Wildlife Alert: 10 Reasons To Visit Periyar National Park

OT Staff

Diverse Wildlife

Periyar is home to elephants, tigers, leopards, and over 260 bird species, offering one of India's best wildlife viewing opportunities. It’s a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

A snake shot at Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary | Shutterstock

Boating on Periyar Lake

The serene boat rides on Periyar Lake allow you to observe wildlife from a unique vantage point. Visitors often spot elephants, wild boar, and various birds along the shores.

Periyar Lake was formed when the Mullaperiyar Dam was erected in 1895 | Shutterstock

Eco-Tourism Initiatives

Periyar supports sustainable tourism, providing eco-friendly accommodations and promoting local conservation efforts. The park has received recognition for integrating local communities into its conservation practices.

Scenes inside the Periyar National Park

Rich Flora

Home to a rich variety of plant species, the park showcases several types of tropical and subtropical flora, including medicinal plants, making it a paradise for botanists and eco-tourists.

Man plucking ripe black pepper at a spice plantation in Periyar | Smarta / Shutterstock

Bird Watching

As a sanctuary for more than 260 bird species, Periyar is a birdwatcher’s paradise. You can spot rare species such as the Great Indian Hornbill, Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, and Malabar Grey Hornbill.

Cormorant at Periyar Lake, Gavi, Kerala | Wikimedia Commons

Trekking and Nature Walks

Trekking through the park’s varied terrain lets you experience its biodiversity up close. Nature walks guided by park rangers give insights into the ecosystem, wildlife behaviour, and conservation efforts.

Periyar National Park, Kerala | Shutterstock

Thekkady's Spice Plantations

Explore the nearby spice plantations of Thekkady, known for growing cardamom, cinnamon, and pepper. These tours offer a sensory experience of the region’s rich agricultural heritage.

View from the Anamudi Peak on way from Munnar to Thekkady | Shutterstock

Tribal Culture

You can learn about the local tribes, like the Mannan and Paliyan, who have lived in harmony with the forest for generations. Cultural tours offer a fascinating glimpse into their traditional lifestyles.

Mannan women fishing | Wikimedia Commons

Conservation Efforts

Periyar National Park plays a vital role in conservation, particularly for the endangered Western Ghats’ wildlife. The park is involved in successful anti-poaching campaigns and habitat restoration projects.

An elephant family in Periyar National Park | Dmytro Gilitukha/Shutterstock

Photography Opportunities

With its stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and picturesque lake, Periyar offers unparalleled opportunities for photography. Capture dramatic moments of animals in their natural habitats and breathtaking scenery.

Malabar Giant Squirrel or Ratufa indica in a forest in Periyar, Kerala | Shutterstock

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Close-up of a leopard in Bandipur National Park | Shutterstock
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