Introduction
The Thekkady wildlife sanctuary is popularly known as the Periyar Tiger Reserve. This area is popular for its wildlife tours, jungle adventure holidays, wildlife adventure and jungle trekking tours. This sanctuary is special as it is ideal for watching and observing animals in their natural habitat. The Periyar wildlife sanctuary is situated on the banks of an artificially created lake, that is the Periyar Lake. Animals commonly spotted in this sanctuary are elephants, tigers and spotted deer, gaur and sambhar. The Periyar Lake serves as a water relief for the animals at the reserve.
Historical Background of Thekkady
This area is of historical importance for more than one reason. It has been and still is an important spice plantation area. Thekkady is one of the finest known natural wildlife sanctuaries and it has a history dating back to the year 1934, when the then state government took initiative to establish the Nellikampathy Sanctuary.
This wildlife sanctuary was later developed into the 780 square kilometer Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary by the year 1950.
Tourist Attractions in Thekkady
Sabarimala is a popular tourist destination and a pilgrim center, situated at around 10 kilometers from Thekkady; this pilgrimage is of immense historical importance. According to legend Lord Parasurama consecrated the deity of the temple at the foot of Sabari hills that seem to have been mentioned in the ancient epic, Ramayana.
Thekkady and some areas around it are well known regions in the state of Kerala for their rich cultural heritage, especially the ancient temples. Each of these temples have a unique history of their own. The Kovalam area near Thekkady is popular for its ancient ayurveda and the present day clinics that specialize in ayurveda.
Thekkady as such is a hill resort and has a wildlife sanctuary located at Idukki, that is, almost a six-hour drive by road from Thekkady.
Miscellany
The Thekkady hill resort is popularly know as the Idukki hill resort and is popular among tourists for its scenic beauty, exciting elephant rides and boating among other interesting activities.
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