Best Travel Guide to Periyar National Park

Updated: 03-Apr-23 Periyar National Park is a popular wildlife destination located in the southern Indian state of Kerala. Here are some tips for a memorable visit to the park:

Best time to visit Periyar: The best time to visit Periyar National Park is from October to February when the weather is pleasant and the chances of spotting wildlife are higher.

Getting there: The nearest airport is Madurai International Airport, which is about 140 km from the park. The nearest railway station is Kottayam, which is about 114 km from the park. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the park.

Accommodation Option: There are several accommodation options available near the park, including resorts, lodges, and homestays. Some popular options include Aranya Nivas, Lake Palace, and Periyar House.

Activities to Enjoy: The park offers several activities, including jungle safaris, boating, trekking, and bamboo rafting. You can book these activities through the park's official website or through a local tour operator.

Wildlife spotting: Periyar National Park is home to several species of animals, including tigers, elephants, leopards, and wild boars. The best way to spot these animals is by taking a jungle safari or going on a guided nature walk with a trained naturalist.

Local culture: The park is also home to several indigenous tribes, including the Mannans, Paliyans, and Uralis. You can learn more about their way of life by visiting a tribal village or attending a cultural program organized by the park.

National Park Rules: It is important to follow the park's rules and regulations, such as not littering, not smoking, and not disturbing the wildlife. It is also prohibited to carry plastic bags or bottles inside the park.

By following these tips, you can have an enjoyable and memorable trip to Periyar National Park.

Specialty of Periyar National Park

Periyar National Park, also known as Periyar Tiger Reserve, is a unique wildlife destination located in the southern Indian state of Kerala. Here are some of the park's specialties:
Rich biodiversity: Periyar National Park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including over 40 species of mammals, 320 species of birds, and 160 species of butterflies. The park is also home to several species of reptiles, amphibians, and fishes.
Elephant sightings: The park is famous for its population of wild elephants, and visitors have a high chance of spotting these majestic animals during their visit. The park also offers elephant rides and elephant safaris for visitors.
Boat safari: The park is one of the few wildlife destinations in India that offers a boat safari, which takes visitors on a scenic ride through the park's Periyar Lake. During the boat safari, visitors can spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants, bison, and birds.
Tiger reserve: Periyar National Park is also a tiger reserve, and visitors have a chance to spot these elusive big cats during their visit. The park has a healthy population of tigers, and the chances of spotting them are higher during the early morning and late afternoon.
Spice plantations: The park is located in the heart of the spice-growing region of Kerala, and visitors can explore the nearby spice plantations to learn about the region's history and culture of spice cultivation.
Periyar National Park's rich biodiversity, elephant sightings, boat safari, tiger reserve, and spice plantations make it a unique and special wildlife destination in India.