Periyar
National Park nestles in the hills of the Western Ghats in Kerala. The place
is an enchanting combination of the forests of Periyar tiger reserve and the
mountains of Munnar. 200 km from Kochi lie the densely forested wildlife
sanctuary at the Periyar Tiger Reserve and the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary at Thekkady is country's major sanctuary and
the drive to Thekkady is mesmerising because the road curves through the
tranquil countryside, rich plantations and thick jungles and makes the scene
unbelievably gorgeous. The wildlife sanctuary is encircled by the Periyar
lake which adds to the beauty of the place.
The animals seen in the sanctuary are elephants, Gaur, Wild Pigs, Sambar,
Barking Deer, Mouse Deer, Dole or Indian Wild Dog and very rarely, a Tiger.
The rare lion-tailed macaque, the Nilgiri Langur, Common Langur and Bonnet
Macaque are also seen. The sanctuary is the home of the elusive Nilgiri Tahr
which is nearing extinction and is rarely seen. The best season to visit
Periyar wildlife sanctuary is from the months of October and June.
Connectivity :
» By Air - The nearest airport is Cochin (200 kms
away) which is well connected by air to almost all major cities of India.
The other gateway for Periyar, is Madurai, 185 kms away.
» By Road - Periyar is accessible via Cochin (200
kms), Kumarakom (190 kms) and Madurai (185 kms).
Highlights of the Park :
» The Animal and Bird Species - Trekking with a
local guide familiarizes you to the rare birds, trees and flowers that are
come across here. Gaur, Barking Deer, Porcupines, Languors and Macaques are
some of the animal species you will find here. The bird species includes -
Indian darter, black - necked stork, terrestrial birds such as the great
Indian horn bill, the Brahman kite, the little cormorant, the pied
kingfisher and the golden oriole.
» Park Safari - Besides elephant rides, cruises on
the lake and treks to the ruined Mangala Devi temple which is a beautiful
old stone temple located in the heart of the Thekkady forest, the sanctuary
offers the unique opportunity to watch and photograph wild elephants at
close quarters.
