{"id":15917,"date":"2024-08-02T10:21:57","date_gmt":"2024-08-02T10:21:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/tripxl.com\/blog\/?p=15917"},"modified":"2025-10-13T10:40:36","modified_gmt":"2025-10-13T10:40:36","slug":"periyar-national-park","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/tripxl.com\/blog\/periyar-national-park\/","title":{"rendered":"Periyar National Park: Your Ultimate Guide To Nature And Wildlife"},"content":{"rendered":"

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.<\/em><\/p>\n

Quick Details About Periyar National Park<\/h2>\n

Elevation:<\/strong> 900 meters to 2,019 meters above sea level
\nPeriyar National Park Timings:<\/strong> 6 AM – 6 PM
\nBest Time To Visit:<\/strong> October to April<\/p>\n

Periyar National Park Location<\/h2>\n
\"Thekkady<\/div>\n

Photo: Vipinmeppurathu10 \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Wildlife Sanctuaries In Kerala<\/a><\/p>\n

How To Reach Periyar National Park<\/h2>\n
\"Thekkady<\/div>\n

Photo: Pratheesh mishra \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

By Road:<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n

By Bus:<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n

By Train:<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n

By Air:<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n

Things To Do<\/h2>\n

Here\u2019s your guide to the best things to do in Periyar National Park for an unforgettable experience.<\/p>\n

1. Wildlife Watching<\/h3>\n
\"Witness<\/div>\n

Photo: Daniel Schwen \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Places To Visit In Kerala<\/a><\/p>\n

2. Boat Cruises On Periyar Lake<\/h3>\n
\"Enjoy<\/div>\n

Photo: SDDEY \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

3. Nature Walks And Treks<\/h3>\n
\"Enjoy<\/div>\n

Photo: Kir360 \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Trekking In Kerala<\/a><\/p>\n

4. Bamboo Rafting<\/h3>\n
\"<\/div>\n

Photo: Jordicollcosta \/ Wikimedia Commons \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

5. Visit The Periyar Interpretation Centre<\/h3>\n
\"Gain<\/div>\n

Photo: Ahmad Faiz Mustafa \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Jungle Safari In Kerala<\/a><\/p>\n

Places To Visit Around Periyar National Park<\/h2>\n

Here is a list of the must-visit places near Periyar National Park that will make your journey unforgettable.<\/p>\n

1. Thekkady<\/h3>\n
\"<\/div>\n

Photo: Jigyasu \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

Distance From The Park:<\/strong> 3 km<\/p>\n

2. Munnar<\/h3>\n
\"Sit<\/div>\n

Photo: Nikolas Becker \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

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<\/a> from Munnar, and enjoy boating at Kundala Lake.<\/p>\n

Distance From The Park:<\/strong> 127 km<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Top Incredible Places To Visit In Munnar On Your Next Southern Voyage<\/a><\/p>\n

3. Vagamon<\/h3>\n
\"<\/div>\n

Photo: Visakh wiki \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

Distance From The Park:<\/strong> 41 km<\/p>\n

4. Gavi<\/h3>\n
\"Relax<\/div>\n

Photo: Samson Joseph \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

Distance From The Park:<\/strong> 28 km<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Amazing Things To Do In Kerala<\/a><\/p>\n

Where To Stay<\/h2>\n
\"On<\/div>\n

Photo: Srijinfrancis \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

Where To Eat<\/h2>\n
\"Enjoy<\/div>\n

Photo: ABHIJITH SOMAN \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

You can eat at several small eateries and restaurants near the entrance and inside the town of Thekkady.<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Best Food In Kerala<\/a><\/p>\n

Other Factors To Consider<\/h2>\n
\"For<\/div>\n

Photo: ian dooley \/ Unsplash \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n

Average Cost Of The Trip<\/strong><\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

Tips For Travellers<\/strong><\/p>\n