The park encompasses a range of environments, from dense evergreen forests to semi-evergreen forests, moist deciduous forests, and savannah grasslands. These landscapes can be explored through activities such as trekking, jeep safaris, and boating. Within the park reside herds of sambar, tigers, elephants, lion-tailed macaques, gaur, and Nilgiri langurs. Although sightings of elephants and tigers during treks are rare due to the forest's density, elephant safaris are organized to offer visitors another opportunity to encounter these creatures. The surrounding area also features outlets where tourists can purchase high-quality natural spices like black pepper, nutmeg, ginger, clove, cardamom, and cinnamon.
Beyond the lake and forest, Thekkady's vicinity boasts several additional attractions: Ottakathalamedu, one of the highest hills in the region, offers a breath-taking view of Thekkady Lake and potential wildlife sightings for those who journey there by jeep or trek.

Thekkady provides a plethora of activities for tourists, including boating tours, bamboo rafting, hiking, jungle night patrols, nature walks, tribal walks, elephant rides, the "Follow the Tiger" program, visits to spice plantations, and tours of tea factories.
For those interested in culture and village life, options like the Mudra Cultural Centre and Yodha Cultural Village are available. Tourists can also observe the farming of spices at farms like Philip's Natural Honey and Bee Farm and various spice plantations.