thekkady elephant safari timings

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Thekkady (Timings, History, Entry Fee, Images & Information)

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Thekkady Entry Fee

• 45 per person for Indian Adult
• 15 per person for Indian Child
• 500 per person for Foreigner Adult
• 180 per person for Foreigner Child
• 38 for Still Camera
• 300 for Video Camera
• 150 for Boat Safari (Above 11 years age)
• 50 for Boat Safari (Below 11 years age)
• 5500 for Periyar Tiger Trail Treks (One night)
• 7500 for Periyar Tiger Trail Treks (2 nights)

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Thekkady Phone

04869 224 571.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Thekkady Address : Kumily , Thekkady , Kerala , 685536 , India

Kerala Tour Packages

Periyar wildlife sanctuary thekkady timings.

The south Indian state of Kerala is famous for its national parks, among other things. And Periyar National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary happens to be one of the largest in this state. Also known as PNP, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies this under category II, which is for national parks. This means that the protected area is used for conservation of the wild animals and plants, and is not just a sightseeing spot.

Periyar National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary is governed by the Kerala Forest and Wildlife Department and sees an average annual footfall of hundreds of thousands of people. The national park borders the state lines of Tamil Nadu and enjoys its position on the southern part of the Western Ghats.

Periyar happens to be Kerala’s longest river, and along with Pamba, which is the third longest river in the state, it drains into this park. The national park and wildlife sanctuary is home to flora and fauna which are not only endangered but also endemic and rare.

Periyar National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary Timings & Entry Fee

There are very few national parks in India which are open in all seasons, and Periyar National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary happens to be one of those few. While sightings vary in each season, the park lets tourists and naturalists in throughout the year during designated entry and exit times.

One can visit this national park on any day of the week between 6 AM and 7 PM. Sighting of birds is the best during sunrise and sunset. However, if you are on the search for the big cats, afternoons are the best. The wildlife sanctuary also opens for night safaris after 8 PM. This safari primarily aims to help one spot the elusive leopard, among other night animals and even nocturnal birds such as owls.

Periyar National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary levies various fees depending on your nationality, age and gadgets that you carry. For Indian adults, the price is INR 45. For Indian children, it is INR 15 per head. Foreign adult nationals can enter by paying INR 500 whereas foreign children are charged INR 180 each.

If you carry a still camera, you will be charged INR 38, but for video cameras, the fee is INR 300. For better luck with sighting wild animals and identifying avifauna, it is recommended to bring along your binoculars. If you don’t have any, you can rent it from their office for INR 50, with an extra INR 100 as security deposit.

Apart from the regular entry fees, there are special safaris and treks which are available inside. They run a boat safari which is priced at INR 150 for those above the age of 11, and only INR 50 for those under 11 years of age.

The park also runs the adventurous Periyar Tiger Trails Trek which costs INR 5,500 per head per night. However, if you book this for two nights, it comes at a discounted price of INR 7,500 per person for the entire duration.

History Behind the Periyar National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary

Established in 1982, Periyar National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary’s history dates back to a time further back in the past. In 1899, the Periyar Lake Reserve was formed a few years after the construction of a masonry gravity dam, called the Mullaperiyar Dam, which was built over the Periyar River in 1895.

In 1934, Chithira Thirunal Balarama Varma, the then Maharaja of the erstwhile Kingdom of Travancore, earmarked the forested land around the Periyar Lake as private game reserve. This was done primarily to discourage encroachment of the area by tea plantation owners, who would ultimately clear the forest land to make tea gardens. Named Nellikkampatty Game Reserve, the forest saw its first conservation effort before India became independent.

Later in 1950, the land in Periyar was consolidated and declared a wildlife sanctuary after India became politically stable and autonomous. In 1978, Periyar was pronounced a tiger reserve, in an effort to preserve the tiger population in this part of Kerala. Finally, in 1982, the core area of the forest was notified as a national park, raising its status on the biodiversity and wildlife conservation yardstick.

In 1991, the national park received financial support for the conservation of its Asian Elephants under Project Elephant. The forest was later divided into Periyar East and Periyar West in 2001. The park saw an enlargement in 2007 when 148 square kilometers of the land of Goodrical Range was added to it. Again in 2012, the reserve received 148 square kilometers of the Ponnambalamedu evergreen forest.

Layout of Periyar National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary

Straddling the Pandalam Hills and the Cardamom Hills or Yela Mala of the Western Ghats, this national park has the privilege of altitude. The park is bounded by Medaganam and Vellimalai in the north and the Kallimalai Peak in the east. To its west is a plateau at an altitude of 1,200 metres or 3,900 feet. In a sharp contrast, the Pamba River valley in the premises presents the lowest altitude at 100 metres.

Periyar National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary is spread over 925 square kilometres or 357 square miles. Of this sprawling protected area, 305 square kilometres or 118 square miles forms the Periyar National Park in the core zone. Most of the park has thickly wooded rolling hills which become quite steep at certain sections.

The Periyar Lake sits at the centre of the wildlife sanctuary, spanning an area of 26 square kilometres or 10 square miles. At 2,019 metres or 2,624 feet, the Kottamala Peak is the highest peak in the national park. Other important peaks inside the park are Karimala, Pachayarmala, Chokkampetti mala, Vellimala and Sunderamala.

Image Gallery of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Thekkady

Things to do at periyar national park & wildlife sanctuary.

One will hardly run out of things to see and do inside a national park as big as the Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary. Here are a few pointers to get you started on your exploration:

1. Wildlife enthusiasts can book themselves a safari tour either early in the morning (mainly for birding) when there is a lot of bird activity as the avifauna leave their nests in search of food or in the heat of the afternoon when tigers, elephants and other wild animals come out of their hiding and take a dip in the water to cool themselves down or to quench their thirst.

2. Night owls can book a night safari for sighting leopards, owls and other nocturnal animals which are not easily seen in the daytime.

3. The Periyar Lake in the middle of the national park runs a boating tour of one and a half hours, during which one can see a large portion of the park through a different perspective and also sight some animals which come to the lake for their daily water intake. Such sightings are best in the afternoon. Nevertheless, early morning boating allows one to sight a lot of water birds.

4. The park has more than 160 taxa of butterflies which include the swallowtail southern birdwing, the largest butterfly in all of India. Other interesting butterflies include the threatened Travancore evening brown, the Malabar tree nymph and lime butterfly.

5. One can also find other types of insects here, such as the Asian emerald dragonfly, which is only one of 85 species of odonata spotted here. You can also see the endemic saturniid Atlas moth here, which is one of the different types of moth inside the national park.

6. Amphibian fanatics can look forward to sightings of several types of toads, frogs and caecilians. Some of the species are the bicoloured Malabar frog endemic to the Western Ghats, the Asian Toad, the Malabar Hills fungoid frog and the Malabar gliding frog which is a flying rhacophorid tree frog.

7. The rivers and lakes that form the Periyar National Park house around 40 species of fish. Some of those are the Travancore loach, the Periyar barb, a cyprinid fish endemic to the Periyar Lake, the Channa barb which is endemic to India, the Periyar trout endemic to Kerala and the Periyar latia which is only seen in the Periyar River.

8. Keep your eyes peeled for the 45 species of reptiles in this ecosystem, of which 2 are turtles, 13 are lizards and the 30 rest are snakes. Some of the venomous snakes to watch out for are the Malabar pit viper, striped coral snake and king cobra.

9. Including threatened species, the park has 35 mammal species which comprise tigers, elephants, mongooses, gaurs, fruit bats, sambars, langurs, wild boars, macaques, squirrels, tahrs, jungle cats and sloth bears.

10. Periyar is primarily a tiger reserve, and one can see that clearly when one looks at the number of white tigers and Bengal tigers in the park, the number of Bengal tigers being 35.

11. Birdwatchers can rejoice in the fact that 266 native and migrant birds can be sighted inside the national park. Some birds to keep your binoculars ready for are the Eurasian woodcock, the paddyfield warbler, the steppe gull, the grey-necked bunting, the black baza, the Oriental darter, the spot-bellied eagle-owl, the black-necked stork, the Nilgiri thrush, Sri Lanka frogmouth, the little spiderhunter, the great hornbill, the rufous-bellied hawk-eagle and the brahminy kite.

12. Even endemic bird species can be spotted by birders. Some examples are the white-bellied blue flycatcher, the Malabar grey hornbill, the crimson-backed sunbird, Nilgiri wood pigeon, the blue-winged parakeet and Nilgiri flycatcher.

Interesting Facts About Periyar National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary

Periyar National Park has a significant history and many facts that revolve around its formation and present functioning. Here are some of those:

2. Even though some of these intangible benefits are difficult to quantify, experts have calculated the financial benefits accrued to gene-pool protection to the tune of 7.86 billion rupees annually.

3. About 4.05 billion rupees worth of water provision is provided by this national park to some of the districts of the state of Tamil Nadu on a yearly basis.

4. Periyar National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary provides refuge and a habitat to wildlife tipped at an annual worth of 3.55 billion rupees.

5. The towns and districts around the wildlife reserve benefit from the water purification services which are pegged at INR 483 million rupees per year.

6. Only recreational activities such as boating, trekking, camping and safaris that the national park has spurned earn a sum of INR 425 million rupees annually.

7. The local communities, who are directly or indirectly employed for various services related to the wildlife sanctuary, benefit from 25 million rupees worth of jobs yearly.

Places to Visit Near Periyar National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary

It is quite likely that you may have travelled from afar to get all the way to Periyar National Park. If you have multiple days at your disposal, explore the following destinations which are only a few kilometres from the wildlife reserve and can be reached within a couple of hours by car:

1. Periyar Lake : Located within the precincts of the national park, the Periyar Lake is a reservoir spread across 26 square kilometres or 10 square miles. The lake was artificially created when the Mullaperiyar River was dammed by the construction of the Mullaperiyar Dam in 1895. Periyar Lake is popular for boating, allowing for a lot of water birds to be sighted. The boat ride runs for 90 minutes and begins at designated times: 7:30 AM, 9:30 AM, 11:15 AM, 1:45 PM and 3:30 PM. Tickets cost INR 225 for adults and INR 75 for children.

2. Mullaperiyar Dam : A favourite with picnickers, the Mullaperiyar Dam sits over the Periyar River and enjoys a good amount of breeze. This gravity-type dam is a work of stone-masonry. Measuring 1,200 feet in length and 138 feet in width, the dam has 13 chute spillways with a capacity of a whopping 4,518 cubic yards per second! The water is said to be 142 feet at its deepest. There is even a “baby dam” to the right of the main dam. The reservoir can hold a maximum of 443,230,000 cubic metres of water.

3. Thekkady : Hardly 10 minutes from Periyar National Park by car, the small town of Thekkady is more than just a tourist spot with tea estates. Spread over the Cardamom Hills and Pandalam Hills, this town is famous for its spices, particularly cardamom. Located in the Idukki district, Thekkady enjoys a dramatic landscape of lush mountains and wide lakes. One will also find well kept gardens and spice plantations that are worth a visit.

4. Sabarimala : Located inside the Periyar Tiger Reserve, the Sabarimala temple complex is one of the most visited Hindu temples in southern India. Sabarimala Temple is dedicated to Ayyappan, a Hindu deity who, according to mythology, remained celibate all his life. The temple complex, although located on a hill itself, is lucky to be surrounded by umpteen other hills. Along with the gorgeous view of the mountains, devotees will also find dense forests in its vicinity. Be prepared for the crowds when you visit Sabarimala.

5. Mangala Devi Kannagi Temple : About 10 km from the wildlife reserve, this Hindu temple takes a little more than half an hour to reach by road. At an altitude of 1,337 metres above sea level, Mangala Devi Kannagi Temple is open to tourists only during the religious festival of Chitra Pournami. This temple is said to have been built over 2,000 years ago by the ruler of the region of ancient Tamilakam, Cheran Chenguttuvan.

6. Suruli Falls : This beautiful waterfall is located more than 50 km away from the national park, and takes almost a couple of hours to reach. Originating from the Meghamalai range of mountains, Suruli Falls is a cascading waterfall with two steps. With a total height of 150 feet, the falls drop into a pool before falling again from a height of 40 feet. The falls are fed by the waters of the Suruli River.

7. Kakki Reservoir : A 15-minute car ride over a distance of a little less than 8 km from Periyar Reserve will bring you to Kakki Reservoir. Located inside the Ranni Reserve Forest, this reservoir lets out its waters to the River Pamba in the form of Kakki tributary. An interesting outing and picnic spot, the lake was actually formed as a result of the construction of two dams, Anathode dam and Kakki dam on the Kakki tributary.

8. Parunthumpara Hill View Point : If you drive for about an hour, covering almost 15 km along NH 183A, you will arrive at a location that offers unbelievable views of nature. Located in the Idukki district, Parunthumpara is most notable for its view point atop the hill. Enjoy some snacks along the road and hire an offroad jeep to better enjoy the windy surroundings. There is ample parking for those arriving by car or bike. If you prefer to walk, take a stroll along the barricaded promenade and relish the views of the verdant valleys, waterfalls and misty mountains.

9. Thekkady Rose Park : Only 5 km from the national park, Thekkady Rose Park is a botanical garden centred around roses. Apart from various coloured roses, you will also find other flowering plants at the park which costs INR 50 per head to enter. There is also a provision to enjoy their Adventure Package which is priced at INR 400 per family. If you have 3 hours to spare, have fun at the spring bouncing, boating, bungee jumping and rope walking facilities inside. All of the rides are child-safe. Thekkady Rose Park also has many installations for taking pictures.

How to Reach Periyar National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary

Periyar National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary covers the Idukki and Pathanamthitta districts of Kerala. There are multiple ways to arrive here, and each mode of transport depends on your personal preference, budget and expectation of comfort. We spell out the most recommended ways to arrive:

By Air : The airport closest to the national park is in Tamil Nadu (and not Kerala). 150 km away, the park takes about 4 hours to reach from Madurai Airport. However, if you must fly into Kerala, you can land at the Cochin International Airport which is 170 km away and takes over 4 and a half hours of road journey.

By Train : The nearest railway station to Periyar National Park is Kottayam at more than 100 km. It will take almost 3 hours to arrive at the park via road. Nevertheless, India’s railroad system is quite extensive, and with minimal change of trains, you can reach here from almost anywhere in the country, that too at very reasonable rates, depending on whether you pick air-conditioned compartments, non-AC ones or pick the cheapest option – unreserved coach.

By Car : One of the most convenient and direct ways to reach the Periyar reserve is to hire a spacious SUV which you can drive down to the forest. You can also book your cab from top car rental companies in Kerala to make your journey even more tireless. This option ensures that you don’t have to have any change of transportation. You also have the flexibility to make your own pit stops for bio breaks, meals or even night-halts if you are travelling from a distant part of the country.

To enjoy the mesmerising beauty of Kerala, one must spare at least a week to experience everything that the place has to offer. We at Kerala Tourism, a division of Holidays DNA have designed Kerala Tour packages to help you visit all the popular sightseeing places of Kerala with ease. Please fill the Contact Us form to know more about our offerings and have a great time exploring God's own Country!

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EXPLORE THE WILD BEAUTY OF NATURE

ELEPHANT RIDE THEKKADY

Explore the lush natural surroundings of Thekkady in Kerala, with an unforgettable elephant ride thekkady. Book your adventure elephant safari thekkady in today and get up close and personal with these majestic creatures. Contact Discoverthekkady for more information and to reserve your spot on this one-of-a-kind experience.

ELEPHANT RIDE IN THEKKADY

An elephant ride through the spice plantations in Thekkady is an incredible and advanture experience that combines the beauty of nature and the exotic aroma of spices. The elephant ride takes visitors through the lush green spice plantations of the Thekkady, where they can witness the cultivation and processing of various spices, including Green cardamom, black pepper, cinnamon, and cloves. The gentle sway of the elephant’s back as it moves through the plantation is a calming experience that allows visitors to take in the beauty of the surrounding scenery. 

The elephant ride takes visitors through narrow paths and steep slopes on plantation, providing an adrenaline rush.

The elephant ride is also an opportunity to learn about the elephant’s history and importance in Indian culture. Elephants have been used in India for centuries for various purposes, including transportation, work, war and even in religious ceremonies. The mahouts (elephant trainers) who accompany the elephants on the ride are a great source of information about the elephants’ history and importance.

Visitors can also feed and interact with the elephants before or after the ride, making the experience even more special. The elephants are well-cared for and trained to be gentle with visitors, making it a safe and enjoyable experience for all visiters includes kids.

In conclusion, an elephant ride in Thekkady is an unforgettable experience that allows visitors to connect with nature, learn about Indian culture, and create memories that will last a lifetime. The gentle giants and the lush green forests of Thekkady create a unique and peaceful experience that should not be missed by any visitor to the region.

ELEPHANT BATH THEKKADY

​ One of the most memorable activities to do in Thekkady, Kerala is to go for an elephant bathe at one of the spice plantations in the area. The experience of watching these majestic creatures being bathe and scrubbed by their mahouts in the tranquil water is truly awe-inspiring. visiters can join with them for let’s bathe the elephant. Normally this activity come with half or one day package.

The spice plantations themselves are also a fascinating place to explore, with acres of fragrant Green cardamom, cinnamon, and pepper plants that fill the air with their heady aromas. A visit to Thekkady’s elephant bathe is an opportunity to get up close and personal with one of the world’s most intelligent and gentle animals, while also taking in the beauty of Kerala’s lush natural surroundings.

​ BOOK- ELEPHANT SAFARI THEKKADY

If you’re planning a trip to Thekkady and looking for an unforgettable adventure, be sure to book an elephant safari. To make a reservation or for more information, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will be happy to answer any questions you may have about the safari, including the different options available and what to expect during your ride. We take pride in ensuring our guests have a safe and enjoyable experience, and our elephants are well-cared for and treated with the utmost respect. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to explore the stunning landscape of Thekkady from the top of an elephant. Contact us today to book your safari and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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Elephant safari through the spice plantations.

Elephant Ride

A unique safari experience sitting atop an elephant equipped with a howdah that can comfortably seat two tourists. An elephant trainer is always on hand to control the elephant. Elephant safari through the spice plantation; you can feel the fragrant breeze.

Well-trained and well-maintained elephants are used for this safari. All these elephants are handled by professionals and follow all health and wellness guidelines.

Safari Highlights

• Memorable Ride
• Interact closely with elephants
• Well-treated elephants
• Photo session
• Elephant Shower

Why Book Elephant Safari?

It offers a rare opportunity to enjoy an elephant safari in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary where the gentle breeze along with the spice-scented air invigorates people.

You can get to know the elephants, ride, bathe and hang out with them so you can really interact with the elephants. This is an activity that both kids and adults can enjoy. Programs of varying duration are offered like 30 minutes, 1 hour, 1.5 hours, 2 hours, half day, full day etc.

• Entry Tickets
• Photo Sessions
• Elephant Trainer
• Pickup/Drop Off
• Food & Drinks

Like this Safari?

Thekkady Jungle Safari is offering local tourism activities to the customers worldwide. Those who love to experience the traditions and culture in Thekkady can be book for our tour activity.

Looking for an exciting and adventurous experience in Thekkady? Look no further than Thekkady Jeep Safari! We offer the best jeep safari in Thekkady, taking you on a thrilling ride through the rugged terrain and winding paths of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Our Jungle Jeep Safari in Thekkady is a must-try activity for all adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers visiting the region.At Thekkady Jungle Jeep Safari, we pride ourselves on providing the best jeep safari experience in Thekkady. Our experienced drivers and top-notch service ensure a safe and comfortable ride for all passengers. We have been providing jungle jeep safari in Thekkady for over 15 years, and our parent company, Periyar Cabs, has over 3 decades of service experience.Whether you're looking for the best jeep safari in Thekkady, a jungle safari in Thekkady, or a unique and unforgettable adventure, Thekkady Jeep Safari is the perfect choice for you. Book now and experience the thrill of a lifetime!

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• Border Hiking

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• Things to do in Kerala

Elephant Junction, Thekkady

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Elephant Junction, Thekkady, located near Kumily is an excellent place for getting to know elephants, take elephant rides, bathe them and get showered by them. It is a fun activity enjoyable for kids and adults alike. They offer programs of different durations, viz. 30 minutes, 1 hour, 1.5 hours, 2 hours, half day and full day.

Rankings & Ratings

#7 in 10 Things to Do in Thekkady #1 in 1 Elephant rides in Thekkady

Editor's Review

If you love elephants, the Elephant Junction in Thekkady will be the best place for you. Here, you not only get to ride on the elephants but also take part in a number of activities involving them. An advantage is that the activity has different durations depending on the package you choose. So depending on the time and money you have, you can try this experience which is really interesting.  

We, the team at ExperienceKerala, do not encourage our clients to avail the elephant rides. Although these rides are legal in this part of the country, we believe it to be cruelty toward the animals.

• You can interact closely with elephants.
• The place has neat maintenance.
• The place has good natural surroundings.
• Elephants are well-treated.
• Though well-treated, the elephants are still in captivity; hence the place might not be suitable for hard-core animal lovers.
• In peak season, waiting time is on the higher side.

Detailed Info

Elephant Junction, Thekkady, located about 2 kilometres from Kumily, spread over 16 hectares of forest, is an elephant park which offers you options to familiarise with the elephants in their natural settings. Here you can watch them, feed them, see them at work, ride on them, bathe them and get drenched by them.

Elephant Junction has packages of different durations from 30 minutes to full day programs, to suit the customer requirement. 30 minutes program at INR 400 per head comprises of half an hour ride through the natural setting. The one hour program at INR 1000 per head includes 45 minutes ride, elephant feeding, photo session and complimentary tea or coffee. In addition to these mentioned activities, the option of one and a half hours at INR 1250 includes bathing the elephant and taking a shower with it. The other options are two hour program at INR 1500 per head, half day program at INR 3000 per head and full day program from 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM at INR 6000 per head.

They also have a special half day fishing programme at INR 1500 per person which includes a Jeep Safari, fishing with complementary snacks and lunch.

Recommended Activities near Thekkady

Jungle camp

Trekking at Periyar Tiger Reserve

Bamboo Rafting

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Elephant Junction

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Elephant Junction - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

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Elephant Junction

We would be pleased to create an exciting and adventurous holiday experience, complete with exhilarating moments and a touch of spontaneity.

Our Fabulous Activities

We provide our visitors with opportunities to unleash their spirit of adventure.

Elephant Riding

Experience the magic of Elephant Junction atop our gentle giants. Ride through stunning landscapes, forming unforgettable bonds with these majestic creatures..

Jungle Jeep Safari

Feel the thrill of our open jeep safari as you explore Elephant Junction's wilderness. With space for four, it's an intimate adventure through dense jungles and rugged terrains.

Plantation Visit

Discover the essence of Elephant Junction on a guided plantation tour. Explore lush landscapes, learn about cultivation practices, and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.

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Featured Programmes

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One and a Half Hour Package

" Experience the Essence: Short Yet Exhilarating Adventure "

Experience the essence of Elephant Junction in a short yet exhilarating adventure. Enjoy a scenic ride atop majestic elephants, witness traditional timber dragging, indulge in elephant bathing and feeding sessions, and capture memorable moments during a photo session. Conclude your experience with a refreshing cup of tea or coffee.

Half Day Package

" Deep Dive into Nature: Immersive Half Day Experience "

Immerse yourself deeper into the wonders of Elephant Junction with our Half Day Package. Explore the wilderness on elephant back, participate in elephant bathing and feeding rituals, gain insights into timber dragging, and delve into the region's flora with a plantation study. Cap off your experience with a visit to a cardamom processing factory and savor delectable coffee and snacks..

Full Day Package

" The Ultimate Adventure: Explore Elephant Junction All Day Long "

For the ultimate adventure seekers, our Full Day Package offers an extensive exploration of Elephant Junction and its surroundings. Embark on a thrilling elephant ride, discover the intricacies of cardamom processing and tea production, venture into remote areas with a jeep safari, and refresh yourself with boating or hiking. Experience the serenity of waterfall baths, marvel at panoramic views, and engage in elephant interactions, all while enjoying delicious meals and snacks throughout the day.

Get Inspired

      per person air fair not included -->

Features includes

Jeep Safari

Spices Plantation

Echo Tourism Activity

Boating & Hiking

for more info call 9447163342

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Our Terms&Conditions

• 1.Visitors must follow all safety instructions provided by staff during the ride.
• 2.Elephant rides may have age and health restrictions; children must be accompanied by adults.
• 3.There may be weight limitations for riders; exceeding the limit may result in prohibition from riding.
• 4.The duration of the ride is predetermined and must be adhered to by visitors.
• 5.Elephant Junction reserves the right to cancel or reschedule rides due to adverse weather or unforeseen circumstances.
• 6.Visitors must sign a liability waiver acknowledging inherent risks associated with the activity.
• 7.Elephant Junction prioritizes the ethical treatment and well-being of its elephants.
• 8,Visitors should respect guidelines for the care and handling of the elephants.
• 9.Photography and videography are permitted, but visitors should avoid flash and excessive noise.
• 10.Visitors must respect the natural environment and wildlife encountered during the ride.Compliance with local laws and regulations governing elephant rides is mandatory.

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• Timings : 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Entry Fee : For 30 minutes: Rs. 500/- , For 60 minutes: Rs, 850/- and For 90 minutes: INR 1500/-

About Elephant rides 

When visiting the renowned grounds of the rich Wildlife Sanctuary of Periyar, one just cannot miss the extremely exciting Elephant rides available right within the premises. With lush Spice and Tea plantations covering the entire place, exploring the insides of the magnificent site on an Elephant's back is an experience of a lifetime. When visiting the lovely land of Thekkady, do not miss the exciting ride at any cost. No wonder it is one of the list toppers when it comes to things to do in Thekkady . and it just cannot be missed in any  Thekkady tour package.

Major Attractions.

1. Elephant Safari – Elephant Junction.

Multiple packages are offered by the skilled Department of Forest in Kerala at the place within the Sanctuary known as the 'Elephant Junction'. You can choose out of the several options available to you which range from as much time you want to enjoy exploring the insides of the place on the grey beauty's huge back. This is one of the attractions in the list of Kerala tourist places.

2. Affordable

The spectacular spot has rides for every budget which makes it among the most popular options for both locals and tourists. Starting from as low as 350 rupees, the lovely wildlife spot has something for all pockets. A not-so-expensive Elephant ride on your trip to Thekkady is not going to hurt your pocket, right?

3. The Raw Beauty of Nature

With the mild aroma of Spices from the plantations filling up the entire place, the soft breeze from the Flora all around the quiet space is going to take you way closer to nature in a much unique way possible. You can get lucky anytime during your ride to spot any new creature considering its richness in terms of Fauna.

Don't forget to enjoy a little interaction with the big beauty and also ask for his blessings from the massive trunk before leaving.

Pro Tip: If you are wondering about the arrangements, everything is well managed and perfectly safe with 'Howdah(s)' and Umbrellas attached well on Elephant backs. Don't get scared with its constant swaying around, you will not fall.

13 places to visit & things to do in Thekkady

Bamboo rafting

Boat Cruises

Chellarkovil

Connemara Tea Factory

Mangaladevi Temple

Mullaperiyar

Parunthampara

Periyar Tiger Trail

Ramakkalmedu

Suruli falls

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8 elephant rides tours from ₹6550.00.

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THEKKADY TOURISM | PERIYAR SANCTUARY | PLACES TO VISIT & TRAVEL GUIDE TO THEKKADY

• Thekkady Overview
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About Thekkady

Country: india | state: kerala, #3 of 23 places to visit in kerala | #40 of 100 places to visit in india, ideal trip duration: half day to full day, base station: kumily (4 kms), nearest city to thekkady: kochi (156 kms), best time to visit thekkady: october to may, peak season: december to january & may to june, thekkady weather: maximum: 32°c minimum: 15°c.

At a distance of 4 km from Kumily, 54 km from Idukki, 82 km from Munnar, 111 km from Kottayam, 136 km from Madurai, 143 km from Kochi, and 211 km from Trivandrum, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is located at Thekkady in the Idukki district of Kerala. Located on Kerala - Tamilnadu border, it is one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in India , and also a well-known summer getaway in Kerala. Thekkady is one of the most famous sanctuaries near Kochi , and also among the most scenic Kerala Backwater destinations. In 1899, the Maharaja of Travancore, Chithira Thirunal Balarama Varma has declared the forests around Periyar Lake as a private game reserve to stop the invasion of tea plantations. Further, in 1934, the lake reserve was converted into a game sanctuary, the Nellikkampatty Game Sanctuary, which covered an area of about 500 sq. km. It was established as Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in 1950 and named after the Periyar River. The sanctuary is spread across 777 sq. km, of which 360 sq. km is a thick evergreen forest. It was declared as Tiger Reserve in 1978. Thekkady can be visited along with Munnar tour packages . The splendid artificial lake formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar River adds to the charm of the park. There are a few watch towers inside Periyar Tiger Reserve which are excellent for viewing wildlife. Thekkady is famous for Asian Elephants, Tigers, Gaurs, Sambars, Lion-tailed Macaques, Nilgiri Langurs, Wild Boars, Spotted Deer, Barking Deer, Stripe-necked Mongoose, Wild Dogs, Sloth Bears, Malabar Giant Squirrel, Civet, Nilgiri Tahr, etc. This is the only sanctuary in India where you can watch wildlife at close quarters from the safety of a boat from the lake as part of Thekkady tour packages . The main attraction of the sanctuary is a group of wild elephants that come to play in the lake. The sanctuary contains 265 species of birds including migratory. Malabar grey hornbill, Indian pied hornbill, White-bellied Treepie, many species of drongos, woodpeckers, flycatchers, babblers, spectacular Malabar trogon, etc can be seen near the boat landing. The sanctuary is also home to a wide variety of reptiles. The Periyar Lake and streams have several species of fish including the masheer, the famous and endangered game fish of India. The park offers elephant rides, jeep safari, boating in the lake, tiger trails, and forest treks. All cruises, treks start from boathouse in Thekkady. Contact Eco Tourism Center in Kumily for more information on tourism programs and booking (Ph. 04869-224572). Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady, Kerala also attracts a lot of pilgrims every year who come here to visit the Sabarimala Temple . Murikkady, Chellar Kovil, Anakkara, Mangala Devi Temple, Suruli Falls, and Pullumedu are the popular places to visit in Thekkady . Madurai (148 km) and Kochi (135 km) are the nearest airports from Thekkady. Kottayam (111 km) is the nearest railhead from Thekkady. Kumily is connected by bus with major towns of Kerala & Tamil Nadu. Thekkady can be reached by public/private vehicle from Kumily. Vagamon can also be visited along with Thekkady The ideal time to visit Thekkady is between Sep-May while the peak season is from Feb to May. It usually takes half a day to 1 day to visit this sanctuary. Jeep Safari: 6 AM - 3.30 PM Jeep Safari: Rs. 5000 per Jeep for Indians, Rs. 7000 for Person Boating Cost: Rs. 225 for Person Boating Timings: 7.30 AM, 9.30 AM, 11.15 AM, 1.45 PM, 3.30 PM

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Nearest Airport: Madurai - Madurai Airport (140 Kms)

Direct flights to madurai, nearest train station: kottayam railway station (100 kms) alappuzha railway station (130 kms) ernakulam jn (south) railway station (156 kms), direct trains to kottayam, alleppey, kochi, nearest bus station: kumily bus station (4 kms), direct buses to thekkady, distance chart, distance chart & driving directions to thekkady, top 10 places to visit in thekkady, periyar boat cruise.

#1 of 27 Places to Visit in Thekkady

Boat Cruise is the best mode in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary to watch the wildlife from a close distance. Boating in Periyar Lake is arranged by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) and is one of the most popular things to do in Thekkady . The lake was formed by Mullaperiyar Dam constructed in 1895. The land surrounding the lake is commonly frequented by wildlife. Elephants are the most common wildlife you can see on the shores of the reservoir while boating in the lake as part of Thekkady holiday packages . Apart from Elephants, the sight of Wild Boar and Sambar Deer is also possible. The upper deck in the boat is best for wildlife viewing. The tickets for boating is issued at Thekkady Boating Point which is 4.5 Km from Kumily Bus Stand. The boats are mostly crowded and better to come early and allocate a good amount of buffer time for boating. .....

Elephant Rides

#2 of 27 Places to Visit in Thekkady

Elephant rides are famous in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The elephant rides through the spice gardens are arranged by Elephant Junction. This park is situated 4 Km away from Kumily Bus Stand. It offers a rare opportunity to experience the safari on an Elephant through a Spice Plantation where the gentle breeze refresh ones, with the spice scented air. Elephant Junction is a place where one can actually interact with the elephants getting indulged into activities such as bathing elephant, elephant ride and enjoying getting around with playful elephants. Elephant safaris are equipped with a howdah on the back of the elephant on which two tourists sit, with an umbrella over the riders head. Elephant trainers will be at side, walking along with the elephant. Package Cost: 30 minutes elephant safari: Rs.350 per person 60 minutes elephant safari: Rs.750 per person 90 minutes elephant safari: Rs. 1500 per person Elephant Safari Timings: 6 AM to 5 PM.

Bamboo Rafting

#3 of 27 Places to Visit in Thekkady

The Bamboo Rafting is an interest programme with the mix of rafting and trekking. The programme starts at 8 AM from the boat jetty. After a couple of hours rafting, tourists are taken for trekking into the forest. The forests are rich in bird life and arboreal animals like giant squirrel and Nilgiri langur. Animals like elephant, gaur and sambar are sighted keeping close to the edges of the lake. Snacks and Lunch will be provided on the way and trekking will be finished by 3 PM. The rafting is continued in the return path and whole programme will be completed by 5 PM. The programme costs Rs. 2000 per person for full day and Rs.1500 per person for half day. An armed guard and 4 guides will accompany a maximum of 10 tourists. Tea, snacks and packed lunch will be served enroute.

Trekking / Nature Walk

#4 of 27 Places to Visit in Thekkady

Several trekking programs are offered in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Short trekking programs are available that cover 4-5 Km and completed in 3 hrs. This is a good option to watch birds, butterflies and some wildlife. The trails often pass through evergreen and moist deciduous forests and grasslands. It costs Rs. 300 per person and a group can have a maximum of 4 persons. A 12 Km trek (one way) to the ruined Mangaladevi temple in middle of the Periyar Sanctuary is a great option to experience beauty of the park in depth. It is recommended for experience trekkers. Border Hiking is a conservation oriented hard trek taking up a full day. The trekking starts at 8 AM and ends in the evening. The route passes through undulating terrains. Maximum of 10 tourists can take the programme in two different groups. The trekkers will go with two guides and an armed forest guard. Tourists can also participate in jungle patrol, which is a night trek programme intended to conserve .....

Tribal Heritage Programme

#5 of 27 Places to Visit in Thekkady

The tribal heritage programme is intended to provide a glimpse of tribal life to the visitors. It mainly involves a visit to tribal museum and trekking through the tribal hamlet situated within the periphery of Periyar Tiger Reserve accompanied by a tribal guide. Five tribal communities live within the sanctuary. Mannans are among the oldest indigenous group of people to inhabit Periyar Tiger Reserve. A two hour programme is conducted, where the visitors are taken to a tribal hamlet. The tour also includes a visit to the tribal heritage museum. The tribal heritage museum was built inside the Mannan settlement featuring various types of artifacts related to their ancient agricultural practices, marriage ceremonies, cultural events, dress code, rituals and death ceremonies. The museum has several objects like traditional hunting weapons, armors, cooking vessels, paintings, etc. Program Timings: 8 AM, 10 AM and 2 PM.

Connemara Tea Factory

#6 of 27 Places to Visit in Thekkady

At a distance of 13 km from Thekkady, Connemara Tea Factory is located at Vandiperiyar, Kerala. It is one of the top tea factories in Kerala and among the popular places to visit in Kerala as part of Thekkady - Munnar Tour Packages. Connemara Tea Factory was built in the year 1940 and one of the oldest one in Kerala. The estate is covered with rolling hills of tea dotted with tall trees covered in Pepper vines. This beautiful place draws domestic tourists along with others who have travelled all the way from Britain, Russia, France and United States of America. The tea factory offers a one hour guided tea garden cum factory tour for tourists. It is an educative, informative and entertainment program. Visiting a Tea Factory and understand the process of making tea was a lifetime experience. The program starts with an Audio Visual Presentation which is having everything you need to know about Tea. After that, you will be taken to visit the Tea Factory. The process of Tea making .....

Kadathanadan Kalari Centre

#7 of 27 Places to Visit in Thekkady

At a distance of 1 km from Thekkady Bus Stand, Kadathanadan Kalari Centre is a cultural center situated in Kumily. It is one of the top places to witness the intriguing martial arts form as part of the Thekkady - Munnar tour packages . Kadathanadan Kalari Centre is famous for performing Kalaripayattu martial arts and representing Kerala's unique culture. A team of seven well-trained men conducts regular Kalaripayattu performances in a designed gallery here. The gallery is built in such a manner that one will get to watch various cultural and other sporting functions from a safe distance. Visitors will be delighted to watch this life-saving art, which is the oldest fighting system in existence. Along with Kalaripayattu, Kadathanadan Kalari Center is also popular for Kathakali performances. Kathakali is the classical dance of Kerala and is used to tell stories from the Indian epics. Interestingly, this dance style is a blend .....

Jungle Night Patrol

#8 of 27 Places to Visit in Thekkady

At a distance of 1 km from Kumily Bus Stand, Jungle Night Patrol is a regular night patrolling program in the fringes of the Eco development zone of the Periyar Tiger Reserve in Thekkady. It is one of the top thrilling things to do in Thekkady . Jungle Night Patrol is a trekking activity which begins at two points in the Periyar National Park- Entrance Gate of the Periyar Tiger Reserve and from the Bamboo Grooves. The activity is performed under the supervision of an armed guard and two professional guides. The thrilling activity is surely going to give you an adrenaline rush and a memory for a lifetime. Jungle Night Patrol is a unique and adventurous activity offered in Thekkady. It provides participants with an opportunity to explore the forested areas of the Periyar Tiger Reserve at night, and allows you to witness the activities of various wildlife species that are active during the night, such as .....

Jungle Safari

#9 of 27 Places to Visit in Thekkady

Jungle Safari is a fascinating program which includes Jeep Safari, Jungle Trek, Rafting and Night Camping. The 40 Km scenic drive program starts at 5.30 AM through the jungle by Jeep. The trail passes through dense forest where truly man meets nature in all its majesty and glory. After crossing Periyar Tiger Reserve by jeep early morning, breakfast will be served at Gavi's forest lodge, followed by a jungle trekking for three hours. Lunch is offered here and you can have canoeing in the Gavi Lake. The visitors are taken to the camping area in the Jeep from the Gavi Lake. The accommodation is provided in tents and dinner is offered here with camp fire. Next day morning after the breakfast, visitors are taken back to Thekkady. The Jeep will arrive at the hotel for picking up the guest at 5.30 AM. Jungle Safari Day Package is also available. The visitors are taken back to Thekkady after evening tea by 4.30 PM. Tariff: Rs. 2200 per person. Day Package: Rs.1000 per .....

Periyar Tiger Trail

#10 of 27 Places to Visit in Thekkady

Periyar Tiger Trial is a unique programme which has high chances of spotting tigers. The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is also called as Periyar Tiger Reserve and it has rich tiger population with about 40 Tigers. The tiger trail provides tourists with an opportunity to explore Thekkady's wildlife deep inside the forest. One may get a chance to encounter many indigenous Birds and mammals like Nilgiri Langoos, Sambar deer, Wild Boar, Indian Goat, Malabar Giant Squirrel, Elephants etc. There are two programs - 1N/2D and 2N/3D. It includes 25-30 Km of trekking through the dense forest covering the most beautiful parts of the sanctuary. Tourists will trek along the trail during the day and camp in pitched tents at night in the Periyar Tiger Reserve, one of the most popular wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala . Vegetarian food is prepared and served en route. This programme is offered only for physically fit tourists. Each group will have 5 tourists, .....

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Elephant Camp Thekkady

Nestled on Anavachal Road, lies an enchanting Elephant Camp Thekkady, a family-friendly destination where humans and gentle giants meet. This sanctuary offers a chance to connect with these magnificent creatures and soak in the charm of the Kerala wilderness.

Experience Elephant Adventures in Thekkady’s Lush Jungle

For those seeking an unforgettable encounter with elephants, this camp boasts a range of activities, including feeding, bathing, and even riding these gentle giants. The opportunity to capture these heartwarming moments with photos is a highlight that can’t be missed. All of this unfolds in a jungle setting adorned with lush spice plants, providing an authentic and immersive experience.

Jeep rides are available for group visits, adding an extra layer of adventure to your day. Whether you’re visiting with kids or embarking on your own elephant adventure, this camp offers a well-organized and enjoyable experience for all.

However, it’s essential to consider some concerns about elephant treatment and pricing. While the experience is generally enjoyable, waiting times can be extensive on weekends, so booking in advance is a smart move.

Culture, Adventure, and Elephant Bonds

Beyond the elephant-centric activities, this venue also embraces the rich culture of Kerala, with options for traditional performances like Kathakali dance and Kalarippayattu. The experiences come at different price points. Tickets for various activities fall within the range of 200 to 500 rupees. Specifically, the elephant ride and shower will set you back INR 500 each. Additionally, there’s a captivating 12D experience available, which costs roughly INR 200 per person.

Conveniently located, this camp also provides easy access to the famed Periyar Tiger Reserve , making it an ideal starting point for a comprehensive Thekkady wildlife adventure. For those who wish to indulge in a more immersive experience, the camp offers the unique opportunity to bathe with elephants, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

While the time spent in the park with the elephants may be limited, this sanctuary is undoubtedly a suitable place for elephant safaris and rides. So, if you’re looking to create unforgettable memories with these gentle giants, make sure to include this elephant camp on your Thekkady itinerary.

• Anavachal Road, Thekkady, Kumily, Kerala 685509, India
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Elephant Ride In Thekkady

Enjoy the thrills of an elephant ride in thekkady.

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• Ideal for families

Elephant ride in Thekkady is one of the most popular activity for tourists in the city. A Thekkady elephant ride offers a chance to enjoy a breathtaking view of the tea and cardamom plantations to tourists. While on an elephant, you can access the otherwise inaccessible areas of the Periyar National Park , due to the rough terrain. Moreover, if one is adventurous, they can take an thekkady elephant ride deeper into the forest. As one goes deeper into the forest on an elephant, you can notice several animals like bisons, sambar deers etc. It is a totally refreshing experience for the tourists. Make sure to find out the elephant ride in thekkady price before you go. You can experience total tranquility when enjoying an Elephant ride in Thekkady as one is away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Also, there is no pollution inside the reserve. One can experience nature at its best inside the reserve, and enjoy their elephant camp thekkady . The duration of an elephant ride in Thekkady varies from 30 mins to one hour, depending on the distance you wish to tour. This elephant safari park is one of the most popular places to visit.

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Anakkara In Thekkady

Anakkara is a small village in the Idukki district of Kerala . Anakkara lies in the Western Ghats at a height of 4000 feet above the sea level. Anakkara is famous for its spice plantations and is situated at a distance of about 13 km from Thekkady and 120 km from Kottayam. It has comfortable climate throughout the year with ...

• Spice plantations
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• Family Trip

Periyar Lake In Thekkady

The Periyar lake in Thekkady i s part of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala . The Periyar Lake was formed during the construction of the dam across the Mullaperiyar river in the year 1895 . Periyar Lake offers one of its kind of animal watching, where the tourists can watch the animals very closely, sitting comfortably ...

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Mangladevi Temple In Thekkady

Mangaladevi Temple in Thekkady is a 1000 years old temple which is located in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary . This temple is located at a distance of 15 kilometers from Thekkady . Mangaladevi Temple is situated at an altitude of about 1300 metres above the sea level.

There is a very interesting phenomenon behind the Manga...

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Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary In Thekkady

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady is located in Kerala . This national park and wildlife sanctuary is a protected area for elephants and tigers. It is located in the Pandalam Hills of the Western Ghats. The total protected area of this wildlife sanctuary covers an area of about 900 sq km. A vast variety of plants and an...

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Things To Do In Thekkady

Your list of the best things to do, compiled on the basis of actual traveler experiences

Bamboo Rafting In Thekkady

Thekkady or Periyar, as it is sometimes known, is famous for its backwaters. And bamboo rafting in Thekkady is one activity that lets you witness the beauty of backwaters at its best!

This activity is organized in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary , on the Periyar Lake , and is a part of a nature walk. On a tour to excursion ba...

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Jeep Safari In Thekkady

Jeep safari in Thekkady through the rocky terrains is a thrilling experience. It is a must do for those in love with adrenaline rush. It is a very popular activity in Thekkady, and tourists and nature lovers always opt for this. The safari covers the dense and lush forests, waterfalls, spice plantations, and the rich green ...

Periyar Tiger Trail In Thekkady

The Periyar Tiger Reserve in Thekkady is one of the biggest and most well maintained wildlife reserves in India. The Reserve is full of picturesque scenery. You are not required to pay any entry fee here. The Periyar Tiger Trail is an exciting project started by the forest department. It gives all the thrill-seeking individ...

• Periyar Tiger Reserve

Elephant ride in Thekkady is one of the most popular activity for tourists in the city. A Thekkady elephant ride offers a chance to enjoy a breathtaking view of the tea and cardamom plantations to tourists. While on an elephant, you can access the otherwise inaccessible areas of the Periyar National Park , due to the rough t...

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FAQ's of Thekkady

How long do elephant rides usually take.

There are different packages that vary in cost according to the amount of time, but an elephant ride of about 1 and a half hour is ideal in Thekkady . These can be found at Elephant Junction. 

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Periyar National Park

₹ 11,376 onwards

Label : Top Attraction

Tags : National Park

Timings : 6:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Night Safari after 8:00 PM

Entry Fee : Indians: Adult - INR 45, Child - INR 15, Foreigners: Adult - INR 500, Child - INR 180 Boating Fee: INR 255 Per Person Binocular Fee: INR 50 with a Security Deposit of INR 100 There is an additional cost of INR 38 for the use of a still camera and INR 300 for the use of a video camera.

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Periyar Tiger Reserve

Periyar national park, thekkady overview.

The Periyar National Park in Thekkady, Kerala, is one of the most bio-diverse regions in the world and the best-protected reserve area that one can lay eyes on in India. Famous for its gorgeousness, greenery and stillness, the park is the dwelling place of abundant significant species, including the royal tigers and majestic elephants apart from other reptiles, fishes and birds. This National Park is an amazing coming together of nature, adventure and beauty. A place which allows you the peace and serenity you so desire, an opportunity to be one with nature and just a normal sighting of a Tiger or two, Periyar National Park is full of beautiful sights and sounds.

The Periyar National Park is spread over 257 square miles and the rivers Pamba and Periyar flow through it. These rivers help the plants and animals to nurture and flourish. This site attracts thousands of tourists to it every year, who come from all parts of the world to take pleasure in the boat cruises, jungle safaris in the form of jeep safaris and elephant safaris, and prominent eco-tourism activities, that are the speciality of this national park. These eco-tourism activities are a noble attempt to safeguard the environment and include options such as Jungle Patrol, Border hiking, Bamboo Grove, Bamboo Rafting, Periyar Tiger Trail, Jungle Inn, Jungle camp and Bullock Cart discoveries. The attractions at the national park are perfect places for enjoying boating at the magnificent lake, trekking through the dense forests, or simply sitting back to spot an animal or two. It is no uncertainty that this place is the ideal holiday destination, which offers adventure and nature beautifully rolled into one. The wide range of activities, decent and affordable accommodation, as well as easy accessibility, makes Periyar National Park a must-visit tourist spot in Kerala.

Periyar National Park Highlights

1. boating at periyar lake.

2. Periyar National Park Jeep Safari

3. Periyar Tiger Trail, Thekkady

4. Bamboo Rafting in Thekkady, Thekkady

5. Border Hiking, Thekkady

6. Jungle Night Patrol, Thekkady

7. Nature Walks, Thekkady

8. Jungle Camp, Thekkady

Read More on Periyar National Park

Flora and fauna at periyar national park, attractions near periyar national park, history of periyar national park, eco tourism at periyar national park, periyar national park timings and entry fees, best time to visit periyar national park, stay near periyar national park, how to reach periyar national park.

Air: Nearest airport is Cochin International Airport from where you can hail a cab or catch a bus till Kumily Village

Rail: Nearest Rail head is Kottayam or Ernakulam

Road: Kumily Village is well connected by public & private buses to major cities across Kerala.

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🗓 Best Time To Visit: September to May

⏰ Open Hours: 24 Hours

🏞 Things To Do: Boat rides, Wildlife safaris, Nature walks, Spice plantations tour, Bamboo rafting

💰 Budget: INR 1000 - 3000 per person

🧳 Traveller Types: Family, Couples, Nature Lovers, Adventure Seekers

📌 Known For: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Natural beauty, Spice plantations, Adventure activities

🚉 Distances: From Kottayam Railway Station - 107 km, From Cochin International Airport - 190 km, From Madurai - 140 km

🍽 Local Cuisine: Fish curry, Kappa (Tapioca), Appam with stew

🎒 Essential Packings: Light clothing, Hat, Sunscreen, Comfortable footwear, Raincoat (during monsoons)

💡 Tips: Carry water bottles, binoculars for wildlife spotting. Avoid loud noises in the sanctuary.

📸 Must-Visit Places: Periyar Lake, Kumily, Abraham’s Spice Garden, Murikkady

🎪 Festivals: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Elephant Procession in January

🛍 Shopping: Spices, Handicrafts, Traditional Kerala sari, Handmade chocolates

🚖 Local Transport: Auto rickshaws, Taxis, Buses

🏨 Accommodation: Luxury resorts, Budget hotels, Homestays

Are you looking for a destination that offers you a perfect blend of nature, adventure, culture, and relaxation? If yes, then Thekkady in Kerala is the place for you. Thekkady is a town near Periyar National Park, an important tourist attraction in the Kerala state of India. Thekkady is home to India’s largest tiger reserve and a biodiversity hotspot, where you can enjoy bamboo rafting, night trekking, boat safari, wildlife spotting, and much more.

Thekkady also has many other places to visit and things to do that will make your trip memorable and exciting. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive travel guide to Thekkady and its tourism potential. We will cover everything you need to know about Thekkady, such as how to reach, best time to visit, where to stay, places to visit, things to do, restaurants, and travel tips. So, read on and discover why Thekkady is a must-visit destination for any traveler visiting India.

How to Reach Thekkady

Thekkady is well-connected by air, rail, road, and bus from various cities in India. Here are the different ways to reach Thekkady:

By Air: The nearest airport to Thekkady is Kochi International Airport, which is about 140 km away. You can take a flight from any major city in India or abroad to Kochi and then hire a taxi or take a bus to Thekkady. The journey by road from Kochi to Thekkady takes about 4 hours and costs around INR 3000 for a taxi and INR 200 for a bus.

By Rail: The nearest railway station to Thekkady is Kottayam Railway Station, which is about 110 km away. You can take a train from any major city in India to Kottayam and then hire a taxi or take a bus to Thekkady. The journey by road from Kottayam to Thekkady takes about 3 hours and costs around INR 2500 for a taxi and INR 150 for a bus.

By Road: Thekkady is well-connected by road from various cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. You can drive your own car or hire a taxi or take a bus to Thekkady. Some of the popular routes are:

1. Kochi - Muvattupuzha - Kothamangalam - Neriamangalam - Adimali - Kumily - Thekkady (140 km)

2. Madurai - Usilampatti - Andipatti - Theni - Cumbum - Kumily - Thekkady (140 km)

3. Bangalore - Hosur - Krishnagiri - Dharmapuri - Salem - Namakkal - Karur - Dindigul - Theni - Cumbum - Kumily - Thekkady (510 km)

By Bus: There are regular buses from various cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu to Kumily, which is the nearest town to Thekkady. You can take a bus from Kochi, Kottayam, Thiruvananthapuram, Madurai, Coimbatore, etc. to Kumily and then hire an auto-rickshaw or walk to Thekkady. The bus fare ranges from INR 100 to INR 500 depending on the type of bus and the distance.

Best Time to Visit Thekkady

Thekkady has a pleasant and moderate climate throughout the year, but the best time to visit Thekkady depends on your preferences and interests. Here are the different seasons and festivals in Thekkady and what they offer:

Monsoon Season (June to September):

This is the best time to visit Thekkady if you love rains and greenery. Thekkady receives heavy rainfall during this season, which makes the landscape lush and verdant. The waterfalls and streams are at their full glory and the air is fresh and cool. The monsoon season is also ideal for enjoying ayurvedic treatments and massages, as the humidity enhances their effects. However, some of the activities and attractions may be closed or restricted due to the rains, such as boat safari, bamboo rafting, etc. You may also face some roadblocks or landslides on the way to Thekkady. So, make sure you check the weather forecast and road conditions before you plan your trip.

Winter Season (October to February):

This is the best time to visit Thekkady if you love wildlife and adventure. Thekkady has a mild and pleasant winter, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. This is the peak season for tourism in Thekkady, as the weather is perfect for sightseeing, wildlife spotting, trekking, camping, etc. The Periyar National Park is open for visitors and you can see a variety of animals and birds in their natural habitat.

The winter season is also ideal for enjoying cultural events and festivals, such as Chitra Pournami Festival, which is celebrated in April at the Mangala Devi Temple. However, the winter season is also the most crowded and expensive time to visit Thekkady, as there is a high demand for accommodation, transportation, and activities. So, make sure you book your tickets and hotels in advance and bargain for the best deals.

You may also like to read: Thekkady Travel Trails

Summer Season (March to May):

This is the best time to visit Thekkady if you love solitude and relaxation. Thekkady has a hot and dry summer, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. This is the off-season for tourism in Thekkady, as the weather is not very conducive for outdoor activities and attractions. However, this also means that you can enjoy a peaceful and quiet vacation in Thekkady, without facing any crowds or queues.

You can also get some discounts and offers on accommodation, transportation, and activities. The summer season is also ideal for enjoying some indoor activities and attractions, such as spice gardens, ayurvedic centers, cultural centers, etc.

Where to Stay in Thekkady

Thekkady offers a wide range of accommodation options for all kinds of travelers, from modest homestays to luxurious resorts. You can choose your stay based on your budget, preferences, location, amenities, ratings, reviews, and prices. Here are some of the best hotels and resorts in Thekkady that we recommend:

Tree Houses:

If you want to experience living close to nature in a unique way, then staying in a tree house is a great option for you. Tree houses are wooden cottages built on top of trees that offer you a panoramic view of the forest and its wildlife. You can enjoy the fresh air the sounds of nature and the starry sky from your cozy nest. Some of the best tree houses in Thekkady are:

Vanya Tree House: This is a luxury tree house that offers you all the comforts and amenities of a modern hotel such as AC TV WiFi hot water etc. You can also enjoy delicious food a swimming pool a spa and a library at this property.

Dream Catcher Plantation Resort : This is an eco-friendly resort that offers you four different types of tree houses such as deluxe superior standard and family. You can also enjoy organic food a coffee plantation tour a spice garden tour and a campfire at this property.

Carmelia Haven Resort: This is a plantation resort that offers you two types of tree houses such as deluxe and honeymoon. You can also enjoy a swimming pool, a jacuzzi, a spa, and a restaurant at this property.

If you want to experience the local culture and hospitality of Thekkady, then staying in a homestay is a great option for you. Homestays are private homes or cottages that offer you a comfortable and cozy stay with the host family. You can enjoy the authentic Kerala cuisine, the friendly interaction, and the home-like atmosphere at these places. Some of the best homestays in Thekkady are:

Periyar Villa Homestay : This is a spacious and elegant villa that offers you four well-furnished rooms with attached bathrooms, balconies, and garden views. You can also enjoy a common living room, a dining room, a kitchen, and a terrace at this property.

Green Ark Boutique Resort : This is a charming and colorful resort that offers you six cottages with private sit-outs, bathrooms, and garden views. You can also enjoy a restaurant, a library, a yoga center, and a spice shop at this property.

Chrissie’s Hotel : This is a cozy and rustic hotel that offers you five rooms with private bathrooms, balconies, and mountain views. You can also enjoy a common lounge, a dining area, a garden, and a barbecue at this property.

Private Pool:

If you want to enjoy some privacy and luxury in Thekkady, then staying in a hotel or resort with a private pool is a great option for you. Private pool hotels and resorts offer you exclusive access to a swimming pool that is attached to your room or villa. You can enjoy the refreshing water, the scenic views, and the romantic ambiance at these places. Some of the best private pool hotels and resorts in Thekkady are:

The Mountain Courtyard Thekaddy: This is a premium resort that offers you four villas with private pools, bathrooms, living rooms, and garden views. You can also enjoy a restaurant, a spa, a gym, and a library at this property.

Spice Village: This is a heritage resort that offers you 52 cottages with private pools, bathrooms, verandas, and forest views. You can also enjoy an Ayurvedic center, an organic farm, a games room, and a restaurant at this property.

Poetree Sarovar Portico: This is a luxury resort that offers you 51 rooms with private pools, bathrooms, balconies, and valley views. You can also enjoy an infinity pool, a spa, a fitness center, and a restaurant at this property.

Wildlife Views:

If you want to witness the wildlife of Thekkady from your room or balcony, then staying in a hotel or resort with wildlife views is a great option for you. Wildlife view hotels and resorts offer you rooms or cottages that overlook the Periyar National Park or the Periyar Lake. You can enjoy the sight of animals such as elephants, bison, deer, monkeys, etc., as well as birds such as hornbills kingfishers parakeets etc., from your window or terrace. Some of the best wildlife view hotels and resorts in Thekkady are:

Greenwoods Resort: This is an eco-friendly resort that offers you 36 rooms with wildlife views bathrooms balconies and garden views. You can also enjoy an outdoor pool a spa a gym and a restaurant at this property.

Lake Palace Resort: This is an exquisite resort that offers you six rooms with wildlife views bathrooms living rooms and lake views. You can also enjoy an indoor pool a spa a library and a restaurant at this property.

The Elephant Court: This is an elegant resort that offers you 65 rooms with wildlife views bathrooms balconies and mountain views. You can also enjoy an outdoor pool a spa a fitness center and a restaurant at this property.

Places to Visit in Thekkady

Thekkady has many places to visit that will make your trip memorable and exciting. Here are some of the most popular and interesting places to visit in Thekkady:

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary:

This is the main attraction of Thekkady and one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in India. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of 925 sq km and hosts more than 35 species of mammals 265 species of birds 45 species of reptiles and 160 species of butterflies. You can see animals such as tigers elephants bison sambar deer nilgiri langurs etc., as well as birds such as hornbills kingfishers parakeets etc., in their natural habitat. You can also enjoy activities such as boat safari bamboo rafting night trekking jungle patrol etc., in the sanctuary.

Periyar Lake:

This is a beautiful artificial lake that was created by the construction of the Mullaperiyar Dam in 1895. Periyar Lake is located inside the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and offers a scenic view of the forest and its wildlife. You can enjoy a boat ride on the lake and spot animals such as elephants bison deer monkeys etc., as well as birds such as hornbills kingfishers parakeets etc., along the shore. You can also enjoy activities such as fishing kayaking canoeing etc., on the lake.

Kadathanadan Kalari Centre:

This is a cultural center that showcases the ancient martial art of Kerala, called Kalaripayattu. Kalaripayattu is a form of combat that involves weapons such as swords, daggers, spears, shields, etc., as well as unarmed techniques such as kicks, punches, blocks, etc. You can watch a live performance of Kalaripayattu at the Kadathanadan Kalari Centre and learn about its history, techniques, and significance. You can also enroll for a training session or a massage session at the center.

Elephant Junction:

This is an elephant camp that offers you a chance to interact with these gentle giants. Elephant Junction has more than 20 elephants that are well-trained and friendly. You can enjoy activities such as elephant ride, elephant bath, elephant feeding, elephant shower, etc., at the camp. You can also learn about the behavior, anatomy, and conservation of elephants from the mahouts (elephant trainers) at the camp.

Deepa World Spice And Ayurvedic Garden:

This is a spice and ayurvedic garden that offers you a glimpse of the rich flora and fauna of Thekkady. Deepa World Spice And Ayurvedic Garden has more than 100 varieties of spices and herbs that are used for culinary, medicinal, and cosmetic purposes. You can take a guided tour of the garden and learn about the cultivation, processing, and uses of spices and herbs such as cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, clove, ginger, turmeric, etc. You can also buy some fresh and organic spices and herbs from the garden.

Chellarkovil:

This is a village that offers you a mesmerizing view of the waterfalls and cascades that originate from the Western Ghats. Chellarkovil is located about 15 km from Thekkady and has an altitude of 1200 meters above sea level. You can enjoy the sight and sound of the waterfalls and cascades that flow into the plains of Tamil Nadu from Chellarkovil. You can also visit some attractions such as Chellarkovil Viewpoint, Chellarkovil Eco Tourism, and Chellarkovil Medicinal Garden in Chellarkovil.

This is a town that offers you a vibrant experience of shopping and dining in Thekkady. Kumily is located about 4 km from Thekkady and is the main commercial center of the region. You can shop for some local products such as spices, handicrafts, souvenirs, etc., from the various shops and markets in Kumily. You can also dine at some of the best restaurants in Thekkady that serve a variety of cuisines such as Kerala, Tamil, Chinese, Continental, etc., in Kumily. You can also visit some attractions such as Kumily Church, Kumily Mosque, and Kumily Rose Park in Kumily.

You may also like to read: Munnar To Thekkady

This is a scenic spot that offers you a splendid view of the spice plantations and the mountains. Murikkady is located about 5 km from Thekkady and has an altitude of 900 meters above sea level. You can enjoy the aroma and scenery of the spice plantations such as cardamom, pepper, coffee, etc., from Murikkady. You can also visit some attractions such as Murikkady Viewpoint, Murikkady Waterfalls, and Murikkady Lake in Murikkady.

Vandanmedu:

This is a spice village that offers you a chance to witness the cultivation and processing of cardamom, the queen of spices. Vandanmedu is located about 25 km from Thekkady and has an altitude of 4000 feet above sea level. You can see the cardamom plantations, drying yards, warehouses, and factories that produce the aromatic and flavorful spice from Vandanmedu. You can also buy some fresh and organic cardamom from the local markets in Vandanmedu.

Pandikuzhi:

This is a picnic spot that offers you a refreshing experience of nature and adventure. Pandikuzhi is located about 5 km from Thekkady and has an altitude of 1000 meters above sea level. You can enjoy the view of the green hills, valleys, streams, and waterfalls from Pandikuzhi. You can also enjoy activities such as trekking, camping, fishing, etc., at Pandikuzhi. You can also visit some attractions such as Pandikuzhi Viewpoint, Pandikuzhi Waterfalls, and Pandikuzhi Church in Pandikuzhi.

Mangala Devi Temple:

This is an ancient temple that offers you a spiritual experience of history and culture. Mangala Devi Temple is located about 15 km from Thekkady and has an altitude of 1337 meters above sea level. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Mangala Devi, who is believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. The temple is built in the Pandyan style of architecture and has a stone idol of the goddess. The temple is open only on the Chitra Pournami Festival , which is celebrated in April every year. You can enjoy the view of the forest and the mountains from the temple.

This is a hill station that offers you a serene experience of nature and spirituality. Pullumedu is located about 43 km from Thekkady and has an altitude of 3000 feet above sea level. You can enjoy the view of the rolling hills, meadows, rivers, and forests from Pullumedu. You can also visit some attractions such as Sree Ayyappa Temple, Makara Jyothi Viewpoint, and Sabarimala Pilgrim Centre in Pullumedu.

Ottakathalamedu:

This is a viewpoint that offers you a spectacular view of the sunset and the plains. Ottakathalamedu is located about 4 km from Thekkady and has an altitude of 1300 meters above sea level. You can enjoy the view of the sun setting behind the mountains and the plains of Tamil Nadu from Ottakathalamedu. You can also enjoy activities such as trekking, camping, birdwatching, etc., at Ottakathalamedu.

Panchalimedu:

This is a mythical place that offers you a fascinating experience of legend and folklore. Panchalimedu is located about 12 km from Thekkady and has an altitude of 2500 feet above sea level. According to legend Panchalimedu was the abode of Panchali the wife of the Pandavas the heroes of the epic Mahabharata. You can see some rock formations caves and ponds that are believed to be associated with the Pandavas such as Bhima’s Kitchen, Draupadi’s Bath, etc. You can also enjoy activities such as trekking camping photography etc. at Panchalimedu.

Gavi Forest:

This is an eco-tourism destination that offers you an amazing experience of wildlife and nature. Gavi Forest is located about 40 km from Thekkady and has an altitude of 3400 feet above sea level. Gavi Forest is part of the Periyar Tiger Reserve and hosts a variety of animals and birds such as tigers elephants leopards bears hornbills woodpeckers etc. You can enjoy activities such as jeep safari jungle camping birdwatching boating etc. at Gavi Forest.

Spring Valley Mountain:

This is a trekking spot that offers you an exhilarating experience of adventure and thrill. Spring Valley Mountain is located about 6 km from Thekkady and has an altitude of 1100 meters above sea level. Spring Valley Mountain is also known as Kurisumala and has a cross at the top that is visible from a distance. You can enjoy a challenging trek to the top of the mountain and enjoy the view of the forest and the valley from there. You can also enjoy activities such as rock climbing, rappelling, etc., at Spring Valley Mountain.

This is a spice village that offers you a delightful experience of aroma and flavor. Anakkara is located about 13 km from Thekkady and has an altitude of 900 meters above sea level. Anakkara has many plantations of spices such as cardamom, pepper, clove, nutmeg, etc., that fill the air with their fragrance. You can take a tour of the plantations and learn about the cultivation, processing, and uses of these spices. You can also buy some fresh and organic spices from the local markets in Anakkara.

Things To Do In Thekkady

Thekkady has many things to do that will make your trip exciting and adventurous. Here are some of the most thrilling and fun things to do in Thekkady:

Bamboo Rafting:

This is an eco-friendly activity that lets you explore the Periyar Lake and its surroundings on a bamboo raft. Bamboo rafting is a full-day program that starts from the boat landing point and ends at the same point. You can enjoy the view of the lake, the forest, and the wildlife from the raft. You can also spot animals such as elephants, bison, deer, monkeys, etc., as well as birds such as hornbills, kingfishers, parakeets, etc., along the shore. You can also enjoy a picnic lunch on the raft or on an island. Bamboo rafting is a great way to experience nature and adventure in Thekkady.

Night Trekking:

This is an adventurous activity that lets you experience the nocturnal life of the forest. Night trekking is a three-hour program that starts from the entrance gate of the Periyar National Park and ends at the same point. You can enjoy the thrill of walking through the dark forest with a torch and a guide. You can also hear and see some of the nocturnal animals and birds such as owls, civets, porcupines, etc., in their natural habitat. Night trekking is a great way to experience wildlife and thrill in Thekkady.

Boat Safari:

This is a popular activity that lets you enjoy the beauty and diversity of the Periyar Lake and its wildlife. Boat safari is a two-hour program that starts from the boat landing point and covers about half of the lake. You can enjoy the view of the lake, the forest, and the mountains from the boat. You can also spot animals such as elephants, bison, deer, monkeys, etc., as well as birds such as hornbills, kingfishers, parakeets, etc., on the shore or in the water. Boat safari is a great way to experience sightseeing and wildlife in Thekkady.

Wildlife Spotting:

This is an activity that lets you witness the wildlife of Thekkady in their natural habitat. Wildlife spotting is a program that can be done at any time of the day or night from various points in Thekkady such as watchtowers, hides, trails, etc. You can see animals such as tigers elephants bison sambar deer nilgiri langurs etc., as well as birds such as hornbills kingfishers parakeets etc., in their natural behavior and environment. Wildlife spotting is a great way to experience nature and photography in Thekkady.

Spice Garden Tour:

This is an activity that lets you learn about the spices and herbs of Thekkady and their uses. Spice garden tour is a program that can be done at any time of the day from various spice gardens in Thekkady such as Deepa World Spice And Ayurvedic Garden, Abraham’s Spice Garden, Connemara Tea Factory, etc. You can see smell and taste various spices and herbs such as cardamom pepper cinnamon clove ginger turmeric etc. and learn about their cultivation processing and uses for culinary medicinal and cosmetic purposes.

Thekkady is a destination that offers you a perfect blend of nature, adventure, culture, and relaxation. Thekkady is home to India’s largest tiger reserve and a biodiversity hotspot, where you can enjoy bamboo rafting, night trekking, boat safari, wildlife spotting, and much more.

Thekkady also has many other places to visit and things to do that will make your trip memorable and exciting. Thekkady has a pleasant and moderate climate throughout the year, but the best time to visit Thekkady depends on your preferences and interests. You can also enjoy the local cuisine, culture, and hospitality of Thekkady at various restaurants and cultural centers.

We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive travel guide to Thekkady and its tourism potential. If you are planning to visit Thekkady, then don’t wait any longer and book your trip today and discover why Thekkady is a must-visit destination for any traveler visiting India.

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050A.Elephant Safari (20-30 mins)

in December to February season time 15-20 min ride will get . all other months 30 mins ride will get . interacting with elephants can be awe-inspiring and humbling. Elephants' intelligence, emotional complexity, and unique personalities make them fascinating creatures to observe and learn from. However, it is crucial to remember that these animals are not here for our entertainment or profit, and we must treat them with respect and care.

Elephant safari only

Available dates

morning 9 to 4.00pm reservation will get . booking may be confirm subject to availability. some time guest may wait 30 mins to avail the programme , be patient . 15 to 20 mins ride in season time .

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PERIYAR TOURISM WELCOMES YOU

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Thekkady Lake Road ,Kumily,S-India -685509 ,[email protected]

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Safari Tours

Take a Tour of a Wildlife Safari Zoo in Central Pennsylvania

Guided safari tours in central pennsylvania.

The dry plains of Africa and the woodlands and forests of Australia have never felt closer thanks to the incredible safari tour at Lake Tobias Wildlife Park. Like our other amazing attractions , the safari allows you and your family to see first-hand the various animals native to those lands and learn about their natural habitats. Discover more about our animal safari in Central Pennsylvania and all you can expect to see on your journey.

Guided Safari offered May thru October.

Self Drive-Thru Safari Available Only in April and November

Guests who wish to enjoy our safari tour from the comfort of their vehicles can do so with our self drive-thru option. VEHICLES WITH HARD DOORS AND HARD TOP ROOFS ONLY. Those interested in this experience should first read the Self Drive-Thru Rules to ensure their safety and the wellbeing of our animals. You will be required to sign a vehicle waiver prior to entering the safari fields.   

SELF DRIVE-THRU RULES AND INFORMATION PER USDA:

All vehicles MUST have hard tops and doors. Sunroofs and trunks must be closed-USDA requirement (Mesh doors on jeeps are not permitted).

Strict 5 mph speed limit (USDA requirement for animal safety).

You MUST remain in your vehicle during the entirety of the tour.

Pets are not permitted in vehicles.

No riding in the bed of pickup trucks.

No motorcycles, motor homes, buses, or trailers are permitted.

Touching animals is not encouraged.

Feeding animals is prohibited.

LOUD NOISES --honking horns, music and yelling--are not permitted.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

The drive-thru trail is an unpaved dirt trail with loose stones, possible animal dung, and occasional mud puddles.

Some animals may not be visible on every drive-thru.

No refunds will be given for any reason after entering the safari fields.

ZOO EXHIBITS ARE NOT AVAILABLE  during the weekends of the self drive-thru.

Admission for the self drive-thru will be $9/person ages 3 through adult.

The Self Drive-Thru Safari pre-season/post-season option is available on select weekends only in April and November

from 10:00 a.m.  to 3:00 p.m.  

Please note: Only the Safari Tour Fields are open for the Self Drive-Thru option. Zoo exhibits are open during our regular season May 1st through October .

Adventure Awaits at Our Wildlife Safari Zoo

Say Hello to Our Animals

One of the best parts about our safari zoo in Pennsylvania is all the different animals you may see. More than 500 animals roam the safari fields freely at Lake Tobias Wildlife Park. You may meet curious critters that are just as interested in you as you are in them — it is common for animals to approach the tour bus and get close enough for guests to reach out and touch them. Interacting with these animals is sure to be an unforgettable and highly beneficial experience for your party.

Our New Safari Station

Dedicated to providing our guests with the best possible experience, we are happy to introduce our safari station. Built and launched in 2015, the safari station includes the following:

• A comfortable holding area large enough to fit guests as they wait for their turn to hop aboard the cruiser
• A snack shop where you can grab a drink, some food for the ride, and even feed to give the animals while on the tour
• Well-maintained restrooms for your convenience

Things to Keep in Mind for Your Next Safari Tour

To help guests get the most out of their animal safari in Pennsylvania, we encourage all to be mindful of when the tours begin. Rides go out right when the park opens, and guests are welcome to come early to avoid crowds or waiting in long lines. Our tours last around 45 minutes, providing plenty of time to take in the entire tour without tiring out the youngest in your group. The last tour departs our Safari Station one hour before closing.

Please be advised that we do not accept reservations for our tours as they are offered on a first come, first serve basis. However, even if you miss your preferred time, another is coming up shortly!

Plan Your Visit Today to Our Safari in Pennsylvania

Lake Tobias Wildlife Park welcomes guests from Central Pennsylvania and the surrounding areas to enjoy a first-hand experience with animals from six continents. Our safari tour allows visitors to witness a variety of majestic animals and gain insight into their way of life. Contact us today to learn more about our Pennsylvania safari tours and rates , or to view our park hours .

Safari Times

• Safari tours begin when the park opens.
• Tours last approximately 45 minutes.
• Last tour goes out one hour before closing.
• Tours are offered on a first-come, first-serve basis and depart multiple times per day.

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Things to do in Moscow: how to visit Moscow | Unmissable, cool & unusual

• September 2, 2023

What are the best things to do in Moscow? What to do in Moscow? First, I will list the main places to visit by theme, passing by the must-sees, but also more unusual places in Moscow. Then, I will describe what to see in Moscow in one day and how to visit Moscow in 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 days. Let’s go!

Good to know. For more information, click on the places to open the dedicated blog posts.

Main places to visit in Moscow & best things to do in Moscow

I worked in Moscow and I loved this city for its dynamism and energy. We find there from time to time to see friends, remember good memories and enjoy this giant city! Then the time has come for us to share with you our practical guide.

TOP 5 must-see places in Moscow

• Moscow Red Square
• St. Basil’s Cathedral
• Cathedral of Christ the Savior
• Bolshoi Theatre

Places of cultural, historical and religious interest in Moscow

• Novodevichy Convent and cemetery
• Tretyakov Gallery
• Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts
• Kremlin Izmaïlovo (pseudo-historic place, recently built in the image of the old, one of the best things to do in Moscow for your Instagram account 😉 )
• Park and ancient village of Kolomenskoye

Visit Moscow of the Soviet era

• Moscow State University and Sparrows Hill
• VDNKh and the Museum of Astronautics, one of the key landmarks of the Soviet era in Moscow
• GULAG Museum
• Metro stations
• The Stalinist skyscrapers, scattered all over the city

Less touristy places in Moscow

• Gorky Park and the GARAGE museum
• The old Krasny Oktyabr factory
• Zaryadye Park
• Center for Contemporary Art, WINZAVOD
• Business center, Moscow City

Main districts of Moscow to visit

• Patriarch Ponds
• Tchistye Prudy
• Kuznetsky most
• Arbat Street

However, regardless of the length of your stay, whether you are going to visit Moscow in 4 days or in 2, you need a visa. The article Obtaining a tourist visa for Russia could then be useful in any case.

What to do and see in Moscow in one day?

List of things to see and do in Moscow in one day:

• Go to Red Square
• Visit St. Basil’s Cathedral
• See Kremlin walls (but not to visit)
• Visit Cathedral of Christ the Savior
• Discover Kuznetsky most districts and see Bolshoi Theatre building
• And if you have time at the end of the day: go to the Sparrows Hill or to the Moscow City for a beautiful view

Things to do in Moscow in 2 days

If you want to visit Moscow in 2 days, there are 2 purposes: do not miss the essential places of Moscow and optimize travel.

• First day: Red Square , Saint Basil’s Cathedral , Zariadye Park, Bolshoi Theatre , Kremlin
• Day 2: Cathedral of Christ the Savior, the former Krasny Oktyabr factory on Balchug Island, Gorky Park, Moscow State University (one of the Seven Sisters buildings ) and Sparrow Hill

As 2 days os really short, be sure to choose an accommodation in the best districts where to stay in Moscow .

Walking on Red Square in Moscow: one of the unmissable things to do in Moscow

Iconic place and one of the must-see places in Moscow and even in Russia! Besides, if there was only one place to visit in Moscow in 2 days, this place would then be Red Square, without hesitation. Therefore, starting the city tour with Red Square is ideal . Several buildings are on the square, but not all of them have to be visited. Check out my blog post about Moscow’s Red Square in detail to learn more and not miss anything.

Visiting Saint-Basil’s Cathedral inside

Even more emblematic than Moscow’s Red Square! Built in the middle of the 16th century under the orders of Tsar Ivan Le Terrible, this cathedral is one of the most beautiful monuments of Orthodox art, and definitely one of the unmissable places in Moscow. Visiting Saint-Basil’s Cathedral inside is one of the most beautiful things to do in Moscow!

• Visit estimate time : 1h30
• Entry ticket : 700 RUB. Tickets can be purchased on the cathedral’s official website 45 days before the tour.
• Audio guide (recommended): 500 RUB
• Opening hours : June to August 10 am-6pm; from November to April: 11 am-5pm; May, September, October 11 am-5pm. Cathedral closed on Wednesdays. Entrance is closed 45 minutes before closing.
• Find out more in the dedicated article: Saint Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow

Take a walk in Zariadye park: one of the coolest things to do in Moscow after visiting Red Square

Zaryadie Park is just a 10-minute walk from St. Basil’s Cathedral, so it’s easy to include in your itinerary if you’re going to visit Moscow in 2 days. From its heights, you can see the red walls of the Kremlin. But, the most impressive point of view is the platform which overlooks the Moskva river. A must see! And clearly one of the coolest things to do in Moscow!

• Open 24 hours a day
• Good to know! Park Zaryadye is also a place to visit in Moscow in winter. Find out more here: What to do in Moscow in winter?

See the Bolshoi Theatre and discover the Kuznetsky Most district

The Bolshoi Theatre is the most famous Russian theater in the world. The most economical way to see a presentation at the Bolshoi Theater is to take the tickets on the theater’s official website in advance, so here is our tutorial to help you: How to buy entrance tickets to the Bolshoi? In addition, several pedestrian or one-way streets

The Bolshoi Theater is the most famous Russian theater in the world. The most economical way to see a presentation at the Bolshoi Theater is to take the tickets on the theater’s official website in advance, so here is our tutorial to help you: How to buy tickets to the Bolshoi? In addition, several pedestrian or one-way streets are located north of the theater. It is therefore very pleasant to find them to leave the main axes of the megalopolis.

Visit the Moscow Kremlin

Visit Kremlin is on top of things to do in Moscow. A place of power for centuries, the Kremlin then shows us a whole different image when viewed from the inside. If you want to visit Moscow in 2 days, the Kremlin is certainly one of the must-see places in Moscow.

• Opening hours : Daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Thursday.
• See our blog post about visiting the Moscow Kremlin

Visit the Cathedral of Christ the Savior

This impressive Moscow Cathedral is the seat of the Russian Orthodox Church. It is a must see if you visit Moscow in 2 days and clearly one of the things to do in Moscow. The Cathedral of Christ the Savior was first built in 1883 in memory of Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s Grand Army. Then in 1931 Stalin ordered its destruction. It was then rebuilt again (identically) only in 2000.

• Where? Ulitsa Volkhonka 15. At the foot of the Kropotkinskaya metro station.
• Opening hours . Daily: 10: 00-17: 00, except Monday: 13: 00-17: 00
• Free entry (some closing restrictions, for example a short)

Good to know! In orthodox religious places, one must avoid excessively uncovered clothing. Women should cover their heads. After visiting the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, you can explore Bolotny Island and Gorky Park. This is one of the routes our guide to Moscow.

The old Krasny Oktyabr factory: one of the coolest things to do in Moscow

If you cross the Moskva River by a pedestrian bridge which is located just in front of the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, you will enjoy a beautiful view of the city and at the same time you can discover Balchug Island. Furthermore, if you want to visit Moscow in 2 days, you can include this island in your itinerary between the cathedral and Gorky park. Here is the old confectionery factory Krasny Oktyabr, which has gradually turned into a fashionable micro-district. There are then some elements of street art, cafes and restaurants and some Moscow bohemian side. At the end of the island you can see a gigantic 98-meter-high monument dedicated to the Russian reforming tsar Pierre The Great.

Good to know! You can find on this island are the trendiest nightclubs in Moscow. On weekends, there are taxi caps after midnight so there are so many people. On the other hand, if you go there in winter and during the day, the island is quite empty and less interesting to see.

Gorky Park is one of the TOP places to visit in Moscow, because it allows you to better understand the life of the locals and their rhythm. In fact, it’s a huge entertainment park. For example, in winter there is a giant ice rink and in summer – free dance or yoga lessons, sandy beaches for playing volleyball, an outdoor cinema. So, like the locals, have a Stakantchik (ice cream or cooked corn), and enjoy the atmosphere of the place: that’s one of the interesting things to do in Moscow to discover the city.

• Where? Krymsky Val 9. 20 minutes’ walk from Krasny Oktyabr, along the quays.

Sparrow Hill and Moscow State University

The Sparrow Hill, Vorobiovy Gori in Russian, is the highest point in Moscow. It is rather known to Russians, but less to travelers. A nice view on Moscow opens from the hill, and in particular on the Luzhniki Stadium. In addition, on the hill itself is the Moscow State University: an impressive skyscraper from the Soviet era.

• How to get there? By bus T7 (35 min) from Oktyaborskaya station, near Gorki Park. By metro (Vorobiovy Gorki station) + climb the hill on foot. On foot along the Moskva along the Gorky Park (1h30) + climb in funiculars.

Good to know! It is possible to cross the Moskva river by funicular. We actually tested it and it was pretty cool! That is one of our favorite things to do in Moscow!

What to do in Moscow in 3 days?

If you are going to visit Moscow in 3 days, it would be interesting to dive into the Soviet era which strongly marked the country and the city. After the Bolshevik Revolution, the capital was transferred from Saint Petersburg to Moscow, in order to mark the change of power. Moscow then became the world showcase for communist ideology. Here are the best things to do in Moscow for 3-day-trip!

VDNKh, visit Moscow of the Soviet era

VDNKh is a large exhibition center in the north of Moscow, where there are still several striking witnesses of the USSR. The most interesting are the Museum of Cosmonauts and the Statue of the Worker and the Kolkhozian , which will certainly impress you with its size!

GULAG History Museum

The explanations of the museum are very well done. We really have the feeling of going back in time. If you are going to visit Moscow in 3 days and you are interested in history and this subject in particular, I recommend this museum. Visit the GULAG History Museum is one of the most interesting things to do in Moscow.

Discover the Patriarche Pounds district

It’s a nice neighborhood in Moscow where you can come across rather affluent locals, but not necessarily very bling-bling. Take a walk in this area is really a cool thing to do in Moscow! In addition, the Ponds of Patriarch is one of the places of Bulgakov’s novel “Master and Margarita”. As this is an interesting area to see, we have included it in a walking tour of Moscow. The route ends at the Moscow Kremlin, which is very convenient, because you will be able to visit Moscow in 3 days by optimizing your trips.

What to visit in Moscow in 4 days: TOP things to do in Moscow in 4 days

If you want to visit Moscow in 3 days, you will already see a lot of things. On the other hand, if you stay one more day, you have plenty to do! The Novodevichy Convent, the Tchistie Proudy district and the Izmaylovo Kremlin are very good candidates for you, if you are going to visit Moscow in 4 days.

Visiting Novodevichy Convent in Moscow

The Novodevichy Convent is one of the most brilliant examples of Russian architecture, according to UNESCO. This beautiful complex was built in 1524 and today consists of the convent, but also of a cemetery whose status could be compared to that of Père-Lachaise in Paris. Visiting Novodevichy Convent is one of the great things to do in Moscow, if you want to go a little bit outside of the center!

Discovering Tchistye Proudy district

It’s one of the most popular areas of Moscow, with many cafes, restaurants and bars nearby. It is therefore a place to discover if you want to visit Moscow in 4 days. It is just as pleasant for a stroll as for the discovery of local life. For example, in winter the pond turns into an ice rink.

Visiting the Izmaylovo Kremlin, one of the coolest things to do in Moscow!

The Izmaylovo Kremlin is more of a tourist than a historic place. On the other hand, it is a pretty impressive place to discover, especially on weekends. Inside the Kremlin, there is a flea market where you can find a little bit of everything, but mostly good souvenirs to bring from Moscow. For example, chapka, traditional Russian scarves or matryoshka (Russian dolls). Add the Kremlin and the Izmaïlovo market to your itinerary if you are going to visit Moscow in 4 days, because it is a nice and very colorful place! Visiting the Izmailovo Kremlin is one of the things to do in Moscow, if you want to put colors in your Instagram account! 😉

In 4 days, we will have the opportunity to see several Moscow: Classic Moscow, Moscow of old Russia, Soviet Moscow and a little bit of the new Moscow. So what to visit in Moscow on the 5th day of travel?

What to visit in Moscow in 5 days?

Art lovers will be delighted to discover the Tretyakov Gallery and the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts, while others will prefer to stroll along Arbat Street, see the buildings of Moskva-City or visit Bunker 42.

Admiring Russian art at Tretyakov Gallery

Founded in 1856 by an industrialist and great lover of art, the gallery has grown over the decades, and then bequeathed to the state. Today the collection includes more than 140,000 pieces, 15,000 of which are paintings. Visiting the Tretyakov Gallery is one of the things to do in Moscow if you want to discover Russian art!

• Where? Pereoulok Lavrouchinski 10. A 5-minute walk from Tretiakovskaya station
• Opening hours. Open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. Thursday and Friday. Closed on Mondays.
• Entry tickets. 500 RUB.

Visiting the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts

The Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts presents the treasures of ancient Egypt, the paintings of Rembrandt and Cézanne, a fine collection of Impressionism.

• Where? Ulitsa Volkhonka 12
• Opening hours. Daily: 10: 00-20: 00, except Thursday: 11: 00-21: 00. Closed on Mondays. The boxes close an hour before closing.
• Entry tickets. The prices vary according to the collections from 300 to 750 RUB.

Walking on Arbat Street

All Russians know Rue Arbat. So, walking on Arbat street is one of the things to do in Moscow. However, after the years, little by little it became very touristy. This is a pedestrian street only. There are souvenir shops, restaurants and cafes there, but it is no longer the most authentic neighborhood in the city.

Seeing the buildings of Moskva-City (Moscow City)

Moskva-City is Moscow’s business center, much like Paris’s Defense district. The skyscrapers of Moskva-City are among the tallest in Europe: 373 meters high! Very nice place to see at dusk.

Good to know! You can admire a nice view of Moscow City from the docks of Tarasa Shevchenko. It’s especially beautiful in the evening with all the lights on.

Bunker 42, one of the most unusual things to do in Moscow

Bunker 42 is a secret military complex which was to be used by the Soviets in the event of a nuclear attack: a space of 7000 m² 65 meters underground!

• Where? 5 Kotelnitcheski Lane, 11.
• Prices. 2200 RUB per person
• Opening hours. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Restaurant inside. Original, but rather a tourist trap.

What to visit in Moscow in 6 days or more?

There are still so many places to see, because Moscow is a big megalopolis and there is always something exciting to do there. For example: the ancient Kolomenskoye village or the WINZAVOD contemporary art center .

If you are interested in history and want to see Russian cities on a rather “human scale”, it would certainly be interesting for you to discover the cities of the Golden Ring . For example, it is very easy to get to Sergey Posad from Moscow (less than 2 hours in train). Visiting the Golden Ring is one of the best things to do in Moscow if you are staying more than a 5-6 days.

There are still plenty of places to see in Moscow, however I did my best to list here the best things to do in Moscow, what to see in Moscow in one day, but also in 2, 3, 4 or 5 days in Moscow!

Moscow travel tips:

• Airport transfer: how to go to Moscow?
• Where to stay in Moscow (hotels, districts)?
• Tourist voucher for Russian visa
• Christmas and New Year in Moscow
• What is the best time to visit Moscow?

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Your 48-hour tour guide of Moscow this winter!

9 am – Visit the Red Square 

Christmas market on Red Square

The first thing that every tourist should do by default is visit the very heart of Moscow – it’s main and most beautiful (which ‘krasnaya’ actually meant in Old Russian) square! 

There are several ways to explore it:

• Take a selfie with Spasskaya Tower
• Have a warm drink at the Christmas market (which lasts until mid-January)
• Visit Lenin’s Mausoleum
• Shop in the gorgeous adjacent GUM department store
• Visit St. Basil’s Cathedral (and learn that it’s actually several churches under one roof).           

11 am – It’s Kremlin time! 

Inside the Moscow Kremlin

Entering the Kremlin is, actually, a bit of a quest, as it’s a presidential facility with no general access. You need to buy a ticket or, better still, book a guided tour. Inside the Kremlin’s walls, you will find ancient cathedrals, in which Russian tsars used to be crowned and buried, as well as explore the magnificent architecture of the Kremlin that reflects the rich history of the country. And, finally, you could also make a quick visit to the Moscow Kremlin Museums and admire artifacts from various Russian tsarist eras: carriages, thrones, crowns and the most incredible armory and jewelry. 

For more information, visit the official website of the Kremlin . It’s open from 10 am to 5 pm (and it’s closed on Thursdays) in winter.

2 pm – Watch the changing of the Guard

The honor guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

A very spectacular (and free) thing to do is watch how the honor guard does their ceremonial change at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Eternal Flame, situated in Alexander Garden, right next to the Kremlin wall. Every hour, from 8 am to 8 pm, the 1st Company of the Kremlin (Presidential) Regiment performs this rather old and beautiful tradition. But, be warned, it's often overcrowded. 

3 pm – Enjoy a green oasis just in the center

Florarium in Zaryadye

Just a few steps from the Red Square, you will find the fabulous Zaryadye park. Opened in 2017, it is designed by renowned American architect bureau ‘Diller Scofidio + Renfro’. You can walk among the very cozy botanical decorations and explore Russia’s climate zones, as each of them is represented in dedicated areas, complete with flora from those zones.

The floating bridge in Zaryadye Park

The park also has an underground museum, an “ice cave” and a 3D cinema, where you can take part in a virtual adventure – a flight over Moscow! However, the piece de resistance is a floating boomerang bridge over the Moskva River, one of the best places to take a selfie.

You can also grab a quick lunch or relax with a cup of coffee or tea in the park.

7 pm – Arrange a ballet night

The Bolshoi Theater

Of course, the most fancy way to finish your day in Moscow would be to go to the ballet at the Bolshoi Theater (in a perfect world, to see ‘The Nutcracker’!). However, getting tickets to the Bolshoi is not an easy task and should be done well in advance of your visit. 

But, don’t be upset if you don’t manage to get tickets to the Bolshoi. Moscow has dozens of other options to see a ballet (or opera). No less brilliant performances can be seen in the Stanislavsky and Nemirovich-Danchenko Music Theater or in The State Kremlin Palace (by the way, this is another way to get a quick glimpse inside the Kremlin!).

10:30 pm – Have a late dinner in a fancy restaurant

Dr Zhivago restaurant

There are not so many other cities with such a big choice of restaurants in a range of tastes and styles. In 2021, the authoritative Michelin guide announced their pick of the best of Moscow’s restaurants. And here’s our guide to all the places with Russian cuisine for any budget. But, if you happen to be in the area of the Bolshoi or Nemirovich-Danchenko Theater, then ‘Dr. Zhivago’ would definitely be a nice option (and it’s open around the clock).

DAY 2 

9 am – grab a moscow coffee.

Winter festivities mood in Moscow

Moscow is definitely a coffee city! You can find coffee shops on every corner and they all offer a huge range of drinks. Try a ‘raf’ coffee, a sweet, creamy drink that was created in Russia, or dare to pick one of the very unusual offers, like cheese coffee or a Soviet candy style one (check out our coffee guide here ).

10 am – Take a river cruise

Winter boating along the Moskva River

Another exciting way to explore Moscow is to observe it from the water. Boats cruise along the Moskva River all year round. Most begin their route from the Hotel Ukraine, one of Stalin's ‘Seven Sister’ skyscrapers, and will bring you back to the same spot after passing the medieval Novodevichy Convent, Moscow State University and Luzhniki Stadium, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour and giant monument to Peter the Great and many other sightseeings. 

It’s always at optimum temperature inside the boat, which also has huge panoramic windows. Select boats also offer a full dining experience, so it is also a nice place to have breakfast or lunch.

If you are not a water person, then discover other, unusual sides of Moscow – pick one of the activities we’ve prepared for you here ! 

1 pm – Visit ‘Russia’ Expo and taste a bunch of Russian regional cuisines

Russia Expo at VDNKh

Until April 2024, the Soviet-era VDNKh exhibition park is hosting the huge ‘Russia’ expo, with tons of activities and expositions devoted to Russia, its culture, science and nature. Check out our special guide on what to do there!  

An entire ‘House of Russian Cuisine’ has been opened at the expo. You will find 15 food stands with flagship dishes from Kamchatka, Siberia, Karelia and other regions of Russia. Imagine trying a range of cuisines and dishes in one place without even having to travel anywhere, be it Altai pelmeni, Tula kalach or Caucasian pies! A perfect place to grab some lunch.

House of Russian cuisines at VDNKh

The VDNKh exhibition park is a great place to visit, in general! Its pavilions are the perfect example of Stalinit Empire style architecture and you can almost feel as if you’ve traveled back in time! You will also find several interesting museums in the park – devoted to space exploration, Russian history and even a ‘Special Purpose Garage’, which showcases the various vehicles used by the country’s leaders. 

'Sun of Moscow' wheel

And, finally, you can ride Europe's tallest panoramic wheel – ‘Sun of Moscow’ – that will give you panoramic views of the city – from a height of 140 meters!

5 pm – Ice skate with view & mulled wine

Ice skating rink on Red Square (GUM department store on the background)

Ice skating is one of the most popular and affordable activities in Moscow. There are several great ice skating rinks in picturesque locations that are open all winter long. One of the biggest rinks in Europe is also at the aforementioned VDNKh or you can visit the one in Gorky Park, another very popular Moscow spot, or the small, but fancy rink – right on Red Square! 

All the parks offer ice skate rental, so the only things you need are warm clothes, a charged phone to record your memories and a good mood!  Moscow also gets dark at 4:30 pm in winter and hundreds of lights are switched on, turning the city into a giant fairy tale! 

A mulled wine with a view

And, if you are not a sports person, we’ve picked several other unusual activities that you could do in Moscow instead. For example, did you know that there is an entire district of dacha (countryside) houses, just 10 minutes from the center, surrounded by giant new highrises? How about taking a stroll there and feeling the early Soviet atmosphere?

8 pm – Warm up & laugh out loud

After all these outdoor activities, what could be better than a warm cozy bar with a hot drink and nice company? Moscow is a city full of entertainment for all tastes. So, if you know the Russian language or want to practice it, go to a theater or catch a stand-up comedy show. Moscow even has comedy shows in English, where you can hear both Russians speaking fluent English or foreigners (including Brits and Americans) who live in Russia speaking in broken or heavily-accented Russian (Check their show dates on the ‘ Moscow English Comedy ’ Telegram channel)!

11 pm – Finish by partying the night away!

Propaganda club in Moscow

Moscow never sleeps, as you might have heard. Which means there are plenty of bars and nightclubs where you can have a drink (or two or three; be sure to check out how Russians make Black Russian and White Russian cocktails) and chat with incredibly different people. Have fun and don’t miss your flight (or miss it and stay longer in the best city in the world!)!

That's it! See you soon in Moscow

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• A Guide To The Most...

A Guide to the Most Beautiful Green Spaces in Moscow

Home to more parks than any other city in Russia , Moscow offers a cornucopia of choice when it comes to green spaces. From innovative wild urbanism to 18th-century royal estates, here are the best places to escape from the city buzz in Russia’s capital.

Spread over a territory of almost 300 acres, Gorky Park is Moscow’s most popular green space. Opened in 1928, it was designed as ‘a city inside a city’ with its own telegraph, police unit and a doctor’s office. Some 90 years later, Gorky Park offers everything from segway rides to an open-air movie theatre, through to illuminating lectures and fantastic dining spots.

9 Krimsky Val, Moscow, Russia , +7 495 995 00 20

As the name implies, Muzeon is perfect for art lovers. The park plays host to art fairs, exhibitions, music festivals and video performances. But even if you don’t care for art, Muzeon has a lot to offer: from an elegant boardwalk to hip coffee shops to an in-ground fountain, where you can actually cool off in summer.

2 Krimsky Val, Moscow, Russia , +7 985 382 27 32

Hermitage Garden

Opened in 1894, the Hermitage garden is a lovely compact park, nestled between high rise buildings in Moscow center. Home to theaters New Opera, Hermitage and Sphera, the garden is predictably crowded, with theatre-goers along with office workers from the business centres in Tverskaya – all flock here for a green respite.

3 Karetnyy Ryad, Moscow, Russia , +7 495 699 04 32

Sokolniki Park

An open-air cinema, a rope course, amusement park, bike rentals and more – Sokolniki is 1,275 acres of fun. In winter the whole park turns into one of Moscow’s most famous skating rinks. Sokolniki gradually blends into Losiny Ostrov National Park – the world’s third largest forest in a city.

1 Sokol’nicheskiy Val, bld. 1, Moscow, Russia , +7 499 393 92 22

Izmailovsky Park

Moscow’s biggest park, Izmailovsky stretches for almost 3,800 acres. Particularly favored by hikers and cyclists, the forest-like park is a popular family spot, equipped with a ferris wheel, outdoor gyms and all kinds of places to eat.

7 Alleya Bol’shogo Kruga, Moscow, Russia , +7 499 166 61 19

Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno estate is a perfectly reconstructed specimen of 18th century architecture set amid a lush green forested area. The only park in Moscow that boasts a light and music fountain, Tsaritsyno draws crowds with spectacular night water shows.

1 Dol’skaya Ulitsa, Moscow, Russia , +7 499 725 72 87

Severnoye Tushino Park

Despite a rather remote location, this park is definitely worth a visit. A half-a-century old apple garden, serene views on Khimkinskoye reservoir and a dry-docked submarine housing a Museum of Submarine Navy will definitely make up for the ride from the city centre.

Ulitsa Svobody, Moscow, Russia , +7 495 640 73 55

Kolomenskoye

Kolomenskoye Park is not merely a tranquil green space, but a celebrated museum reserve, where nature and historically significant architecture blend together. Here you can see one of Moscow’s oldest churches Church of the Ascension and a former residence of the Tsar Aleksey Mikhailovich Romanov, the father of Peter the Great. It’s also perfect for romantic walks along the Moskva river.

39 Andropova Ave, Moscow, Russia , +7 499 782 89 17

In this park you’re guaranteed to encounter some ducks, woodpeckers, squirrels, hares and urban wildlife. The park is also famous for its beautiful boardwalk, open-air cinema, ropes course Panda Park, gallery of retro cars and a variety of places to eat.

22/1 Ulitsa Bol’shaya Filevskaya, Moscow, Russia , +7 499 145 45 05

The former estate of the Sheremetev family, Kuskovo is a fascinating piece of 18th-century Russia. Home to 20 unique architectural monuments, it is Moscow’s only historical park with a French formal garden, decorated with green walkways, marble statue and state-of-the art pavilions.

44/2 3-Ya Muzeynaya Ulitsa, Moscow, Russia

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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