Periyar is one of the reasons that Kerala is known as God’s Own Country. The extensive range of wild animals in their natural habitat is simply heavenly. Known for the Periyar National Park, the town in the southern-most state of Kerala is one of the most beautiful wildlife reserves in the country as well as the world. Periyar is one of the sixteen Project Tiger reserves in India. Also, a notable elephant reserve, the region is blessed with various species of the animal kingdom including rare and endangered flora and fauna. Located in the Cardamom Hills, the sanctuary covers rolling hills, grasslands, and the merge of the Periyar and Pamba Rivers. Wildlife enthusiasts from all over the world seek Periyar tours to enjoy an adventure expedition in the nature-blessed region.
The blessed landscape of forests, grasslands, waterways and low hills enjoys a salubrious weather year-long. Temperatures fall in a pleasant range, even in monsoon. In fact, Periyar is the only wildlife sanctuary that remains open even in the monsoon. Spread over 777 square kilometres, it is home to mammals and birds including Tiger, Elephant, Leopard, Gaur, Sloth bear, Dhole, Nilgiri Langur, various species of birds that include Malabar Grey Hornbill, Grey Junglefowl, Malabar Parakeet, White-cheeked Barbet, Crimson-fronted Barbet, Black-headed Cuckoo-Shrike, Heart-Spotted Woodpecker, Rufous Babbler, White-bellied Blue Flycatcher, Rufous-tailed Flycatcher, Ruby-throated Bulbul and White-bellied Treepie, etc. Periyar specializes in species found only in southern India and Sri Lanka.
The most impressive tourist attraction in Periyar is that game viewing is done on boats. Periyar Lake in the heart of the sanctuary serve as the watering hole of the natives, therefore it is easy to spot the species coming to quench their thirst. Elephant safaris, guided nature walks, border hiking, bird-watching, etc. are some exciting activities. The guided Jungle treks at late night are one of the. Stay in the wildlife resort or jungle lodges add to the thrill of exploring Periyar. In addition, the lush hill town of Thekkady is also close by. Here you can enjoy walk through spice plantations and learn all about these treasures.
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Getting to Periyar By Air
Cochin International Airport, almost 200 km. is the main gateway for Periyar. The air terminal is connected with cities all over India as well as others of the world. Another airport accessible is Madurai, 160 km.
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Getting to Periyar By Rail
Periyar does not have its own railway station. It is easily accessible from Cochin (200 km), Kumarakom (150 km) and Madurai (160 km).
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Getting to Periyar By Road
To get to Periyar by road there are many options. The town is accessible from major cities of Kerala as well as India.
Best Places to Stay in Periyar
Cardamom County
Located very close to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, the Cardamom County, is a good value for money accommodation option in Periyar. This modern hotel has an outdoor swimming pool, ayurveda centre and yoga room along with a bar and restaurant serving Keralan, Indian and international dishes. Accommodation, is in beautifully landscaped cottages, each with a spacious bedroom and private verandah overlooking the resort.
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Spice Village
Spice Village located in the Cardamom Hills offers an amazing opportunity to experience South India's wildlife and beauty. One of the best places to stay in Periyar, Spice Village is a small settlement 3km from Thekkady in Kumily, close to the main entrance to the Periyar Tiger Reserve and a 10 minute drive from the gigantic man-made Periyar Lake. The architectural style was inspired by the native tribesmen of Periyar- the Oorali and Mannan, who lived in thatched roof cottages. Amenities include swimming pool, surrounded by tropical trees and lawns, a well-stocked bar, unique restaurant that overlooks the pool, exclusive Ayurvedic clinic, well equipped for treatments like Pizhichil, Njavarakizhy, Dhara and other natural therapies. Additionally, there's no lack of options on how you can get the best out of your holiday. Boat safaris, Jungle treks, Plantation visit; the possibilities are endless.
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