I’m planning a Kerala trip in 2025 and Thekkady keeps coming up as one of the top destinations for wildlife and nature lovers. I’ve read that Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for its tiger reserve, elephants, and boat safaris on Periyar Lake. But I’d love to hear from real travelers who have actually been there:
How is the overall wildlife safari experience in Thekkady compared to other destinations like Bandhavgarh, Kabini, or Jim Corbett?
Is the Periyar boat safari worth it, or should I go for jeep/trekking safaris for better wildlife spotting?
What are the chances of actually seeing elephants, tigers, and other animals in their natural habitat?
How many days would you recommend staying in Thekkady to explore both the sanctuary and nearby attractions?
Are there any eco-tourism activities, spice plantation tours, or cultural programs that you would suggest combining with the safari experience?
For photographers and nature enthusiasts, does Thekkady offer good opportunities for bird watching and landscape photography?
Basically, I’m trying to decide – is Thekkady really worth visiting just for wildlife safaris, or should I treat it as a short stopover while exploring Kerala?
Would love to get your detailed suggestions, personal experiences, and tips on planning a Thekkady wildlife safari trip in 2025.