Periyar National Park

National Park and Tiger Reserve

A gorgeous blend of scenic beauty and rich wildlife greets you at Periyar. Herds of elephants walk majestically along forest trails, and you may often find them bathing in the lake waters. Periyar is also a Tiger Reserve under Project Tiger and thus a haven for the Royal Bengal Tiger. Traveling through the thick jungles, you are likely to enconunter wild pigs, mouse deer, barking deer, Nilgiri Tahr, Indian giant squirrel, lion-tailed macaque, Nilgiri langur, sloth bear, and other animals

Birds of Periyar

Periyar is also home to various species of birds, both resident and migratory. Check out the Periyar Lake & its catchment areas where beautiful hornbills, Nilgiri wood pigeons, blue-winged parakeet, Sri Lankan frogmouth, Oriental darters, and Eurasian woodcock flock the waters of Periyar.

Wildlife Safari in Periyar National Park

Safari in Periyar is a thrilling experience. You can drive through the wilderness on a Jeep Safari, go for a Maharaja-style Elephant Safari or take a Boat Safari in the waters of Periyar Lake. Spot the inhabitants of the park in their natural habitat and relish the adventure and fun of wildlife safari in Periyar.

Fun Activities in Periyar

Periyar National Park is much known for the concept of Eco-tourism, where various activities are arranged to bring you closer to nature. Nature walks, Cloud Walks (treks), Night scouting, Bamboo Rafting, Bullock Cart Rides, and Tiger Trails are some of the flagship activities at Periyar National Park.

Spice Plantation Tours

Visit the Spice Plantations in Kumily, located just on the outskirts of the park, where you find some of the best spice plantations in the country. Also, take a guided tour of the Cardamom Hills where gorgeous scenery and sweet scents are sure to tantalize you. The little white flowers of cardamom, the lingering aromas of cinnamon & cloves, and the shapely leaves of pepper plants are sure to make it a memorable experience. You may also check out the harvesting & processing of these spices.

Best Time to Visit

Periyar National Park remains open round-the-year but the peak season is in winter from November to February.

How to Reach

By Air- Cochin International Airport, Kerala (160kms) and Madurai Airport, Tamil Nadu (150kms) are the two closest airports to Periyar National Park. 

By Rail- Kottayam, around 100kms away, is the closest railhead to Periyar. 

By Road- A well-maintained set of roads & highways from both Kerala and Tamil Nadu, connect Periyar National Park with the nearby cities.