Thekkady, Kerala
Thekkady spice markets
cultural • 3,000 ft
Overview
Location
Thekkady, Kerala
Altitude
3,000 ft
Best Time
September to May
Visiting Hours
9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Entry Fee
Free (Spice Garden tour ₹100 paid on site)
Thekkady is the spice capital of Kerala, and its aromatic spice markets are a sensory delight. The air is filled with the rich scent of cardamom, black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and vanilla. Visitors can walk through local spice gardens to see how these spices are grown and harvested from plants. The markets offer the perfect opportunity to buy fresh, premium-quality spices directly at source, along with natural oils, organic tea, and handmade aromatic soaps, making it a great shopping experience.
Responsible Travel & Etiquette
Buy from certified organic shops and check the packaging quality of spices
Listen carefully to the spice garden guide's explanations; ask questions politely
Do not touch or pluck spice leaves or pods in the gardens without permission
Support local farmers and cooperative spice shops
FAQs
What is a spice garden tour?
It is a 30 to 45-minute guided walk through a plantation where you can see plants of black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, vanilla, and cocoa growing naturally.
Which spices are famous in Thekkady?
Black pepper (known as black gold) and green cardamom are the most famous and premium spices of the region.
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