Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady

Periyar National Park is located in Thekkady, Kerala. Periyar National Park and Tiger reserve is one of the most renowned national parks in South India. Periyar is basically known for its wild elephants whose population is currently approx. more than 800 Elephant. Periyar National Park is also a tiger reserve and is home to around 40 tigers.

<a href="https://saakshirajat.com/2018/02/28/exploring-thekkady-periyar-national-park/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Source</a>

There are around 35 mammals in this region including Bengal tigers, Indian elephants, white tiger, wild pig, and Indian giant squirrel, Nilgiritahr, sloth bear, jungle cat, sambar, gaur, fruit bat, Nilgiri marten and others. There are around 266 bird species here including migrant birds. Local birds of this region are Nilgiri wood pigeon, Nilgiri flycatcher, crimson-backed sunbird and others. There are 45 species of reptiles, 40 species of fishes, and 160 species of butterflies.  In 2016, 13 new bird species were found in this park like Eurasian woodcock, grey-necked bunting, steppe gull and others.

Opening Hours

Periyar National Park is open all days of the week from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Best Time to Visit Periyar National Park

December to April is the ideal time to visit Periyar National Park because the weather is cool and pleasant. Summers are very hot and humid in the national park. Temperature can go as high as 36 degree during summer. Dehydration is common during this season. Thus, bring as much water as possible and wear light cotton clothing.

When it comes to wildlife attraction Monsoon is the worst time to visit the park. All the wildlife safaris are closed during this time.

Sightseeing and wildlife safari is best in winter seasons.

Tourist Attractions in Periyar National Park

Mangala Devi temple region – Ancient Hindu temple in the region. This region is usually closed to public except during the temple festival times. Ritual and celebrations are also take place.

Lake Region – This is the largest water body inside the park. Famous for River rafting, Bamboo rafting, boat cruise, boat ride and birdwatching.

Hill region – The eastern and northern borders of the park are filled with rugged mountain. These regions are famous among trekkers. Kumily to Pandikuzhi and Kurisamala to Kumily are the two famous trekking routes in this region. Hiring a guide for trekking is mandatory here.

Cardamom hills – This is the most exotic scenic spot in the park.

Safari in Periyar National Park

Boat Cruise, Jeep Safari and Elephant Safari are available in the park. Morning is perfect time for wildlife safari.

Boat cruise is the best for spotting animals. During monsoon during heavy rains, boat cruise will be closed for public. The Periyar Lake is excellent boating spot for the tourists. Boat ride is available for half an hour only.

Elephant safari timing 06:00 AM to 05:00 PM. You can also enjoy elephant bathing and feeding at the time of Elephant safari. The availability of elephants depends on the demand for the ride.

Jeep Safari is of two types – Day time safari and Night Safari. Night safari: 11.00 PM to 03.00 AM & Day Safari: Max 03.00 PM Last entry.

How to reach Periyar National Park

The nearest international airport is located in Kochi and Madurai. From the airports, you can find buses and cabs to reach Thekkady. Thekkady is also connected to many other cities via buses and cabs like Chennai, Bangalore, and Salem, Krishnagiri, Hosur and others.

The nearest railway station is located in Kottayam, which is 114 km away. All trains that reach Trivandrum halts at Kottayam. From the station, you can find many cabs and buses to reach the park, directly.

I hope you would to read this post and this post will helps lots while planning your Wildlife tours in India.