Periyar National Park, also known as Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, is located in the southern Indian state of Kerala. It is one of the most popular wildlife sanctuaries in India and attracts thousands of tourists every year. The park is known for its diverse flora and fauna, scenic beauty, and eco-tourism activities.
The Periyar National Park is spread over an area of around 900 square kilometers and is located in the Cardamom Hills of the Western Ghats. The park is named after the Periyar River, which flows through the park and is a vital source of water for the region’s wildlife. The park is home to several endangered and rare species, including the Bengal tiger, Indian elephant, sambar deer, and lion-tailed macaque.
One of the most popular activities at the Periyar National Park is a wildlife safari. Visitors can take a guided tour of the park in jeeps or on elephant back and explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna.
The park is home to several species of birds, reptiles, and mammals, and visitors can spot them in their natural habitat. The best time to visit the park is during the winter months (October to February) when the weather is pleasant, and the animals are more active.
Another popular activity at the Periyar National Park is trekking. The park has several trekking trails that offer visitors a chance to explore the park’s scenic beauty and its diverse flora and fauna. The most popular trekking trail is the Periyar Tiger Trail, a two-day trek that takes visitors deep into the park’s forests and offers a chance to spot wildlife in their natural habitat.
The Periyar National Park is also known for its eco-tourism activities. Visitors can participate in several eco-tourism activities, including bamboo rafting, nature walks, and camping. The park also has a nature interpretation center, where visitors can learn about the park’s unique ecosystem and its conservation efforts.
One of the unique features of the Periyar National Park is the Periyar Lake, a large artificial lake located in the park’s heart. The lake was created by damming the Periyar River and is a vital source of water for the park’s wildlife. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake and enjoy the park’s scenic beauty from the water. The boat ride also offers a chance to spot wildlife, including elephants and birds.
Apart from its wildlife and eco-tourism activities, the Periyar National Park is also known for its cultural heritage. The park is located close to several tribal villages, and visitors can learn about the region’s unique culture and way of life. The park also hosts several cultural events throughout the year, including dance and music performances, which offer visitors a chance to experience the region’s rich cultural heritage.
The Periyar National Park is located around 140 km from Kochi and can be easily reached by road. The park is open to visitors every day from 6 am to 6 pm, and the entry fee is nominal. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable clothes and shoes and carry drinking water and sunscreen, as the park’s interiors can be quite hot and humid.
In conclusion:
The Periyar National Park is a magnificent tourist attraction that offers visitors a unique blend of wildlife, nature, and cultural heritage. Its diverse flora and fauna, scenic beauty, and eco-tourism activities make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Kerala. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, the Periyar National Park is a destination that you should not miss.
