandiperiyar is also home to a number of factories. The Government Agriculture Farm and flower Garden have a delightful array of rose plants, orchids and anthurium.
Vandanmedu ( 25 km from Kumily)
This is one of the world's largest auction centres for Cardamom. A walk through the sprawling cardamom plantations of Vandanmedu is a heady experience.
Pullumedu ( 43 km from Thekkady, 26 km from Periyar)
The winding journey to this hill town, along the Periyar river, offers a stunning view of the rolling hills draped in lush greenery. Velvet lawns, rare flora and fauna add to the beauty of Pullumedu which can be accessed only by jeep. The famous Sree Ayyappa temple at Sabarimala and the Makara Joythi illuminations at the shrine are visible from here. Since it is part of the restricted forest zone, special permission to visit Pullumedu has to be obtained from the Wildlife Preservation officer, Thekkady Ph : 322027 or the Range Officer, Vallakkadavu or Tel. : 91-486-352515.