Exploring the Wonders of THEKKADY: A Wildlife Tour

My visit to Thekkady, nestled in the lap of the Western Ghats in Kerala, India, overlapping with Peryiar Tiger Reserve, felt like walking right into the thick pristine forest. Renowned for its wildlife reserves, lush forests, and picturesque landscapes, Thekkady offers a unique opportunity for travellers to immerse themselves in the wonders of nature.

Thekkady, Periyar Tiger Reserve, Wildlife of Kerala

Thekkady is home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the most renowned wildlife reserves in India. Spanning over 900 square kilometres, this sanctuary is centred around the picturesque Periyar Lake, which adds to the allure of the landscape. The sanctuary boasts a rich variety of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, sambar deer, gaurs, and a plethora of bird species. The verdant forests, sprawling grasslands, and serene water bodies create an ideal habitat for these magnificent creatures, making Thekkady a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and nature lovers alike.

Asian Elephants

Among the most iconic inhabitants of Thekkady Wildlife Sanctuary are the majestic Asian elephants (what we have here are the Indian Elephants). Known for their gentle demeanour and immense strength, these gentle giants roam freely throughout the sanctuary. Visitors often have the opportunity to witness herds of elephants bathing in the cool waters of Periyar Lake or foraging for food amidst the dense foliage. The sanctuary is home to a significant population of elephants, making sightings a common and unforgettable experience.

Gaurs (Indian Bison)

Gaurs, also known as Indian bison, are massive creatures that inhabit the forests and grasslands of Thekkady. With their formidable size and muscular build, gaurs are a sight to behold as they graze peacefully or traverse the rugged terrain with effortless grace. Despite their imposing appearance, these herbivores are known to be shy and elusive, preferring to avoid human contact whenever possible.

Sambar Deer

The graceful Sambar deer are a common sight in Thekkady Wildlife Sanctuary, their elegant form blending seamlessly into the forested landscape. With their distinctive russet coat and large, branching antlers, male sambar deer cut a striking figure as they roam through the dense undergrowth in search of food.

Malabar Giant Squirrel

The Malabar giant squirrel, with its vibrant fur and impressive size, is a delightful inhabitant of the sanctuary's treetops. These arboreal creatures are known for their acrobatic feats as they leap from branch to branch, their bushy tails trailing behind them like colourful banners.

Bengal Tigers

Last, but not the least, the Bengal tiger (I did not have the luck too sight it), known for its regal presence and striking beauty, is another prized resident of Thekkady Wildlife Sanctuary. While sightings of these elusive predators are rare due to their secretive nature, the sanctuary provides a suitable habitat for these apex predators to thrive. With their distinctive orange coat adorned with dark stripes, Bengal tigers are the epitome of grace and power, symbolising the raw essence of the wilderness.

Birdlife

Thekkady Wildlife Sanctuary is also a haven for birdwatchers, with over 265 species of birds recorded within its boundaries. From the melodious calls of the Malabar whistling thrush to the vibrant plumage of the great Indian hornbill, the sanctuary is alive with the sights and sounds of avian diversity.