Best time to visit Thekkady

The best time to visit Thekkady depends on the type of vacation you are planning. An enchanting town in Kerala, Thekkady is blessed with stunning natural beauty, beautiful landscapes, coffee and spice plantations, and abundant flora and fauna. Offering something unique in every season, Thekkady is a favorite among tourists throughout the year. Read on to find out the best time to visit Thekkady.

Winter season in Thekkady (October to February)

October to February is the winter season in Thekkady. With cool and pleasant weather and temperatures ranging between 15 to 25 degrees Celsius, this is one of the best times to visit Thekkady. The comfortable climate is perfect for exploring, sightseeing, and enjoying outdoor activities.

Plantation tours, boating, and elephant rides are popular activities among tourists. Enjoy a boat ride in the Periyar Lake or some guided tours and tastings in the plantations of Thekkady. Try some adventurous activities like treks, hikes, nature walks, and bamboo rafting. For birdwatching enthusiasts, this is a great time to spot migratory birds that flock to Thekkady for the cooler months. 

This is the peak tourist season in Thekkady, so you might encounter large crowds at popular tourist spots. Make sure to book your flights and accommodations in advance, especially if you are traveling in December or January, which are peak tourist months. Carry light woollens, lip balm, and moisturizer.

Periyar Lake

Summer season in Thekkady (March to May)

Summers in Thekkady are hot and humid for the most part. The temperatures range from 26 to 36 degrees Celsius, and the days are especially intense, while the evenings are cooler and more pleasant. The pre-monsoon showers often start by May, making the climate pretty comfortable.

This is the best time to visit Thekkady if you are a wildlife enthusiast. Visit the Periyar Tiger Reserve, known for tigers as well as wild elephants, sambar deer, wild boar, and many species of birds. Due to the heat, animals tend to gather around the water bodies more often, increasing your chances of spotting wildlife. You can also go on tours of the spice and coffee plantations of Thekkady.

The Chitra Pournami Festival takes place during the summer season, and this is the only time when the Mangala Devi Temple opens its doors for devotees.

If you are visiting Thekkady in summer, make sure to carry loose, breathable clothes, as well as some light layers for the nights. Also pack sunglasses, and a hat or a cap. Apply plenty of sunscreen and stay hydrated throughout the day. Try to avoid staying outdoors during the afternoons.

See also: Things to do in Thekkady

Periyar Tiger Reserve

Monsoon season in Thekkady (June to September)

Bringing relief from the hot summers, monsoon in Thekkady spans June to September. The region witnesses heavy rainfall especially in July and August, and it is not the best time to visit Thekkady. The temperatures stay between 19 and 26 degrees Celsius, and the climate is cool but humid.

Due to the intense rains, Thekkady is often prone to waterlogging and landslides. Not a lot of tourists visit during this time, so it is not the peak season for tourism. However, Thekkady is a sight to behold in the monsoons. The rain-drenched green forests, lush hills, and misty views all around are a treat for nature lovers. This is a nice time for couples looking forward to a romantic escape. Budget travelers can also get some good deals on accommodations.

You can go on nature trails in the forests of Periyar, or indulge in a staycation. This is the best time to enjoy Ayurvedic massages and spa treatments as well.

If you visit Thekkady in monsoon, make sure to carry a raincoat or umbrella, rain-proof footwear, and extra clothes. Also keep a mosquito repellent or bug spray handy, and avoid difficult treks. Check the weather forecast regularly before planning your days, and be prepared for delays and cancellations in plans.

Enjoy a cozy staycation during monsoons in Thekkady

Events and festivals in Thekkady

Chitra Pournami Festival: The Chitra Pournami Festival is dedicated to Goddess Mangaladevi and takes place in April or May. The Mangaladevi Temple, situated deep inside Periyar Tiger Reserve, is opened once a year for this festival. The festival celebrates the Goddess and the power of women with many rituals and poojas.

Thekkady Flower Show: Thekkady Flower Show, or Pushpamela, is held every year in April, showcasing a large variety of vibrant flowers in a beautiful way.

Tour of Thekkady: Tour of Thekkady is India’s Gran Fondo cycling event that takes place in March. The event offers both cycle races and tours through the mesmerizing routes of Kerala.

Onam: The biggest festival of Kerala, Onam is celebrated in Thekkady with great enthusiasm. Taking place in August or September, this harvest festival includes different rites, Pookalam competitions, and the great feasting ritual, Sadya.

Thekkady Flower Show (Picture credits: DTPC Idukki)

So, when will you be visiting Thekkady? Let us know! At India Someday, we create tailor-made itineraries for your trip to India based on your requirements. Contact us and together we can plan the perfect trip to India for you!