From Major Cities:

• Delhi to Kottayam: The train journey covers around 2,700 km and takes approximately 48 to 50 hours. Ticket prices range from ₹800 to ₹4,500, depending on the class of travel.
• Mumbai to Kottayam: Covering approximately 1,600 km, the train journey takes about 28 to 30 hours, with fares ranging from ₹700 to ₹3,800.
• Bangalore to Kottayam: This 575 km journey takes about 10 to 12 hours by train, with tickets priced between ₹400 and ₹2,500.
• Chennai to Kottayam: Covering around 690 km, this train ride takes about 12 to 14 hours, with ticket prices ranging from ₹500 to ₹2,800.

Route to Thekkady from Kottayam Railway Station: Once you arrive at Kottayam Railway Station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Thekkady. The drive from Kottayam to Thekkady is around 3 hours long, covering a distance of approximately 107 kilometers. The route via Erattupetta and Kumily offers a delightful journey through winding roads, dense forests, and spice plantations, making it an unforgettable experience.

By Road: Enjoy a Scenic Drive to Thekkady

Thekkady is well-connected by a network of roads, making it accessible for those who enjoy road trips. The journey by road is a visual treat, with the scenic beauty of Kerala’s landscapes adding to the experience.

From Major Cities:

• Bangalore to Thekkady: The drive from Bangalore covers about 510 kilometers and takes approximately 9 to 10 hours. The most common route is via NH 44 and NH 185. Fuel costs for this trip typically range from ₹4,000 to ₹6,000.
• Chennai to Thekkady: Covering around 580 kilometers, the drive from Chennai takes about 10 to 12 hours via NH 44 and NH 85. Fuel costs range between ₹5,000 and ₹7,000.
• Cochin to Thekkady: The shortest drive to Thekkady is from Cochin, covering 145 kilometers in about 4 to 5 hours via NH 183. Fuel costs for this journey range from ₹1,200 to ₹1,800.
• Trivandrum to Thekkady: A 205-kilometer drive from Trivandrum takes around 5 to 6 hours via NH 66 and NH 183. Fuel costs for this trip typically range between ₹1,800 and ₹2,500.

Scenic Routes:

• Cochin to Thekkady via NH 183: This route takes you through Kerala’s lush spice gardens, forests, and misty hills, offering a mesmerizing drive.
• Bangalore to Thekkady via NH 44 and NH 185: This route combines smooth highway driving with scenic hill station views as you approach Thekkady.

Travel Tips for Thekkady

• Best Time to Visit: Thekkady is best visited from September to March when the weather is pleasant, and the wildlife sightings in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary are at their best. The monsoon season (June to August) sees heavy rains, which can make travel more challenging.
• Packing Essentials: The weather in Thekkady can be cool, especially in the evenings, so it’s advisable to carry light woolens. Comfortable walking shoes, binoculars for wildlife spotting, and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes are must-haves.
• Local Attractions: While in Thekkady, don’t miss the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can enjoy boat cruises, nature walks, and jeep safaris. Other attractions include the Periyar Lake, spice plantations, and the Mangala Devi Temple.

Thekkady’s allure lies in its untouched natural beauty and rich biodiversity. Whether you choose to fly, take a train, or drive, the journey to Thekkady promises to be as captivating as the destination itself, offering a perfect blend of peace, adventure, and unforgettable memories.