For travellers who want to explore the natural beauty of Thekkady, the distance from Madurai is approximately 150 km. Thekkady is one of the most peaceful tourist destinations in Kerala, offering all of nature’s bliss at an altitude of 900-1800 m above sea level. The sanctuary is famous for its dense green forest and wildlife. Wide grassland is also a main attraction here. It is home for many animals and birds including wild elephants, tigers, sambar deer, bison, monkeys etc. Because the jungle is so thick and lush, the animals have plenty of places to hide. While you might see elephants near the water, spotting a tiger is a rare and special treat. There are also premium resorts in Thekkady to make your stay both comfortable and enjoyable.
The best and cheapest way to reach Thekkady is by bus via Kottayam. The journey takes about 5 hours.
If you prefer to drive or take a taxi, the trip is about 150 kilometres and takes around 4 hours. It is a beautiful drive with forests on both sides. However, be prepared for narrow roads and many sharp "hairpin" turns along the way.
Travelling by road is the most convenient and popular way to reach Thekkady from Madurai.
Distance: Around 150 km
Travel Time: 4.5 to 6 hours (depending on traffic and weather)
You can travel by:
Private car
Taxi
Self-drive vehicle
Bus
Suggested Route:
Madurai → Theni → Cumbum → Kumily → Thekkady
This route is well-maintained and very scenic, especially after Theni. You’ll pass through spice plantations, misty hills, and forest stretches as you approach Thekkady.
Government and private buses operate regularly from Madurai to Kumily (the town near Thekkady).
Boarding Point: Madurai Bus Stand (Periyar or Mattuthavani)
Duration: Around 5–6 hours
Drop Point: Kumily Bus Stand
From Kumily, Thekkady is just 4 km, easily reachable by auto or taxi.
This is a good option for budget travellers and solo explorers.
Thekkady does not have a railway station. The nearest major railway station is Madurai Junction itself.
If you are coming from another city by train, Madurai is the best place to get off. From Madurai, you can continue your journey to Thekkady by road via taxi or bus.
The peak season is from October to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant, making it the perfect time for sightseeing and spotting wildlife. If you want to escape the summer heat, visiting between April and May is a great choice, as the mornings and evenings stay refreshing. For those who love nature in its greenest form, the monsoon months from June to September offer stunning misty views and lush landscapes. No matter when you choose to travel, you can find excellent premium resorts in Thekkady that provide a cosy retreat after your journey from Madurai.
Start your journey early in the morning to enjoy a comfortable and relaxed drive, especially through the scenic hill roads. It is advisable to carry light woollens, as Thekkady can be cool during the evenings and early mornings. Also, keep in mind that mobile network connectivity may be weak in forest and hill areas, so plan your travel and communication accordingly.
