Periyar National Park

About this place

Periyar National Park, officially known as Periyar Tiger Reserve, is one of India’s premier protected areas and a renowned wildlife sanctuary located near Thekkady in Idukki district, Kerala, within the UNESCO-recognized Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot. Covering approximately 925 square kilometres, including a core tiger reserve, the park is celebrated for its evergreen forests, moist deciduous woodlands, rolling hills, and the picturesque Periyar Lake, an artificial reservoir formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam. The reserve is home to an impressive diversity of wildlife, including the Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, Indian gaur, sambar deer, dhole (Indian wild dog), Nilgiri langur, lion-tailed macaque, leopard, sloth bear, and more than 260 species of birds, along with numerous reptiles, amphibians, butterflies, and endemic flora. One of the park’s most popular attractions is the boat cruise on Periyar Lake, where visitors can often observe herds of elephants, gaurs, deer, wild boar, and a variety of birdlife gathering along the lakeshore. Unlike conventional jeep safaris found in many Indian national parks, Periyar offers a wide range of Forest Department and Eco-Development Committee–managed eco-tourism activities, including guided nature walks, bamboo rafting, border hiking, jungle patrol programmes, tiger trail expeditions, and community-based village experiences that promote sustainable tourism while supporting local livelihoods. The reserve is internationally recognized for its successful wildlife conservation initiatives, habitat protection, and participatory forest management involving indigenous communities. Visitors can also explore the nearby spice plantations, cultural performances, and local markets of Thekkady, making the destination a perfect blend of wildlife, nature, and Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. Open throughout the year, the best time to visit is from October to May, when wildlife sightings are generally more frequent and weather conditions are pleasant for outdoor activities. Whether you are seeking wildlife photography, birdwatching, trekking, boating, or an immersive eco-tourism experience, Periyar Tiger Reserve offers one of the finest opportunities to explore the extraordinary biodiversity of the Western Ghats, making it one of the most iconic and must-visit national parks in Kerala and India.

🚆 Nearest Railway: Kottayam Railway Station – ~114 km

🚌 Bus: Regular KSRTC and private buses to Thekkady (Kumily) from Kottayam, Kochi, Madurai, and major Kerala cities

✈️ Airport: Cochin International Airport – ~145 km

🏨 Stay: Thekkady and Kumily offer a wide range of resorts, hotels, homestays, and forest lodges

✅ Notes: Entry is through the Forest Department; advance booking is recommended for boating and eco-tourism activities. Boat cruises on Periyar Lake, guided treks, bamboo rafting, and nature programmes are among the reserve’s signature experiences.