Back

Cochin to Thekkady by car

Book a car from Cochin to Thekkady for a Periyar lake boat ride, spice plantations and forest walks in the Kerala highlands.

Thekkady Elephant
Distance
About 165 km by road
Drive time
4.5–5 hours one way
Pickup
Cochin
Destination
Thekkady, Kerala
Trip type
One way, or stay over and return
Vehicles
Sedan, SUV, tempo traveller, coach

About the trip

Thekkady is the gateway to Periyar Tiger Reserve in the Idukki hills, known for boat rides on Periyar Lake where elephants and bison come to the water. Visitors also tour spice gardens, watch Kathakali and Kalaripayattu shows and walk forest trails with local guides. The road from Cochin climbs through Muvattupuzha and Kuttikkanam, passing rubber and tea estates.

What to see in Thekkady

On the road

Take the road via Muvattupuzha, Thodupuzha and Kuttikkanam. The drive is long and hilly, so stay a night to catch the early boat ride.

Choose your vehicle

SedanEtios, Dzire or similarUp to 4 guests

Airport runs, couples and small families on short trips.

SUVInnova Crysta6–7 guests

The usual pick for family trips, ghat roads and long days on the highway.

PremiumInnova Hycross, Fortuner4–6 guests

Extra room and comfort for special occasions and senior guests.

Tempo Traveller12 to 18 seatsGroups

Extended families, pilgrimage parties and office outings.

Mini coach & coach32 to 50 seatsLarge groups

Weddings, school trips and temple tours with a big party.

Every car is air-conditioned and comes with an experienced driver. Our quote is all-inclusive — fuel, tolls, parking, interstate permit and driver batta — and is confirmed in writing before you book.

More car trips from Cochin

Book a car for this trip

Send us the date, pickup point, number of people and whether you need a return. We reply with the vehicle and a single all-inclusive price.

Hi! I'm Robo — need help planning your trip?