Renowned for being a reserve for the rare Asian elephants and Royal Bengal tigers, the Periyar National Park has brought in nature lovers from across the globe since 1982. It is one of the most unique nature reserves in India as it is home to many elusive and endemic species of flora and fauna, notable peaks of the Cardamom Hills and is the birthplace of the Periyar and Pamba Rivers.
What you’ll see
The Periyar National Park is spread across 925 sq km and is carpeted with tropical evergreen shrubs, trees and riverine plants. Here, you will discover hundreds of species of flowers, which are in full bloom during the winters, attracting a plethora of beautiful insects including the highly endangered Travancore Evening Brown butterfly. You’ll find the native lion-tailed macaque and Nilgiri langur atop the mango and jamun trees dotted across the park.
The park is typically known for being an important reserve for Asian elephants and Royal Bengal tigers. While on your safari, you will cross paths with the gentle giants, lazing by the waters as they enjoy the cool waters. If you’re lucky, Periyar tiger reserve will also give you a chance to spot the fabled white tigers, their ghostly white coats contrasting the dark shadows of the thick forests. Other creatures that roam the grounds include the endangered gaur, sloth bear, sambar, the rare Nilgiri marten and many more.
Birdwatching in this park is a true delight as it welcomes hundreds of migrant bird species in the winters and has an abundance of endemic species as well. Keep an eye out for Malabar grey hornbills, blue-winged parakeets, black-necked storks, spot-bellied eagle-owls amongst many others
Safaris in the Periyar National Park
The Periyar Sanctuary offers one of the most unique safaris in India – a boat cruise on the Periyar Lake. On these 60-120-minute boat rides, you’ll spot families of Asian elephants by the lake, sambar deer grazing the nearby vegetation and wild boars splashing about by the shore. This is also the best way to spot flocks of migrant and native birds perched atop the trees half-submerged in the lake. However, this safari is closed for the monsoons.
Elephant safaris are tremendously popular here. You will ride down paths that would be inaccessible by boats and jeeps for approximately 30 minutes and have encounters with the varied wildlife up close.
Jeep safaris are perfect for photographers and those who wish to explore the jungles for a longer period of time. This is the best option for those who want to spot the infamous striped beasts.
Guided treks are an adventurous way to get to know the park. It’s your chance to get up close and personal with the prolific flora and fauna and spot various birds, mammals, insects and reptiles as you spend hours in the forests. The sanctuary offers different types of hikes, one of which also includes bamboo rafting on the lake!
Where to stay
There are many options to choose from when it comes to spending multiple days at the Periyar tiger reserve. You can choose to stay at the many hotels, resorts and guesthouses in Thekkady, or opt for a boathouse for an unforgettable experience on Kerala’s backwaters! If you’re up for it, you can even camp out or stay in a bamboo lodge in the forest, albeit you’ll need prior permissions from the concerned authorities.