Periyar National Park
Periyar National Park
Nestled in the lush greenery of Kerala’s Western Ghats, Periyar National Park is a paradise of serene landscapes, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage. Spread across 925 square kilometres, this protected area is famous for its picturesque Periyar Lake and thriving population of elephants. A Periyar National Park tour is a perfect blend of wildlife adventure, natural beauty, and eco-tourism, attracting nature lovers, photographers, and explorers from around the world.
The park’s terrain is marked by rolling hills, dense evergreen forests, and scenic water bodies, creating a haven for flora and fauna. The shimmering Periyar Lake, formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam, is the heart of the reserve and a prime spot for boat safaris. Apart from elephants, the park is home to tigers, gaurs, wild boars, Indian giant squirrels, and over 260 species of birds, including Malabar hornbills and kingfishers. With its tranquil atmosphere and natural charm, Periyar is one of the most popular eco-tourism destinations in South India.
History of Periyar National Park
The roots of Periyar’s conservation date back to 1899 when the forests around the lake were declared a game reserve by the Maharaja of Travancore. Later, it was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1950 and upgraded to a national park in 1982. Over time, it has become a model for community-based eco-tourism, where local people actively participate in conservation and sustainable tourism efforts.
Connectivity Options
By Air: Madurai Airport in Tamil Nadu (140 km) is the nearest airport, while Kochi International Airport (160 km) is another convenient option. From there, taxis and buses are available.
By Train: Kottayam Railway Station, about 114 km away, is the nearest railhead with good connectivity to major cities.
By Road: Well-connected by road, Periyar can be reached by buses or private cabs from cities like Kochi, Madurai, and Kottayam.
Best Time to Visit Periyar National Park
The park is open throughout the year, but the best time to visit is October to April, when the climate is pleasant and animal sightings are frequent. The monsoon season (June–September) adds lush greenery, making it beautiful, but wildlife spotting may be more challenging.
Top Tourist Places Near Periyar National Park
Periyar Lake: The centerpiece of the park, where boat rides offer breathtaking views of wildlife and forested hills.
Mangala Devi Temple: An ancient temple with panoramic views of the Western Ghats, open to visitors during special occasions.
Spice Plantations: The region around Thekkady is famous for cardamom, pepper, and coffee plantations, offering guided tours for visitors.
Accommodation Options
Periyar offers a wide variety of accommodation choices ranging from luxury resorts with spa facilities to budget lodges and eco-friendly homestays. Many resorts are located near Thekkady, providing easy access to the park. Some also offer guided treks, bamboo rafting, and cultural shows to enhance the visitor experience. Advance bookings are advised during peak tourist seasons.
Conclusion
With its mix of scenic beauty, cultural heritage, and abundant wildlife, Periyar National Park promises an unforgettable experience. Whether it’s boating across Periyar Lake or spotting elephants in the wild, the park is a must-visit for nature lovers. For thrill-seekers, a jeep safari in Periyar National Park adds the perfect dose of adventure to this incredible journey.
