Elephant Ride in Kerala
Elephant Ride in Kerala
Do you want to connect with nature and enjoy the lush greenery of the tropical forests while riding on the back of a majestic elephant? If yes, then an elephant ride in Kerala is the perfect activity for you.
Elephant riding is a popular tourist attraction in Kerala, where you can explore the scenic landscapes, spice plantations, and forests in a calm and peaceful manner. Trained and gentle elephants will take you on a slow journey, giving you a chance to appreciate the natural beauty and wildlife of Kerala.
In this guide, we will tell you everything you need to know about elephant rides in Kerala, including the best time, the best places, tips and safety measures, and the cost. Read on and prepare for an unforgettable adventure!
Best Time For Elephant Ride In Kerala
The best time for an elephant ride in Kerala is between September and March, when the weather is cool, and the monsoon rains have given life to the lush landscapes. During this period, the forests and plantations are green, and the air is fresh, creating the perfect ambiance for an enjoyable ride.
It is best to avoid the rainy season (June to August), as the trails might be muddy and slippery, making the experience less comfortable for both you and the elephant. The summer months of April and May can be hot, but if you can tolerate the heat, early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for a ride.
Best Places For Elephant Ride In Kerala
Kerala is home to several locations where you can enjoy an elephant ride, each offering a different view of the state’s beauty. Here are the top places for elephant rides in Kerala:
Thekkady
Thekkady is one of the most popular places in Kerala for elephant rides, located near the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. You can ride through spice plantations, forests, and even near the Periyar Lake. The rides here last about 30-45 minutes, giving you ample time to enjoy the serene environment and spot birds or other wildlife.
- Cost: Around INR 400 to INR 600 per person for a short ride.
- Ideal for: Families, nature lovers, and those visiting Periyar Sanctuary.
Munnar
Munnar, famous for its tea plantations, also offers elephant rides. You can ride through the scenic hills, misty valleys, and lush greenery, making it an enchanting experience. The elephants in Munnar are well-trained, and the ride offers a calm, soothing connection with nature.
- Cost: INR 500 to INR 800 per person for a ride of 30-45 minutes.
- Ideal for: Couples, honeymooners, and those visiting Munnar’s tea estates.
Wayanad
Wayanad’s thick forests and rolling hills make it a great spot for an elephant ride. The experience here often includes a jungle trail, where you can witness the rich flora and fauna of the region. The ride is about 30 minutes long and takes you deep into the forest, offering glimpses of streams and waterfalls.
- Cost: INR 500 to INR 700 per person for a standard ride.
- Ideal for: Adventure enthusiasts and nature explorers.
Elephant Ride Tips And Safety
Riding an elephant can be a delightful experience if you follow some basic tips and safety measures. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes: Loose-fitting clothes and sturdy footwear are recommended, as you will be climbing onto the elephant and riding through uneven terrain.
- Listen to the mahout: The mahout (elephant handler) will guide you during the ride. They are experts in handling the elephants and know the best routes and safety precautions.
- Respect the elephant: Be kind and gentle with the elephant. Avoid making loud noises or sudden movements that might startle the animal.
- Avoid feeding the elephant: Unless specifically permitted by the mahout, do not attempt to feed the elephant, as they are usually on a special diet.
- Hold on tight: The ride can be bumpy at times, so hold on to the safety bars or ropes provided during the ride. Follow the instructions for mounting and dismounting to avoid injury.
Elephant Ride Cost In Kerala
The cost of an elephant ride in Kerala varies based on the location, duration, and type of ride. On average, you can expect to pay around INR 400 to INR 600 per person for a ride that lasts between 30 to 45 minutes. Longer or more specialized rides, such as those that include jungle safaris or nature trails, may cost more.
Some places offer packages that include a photo or video of your ride, which could come at an additional cost. You can also combine the ride with other activities like bamboo rafting or spice plantation tours, depending on the location.
Final Thoughts
An elephant ride in Kerala is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that lets you enjoy the natural beauty of this green paradise from a unique perspective. Whether you’re wandering through spice plantations, tea gardens, or jungle trails, riding an elephant will leave you with unforgettable memories. So, if you’re planning a trip to Kerala, don’t miss out on this incredible adventure. Book your elephant ride today and embark on a journey like no other.
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Explore More About Kerala
To reach Kerala, you have several options depending on where you’re starting from. Here’s an overview:
1. By Air
- Kerala has four main international airports: Cochin International Airport (COK) in Kochi, Trivandrum International Airport (TRV) in Thiruvananthapuram, Calicut International Airport (CCJ) in Kozhikode, and Kannur International Airport (CNN).
- Direct flights are available from major cities in India and international destinations like the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and parts of Europe.
- From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to your final destination within Kerala.
2. By Train
- Kerala has a well-connected railway network with major train stations in Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram), Ernakulam (Kochi), Kozhikode (Calicut), and Kannur.
- Book tickets through IRCTC or at local railway stations. Major trains from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, and Hyderabad connect to Kerala.
3. By Road
- Kerala is well connected by road with neighboring states: Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
- You can take a long-distance bus run by KSRTC (Kerala State Road Transport Corporation) or private operators, which are frequent from Bangalore, Chennai, and other South Indian cities.
- Alternatively, you can self-drive or hire a cab for a road trip into Kerala.
4. By Sea
- Kochi has a major port, and some luxury cruises and boats stop here on certain international and domestic routes.
- You can explore options for cruises from destinations like Mumbai.
5. Local Transport within Kerala
- Once in Kerala, travel between cities is convenient via trains, state-run buses, and private taxis.
- For shorter distances, you can also consider auto-rickshaws and ride-hailing services.
If you need specific guidance based on your starting location, let me know!
The best time to visit Kerala largely depends on what you want to experience, but generally, the ideal time is from October to March. Here’s a breakdown:
October to March: This is the peak tourist season. The weather is pleasant, with cooler temperatures and low humidity, making it perfect for sightseeing, backwater tours, and beach activities.
April to June: These months are hotter and more humid, which can make outdoor activities less enjoyable. However, this is a good time to find deals on accommodations and visit less crowded places.
July to September: This is the monsoon season, with heavy rainfall. While it’s not the most popular time to visit, the lush greenery and fewer tourists can be appealing. It’s also a great time for Ayurvedic treatments, as the weather is believed to enhance the effectiveness of these therapies.
If you’re interested in specific activities like wildlife watching, festivals, or cultural experiences, those can also influence the best time for your visit.
If you are coming through Train or Flight then you need to reach By reaching Ernakulam Railway station or Cochi airport.
You want to visit then July to Junauary will be the proper time to visit Kerala. If you want to avoid high cost then don’t come in holiday dates.
You can explore Munnar Thekkady Alleppey Vagamon Varkala Kovalam Trivandrums.
To visit 5 days 4 nights is the best plan in which you can explore Alleppey Vagamon Varkala Kovalam Trivandrum.
Houseboat Experiences by Carnival Tours, Alleppey.
In companies account on the 1st day only
Depends upon the Package you have taken.
Depends upon the Package you have taken.
Yes, Kerala is generally safe at night, especially in tourist areas, but remain cautious and avoid isolated places.
God’s Own Country: Kerala is often referred to as “God’s Own Country” due to its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and natural beauty, including backwaters, hills, and beaches.
High Literacy Rate: Kerala boasts one of the highest literacy rates in India, at over 96%. This is attributed to the state’s strong focus on education and social welfare.
Unique Festivals: The state is famous for its vibrant festivals, such as Onam and Vishu, which showcase traditional music, dance, and feasting. The snake boat races during Onam are particularly popular.
Ayurveda Hub: Kerala is renowned for its Ayurvedic treatments and wellness tourism. The state has numerous Ayurveda resorts and practitioners, making it a leading destination for holistic healing.
Backwaters: The backwaters of Kerala, particularly in places like Alleppey and Kumarakom, are a network of lagoons, lakes, and canals that offer houseboat experiences and are a major tourist attraction.
Diverse Wildlife: Kerala is home to several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, including Periyar National Park and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, where visitors can see elephants, tigers, and various bird species.
Cultural Melting Pot: The state has a rich cultural heritage influenced by various religions, including Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity, reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and art forms.
Spice Capital: Historically, Kerala was a major spice trading center, earning the nickname “Spice Garden of India.” It produces a variety of spices, including black pepper, cardamom, and cinnamon.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites: The Hill Stations of Kerala, including the Western Ghats, have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites for their biodiversity and unique ecosystems.
Women Empowerment: Kerala is known for its progressive gender equality and women’s empowerment initiatives, which are reflected in higher participation of women in education and the workforce compared to many other Indian states.