Located near Kumily, Elephant Junction Thekkady is a must-visit destination while visiting Kerala. It is one of the rare destinations that opens an opportunity to interact closely with elephants, which you have only watched from far away. Get in close and personal contact with elephants as you have never experienced before. Ride upon the back of a giant, gentle creature, admire the scintillating landscapes, and create memories that last forever. You can also bathe with the elephants, splashing in the water and helping to wash these marvelous creations at your beck and call while basking in their playful behavior.
Are you up for an adventure? Let me give some insightful details about the famous Elephant Junction at Thekkady. Hi, I am Shamon Shaji a travel enthusiast and head of marketing & sales department at rainwood hotels.
The thrill continues with a thrilling jungle jeep safari! Feel the adrenaline rush while driving through heavy jungles and rugged terrain with your family or friends. Ever wonder what farming in localities is all about? Take a plantation tour you’ll walk through luscious greens and see the farming practices!
At Elephant Junction, anyone can be accommodated, be it a family with kids or a bunch of friends. It is an experience quite unlike so many others, and it offers the perfect setting that guarantees lifetime memories. Will you be part of this unforgettable adventure? Lets go…
If you are planning a wider Thekkady itinerary, you can also explore our guide on things to do in Thekkady for more ideas and experiences to include in your trip.
Things to Do at Elephant Junction Thekkady
Elephant Ride
Enjoy a ride on the back of our friendly giants as you trek through the forest, taking in the beauty of the region from a very unusual perspective. Enjoy feeding them, learning about their daily lives, and snapping unforgettable photos of these fantastic animals. Learn about elephant conservation from our knowledgeable guides and the ethics of interacting with wildlife during this educational journey about wildlife awareness.
Highlights:
Packages:
Half an Hour Package
- Elephant ride
- The traditional style of Timber dragging
- Elephants’ bath and feeding time
- Photo Session
- Tea or coffee
Half Day Package
- Elephant ride with bathing and feeding the elephants
- Plantation study of regional flora
- Visiting a cardamom processing plant
- Coffee and cookies
Full-Day Package
- More elephant rides
- Cardamom processing and tea production
- Jeep safari through remote areas
- Boating and hiking activities
- Experience feeding and snack time with the elephants
Each experience at Elephant Junction is designed to create lasting memories through a deeper connection with wildlife and nature.
Jungle Jeep Safari
Source – Hills & hues
Feel the fun of our open jeep safari as you cross the Elephant Junction wilderness. Four people can ride along and thoroughly enjoy this intimate adventure into dense jungles and rugged terrain. It provides an excellent opportunity to view wildlife and admire the breathtaking views of the surroundings.
For travelers looking for more nature experiences in the area, Periyar Lake in Thekkady is another popular place to include in your itinerary.
Plantation Visit
Take a tour of the plantation with a guide to experience the essence of Elephant Junction. Explore rich landscapes and understand the variety of cultivation practices—of course, cardamom and tea—in tandem with the species that occur here. This presents the opportunity to deepen appreciation of the biodiversity present while becoming connected to local culture.
If you are interested in exploring the region’s agricultural attractions, you can also read about the grape farms in Thekkady.
Best Time To Visit Elephant Junction Thekkady
Elephant Junction Thekkady welcomes travelers throughout the year. Here are some suggestions to make your travel as easy as possible.
Before planning your visit, you can also check our guide to the best time to visit Thekkady to help plan your trip according to the season.
Nearby Attractions around Elephant Junction Thekkady
Elephant Junction is not your only destination when you plan a Kerala trip to Thekkady. Stay excited to explore the nearby attractions and feel fulfilled and happy about your vacation to Kerala.
Bamboo Rafting at Periyar Sanctuary
Think of floating gently in the serene waters of the lake, embracing the lush greenery of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. This relaxing sojourn brings you closer to nature, allowing you to look at wildlife in their original habitats without bothering them. If the animals don’t budge, the serene views and sights are enough to fill your heart with cheer. Nature lovers and photography enthusiasts have nothing to ask for!
- Why It’s Special:
- Better chance to observe wildlife.
- Rafting is silent as rafts don’t generate any sound.
For more information about Periyar and its surrounding attractions, you can also refer to the official Kerala Tourism website.
Periyar National Park & Trekking
Trek in dense forest. Trekking in Periyar is not just an adventure but something else. Go deep into the heart of the wilderness. If luck favors you, you could spot elephants or deer during your visit. What makes the experience even more interesting are the knowledgeable guides who share little-known stories and insights behind the forest. This trek is for the adventure-seeker in you, with the excitement element and a taste of uncertainty that will leave you with memories for a lifetime.
- Why It’s Special:
- Knowledgeable guides with good knowledge of the forest accompanies you.
- Taste local specialties that add to the course.
You can also explore Green Park Spices in Thekkady if you would like to experience more of the region’s spice and plantation attractions.
Jungle Camping at Periyar Tiger Reserve
Imagine camping out under the stars with nothing but you and the sounds of the forest. The jungle camping at Periyar Tiger Reserve is an experience of awe and thrill to be inside the jungle. Set up your tent and let the wild embrace you as the nocturnal wildlife starts to stir around. With food or water (all provided), you can immerse yourself fully in the atmosphere.
- Why It’s Special:
- Camping under the stars inside a real jungle It has a high chance of spotting wildlife after dark.
Each activity around Periyar offers something truly special, allowing you to explore it more deeply, test your sense of adventure, and return with stories that will make your friends jealous.
Accommodation in Thekkady
When visiting Thekkady, you have various accommodation options—homestays, hotels, resorts, or lodges- to suit your style and budget. But if you’re looking to elevate your Kerala experience, choosing a resort is a fantastic way to enjoy luxury amidst nature. Rainwood Hotels offers four stunning resorts in picturesque locations around Thekkady, each designed to provide more than just a place to rest.
You can explore more about Aadisaktthi Leisure Resort, one of the accommodation options to consider when planning your Thekkady stay.
Each resort combines luxury and comfort, making your Thekkady trip truly memorable.
You can also discover more about Serene Horizon Thekkady, Patio Thekkady, and Spices Lap Resort Thekkady when comparing accommodation options for your trip.
Travel tips
- Be on all ears to the mahouts
- Plan your trip and activities in advance
- Wear sturdy shoes
- Use insect repellent
- Bring a camera
- Wear comfortable clothes
- Stay hydrated
- Respect the elephants
- Carry a small backpack for essentials
- Be mindful of your surroundings
- Learn about elephant behavior before your visit
- Choose eco-friendly products for your activities
- Avoid feeding the elephants without permission
- Keep noise levels low to maintain a calm environment
If you are extending your Thekkady trip beyond Elephant Junction, you can also explore our guides on Mullaperiyar Dam Thekkady and other nearby attractions.
Plan Your Thekkady Stay with Rainwood Hotels
Ready to explore Elephant Junction Thekkady and the beautiful attractions around Periyar? Make your Thekkady trip more memorable with a comfortable stay at Rainwood Hotels. Explore our resorts, plan your activities, and enjoy a relaxing getaway surrounded by the natural beauty of Kerala.