- Situated in the Western Ghats, at an altitude ranging from 100m to 2010m above sea level.
- Encompasses dense evergreen, semi-evergreen, and deciduous forests.
- Periyar Lake, a man-made reservoir formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam (1895), is the lifeline of the sanctuary.
- Recognized as an Important Bird Area (IBA) by BirdLife International.
- Home to more than 35 species of mammals, including endangered lion-tailed macaques.
- Rich in reptiles and amphibians like king cobras, pythons, and Malabar pit vipers.
- Known for the large population of wild Asian elephants that can often be seen near the lake.
- Popular eco-tourism activities: border hiking, bamboo rafting, nature trails, bullock cart rides, and tribal heritage visits.
- Offers guided night trekking and jungle patrols for adventure seekers.
- Spice gardens around Thekkady enhance the experience with tours of cardamom, pepper, and coffee plantations.
- Has a strong focus on community-based tourism, with local tribes participating in conservation.
- Accommodation options range from forest lodges and eco-camps to luxury resorts.
- Open throughout the year, but summer (March–May) is great for spotting animals at watering holes.
- A hotspot for wildlife photography and birdwatching, attracting researchers and nature enthusiasts.
- Considered one of the best-managed wildlife reserves in India, blending conservation with tourism.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, also called Periyar Tiger Reserve, is one of India’s most famous wildlife sanctuaries. It’s in Thekkady, Kerala, and it’s a wonderful place for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
With its green forests, beautiful scenery, and many different kinds of animals, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary offers an unforgettable experience for anyone who visits.
Let’s explore what makes this sanctuary so special.
A Sanctuary Rich in Biodiversity
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of 925 square kilometers and is home to many different plants and animals. The sanctuary is famous for its thick evergreen and deciduous forests, which are full of life.
One of the most exciting things about the sanctuary is its population of elephants. Periyar has a lot of elephants, which makes it one of the best places in India to see them in their natural habitat..
The sanctuary also has the endangered Bengal tiger, as well as other animals like leopards, wild boars, bison, and sambar deer.
The Periyar Lake: A Centerpiece of the Sanctuary
The Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar River created the beautiful Periyar Lake at the center of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Lush green hills and forests surround the lake, which spans about 26 square kilometers.
This lake is not only a beautiful sight but also a vital water source for the animals in the sanctuary.
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of the sanctuary is by taking a boat ride on Periyar Lake. These boat rides give you a special chance to see wildlife in their natural habitat, as animals often come to the lake to drink water and cool down. If you’re lucky, you might see elephants bathing in the lake or even catch a glimpse of a tiger on the shore.
Activities at Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary offers many activities for visitors to enjoy, each giving you a different way to explore the sanctuary’s natural beauty and wildlife.
Boat Rides
Boat rides on Periyar Lake are one of the most popular activities. The rides usually last about 1.5 to 2 hours and offer amazing views of the surrounding forests and hills.
Nature Walks
Guided nature walks are a wonderful way to explore the sanctuary on foot. These walks take you through the thick forests, where you can see the rich plant and animal life up close. Trained guides lead the walks, sharing fascinating information about the local flora and fauna.
Jeep Safaris
For those who want a more exciting experience, Jeep safaris are available. These safaris take you deeper into the sanctuary, where you can explore the remote areas and have a better chance of seeing wildlife.
Bamboo Rafting
Bamboo rafting is another enjoyable activity that lets you explore the sanctuary’s waterways. This eco-friendly adventure takes you through the calm waters of Periyar Lake and its surrounding streams, offering a peaceful and immersive experience.
Protecting Periyar
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is not just a place for tourists. It’s also a critical area for conservation. The sanctuary is part of Project Tiger, a national program to protect and preserve the endangered Bengal tiger.
The management team at Periyar diligently strives to safeguard the sanctuary’s wildlife and natural resources, ensuring that tourism practices do not negatively impact the environment.
Best Time to Visit Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
The best time to visit Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is between October and March. During these months, the weather is cool and enjoyable. You have a better chance of seeing wildlife during this time because the animals are more active and come out in the open.
Conclusion
The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is a wonderful place full of natural beauty and wildlife. It offers visitors a chance to connect with nature in a special way.
Whether you’re boating on the peaceful Periyar Lake, trekking through the thick forests, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings, a visit to this sanctuary is an unforgettable experience.
If you’re planning a trip to Kerala, be sure to include Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in your itinerary for an adventure into the heart of nature.
