About Periyar National Park
Periyar National Park, located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, is one of India’s most renowned wildlife sanctuaries and a prime example of conservation and biodiversity. Spanning over 925 square kilometers, it is centered around the picturesque Periyar Lake, which was formed by the construction of the Mullaperiyar Dam in 1895. The park is especially famous for its herd of wild elephants, which roam freely in the dense forests and around the lake, offering breathtaking sightings for visitors.
The park is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including tigers, Indian bison (gaur), leopards, sambar deer, wild boars, and Nilgiri langurs, as well as over 260 bird species and a wide array of reptiles and amphibians. Periyar Tiger Reserve, established in 1978 under the Project Tiger initiative, plays a critical role in protecting the Bengal tiger population in southern India.
Periyar is not just about wildlife it also offers unique ecotourism activities such as boat cruises, bamboo rafting, guided nature walks, jungle patrols, and border hiking. These experiences give visitors a chance to engage deeply with the park’s ecosystem while promoting sustainable tourism practices.
The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is between October and April, when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are more frequent. With its lush greenery, serene lake, and thriving biodiversity, Periyar National Park offers a perfect blend of adventure, tranquility, and environmental consciousness, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
History of Periyar National Park
The history of Periyar National Park is deeply intertwined with the region’s ecological importance and early conservation efforts in India. Originally, the area around Periyar was part of the kingdom of Travancore, a princely state in southern India. The forests of the Western Ghats were recognized early on for their rich biodiversity and significance as a natural resource.
In 1895, during the British colonial era, the Mullaperiyar Dam was constructed across the Periyar River to provide irrigation to the arid regions of Tamil Nadu. The dam led to the formation of the Periyar Lake, which became the heart of the sanctuary and transformed the region into a lush and thriving habitat for wildlife.
Recognizing the area’s ecological value, the Maharaja of Travancore declared the forests around Periyar Lake a private game reserve in 1934, primarily to protect the tiger population and to control hunting activities. This move was one of the earliest steps toward wildlife conservation in India.
In 1950, after India’s independence, the reserve was taken over by the Kerala state government and was renamed the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. With growing awareness about the need for focused conservation, especially of the tiger population, the area was designated as a tiger reserve in 1978 under the central government’s Project Tiger initiative.
Over time, the sanctuary expanded its focus to include the preservation of its rich flora, diverse fauna, and the overall ecosystem of the Western Ghats. The park’s name was eventually changed to Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, reflecting its broader conservation mission.
Today, it stands not only as a vital refuge for endangered species like the Bengal tiger and Asian elephant but also as a model for community-based ecotourism, where local tribes and communities actively participate in conservation and tourism activities. The history of Periyar National Park is a shining example of how early foresight and continued efforts can help preserve nature for future generations.
How to reach?
By Air
The nearest airport is Madurai Airport (Tamil Nadu), about 140 km away. Another option is Cochin International Airport, which is around 165 km from the park. Both airports are well-connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Thekkady.
By Train
The nearest railway station is at Kottayam, located approximately 110 km from Periyar. Kottayam is well connected to cities across India. From the station, you can take a cab or a bus to Thekkady, which takes around 3 to 4 hours.
By Road
Periyar is well connected by road to major cities and towns in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Regular KSRTC (Kerala State Road Transport Corporation) buses and private buses run to Thekkady from:
- Kottayam (110 km)
- Kochi (165 km)
- Madurai (140 km)
- Kumily (4 km) – the nearest town, just at the park’s edge
You can also hire a private taxi or drive your own vehicle, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Western Ghats on the way.
Safari Timings
Boat Safari (Periyar Lake)
Boat safaris provide a serene way to observe wildlife along the lake’s edge. Each session lasts approximately 1.5 hours.
07:30 AM – 09:00 AM
09:30 AM – 11:00 AM
11:15 AM – 12:45 PM
01:45 PM – 03:15 PM
03:30 PM – 05:00 PM
Jeep Safari
Jeep safaris are conducted in the buffer zones and offer a chance to explore the park’s diverse habitats.
Early Morning: Starting at 06:00 AM
Last Entry: By 03:00 PM
Tiger Safari Tours India
Elephant Safari
Experience the park atop an elephant, offering a traditional and elevated perspective of the surroundings.
Daily: 06:00 AM – 05:00 PM
Note: Elephant safaris are typically short rides, providing a unique way to explore the forested areas.
Guided Nature Walks & Bamboo Rafting
These eco-tourism activities allow for an immersive experience in the park’s rich biodiversity.
Nature Walks: 07:00 AM – 10:00 AM & 02:00 PM – 05:00 PM
Bamboo Rafting: 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM
Note: These activities are led by trained guides and offer insights into the park’s flora and fauna.
Entry Fees
Indian Adults: INR 45
Indian Children: INR 15
Foreign Adults: INR 500
Foreign Children: INR 180
Still Camera: INR 38
Video Camera: INR 300
Travel Tips
- Arrive Early for Safaris –Early morning safaris, especially boat rides and nature walks, offer the best chance to spot wildlife like elephants and deer near the lake. It’s also when the forest is most tranquil and temperatures are comfortable.
- Stay Hydrated and Pack Light Snacks – Carry a refillable water bottle and a few light snacks, especially for longer activities like the tiger trail trek. But avoid littering Periyar is a plastic-free zone.
- Respect the Rules of the Park – Follow the guide’s instructions, maintain silence during safaris, and never feed or disturb wildlife. The park’s ecosystem is sensitive and should be treated with respect.