Periyar Tiger Reserve

Periyar Tiger Reserve also known as Periyar National Park or Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area spanning the Idukki and Pathanamthitta districts of Kerala and the core zone is known as the Periyar National Park. The park serves as the primary watershed for the two significant rivers in Kerala, Periyar, and Pamba,  and is a repository for uncommon, endemic, and endangered plants and animals. Along the boundary with the neighboring state Tamil Nadu, the park is situated high in the Cardamom Hills and Pandalam Hills in the south Western Ghats.

At a Glance

Things to Do at Periyar Tiger Reserve

The Periyar National Park offers activities like boating, bamboo rafting, Trekking and camping, Night jungle camping, Tribal dance, Spice Plantation Tour, and opportunities to explore rare wildlife species and endangered flora and fauna, etc. Thekkady, which is mostly known for its wild elephants and dense Western Ghats woods, is home to an artificial lake that has been there for 100 years and is being used to embellish the park. There are tropical evergreen forests with incredibly dense tree cover in many of Periyar’s deep valleys, making it difficult for sunlight to penetrate. There are many excellent opportunities in Periyar Tiger Reserve to experience the wilderness of the sanctuary. The Periyar Lake’s Jeep Safari, Elephant Safari, and most lovely boat rides will make spotting animals more enjoyable.

Boating Charges and Timings

Boating cruises lasting 1.5 hours are available at the nearby lake through Periyar Tiger Reserve. In the vicinity of the lake, it’s not unusual to see an elephant herd or a group of sambar deer. In the grasslands near the coastlines, you might be able to see wild boar and gaur herds.

Plan Your Visit

Periyar Tiger Reserve is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature and wildlife. The reserve offers a unique and unforgettable experience that will leave you spellbound and amazed. Periyar Tiger Reserve is open throughout the year, but the best time to visit is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and the chances of spotting wildlife are high. The entry fee for Periyar Tiger Reserve is INR 45 for Indian adults, INR 15 for Indian Children, INR 500 for foreign adults, and INR 180 for foreign children.

Periyar Tiger Reserve is easily accessible by road and the entrance is just under 1 kilometer from Thekkady town. The nearest railway station is Kottayam which is 106 kilometers away and the closest airport in Kerala is Cochin International Airport which is 140 kilometers away and the closest airport in Tamilnadu is Madurai Airport which is 134 kilometers away. Also, regularly scheduled state buses run from nearby cities such as Kottayam, Kochi, and Trivandrum.

Nearby Destinations to Explore

If you’re planning a trip to the Periyar Tiger Reserve, here are some nearby destinations you shouldn’t miss:

• Thekkady: A popular tourist spot is known for tea and spice plantations, wildlife sanctuary, and boating on Periyar Lake.
• Kumily: A small town famous for its spice plantations and perfect for visitors interested in learning about spice cultivation.
• Gavi: A charming village about 40 km away with beautiful landscapes, waterfalls, wildlife, and opportunities for trekking and birdwatching.
• Munnar: A hill station about 91 km away from the reserve, with scenic tea plantations and trekking trails.
• Vagamon: Another hill station about 45 km away, with rolling hills, tea plantations, and adventure activities like trekking and paragliding.
• Kottayam: A city about 90 km away, known for its historic churches, rubber plantations, and traditional Kerala architecture.

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