HOME DESTINATIONS Thekkady
Ottakathalamedu: Cliff of the Camel 's Back
Ottakathalamedu translates to ‘the cliff of the camel’s back.’ A short 4 km drive from Thekkady, the grassy cliff serves as a great viewpoint.
Ottakathalamedu is a popular trek in Thekkady. The name, Ottakathalamedu, literally translates to ‘the cliff of the camel’s back.’ A short drive or bike ride from Thekkady, the summit of this cliff offers trekkers a real treat. From the top, you will see an expansive view of Periyar Tiger Reserve, Kumily, the Spice Gardens, the Mangaladevi Temple and even some distant villages of Tamil Nadu.
The viewpoint also serves strategic purposes. There is a tall tower here, manned by Kerala Police to keep an eye out for poachers.
If you like photography, be sure to pack your wide angle lens. It is the perfect place to capture a few shots while watching the sunset. It also makes for a great picnic destination. The path is relatively narrow and steep, and you will require a 4x4 jeep on this terrain.
The best time to come here though, is at night, to watch a sky full of stars from the summit. Sterling Thekkady can arrange for a night drive to this place.
Good to Know :
Location: 6 km from Sterling Thekkady
Other Attractions
Elephant Junction: Play Time with the Gentle Giants
3hrsMake a memory of a lifetime by interacting with elephants that live in The Elephant Junction. The mahouts supervise the interactions to make sure that there is nothing to be afraid of these friendly giants.
Periyar Lake: Where Elephants Come to Drink
3hrsPeriyar Lake was the preferred holiday destination of the Indian Royals for its scenic beauty. Today, it is a picturesque place for a boat ride and getting a glimpse of wildlife.
Bamboo Rafting: River Rafting in the Wilderness
3hrsBamboo rafting is organized by the Forest Department of Thekkady. This day-long programme begins with a hike and is a memorable adventure.
Bullock Cart: Riding a Maatu Vandi
3hrsThe gentle sway of the bullock cart, the pleasing smell of hay, the chatty driver – all come together in Thekaddy to transport you back in time.
Thekkady: Spice Garden and Ayurvedic Plantations
3hrsThekkady provides an excellent opportunity to learn about the world of plants and how they are used in medicine. If you are interested, make some time for a tour of the spice plantations.
Kalaripayattu: India's Oldest Martial Art Form
3hrsThe Kedathanadan Kalari Centre has regular shows in the ancient martial art-form of Kalaripayattu for its visitors, who come from all over the world.