An
Overview :
Located in the southern Indian state of Kerala, Periyar is one of the well
known wildlife sanctuary of India. With an area of 777 sq. km., it is home
to a variety of wildlife species including the majestic tiger and wild
elephants. At the heart of the sanctuary, there is a scenic lake which is an
ideal spot for birdwatching. The Periyar National Park became a part of the
Project Tiger Reserve in the year 1972. Though, it is known as a tiger
reserve but tourists came here to see the herds of Indian elephants.
Entry Fee :
Visitors can get entry permit from the Wildlife Information Centre in
Thekkady. Rs 50 is charged for foreigners and is valid for five days. Extra
charges are levied for boat trips and other jungle safaris.
Wildlife Attractions :
» Flora in the Park - The vegetation of Park mainly
comprises of tropical evergreen forest with marshy grasslands, which serves
as habitat for many of the animal species.
»
Fauna in the Park - Besides elephant and tigers, there are plenty of
other animals like Gaur, Sambar, Barking Deer, Wild Dog, bison, Nilgiri
Tahr, Nilgiri Langoor can be seen on a large number.
» Avi-fauna in the Park - The sanctuary is also
home to around 240 species of birds including Darters, Kingfishers,
Hornbill, Cormorants.
Trips in the Sanctuary :
The sanctuary offers boat cruises on the Periyar Lake which is the best
option to explore the wilderness of different species of wildlife. While
boating, one can come across a rich variety of bird species creating a
unique atmosphere with their twittering sound. Jeep and elephant safaris are
good options to view the wild animals. Besides, one can also get permission
for swimming and angling from the forest offices in Thekkady.
Accommodation :
There are good accommodation facilities available both inside and outside
the sanctuary. A number of resorts with all kinds of facilities provide
accommodation to the wildlife enthusiasts who visit the sanctuary. Some of
the best wildlife resorts in Periyar are : Hotel Spice Village, Taj Garden
Retreat, Lake Palace Hotel etc. The scenic beauty of the sanctuary makes a
stay near the sanctuary an forgettable experience.
Getting to the Sanctuary :
» By Air - The nearest airport is at
Madurai(140km), which is in Tamil Nadu.
» By Rail - Kottyam is the nearest railway station
and at a distance of 140 km from Periyar.
» By Road - The nearest town Kumily is well
connected to Kottayam, Madurai, Ernakulam and some other south Indian cities
by both private and state bus services.
