Boating in Thekkady: Timings, Price & Booking Guide

Hey explorer! 🌊 If there’s one thing you absolutely can’t miss when visiting Thekkady, it’s the iconic boating experience on Periyar Lake. It’s where misty mornings meet calm waters, and if you’re lucky—a wild elephant or two comes down for a sip. Let me walk you through everything you need to know about boating in Thekkady: from timings to prices and how to book your seat with ease.

What Makes Thekkady Boating Special?

Imagine gliding across a peaceful lake, surrounded by thick forests and distant hills. The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary hugs the lake on all sides, making your boat ride feel like you’re floating through a jungle.

• Wildlife spotting: You might see elephants, bison, deer, and exotic birds
• Photographer’s dream: The reflections, the fog, the golden light—chef’s kiss!
• Eco-friendly adventure: Quiet, slow, and respectful of nature

It’s calm, scenic, and perfect for first-time adventurers.

Want more nature-packed ideas? Check out Things to Do in Thekkady

Timings and Seasons for Boating

Boating timings in Thekkady are usually fixed in slots:

• First Slot: 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM (best for wildlife sightings)
• Other Slots: 9:30 AM, 11:15 AM, 1:45 PM, 3:30 PM

Each ride lasts about 90 minutes. Early mornings and evenings are the most magical—plus, animals are more active then.

Best Season to Go

• October to February: Cool weather and clear skies = perfect
• June to September: Lush monsoon greenery (but occasional rain)

Read more on the Best Time to Visit Thekkady

Online Booking Guide

You don’t want to reach the boating point and see a “No Tickets” sign. Here’s how to book in advance:

Step-by-Step:

1. Visit the official Periyar Eco Tourism website or use local apps
2. Choose your date and preferred slot
3. Select upper or lower deck (upper = better views!)
4. Make the payment online and download your ticket

Make sure to carry a valid ID when you go for the ride. And yes, kids need their tickets too.

Boating Ticket Price and Packages

Prices can change a bit based on season, but here’s a rough idea:

• Indian Citizens: INR 255–300 per person
• Foreign Nationals: INR 800+ per person
• Camera Fee: Extra for DSLRs or video cameras

There are also combo packages that include forest entry + boating + guide services.

Want the full day experience? Look for eco-tour packages that include boating + bamboo rafting + guided walks.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

• Arrive early: There’s a short trek from the gate to the boat landing
• Wear comfy shoes: You’ll walk a bit and climb into the boat
• Carry water, a light jacket, and binoculars
• Choose the upper deck: For amazing views and better wildlife chances
• Be quiet on board: Animals spook easily and silence makes it special

Also—don’t forget to just breathe, look around, and enjoy the stillness. Nature puts on a show every single time.

That’s your boating in Thekkady guide, packed with all the essential info (and a little heart). Whether you’re solo, with friends, or on a family trip, this peaceful boat ride is the kind of memory that stays with you.

Before you go, check out Places to Visit in Thekkady for more gems or dive into our Thekkady Travel Guide for the full picture.

See you on the lake, wild one 🌊🪨