Thekkady in Idukki district of Kerala is a nature lover’s delight. It is located in the lush green spice plantations and forests of Periyar. It is a haven for wild animals like elephants, tigers and bison. The Periyar Wildlife sanctuary is located here. It attracts tourists from all over India and the world. The sanctuary is home to more than 800 elephants and 40 tigers. Apart from elephants and tigers, there are other wild animals and birds. The Periyar Lake is the main attraction here. This is an artificial lake that is formed by the Mullaiperiyar Dam built across the Periyar River. There are facilities for boating in the lake.
Shalimar Spice Garden Thekkady is an ideal boutique resort located in the outskirts of Periyar Wildlife sanctuary. It is an ideal hotel to spend some time. The hotel is spread over an area of five acres of spice plantations. An Italian Maria Angela and her Indian partner, Shaji have designed the hotel. The cottages are well equipped with all modern amenities and are in typical Kerala style. The cottages are examples of eco-tourism. The multi-cuisine restaurant offers traditional Kerala cuisine apart from Indian, Italian and Chinese cuisine. Although the resort is on the edge of the Periyar sanctuary, the resort ensures complete safety and protection to its guests. The guests can explore the sanctuary, go for a boat ride on the lake or even undertake a nature trek through the dense forests of Periyar. The best way to spend time is to go and explore the spice plantations nearby. The resort also offers Ayurveda massages and yoga classes. To add spice to life, there is an open-air dancing floor that offers cultural programs. The resort can be accessed by air or by train. The nearest airport is Madurai which is about 140 kms from here or Nedumbasery International Airport at Kochi which is located 200 kms away. The nearest railhead is Kottayam.