Exploring the Wilderness-Periyar National Park’s Natural Majesty
Periyar National Park
Periyar National Park is a renowned wildlife sanctuary located in the Western Ghats mountain range of Kerala, India. Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary is notable as an elephant reserve and a tiger reserve. The protected area encompasses 925 km2, of which 305 km2 of the core zone was declared as the Periyar National Park in 1982. The park is a repository of rare, endemic, and endangered flora and fauna and forms the major watershed of two important rivers of Kerala: the Periyar and the Pamba. The park is located high in the Cardamom Hills and Pandalam Hills
The national park is known for its rich biodiversity and diverse ecosystems. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, leopards, gaur (Indian bison), sambar deer, wild boar, and numerous species of birds and reptiles. The park is also known for its population of endangered species such as the lion-tailed macaque and Nilgiri langur.
The topography consists of steep and rolling hills which are thickly wooded. The sanctuary surrounds Periyar Lake, a reservoir measuring 31 km2, which was formed when the Mullaperiyar Dam was erected in 1895. The reservoir and the Periyar River meander around the contours of the wooded hills, providing a permanent source of water for the local wildlife.
Periyar Lake
Periyar Lake is a significant feature of the national park and serves as a watering hole for wildlife in the area. Visitors can enjoy boat cruises on the lake, which provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and birdwatching. The boat rides are a popular activity and allow visitors to observe animals and birds along the lake’s edge.
Also Read- A Stunning Hill Station in Periyar River Canyon-Idukki
Activities
In addition to boat cruises, Periyar National Park offers various activities for visitors, including guided nature walks, trekking, bamboo rafting, and wildlife safaris. The guided walks and treks take visitors through the park’s lush forests and offer insights into its flora, fauna, and ecosystems.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Periyar National Park is during the cooler and drier months from October to February. During this time, wildlife sightings are more frequent, and weather conditions are comfortable for outdoor activities.
The National Park is not only a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers but also plays a crucial role in conserving the biodiversity of the Western Ghats region. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and wildlife of Kerala’s natural landscapes.
Periyar National Park Boating
Boating at Periyar National Park is one of the most popular activities for visitors. Periyar Lake, which lies within the park, offers excellent opportunities for boating while enjoying the scenic beauty and wildlife of the area. The park offers different types of boats for visitors to explore the lake. These include large motorboats and smaller, quieter rowboats. The choice of boat depends on your preference and the type of experience you’re looking for.
Boat rides at Periyar National Park typically last around 1-2 hours. During the ride, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding forests. The boat guides provide commentary about the wildlife and vegetation found in the park.
Wildlife Viewing
Boating on Periyar Lake provides excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. Visitors can spot various animals coming to the water’s edge to drink, such as elephants, deer, wild boar, and birds. Crocodiles are also occasionally spotted sunbathing on the banks of the lake.
Scenic Beauty
The boat ride offers breathtaking views of the lush greenery and pristine landscapes surrounding Periyar Lake. Visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings and capture stunning photographs of the natural beauty of the park.
Periyar National Park Safari
Periyar National Park offers safari experiences that allow visitors to explore the park’s rich biodiversity and witness its wildlife in their natural habitat. The Park offers different types of safaris, including jeep safaris, bamboo rafting, and guided nature walks. Each safari option provides a unique way to explore the park and encounter its wildlife.
Jeep Safaris
Jeep safaris are one of the most popular ways to explore National Park. Visitors ride in open jeeps accompanied by experienced guides who help spot wildlife and provide insights into the park’s ecology and conservation efforts.
Bamboo Rafting
Bamboo rafting is a serene and eco-friendly way to explore Periyar Lake and its surroundings. Visitors embark on bamboo rafts guided by trained park staff, offering a chance to observe wildlife along the lake’s shores.
Guided Nature Walks
Guided nature walks are led by knowledgeable guides who take visitors on trails through the park’s diverse ecosystems. These walks offer opportunities to observe birds, butterflies, and other wildlife while learning about the park’s flora and fauna.
Periyar National Park in India map
Periyar National Park is situated in the Western Ghats mountain range, which runs along the western coast of India. The park is in the southern part of the Western Ghats, near the border between Kerala and Tamil Nadu states. It’s about 110 kilometers from Kottayam, a city known for its backwaters and religious sites. The park is located near the town of Kumily, which serves as a gateway to the park and is often used as a base for visitors.
How to reach Periyar National Park
The nearest airport to the Park is Madurai Airport in Tamil Nadu, approximately 140 kilometers away. From Madurai, you can hire a taxi or use public transportation to reach Periyar National Park. The closest railway station to Periyar National Park is Kottayam Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in Kerala and other parts of India. From Kottayam, you can take a taxi or bus to reach National Park, which is approximately 110 kilometers away.
Periyar National Park is accessible by road from various cities and towns in Kerala and neighboring states. You can drive or hire a taxi from cities like Kochi (Cochin), Kottayam, or Madurai to reach the park. The roads leading to the National Park offer scenic views of the Western Ghats. Kerala State Road Transport Corporation operates regular bus services to National Park from cities like Kochi, Kottayam, and Thiruvananthapuram. Private bus operators also offer services to Thekkady, the town nearest to the park.
