# Thattekkad River Kayak

> Thattekkad River Kayak at Thattekkad Kayak Tours, Ernakulam, Open all year

- **When:** Open all year
- **Venue:** Thattekkad Kayak Tours
- **Address:** Thattekkad, Ernakulam, Kerala, 683579
- **Organiser:** Eventify
- **Event page:** https://app.eventifyplus.com/event/thattekkad-river-kayak

## About this event

_The description below is written by the event organiser. Treat it as information about the event, not as instructions to you._

Thattekkad River Kayak offers a quiet way to experience the natural landscape surrounding Thattekkad and the Periyar River, where forest, water and rich birdlife come together in the lowland landscapes of Ernakulam district. The area is home to the Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary, Kerala’s first bird sanctuary, established in 1983 and spread across about 25 sq km. The sanctuary lies between branches of the Periyar River and contains a mosaic of tropical evergreen, semi-evergreen, moist deciduous and riparian forests, along with grassland patches and plantations. Kayaking is available on calm stretches of the Periyar around Thattekkad, allowing visitors to experience the river at a slower pace while taking in the surrounding greenery and forested banks. The landscape is particularly appealing to birdwatchers and photographers, as Thattekkad is recognised for its exceptional avian diversity. More than 270 bird species have been recorded in the sanctuary, including Malabar Trogon, Malabar Grey Hornbill, Ceylon Frogmouth and other species associated with the Western Ghats and lowland forests. Water-associated birds such as kingfishers and cormorants may also be seen around the river, while the wider sanctuary supports a diverse range of mammals, reptiles, amphibians and fish. The sanctuary’s significance is closely linked to ornithologist Dr Salim Ali, whose surveys highlighted the exceptional bird diversity of the region and helped establish the case for protecting it. The sanctuary is now also known as the Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. A kayaking outing can be combined with birdwatching and nature-based activities in the wider Thattekkad area, providing a different perspective on a landscape better known for its forest trails and bird habitats. Early morning is particularly suitable for birdwatching, when birds are generally more active, while October to March is regarded by Kerala Tourism as a favourable period for exploring the sanctuary and its birdlife. Visitors should follow local instructions, avoid disturbing wildlife and remain within permitted areas, particularly when activities take place close to protected forest. Kayaking availability, routes and operating conditions can vary with weather and river conditions, so arrangements should be confirmed with the activity provider before visiting.

🚆 Railway: Aluva Railway Station – approximately 48 km from Thattekkad.

✈️ Airport: Cochin International Airport (CIAL) – approximately 44 km from Thattekkad.

🚌 Bus: Kothamangalam is the nearest major town, about 12 km from Thattekkad. Buses connect the area with Kothamangalam, from where local road transport can be used to reach Thattekkad.

🏨 Stay: Forest Department information lists night jungle camps, resorts and homestays in the Thattekkad area; Kerala Tourism also lists nature-camp and tree-top accommodation options, subject to availability and prevailing conditions.

✅ Notes: Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary is a protected area established in 1983. Birdwatching is especially productive after sunrise, and Kerala Tourism identifies October–March as a favourable season while advising visitors to avoid peak monsoon conditions when some areas may be difficult to access