Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary occupies a position in the high ranges of the Western Ghats in Kerala. For wildlife lovers, the sanctuary is simply an irresistible destination, with its varied species of flora and fauna including the sportive elephants at the Periyar Lake. The core area of the park happens to be 350 sq km. Also known as Thekkady Wildlife Sanctuary, it harbours 62 species of mammals, 320 species of birds and 45 different species of reptiles.


Wildlife Species of the Park
Most of the park's terrain comprises of evergreen and semi-evergreen rain forests. Remaining part is covered with damp forests, eucalyptus plantations and grasslands. Tiger count of the park adds up to 40 while the Indian elephants, that are the centre of attraction here, number around 1000. Other mammal species that can be commonly sighted inside are gaur, sambar, barking deer, mouse deer, dholes, Nilgiri tahr, mongoose, leopard etc.

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Boasting around 320 varieties of birds, the Periyar sanctuary also serves as a delight for bird watchers. You can watch bird species like cormorants, darters, kingfishers, Malabar hornbill, racket-tailed drongos etc. Monitor lizards, python and king cobra are attractions for reptile lovers.


Adventure Safaris Offered
Take along a forest department certified guide and get ready to hit the forest trails at Periyar. You have both the options of jeep safari and elephant safari here. Besides, you can also choose to undertake a boat safari along the Periyar Lake. An early morning boat ride can prove to be much rewarding. Tourists can catch the early morning (7 am) boat or rent one for themselves.
October to June is the ideal time to make a trip to the sanctuary.


Other Attractions In & Around the Park
» Kumily : The closest town from Periyar, Kumily is known for being an important trade centre of spice. With tourism fast catching up, the town has come up with a number of hotels and resorts. From Kumily, visitors can plan and start on their cardamom hill tours.

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» Boat Cruises : A boat cruise along the Periyar Lake is something one should never miss. The boat ride seems to be a befitting introduction to the wilds of Periyar. During your cruise, you'll also spot elephants and other animal species like sambar, deer, wild boar etc.


Accessibility
Kochi (200 km) and Madurai (140 km) are the closest airports from Periyar. Kottayam, which is 114 km from Periyar, serves as the nearest rail link. Kumily, lying at 4 km, is the closest town from Periyar. The town has good road links, with regular bus services from places like Kottayam, Ernakulam and Madurai.