Gavi ecotourism 

Planning a trip to Thekkady, here is a wonderful spot you should include in your checklist of sightseeing places in Thekkady. Being one of the leading eco-tourism centers of the world, Gavi never fails to amaze the viewers with its mesmerizing beauty. Located about 100 kilometers away from Pathanamthitta district, the place holds a heritage of preserving flora and fauna for ages. The Kerala Forest development corporation has been carrying out projects with the help of locals in utilizing the complete potential of this picturesque location.

Apart from many species of animals like bison, lion-tailed macaque, deers, etc., about 250 species of birds have found shelter here and your camera is sure to have a festival of rare captures. The two types of rare gopher trees that are seen in India can be spotted in the periphery of the jungle. The tree has religious significance and has been used in Bible many times.

From February to April, the temperatures can drop up to 28degree. It would be an incredible experience to stroll through the forest during the rainy season when the temperature can go up to 10 degrees at night. Other than sightseeing, Gavi offers numerous opportunities to quench the adrenaline rush in you.  Here you can trek to the hilltops, spend the night at treetop huts, camp in the woods with a portable tent, and go on day and night safaris to spot rare species of flora and fauna. You can visit the paradise Cove at Ninnumulli, go boating at the Gavi and Kochuparamba lakes, visit the cardamom factory and climb up to get a view of Sabarimala temple.
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The nearest railway station is Kottayam which is about 114 kilometers from Gavi and the nearest airport is Madurai airport, at about 140 International kilometers. Cochin airport is located about 190 kilometers from Gavi. 

How to reach Gavi from Thekkady
 

 It takes about three hours from Thekkady to reach Gavi. After driving one and half hours to Vallakadavu, then the jeep slows down, covering the breathtaking view of the forest. The entry fee at Vallakadavu is Rs 75 for Indians and Rs 750 for foreigners.

Two-wheelers are not allowed inside the forest and being an exceptional example of responsible tourism, people are not allowed to drink liquor or throw out plastic into the woods. Forest officials will accompany you on your trip and explain the secrets of Gavi. There are different packages provided for tourists. The one-day package comes at about Rs 1600, including breakfast and lunch, trekking and row boating, Rs. 3000 for an overnight stay including lunch, dinner, breakfast, trekking, and boating. Tents and rooms available and you may choose according to your convenience. An extra charge of Rs. 250 will be charged for cameras.

If you leave by 5:30 in the morning from Hills and Hues, the best five-star resort in Thekkady, you may reach Gavi by 8:30 AM. You can visit a number of places en route to Gavi. There is a wonderful tea plantation located just a kilometer from Gavi, named after Saint peer Mohammad, a well-known Sufi who spent his last days here. The hills have filled the hearts of trekkers, wanderers, and picnickers and provide a wonderful view while driving.

The summer palace of the Travancore family is a hotspot of heritage and legacy, the Dewan house and the mausoleum of the saint are must-visit places. You can cover other spots like Grampi/ Parunthumpara, Panchalimedu, etc on the way to Gavi. Though there are a number of luxury resorts in Thekkady, it is crucial to have proper research before fixing a hotel. A perfect trip is indispensable without a good stay, delicious food, and a great view. Hills and Hues in Amaravathy, is built in a British fashion and gives a rare 180-degree view, a perfect blend of the mighty Periyar lake, the enchanting Periyar reserve, and the village life of Cumbum and Theni, which makes it the best resort in Thekkady.