In Thekkady, on the fringe of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Abad Green Forest Resort occupies a tree-lined one-hectare estate in Kerala. This 4-star property features 38 Jungle Rooms and 12 cottages, a poolside restaurant, and quick access to spice plantations and Periyar Lake.

Why stay here

The resort's main appeal lies in its location: just 2 km separate the property from Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary's entrance and the spice plantations of Kumily. Travellers keen to combine jeep safaris, boat rides on Periyar Lake, and visits to cardamom plantations will find here a coherent base, without relying on separate transport for each excursion.

The resort functions as a family-friendly 4-star complex, complete with a swimming pool, children's play area, activity room, and badminton court. Its modest capacity (50 rooms total) and tree-covered grounds help avoid the overcrowded feel often associated with resorts in this category.

Atmosphere and setting

The resort sits within a one-hectare wooded area, directly bordering Periyar's protected zone. Tropical vegetation, proximity to spice plantations, and the climate of the Cardamom Hills create a forest atmosphere, more understated than the coastal complexes of southern Kerala. Buildings are scattered throughout the grounds, around the pool where the Peppermint restaurant is situated.

The overall tone is that of a well-maintained Indian chain hotel rather than a boutique address: consistent comfort, standardised services, family-oriented leisure facilities.

Rooms and cottages

Accommodation splits into two categories.

• Jungle Room (26 m², 3 guests): private balcony, sitting area, fireplace, LCD television with satellite channels, ceiling fan, hairdryer, private bathroom.
• Cottage (4 guests): air conditioning, double bed and sofa bed, private balcony, separate lounge area, minibar (surcharge), free Wi-Fi, daily housekeeping, and laptop-sized safe.

Cottages suit families of four or longer stays; Jungle Rooms work well for two to three guests on a circuit stopover.

Dining and services

The Peppermint restaurant, overlooking the pool, serves Indian and Continental fare at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Chefs adapt dishes to dietary requirements, which proves helpful for travellers sensitive to spices or with specific dietary needs.

Within walking distance, three neighbouring establishments round out the dining options: Grandma's Cafe, Bar-B-Que, and Ambadi Restaurant, all serving Asian cuisine and drawing a mixed local and international clientele.

On the services front, the resort offers an Ayurvedic centre with massages and traditional treatments, a games room, activity room, antique shop, and curio store (additional charges apply).

Location and access

The exact address is: Thekkady Jn, opposite RC Church, Kumily, Kerala 685509. The resort sits 2 km from Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Periyar Lake jetty, and spice plantations.

From Cochin International Airport (190 km), expect about 4 hours by taxi or private vehicle. Bus travel remains the most economical option between Kochi and Thekkady, taking roughly 5 hours; private taxi proves faster and more comfortable, especially for organised tours.

Things to do nearby

• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: jeep safaris, lake cruises (approximately 1.5 hours), elephant spotting. Tigers are mentioned but rarely sighted.
• Kumily spice plantations: guided tours focusing on cardamom, pepper, and cloves.
• Gavi excursion: day of birdwatching and wildlife viewing in a forest village.
• Bamboo rafting in the sanctuary, led by local guides.
• Cultural performances: Kalaripayattu demonstrations (Kerala martial art) and Kathakali (classical dance).

Planning your onward journey

Thekkady typically fits into an itinerary linking Cochin, the tea plantations of Munnar, and the backwaters of Alleppey. To arrange a seamless circuit through Kerala or elsewhere in India, explore our India trips, or discover other properties like Red Earth, Ranthambore Heritage Haveli, or Woodville Palace Hotel.