Located : Kumily, Kerala

Main Wildlife : Elephants, Tiger, Nilgiri Tahr, Nilgiri Langur

Area : 777-sq-kms

Periyar National Park is situated in the hills of the Western Ghats in the state of Kerala in SW India. The centre piece of Periyar National park is the 5,500-hectare Periyar lake formed by the construction of a dam on the Periyar river in 1895.The dam submerged low-lying forest whose dead tree trunks still jut out of the waters. Along the fringes of the lake are marshy areas with tall grasslands. This is one of the richest habitats of large mammals, as it provides both excellent cover and nourishment in the form of succulent shoots and grasses. Here it is possible to see large herds of Indian Elephant with relative ease as well as Nilgiri Langur near Aranya Niwas and the Liontail Macaque in higher areas.

The forests are tropical, a mixture of deciduous, semi-evergreen, and evergreen 'sholas', the last occurring in the moist valleys and characterised by tall trees and a closed canopy. The forests alternate with extensive patches of grasslands. Periyar's rich bird life includes the Giant Hornbill, Cormorant, Darter, Osprey and Racket-tailed Drongo. The Indian Python and King Cobra are among the reptilian fauna. Periyar has a few Nilgiri Tahr, good numbers of which may also be seen on a day excursion to nearby Eravikulam National Park near Munnar.

Attractions in Periyar National Park
Apart from Elephants, the other animals to be seen in the Periyar sanctuary are Gaur, Wild Pigs, Sambar, Barking Deer, Mouse Deer, Dole or Indian Wild Dog and very rarely, a Tiger. There are, now, an estimated 40 tigers here. Four species of primates are found at Periyar - the rare lion-tailed macaque, the Nilgiri Langur, Common Langur And Bonnet Macaque. Periyar also happens to be the habitat of the elusive Nilgiri Tahr, which is rarely to be seen.

The birdlife comprises of Darters, Cormorants, Kingfishers, the great Malabar Hornbill and racket-tailed Drongoes. The reptilian population boasts Of Monitor Lizards that can be spotted basking in the sun, on the rocks along the lakeshore. Visitors who trek into the Periyar national park often see a Python and sometimes even a King Cobra.

In the lap of the mountains, the Periyar wildlife sanctuary's environ is like a canvas of many shades. The fresh air of the moist deciduous forest gives one a chance to experience the peace and serenity and long to return for more.

Other Attractions in Periyar National Park

Kumily
Situated just 4-kms from Periyar, Kumily is a small growing town known for the spice trade, the major occupation of this small town. Kumily is also well equipped with excellent hotels and resorts for accommodation.

Cardamom Hills
Cardamom hills are another picturesque location in the vicinity of the Periyar wildlife sanctuary. One can reach the Cardamom hills from Kumily. Cardamom Hills are known for the crisp, cool air redolent with the scents of spices, and soaring mountains that give way to tea plantations and dense jungle.

Boat Cruises
You can explore a decent part of the Periyar wildlife sanctuary by taking a boat cruise in the Periyar Lake. Today the Periyar Lake presents an excellent boating spot for tourists. Though you can not spot too many animals from the boat but you still get to spot family of Elephants, Wild Boar and Sambar Deer by the water's edge. The upper deck of the boat is best for wildlife viewing when taking a boat cruise.

How to Reach Periyar National Park

Air: The nearest national airports are Cochin (200 km) and Madurai (140 km)

Rail: The nearest major rail junction is Kottayam.

Road: Well connected by bus service to the major cities

Best Time to Visit Periyar National Park
The best season to visit Periyar wildlife sanctuary is from the months of October and June.