The Cardamom Hills around Thekkady offer trekking routes for every fitness level — from gentle nature walks inside Periyar Reserve to challenging border hikes that take a full day.

Routes by difficulty

• Easy (3 hr): Nature Walk inside Periyar — small group with tribal guide. ₹300–500
• Moderate (half day): Bamboo Rafting + trek. ₹1,500–2,000
• Hard (full day): Border Hike — crosses streams and ridges. ₹1,500+
• Expert (overnight): Tiger Trail — 2-day camping inside reserve. ₹1,800/person
• Expert (overnight): Jungle Patrol — wilderness with forest dept

What to carry

• Sturdy closed shoes (NO sandals)
• Long pants (leeches in monsoon)
• 2 litres water
• Light snacks (no plastic wrappers inside reserve)
• Light jacket and rain cover

Booking

All inside-reserve treks go through the Forest Dept Ecotourism Centre at the reserve gate. Pre-book a day or two in advance.