Nestled along the Periyar River in Ernakulam district, Kerala, Thattekad Thattekad Birding Tour covers a hidden gem famous for its lush greenery, rich birdlife, and pristine landscapes. Located just 60 km from Kochi, Thattekad is home to the renowned Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, making it a dream destination for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
Unlike the more touristy hill stations of Munnar and Wayanad, Thattekad offers a peaceful retreat into Kerala’s biodiverse ecosystem, where visitors can spot rare birds, enjoy scenic boat rides, and take nature walks through dense forests. Whether you’re an avid birder, a trekking enthusiast, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, Thattekad has something special to offer.
This Thattekad Travel Guide covers everything you need to plan your trip, including how to reach, the best time to visit, birdwatching details, must-visit places, accommodations, distances, local cuisines, and travel routes from Kochi and Munnar.
How To Reach Thattekad?
Thattekad is well-connected to Kochi, Munnar, and other parts of Kerala via road, rail, and air.
By Road
Driving to Thattekad is a scenic experience, passing through rubber plantations, spice farms, and winding roads along the Periyar River.
- From Kochi (60 km): A 1.5-hour drive via NH 85 through Kothamangalam → Thattekad.
- From Munnar (80 km): A 2.5-hour drive via Adimali → Kothamangalam → Thattekad.
- From Aluva (45 km): A 1-hour drive via Perumbavoor → Kothamangalam → Thattekad.
Regular buses and taxis operate from Kochi, Munnar, and Aluva to Thattekad.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Aluva Railway Station (45 km), well-connected to Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, and Chennai. From Aluva, take a bus or taxi to Thattekad.
By Air
The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (45 km). From the airport, take a taxi or bus to Thattekad via Kothamangalam.
Best Time For Thattekad Birding Tour
Thattekad has a pleasant climate throughout the year, but some seasons are better suited for birdwatching and outdoor activities.
- Winter (November to February): The best time for birdwatching, as migratory birds arrive, and the weather is cool and dry. Temperatures range between 18°C to 28°C.
- Summer (March to May): A good time for nature walks and wildlife spotting, but the weather can be hot and humid, with temperatures reaching 35°C.
- Monsoon (June to October): The forest turns lush green, but heavy rains may restrict travel. Best for rain lovers and photography.
Recommended: Visit between November and February for the best birdwatching experience.
Birding in Thattekad
Thattekad is one of India’s top birdwatching destinations, home to over 300 species of birds, including endangered and endemic species.
Popular Birds in Thattekad:
- Sri Lanka Frogmouth
- Malabar Trogon
- Indian Pitta
- Black Baza
- Rufous Woodpecker
- Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher
- Wayanad Laughingthrush
- Nilgiri Wood Pigeon
Best Birdwatching Spots:
- Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
- Urulanthanni Rainforest
- Edamalayar Forest Trail
- Periyar River Banks
Best Time for Birding:
- November to February (Winter) – Ideal for spotting migratory birds.
- March to May (Summer) – Good for resident birds like trogons and hornbills.
For the best experience, consider hiring a local birding guide who knows the trails and bird species well.
Thattekad Hotels & Resorts
Thattekad offers eco-lodges, riverside resorts, and homestays, ensuring a peaceful stay amidst nature.
Luxury Resorts & Boutique Stays:
- The Quiet by the River – A luxury eco-resort on the banks of the Periyar River.
- Hornbill Camp – A boutique riverside retreat offering birdwatching tours and kayaking.
- Periyar River Lodge – A serene escape with breathtaking river views and nature walks.
Budget Hotels & Homestays:
- Thattekad Riverside Homestay – A cozy homestay with authentic Kerala food.
- Jungle Bird Homestay – A budget-friendly stay run by local birding experts.
- Salim Ali’s Nest – A simple guesthouse perfect for birdwatchers.
Best Places To Visit In Thattekad
1. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
Named after Dr. Salim Ali, this bird sanctuary is the heart of Thattekad, home to over 300 bird species.
2. Urulanthanni Forest
A dense rainforest ideal for trekking, birdwatching, and spotting wildlife.
3. Periyar River Boating
Enjoy a peaceful boat ride along the Periyar River, spotting birds, otters, and fishing cats.
4. Bhoothathankettu Dam (10 km from Thattekad)
A scenic dam and picnic spot, offering kayaking and forest trails.
5. Idamalayar Reservoir (15 km from Thattekad)
A beautiful reservoir surrounded by lush forests, perfect for sunset views and photography.
Thattekad Birding Tour from Kochi
Thattekad is a 1.5-hour drive from Kochi, making it ideal for a quick weekend retreat.
- Distance: 60 km
- Travel Time: 1.5-2 hours
- Route: Kochi → Aluva → Kothamangalam → Thattekad
1-Day Itinerary from Kochi
- Start early (7 AM) from Kochi.
- Visit Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary & Urulanthanni Forest.
- Lunch at Hornbill Camp.
- Explore Periyar River & Bhoothathankettu Dam.
- Return to Kochi by evening.
Thattekad Birding Tour from Munnar
Thattekad is just 80 km from Munnar, making it a perfect nature retreat.
- Distance: 80 km
- Travel Time: 2.5 hours
- Route: Munnar → Adimali → Kothamangalam → Thattekad
1-Day Itinerary from Munnar
- Start early (7 AM) from Munnar.
- Visit Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary & Periyar River.
- Lunch at Periyar River Lodge.
- Explore Idamalayar Reservoir & return to Munnar by evening.
Thattekad Distances from Major Cities
| City | Distance | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Kochi | 60 km | 1.5 hrs |
| Munnar | 80 km | 2.5 hrs |
| Aluva | 45 km | 1 hr |
| Kottayam | 100 km | 3 hrs |
Thattekad Local Cuisines
Thattekad offers delicious Kerala cuisine, made with fresh, organic ingredients.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Meen Pollichathu – Kerala-style fish wrapped in banana leaves.
- Appam with Stew – A soft rice pancake with coconut milk curry.
- Puttu & Kadala Curry – Steamed rice cakes with black chickpea curry.
- Banana Fritters – A popular Kerala snack.
Final Thoughts
Thattekad is a hidden gem in Kerala, offering a mix of birdwatching, trekking, and nature experiences. Whether you’re spotting rare birds, boating along the Periyar River, or relaxing in a forest lodge, this offbeat paradise guarantees a refreshing escape from city life.
So pack your binoculars and explore the natural wonders of Thattekad! 🦜🌿✨
