If you’re mulling over Periyar National Park safari, I’d say absolutely go for it! The place is just stunning with its raw natural beauty and a whole variety of plants and animals. It’s such a treat to see elephants roaming around in their own world, and hey, you might even spot a tiger. It’s an awesome pick for anyone who loves getting up close with nature and soaking up a bit of adventure.
Spending a day at Periyar National Park, also known as Periyar Tiger Reserve or Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, while in Thekkady, is an experience that feels nothing short of magical. Although it may not always make it to the top of the list of India’s national parks, its unique charm and the thrill of potentially spotting a tiger in its natural habitat are unparalleled.
The park’s dense forests and dynamic wildlife create an enchanting world of their own. It’s a place where nature lovers can truly connect with the wild, making every moment there memorable and every encounter with its diverse fauna, from elephants to exotic birds, a treasure. This hidden gem in Thekkady offers an authentic slice of wilderness that’s just waiting to be explored.
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Where is Periyar National Park?
Periyar National Park, snuggled in the Western Ghats, is located in the Idukki and Pathanamthitta districts of Kerala, India.
Read more: India itinerary ideas for spending 1 to 4 weeks
What is Periyar National Park Famous For?
Celebrated for its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty, Periyar is particularly famous for its significant tiger and elephant populations. Besides tigers and elephants, it is home to other animals like Indian bison, sambar deer, leopards, Indian wild dog, barking deer, and numerous bird species.
The park’s diverse ecosystems, from tropical evergreen and moist deciduous forests, grasslands, and savannas, along with the beautiful Periyar Lake, make it a sought-after destination for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
Is Periyar National Park Worth Visiting?
Periyar National Park is definitely worth visiting, especially if you enjoy outdoor adventures and want to experience the unique beauty of one of India’s most significant wildlife sanctuaries.
How to Reach Periyar National Park?
To visit Periyar National Park, situated near Thekkady, Kumily town acts as the primary gateway. It’s the spot where most travelers plan their final leg of the journey to the park, thanks to its good road connections.
For those flying in, the Cochin International Airport in Kerala and Madurai Airport in Tamil Nadu are the closest air links to Kumily. From these airports, you have the option of taking a bus or hiring a taxi to reach Kumily.
If traveling by train, Kottayam Railway Station is your nearest railhead. From Kottayam, various transportation options like taxis, private cabs, and buses are available to take you to Kumily.
Kumily enjoys excellent road connectivity with major cities in Kerala. The highways link Thekkady with prominent cities like Kochi, Kottayam, Munnar, and Trivandrum. You can avail of regular bus services run by Kerala tourism or opt for private taxis to reach Periyar from Kumily.
What are the Timings of Periyar National Park?
Periyar National Park is open every day from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Within the park, you’ll find a range of activities, each with its specific schedule. For detailed information on the timing of these activities, please refer to the individual sections dedicated to each activity.
What is the Entry Fee for Periyar National Park?
At Periyar National Park, the entry fee for Indian adults is INR 45, while Indian children aged 5-12 are charged INR 15. For foreign visitors, adults pay INR 500 and children INR 180.
There’s an additional charge for carrying cameras into the park, so be prepared for this extra cost that’s INR 45 for still camera and INR 335 for Video Camera.
Vehicle Parking – light motor vehicle (85 INR), heavy motor vehicle (335 INR), 2 and 3 wheeler (45 INR)
The shuttle bus charges are INR 30 per person.
In addition to the entrance fee, the park offers various activities, each with its own cost. Detailed pricing for these activities can be found in their respective sections.
A quick tip: When booking activities online, such as boat cruises, ensure to check if the entry fee to the park is included in the price of the activity.
Where to Buy Tickets for Periyar National Park?
For your trip to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Kerala, it’s really handy to buy your tickets online in advance. This is especially important because the number of spots available for various activities in the park is limited, and they can fill up quickly. By booking online, you can secure your place for the activities you’re most excited about, be it a boat ride on Periyar Lake or a nature walk through the lush forests.
Another great reason to book online is the cost-saving aspect. When you book your activities online, the entrance fee to the park is often included in the price of the activity. This isn’t the case when you buy your tickets at the park entrance. In other words, booking online not only saves you time (there are long queues) and secures your spot, but it can also be easier on your wallet. So, for a smoother and potentially more cost-effective visit, get those tickets online before you go.
However, keep in mind that even with online booking, you’ll need to visit the ticket counter for the physical ticket.
Where to Stay in and around Periyar National Park
In the vicinity of Periyar National Park, you’ll find a diverse selection of accommodations, from upscale hotels and resorts to more budget-friendly choices, and charming homestays and family-run guesthouses.
During our visit, we had the pleasure of staying at Greenwoods Resort in Thekkady, which was an absolutely delightful experience. Other accommodation options that come highly recommended include Niraamaya Retreats Cardamom Club, Spice Village, Abad Green Forest Resort, Woodnote, The Elephant Court, Peppervine, Forest Canopy, Oxygen Resorts, Ninja Home Stay, and Poetree.
If you’re looking for a deeper connection with nature, various jungle lodges, eco-lodges, forest guest houses, and government lodges like Periyar Bird Nido and KTDC Periyar House in and around the park provide just that. These accommodations put you right in the heart of nature and wildlife.
For those who love a bit of adventure, camping in the designated areas within and around the park is a thrilling choice. It allows you to immerse yourself fully in the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Things to do in Periyar National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary
One of the gems in Kerala, Periyar is such a vibrant place with so much to see and do, you’re going to have an awesome time! You must include this unique experience in your Kerala itinerary.
There are so many well thought out ways and activities for you to enjoy the beauty of the park.
Boating on Periyar Lake
The best way to experience the sanctuary’s rich fauna is through a boat cruise on the lake.
The Kerala Forest Department (KFD) and the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) jointly offer 90-minute boat cruises on the stunning Periyar Lake. This lake, encircled by lush forest, is distinguished by its striking tree stumps that jut out from the water, creating a captivating and picturesque scene.
While tiger sightings during these boat rides are rare, you’ll likely see elephants, bison, and sambar deer. For wildlife enthusiasts, carrying binoculars is a great idea to observe these animals in their natural habitat. Early morning and late afternoon rides are especially popular for animal sightings as this is when wildlife typically comes to the lake for a drink.
The beauty of Periyar Lake, with its tranquil waters and tree stumps rising above the surface, set against the backdrop of the lush forest, is simply breathtaking. It’s reminiscent of picturesque scenes from popular Bollywood movies, such as the song sequences in “Dil Se,” which were shot at this very location. This cinematic connection adds an extra layer of charm to the already captivating scenery of Periyar Lake.
Timings: These cruises are available at multiple times throughout the day, including early morning and afternoon slots like 7:30 am, 9:30 am, 11:15 am, 1:45 pm, and 3:30 pm. To ensure you don’t miss your cruise, aim to arrive about 30 minutes before the departure time.
Ticket Prices: The ticket pricing is quite reasonable, with adults charged INR 255 and children aged 5 to 12 years at INR 85. If you’re traveling with kids under 5, they get to enjoy the experience for free.
Starting Location: Boat landing, Thekkady
Bamboo Rafting
Bamboo Rafting is another sought-after activity in Periyar, appealing to those who enjoy both hiking and rafting.
The unique full-day adventure starts at dawn and lasts until dusk. It includes a hike of approximately 10 kilometers through the wilderness, followed by 3-4 hours of rafting on specially crafted bamboo rafts. Expert guides from the park lead these groups, ensuring a safe and informative journey.
For those seeking a shorter adventure, there are also half-day rafting options. Like the full-day experience, they include 3-4 hours of trekking and an hour of rafting.
Timings: The full-day program operates from 8 am to 5 pm while the half-day programs operate in two slots: from 7:30 am to 12:30 pm and from 9:30 am to 2:30 pm.
Ticket Prices: The full-day bamboo rafting adventure is priced at INR 2900 per person, and includes tea, snacks, and a packed lunch. The half-day option costs INR 2200 per person and includes packed food for participants.
Starting Location: Boat landing, Thekkady or Tribal Trackers office near Bamboo Grove depending upon the package you choose
Please note that children under 10 years of age are not permitted to participate in this activity.
Walking and Hiking
There’s a variety of guided treks and nature walks available, catering to different preferences in terms of duration and trail choices. These walks and treks are perfect for connecting with nature and enjoying the peaceful melodies of the forest.
Nature Walks
The nature walks at Periyar National Park are ideal for those looking for a brief yet fulfilling day of trekking. The treks, encompassing a distance of 4-5 km and lasting approximately 2.5 hours, lead you through various scenic trails within the park.
Timings: These walks are available in different slots between 7 am and 5 pm.
Ticket Prices: The cost for the enriching nature experience is 400 INR per adult.
Starting Location: Boat landing, Thekkady or Tribal Trackers office near Bamboo Grove depending upon the package you choose.
Just a heads up, kids under 8 years old aren’t allowed on these treks.
Border Hiking
Border Hiking is a full-day trek along the park’s border. You’ll need a bit of stamina for this, but the views and the chance to spot wildlife are totally worth it.
Please note, children below 12 years are not allowed for this program.
Timings: 8 am to 5 pm
Ticket Prices: The cost for this all-day adventure is INR 2000.
Starting Location: Tribal Trackers office near Bamboo Grove or Forest check post Ex vayana EDC office depending on the package you choose.
Pugmark Trail
The Pugmark Trail is an exciting self-guided trek that lets you explore the beauty of nature at your own pace. This trek is designed to be educational, with various biodiversity themes along the way. You’ll find informative displays like pictures of birds carved in stone and boards naming different tree species.
Ticket Prices: Tickets for this self-guided trail are priced affordably at 120 INR for adults and 25 INR for children.
Starting Location: Forest Check Post, Thekkady
Jungle Scout Night Trek
This is a unique one. You can actually join a night-time trekking patrol in the park. It’s a whole different experience to be in the jungle at night.
This three-hour trek includes an armed guard and two guides for each group, limited to a maximum of six people.
It’s important to note that children under 12 years are not permitted.
This night safari is an excellent opportunity to explore the wilderness under the starry sky and experience the nocturnal activities of its wildlife.
Timings: This program is conducted between 7 pm to 4 am in three shifts: from 7 pm to 10 pm, 10 pm to 1 am, and 1 am to 4 am
Ticket Prices: The cost for this night trek is INR 1500, making it an affordable yet exciting way to experience the forest’s nocturnal life and contribute to its protection.
Starting Location: Bamboo Grove or Forest check post Ex vayana EDC office depending upon the package you choose.
Bird Watching
With diverse bird species, the park is a paradise for photography enthusiasts and bird watchers. Whether you’re an amateur or a seasoned photographer, the variety of birds in their natural habitat provides a perfect chance to snap some beautiful shots.
Camping
Camping by the lake offers an idyllic experience, where you spend your night near calm waters and wake up to the soothing sounds of birds, complemented by a hot cup of coffee. This camping package is not just about the stay; it includes a range of activities like trekking, boating, bird watching, and even an adventurous trip to the Gavi Forest.
Periyar Tiger Trail
The Periyar Tiger Trail is an adventurous camping and trekking program that offers a unique experience in the wild. Led by a team of , participants are in knowledgeable hands. This program provides a thrilling adventure over one-night-two-days or two-nights-three-days, depending on your choice.
If you’re lucky, you might spot a tiger on this trail. It’s guided by a team who really know their stuff about tigers.
Interestingly, the guides are often former poachers who have an excellent knowledge of the best spots and trails for wildlife sightings. This initiative also serves as a rehabilitation effort, providing these individuals with a dignified livelihood while contributing to the reduction of poaching activities.
Please be aware that children under 12 years are not allowed to participate in this program.
Ticket Prices: Regarding the cost, for the two-nights-three-days option, the price is INR 10,000 per tent, and for the shorter one-night-two-days trek, it’s INR 7,200 per tent. A tent can accommodate two people.
Starting Location: Forest check post Ex vayana EDC office
Edapalayam Watch Tower
The Watch Tower Camping and Trekking program at Periyar offers an immersive wilderness experience with a blend of adventure and tranquility.
The program includes evening tea, dinner, breakfast, lunch, bird watching, a short trek, and two boat transfers.
Timings: Check-in is at 1:00 PM and check-out at 1:30 PM the next day.
Ticket Prices: Priced at INR 9600, it’s exclusive for 2 adults staying at the Edapalayam Watch Tower.
Starting Location: Tribal Trackers EDC office near Bamboo Grove
The Jungle Inn
This camping & trekking experience offers a unique stay in the forest cottage at Kokkara, perfect for two people. This retreat allows you to unwind in nature, watch fireflies at night, and observe wildlife like Nilgiri langurs and Giant squirrels.
The package includes a stay at Jungle Inn, evening tea, dinner, breakfast, and guided trekking activities.
Timings: Check-in is at 3:00 PM and check-out at 10 AM the next day.
Ticket Prices: The cost for this immersive nature experience is INR 7,600.
Starting Location: Check Post in Thekkady, Near Periyar East Division Office
Jungle Camp
The Jungle Camp at Vallakadavu in Periyar offers a unique tented stay experience, operated by PETS EDC. Designed for two adults per tent, this program begins at the Vallakadavu Check post, where you check in at 2:30 PM.
The schedule includes 1.5 hours trekking, 3-hour Gavi Safari, 90-minute bird-watching session, and complimentary boating.
Timings: Check-in at 2:30 pm and check-out at 1:30 on the next day
Ticket Prices: Priced at INR 5500 per person, the package includes evening tea, dinner, breakfast, and lunch.
Starting Location: Vallakadavu Check Post
Bamboo Grove
At Periyar National Park, you have the unique opportunity to stay in Bamboo Cottages, an eco-friendly accommodation.
Run by the Forest Department as part of an initiative to support local communities, these fifteen bamboo huts offer a blend of natural charm and modern comfort.
Timings: Check-in at 2 PM and check-out at 11 AM the next day
Prices: The cost is INR 2400 per person, with an additional charge of INR 600 for each extra person.
Visiting Periyar Interpretation Centre
The Periyar Interpretation Centre, located in the Periyar Tiger Reserve, is a great spot for nature lovers. It has interesting exhibits on the region’s plants and animals, interactive displays about conservation, and regular showings of documentaries on the reserve’s wildlife and efforts to protect it.
Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM
Cultural Experiences
Tribal Dance and Art Performance
A unique cultural experience showcasing the talents of the Mannan and Paliyan tribes, the tribal dance performance at the Vanasree Auditorium is an effort to revive their rich cultural heritage and forgotten folklores.
Attending these performances is an excellent opportunity to witness the vibrant and expressive tribal art forms, full of history and tradition. It’s a wonderful way to spend an evening at Periyar, appreciating the art and culture of these tribal communities and supporting their efforts to keep their traditions alive.
Timings: 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Ticket Prices: INR 400 per person
Location: Vanasree Auditorium near Bamboo Grove
Tribal Heritage Programme
This two-hour program includes a visit to tribal hamlets and the Tribal Heritage Museum offering insights into the lives of tribal communities like the Mannans and the Palians.
Visitors get to walk through nature trails leading to tribal settlements nestled in the dense forest. The journey through the forest, alive with the sounds of nature, is a serene experience. The tribal communities, living in traditional grey-thatched houses, offer a glimpse into a lifestyle in harmony with nature.
The Mannan community, one of the oldest in the reserve, has evolved from fishing and basic farming to guiding tourists through the forest. Their involvement in the program adds authenticity and depth to the experience.
The Tribal Heritage Museum showcases artifacts, traditional fishing gear, hunting equipment, and other items reflecting the tribe’s history, culture, and lifestyle. This includes costumes, household articles, and musical instruments.
The program, available both in the morning (8 am to 12 noon) and evening (2 pm to 4 pm), allows visitors to be guided by tribal members.
Jungle Safari
Gavi Bus Safari
The park offers bus safari from Thekkady (6 hours 30 minutes and costs INR 1000) and Vallakkadavu (2 hours 30 minutes and costs INR 275) through the tourism zone of the reserve. The starting location is for the safari from Thekkady is Anavachal Parking Ground near Bamboo Grove and from Vallakkadavu is Vallakkadavu Check Post. It starts at 6 in the morning.
Gavi Jeep Safari
Jeep safaris are a popular way to explore the national park, with many private operators offering tours that take you through the forest’s rugged mud lanes. This adventure provides an up-close experience of the area’s flora and fauna.
The cost for these jeep safaris typically ranges between INR 2500 to 3500 per person. Do keep in mind that the journey can be quite bumpy, adding to the adventurous nature of the safari.
Tips for Visiting Periyar National Park
When visiting Periyar National Park, there are several important guidelines and tips to keep in mind for a smooth experience:
âž¼ In the national park, leave your cars behind, as they aren’t permitted inside. A parking area is conveniently located about a kilometer away from the entrance. Here, shuttle buses are at your service, transporting visitors into the park’s core. A one-way bus ride costs INR 120 per person, and parking fees are set at INR 50.
âž¼ If you plan to go hiking or on trails, dress appropriately in full-length trousers, durable hiking boots, and socks that reach up to your knees, especially if it’s monsoon season. This attire is your shield against the forest’s smaller inhabitants, such as insects and leeches. And don’t worry, the park authorities usually provide leech socks for those trekking through the jungle.
âž¼ In need of facilities? Conveniently, there are restrooms near the ticket counter.
âž¼ Remember to pack ample drinking water and essential medical supplies. The unpredictability of the forest environment makes these items indispensable.
âž¼ For those with a passion for birdwatching, bin’t leave your binoculars behind! The reserve is teeming with a variety of bird species, and your binoculars will significantly enhance the bird-watching experience.
âž¼ Pay attention to your guide’s advice. Their deep understanding of the forest’s intricacies is not only enlightening but also critical for a safe and informative experience.
âž¼ As you wander through the forest, respect the silence and keep it litter-free. Protecting the reserve’s natural beauty is key to its preservation and longevity.
âž¼ For convenience, tickets for boating and other activities can be booked online through the official website of the Periyar Foundation. This simplifies planning and ensures you have a spot reserved for these popular activities.
Remember, these guidelines are in place to ensure both the safety of visitors and the preservation of the park’s wildlife and natural beauty. For more detailed information and to plan your visit to Periyar National Park, you can refer to the park’s official website.
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