Periyar National Park, Thekkady
Periyar National Park – Kerala’s Wild Heart of Adventure and Serenity
Nestled in the misty ranges of the Western Ghats, Periyar National Park in Thekkady, Kerala, is a breathtaking haven of wildlife, forests, and adventure. Sprawling over 925 square kilometers, this protected reserve is one of India’s most famous tiger and elephant sanctuaries, blending the thrill of the wild with the calm of Kerala’s natural beauty.
From tranquil boat safaris on Periyar Lake to thrilling jungle treks, Periyar offers every traveler a chance to reconnect with nature at its purest.
Where Nature Thrives
Situated at an altitude of 900–1,800 meters, Periyar National Park is a unique ecosystem of evergreen and deciduous forests, grassy meadows, and shimmering water bodies. The park’s centerpiece, Periyar Lake, was formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam over a century ago — today it’s a serene habitat where wildlife comes to drink and play.
The park is home to:
Tigers – elusive yet majestic residents of the reserve
Elephants – often seen bathing or playing near the lake
Gaur, sambar deer, and wild boar
Langurs, macaques, and Malabar giant squirrels
Birds like hornbills, darters, kingfishers, and eagles
Reptiles including monitor lizards and cobras
For wildlife photographers, Periyar is a dream come true.
Top Things to Do at Periyar National Park
Boat Safari on Periyar Lake:Glide silently through the lake’s still waters as elephants, bison, and deer come to drink — one of the most scenic wildlife experiences in India.
Nature Walks & Jungle Treks:Join guided treks like the Green Walk or Nature Trail for a close encounter with flora, fauna, and forest life.
Bamboo Rafting:A thrilling full-day adventure combining hiking and rafting through the park’s pristine zones.
Elephant Safari & Interaction Programs:Visit the Elephant Junction to feed, bathe, and walk with trained elephants in an ethical, supervised environment.
Night Patrolling (Jungle Scout):For adventure seekers, experience the park’s nocturnal life with trained guides after dusk.
Birdwatching:Spot over 260 species of birds, from Malabar grey hornbills to kingfishers and darters.
Eco-Tourism & Conservation
Periyar is a model of sustainable tourism, run in collaboration with local tribal communities. The Periyar Tiger Reserve promotes eco-friendly experiences like bamboo rafting, tribal village visits, and border hikes — ensuring that tourism benefits both wildlife and local people.
You can also visit the Tribal Heritage Museum inside the park to learn about the indigenous Mannan and Paliyan tribes who call this forest home.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Periyar National Park is from October to June, when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are frequent.
Monsoon (July–September): The park is lush and green but may restrict some activities due to heavy rainfall.
Park Timings: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PMSafari Timings: 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM (varies by activity)
How to Reach
Location: Thekkady, Idukki District, Kerala
Nearest Airport: Madurai (145 km) | Cochin International Airport (190 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kottayam (114 km)
By Road: Well-connected by road from Kochi, Kottayam, and Munnar; buses and taxis easily available.
Why Visit Periyar National Park?
Witness Kerala’s best wildlife reserve with elephants, tigers, and exotic birds
Experience boat safaris, jungle treks, and eco-tourism adventures
Perfect for families, photographers, and nature lovers
Stay in eco-lodges and jungle resorts for an unforgettable wilderness retreat