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One of India’s most famous wildlife sanctuaries is Periyar National Park, also called Periyar Tiger Reserve. Situated in the Western Ghats of Kerala, the park spans an area of 925 square kilometers. Known for its vivid biodiversity, scenic beauty, and well-protected tiger population, the park derives its name from the Periyar River, which passes through it and forms a beautiful lake at its center. This park, among the many fine national parks in India, is for nature lovers and adventure hunters looking to experience a taste of the wilderness in its purest form.
Quick Details About Periyar National Park
Elevation: 900 meters to 2,019 meters above sea level
Timings: From 6 AM to 6 PM
Best Time to Visit: The best time would be from October to April because of the pleasant weather, which is perfect for wildlife vision and other activities.
Location
Photo: Vipinmeppurathu10 / Wikimedia Commons
The Park is located in the Idukki district of Kerala, bordering the town of Thekkady. Hugged by the Western Ghats and a biodiversity hotspot, this Park has been particularly famous for its pictorial locations with dense forests, grasslands, and serene Periyar Lake.
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Kerala
How To Reach
Photo: Pratheesh mishra / Wikimedia Commons
By Road: One can easily access the park because the roads are connected. You can drive from major metropolitan cities like Kochi, which is 165 kilometres away, and Madurai, which is 140 kilometres away. Taxis and private vehicles are also available for rent.
By Bus: Regular bus services are running from towns like Kottayam and Ernakulam near this park. The closest bus stand is in Kumily, about 4 kilometres from the Park.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Periyar National Park is at Kottayam, at a distance of about 110 kilometres. From there, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to Thekkady and then go on to the park.
By Air: The nearest airport is the Madurai Airport, which is about 140 km away, while Cochin International Airport is about 165 km away. One can hire a taxi from these airports or take the bus from public transport to get to the park.
Things To Do
1. Wildlife Watching
Photo: Daniel Schwen / Wikimedia Commons
Inside this national Park, one will find a great deal of wildlife: the Indian elephant, the Bengal tiger, the Indian bison, the sambar deer, and over 260 species of birds. Morover, guided wildlife safaris would provide the best exposure to the rich biodiversity that this Park offers. Safaris are conducted by boat, jeep, or even on foot while watching the animals in their natural setting.
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2. Boat Cruises On Periyar Lake
Photo: SDDEY / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most popular activities in the Park is a boat cruise on the scenic Periyar Lake. Addiction to cruising is, therefore, going to give one a unique opportunity for wildlife observation, especially elephants coming to the lake to drink and bathe. Again, the duration of the boat rides usually lasts around 1.5-2 hours, offering picturesque views of the surrounding land.
3. Nature Walks And Treks
Photo: Kir360 / Wikimedia Commons
Many guided nature walks and different trekking routes are available within the Park, attuned to varying levels of fitness and interest. The “Periyar Tiger Trail” is a relatively popular trekking program that offers overnight camping in the wilderness of the park. Other short treks and walks have been provided to observe the rich flora and fauna at close quarters.
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4. Bamboo Rafting
Photo: Jordicollcosta / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Bamboo rafting is an excellent and environmentally sensitive idea for touring Periyar Lake and the surrounding forests. Full-day excursions normally consist of trekking combined with rafting, which assures one a very good chance at spotting wildlife and enjoying the serene beauty of the lake. Trained guides will accompany rafters so that it must turn into a safe and very informative experience.
5. Visit The Periyar Interpretation Centre
Photo: Ahmad Faiz Mustafa / Wikimedia Commons
The Periyar Interpretation Centre, at the entrance of the Park, was very informative in gaining insight into the ecology, wildlife, and conservation efforts taken by the Park. It reveals information on flora and fauna, the contribution of local people towards conservation, and the background of the Park. Additionally, it gives a fine introduction to visitors who want to know more about this national Park before they jump on for a view.
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Places To Visit Around Periyar National Park
1. Thekkady
Photo: Jigyasu / Wikimedia Commons
Thekkady is a small town easily identified with its spice plantations, rolling hills, and rather vibrant culture. The city acts as the main gateway to the park and offers a variety of activities for visitors, including spice tours, cultural shows, and shopping. You can also witness the age-old forms of Kathakali and Kalaripayattu. Its cool climate and scenic beauty have made Thekkady a perfect getaway destination for those people who visit here from other countries as tourists.
2. Munnar
Photo: Nikolas Becker / Wikimedia Commons
Munnar is a beautiful hill station nearly 90 kilometers from the Park, covered by sprawling tea plantations, undulating hills, and serene landscapes. The altitude is almost 1,600 meters, exuding absolutely the right blend of natural beauty and colonial charm. Munnar’s cool climate, verdant scenery, and sprawling tea estates make this place a perfect destination for honeymooners, nature lovers, and adventure junkies alike. Visit the tea gardens and learn about the processing of tea, explore the Eravikulam National Park from Munnar, and enjoy boating at Kundala Lake.
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3. Vagamon
Photo: Visakh wiki / Wikimedia Commons
Visit Vagamon and enjoy the panoramic view of the Western Ghats from the Top Station. Situated around 60 kilometers from the Park is one of the relatively unknown hill stations, Vagamon. With beautiful landscapes and rolling meadows, the tranquil surroundings can be seen around the town. This lies at an altitude of about 1,100 meters above sea level and has earned its rating because of its cool and serene climate. Trekking and hiking these activities can be done across the hills and meadows, Paragliding over these beautiful valleys. You can also explore Kurisumala Ashram and enjoy the spiritual ambience.
4. Gavi
Photo: Samson Joseph / Wikimedia Commons
Gavi lies about 40 km from the Park and is an eco-tourism destination that boasts its pristine beauty and diverse biodiversity. It is under the Periyar Tiger Reserve. As many activities are coded for nature lovers and adventure seekers, Gavi is a perfect place for a serene retreat due to its lush forests, rolling hills, and tranquil lakes. You can enjoy nature walks/treks and bird watching. Tourists can visit Gavi Lakes, go boating, and get a feel of the cardamom plantations nearby.
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Where To Stay
Photo: Srijinfrancis / Wikimedia Commons
From budget-category lodges to five-star category resorts, several accommodation facilities are available in and around Thekkady. So you can book some of the comfortable and beautiful resorts and hotels.
Where To Eat
Photo: ABHIJITH SOMAN / Wikimedia Commons
You can eat at several small eateries and restaurants near the entrance and inside the town of Thekkady.
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Other Factors To Consider
Photo: ian dooley / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of The Trip
The costs are variable according to accommodation, transport, food, and activities. The approximate cost of a budget trip can range from INR 1,500 to INR 3,000 per day per person. For instance, a mid-range kind of trip may cost INR 3,500 to INR 6,000 per day per person. A luxury trip can be more than INR 6,000 per day per person. This price includes all expenses: accommodations, food, transport, and entry fees for sightseeing places.
Tips For Travellers
- Wear Comfortable Clothing: One should wear light, breathable, quick-dry T-shirts, particularly if out for some trekking or hiking. Comfortable walking shoes are absolutely a must.
- Carry Essentials: Some of the other items that you must carry along include sunscreen, mosquito repellent, a hat, and sun shades. Do not forget to bring a bottle of water to quench your thirst.
- Stay Safe: Be careful while trekking and viewing the Park. Obey all safety instructions or orders given by the authorities.
- Respect Nature: Never litter around and keep the environment clean. Adopt the maxim of ‘Leave No Trace.
- Check Weather Conditions: The Weather forecast must be checked prior to embarking on your journey. Avoid heavy rainfalls since it can make trekking tough and the trails quite slippery.
- Local Cuisine: Taste the local food and enjoy the traditional delicacies of Kerala, but with clean food and water.
Periyar National Park, this wealth of natural beauty and wildlife, is full of opportunities that would help the visitor bond with nature, from spotting elephants at the lake to trekking in dense forests and enjoying boat cruises on Periyar Lake. Plan a trip with TripXL and experience this ideal getaway from the hues of monotony for those excitement seekers who crave loads of peace.
Cover Photo: ShafeequePgl / Wikimedia Commons
