Thekkady
Around 700 elephants and 40 tigers! This
is the least that Thekkady (Periyar) offers. Nestled in the verdant high
ranges of the Western Ghats, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is the cynosure
of all eyes here in Kerala. The sanctuary covers a huge area of 777 sq km
and harbours species like Nilgiri langoor, Nilgiri tahr, bison, deer,
antelope etc. The avian species count to 265. To add to your experience all
the more, there are aromatic spice gardens in the vicinity of the park. As
you explore these vast expanses of spice plantations, also try to know the
medicinal value of each of the spices.
Climate
Thekkady experiences a tropical climate with little variance from season to
season. March to May is the summer time. There are frequent rains. The mean
minimum temperature records 16 degrees Centigrade. September to May is the
best time to pay a visit to the natural paradise of Periyar.
Sightseeing
The Periyar Wildlife Sanctaury, a perfect haven for
wildlife, is the first and foremost sight to visit. Apart from elephants and
tigers, the sanctuary is home to animals like gaur, sambar, deer, jungle
cat, sloth bear and wild boar. At a distance of 4 km from Thekkady lies the
plantation town of Kumily which is also a popular
shopping centre. The vista of cardamom, coffee and pepper at Murikkady
is truly a sight to remember. Trekkers and photographers should head
straight to Pandikuzhi.
Getting There
Madurai, 140 km from here, is the closest airport. Kochi (185 km) and
Thiruvananthapuram (265 km) are the other airports lying closely. Kumarakom
(114 km) is the nearest railhead connecting Periyar to all the major cities
and towns of South India. Madurai Railway Station is situated at a distance
of 136 km from here. Road routes are well established too.
Vagamon
Perched at an elevation of 1,100 metres
above sea level, Vagamon sits amid vast tea plantations and forested hills.
Cool mountain breezes, sparkling steams, sprawling lawns and the overall
pristine look of the region are a huge draw for city dwellers and
vacationers. And which is more, the hill station also extends fine trekking
options. On account of what it has in store and what it can be worth of, it
happens to be a part of the country's ecotourism project. Tourist
attractions in and around Vagamon lie in plenty. There are sights here that
touch your heart, abide in your mind and haunt you for a long long time to
come.
Climate
Vagamon experiences a pleasant climate with temperature variance of 5 and
25 degrees. It's a destination that can be hot anytime of the year. Summers
are mild while winters are cool. Rains strike frequently making the region
much more beautiful.
Sightseeing
Vast tea plantations, lush meadows and the freshening breeze are just the
things to set the right mood. Besides, there are colonial legacies as well
that need to be explored. The Christian monastery that
lies on top of the Kurisumala Hill is must visit site.
The Kurisumala monks also manage a dairy farm that's one
of the attractions. The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary also
lies close by. Vagamon also serves as a perfect base to visit the nearby
hill stations of Thangalpara, Muruganmala
and Kulamavu.
Getting There
Cochin, at a distance of 100 km from here, is the closest airport. 60 km
from Vagamon is Kottayam, the closest railhead, connecting the place to all
the major cities and towns of the state. The road network also provides good
accessible links.
