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PERIYAR NATIONAL PARK
Set in the elevated ranges of the Western Ghats, in God’s Own Country, Kerala is the Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve. Though it’s a Tiger Reserve, tourists arrive here to view the magnificent Indian elephants along the Periyar Lake. Apart from Elephants, the other animals that are seen in the Periyar national park are Gaur, Wild Pigs, Sambar, Barking Deer, Mouse Deer, Dole or Indian Wild Dog and very infrequently, a Tiger. There are, now, an expected number of 40 tigers here. Four species of primates are found at Periyar - the rare lion-tailed macaque, the Nilgiri Langur, Common Langur and Bonnet Macaque. Periyar as well happens to be the territory of the elusive Nilgiri Tahr, which is rarely seen. The birdlife includes Darters, Cormorants, Kingfishers, the great Malabar Hornbill and racket-tailed Drongoes. The reptile population consists of Monitor Lizards that can be seen basking in the sun, on the rocks alongside the lakeshore. Visitors who hike into the Periyar national park frequently spot a Python and sometimes even a King Cobra.
History
Periyar national park has a pictorial lake at the heart of the sanctuary. Formed with the construction of a dam in 1895, this reservoir wanders around the curves of the wooded hills, providing a lasting source of water for the local wildlife. In the lap of the mountains, the Periyar wildlife sanctuary's surroundings are like a work of art of many shades. The fresh air of the damp deciduous forest gives one a chance to experience the much needed peace and serenity.
Places of Interest
Kumily
Situated just 4-kms from Periyar, Kumily is a budding town where tourism is catching up quickly similar to the spice trade, the main occupation of this small time town. The town is furthermore well equipped with excellent hotels and resorts for accommodation.
Cardamom Hills
Periyar and Kumily are the most suitable points from which visitors can easily explore Kerala's beautiful Cardamom hills. A Guide will approach with offers of trips via jeep or taxi to the hills.
Boat Cruises
Boat cruises are the best option to explore the wilds of Periyar Sanctuary. Today the Periyar Lake presents an first-rate boating spot for tourists. Though it is unusual to spot many animals from the boats, a family of Elephants, Wild Boar, and Sambar Deer by the water's edge could still be seen. The upper deck is most suitable for wildlife viewing when taking a boat cruise.
Best Time to Visit
The best season to stopover at the Periyar wildlife sanctuary is from the months of October and June.
Travel Information
Air: Kochi (Cochin) at 200-kms or Madurai in Tamil Nadu at140-kms are the nearest airports from Periyar.
Rail: Kottayam at 114-kms is the nearest railhead from Periyar.
Road: Kumily, the nearest town from Periyar is well connected by both state and private buses from Kottayam, Ernakulam and Madurai in Tamil Nadu.