Periyar National Park
Kerala
Located in the green State of Kerala, surrounded by spice & tea plantations and contiguous forests alike, Periyar National park is a haven for wildlife and has tremendous populations of Elephants and birds. It forms part of the Western Ghat Mountains – India’s oldest and most biodiverse area.
The habitat is characterized by grand Teak Trees which form the Moist Deciduous landscape, along with Rolling and steep hills, Evergreen, and Semi-Evergreen forests as well as Marshy and Savannah grasslands. Wondrous sights of massive herds of Elephants, Otters, and rich birdlife can be seen along the Periyar River.
Walking Trails are excellent for birdwatching, and the Wayanad Laughing thrush is one of the rare species which one can hope to see at Periyar National Park. The endemic Nilgiri Langur and Lion-tailed Macaque can be found in the forests of Periyar – adding to its impressive repertoire of Wildlife denizens.
Best Time to Go
October – March
Flights
Kochi (COK)
Avg. Climate
15°C – 30°C
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About Periyar national Park
In Periyar one can find tremendous ways to catch the wilderness of the sanctuary. The availability of Jeep Safari, elephant safari, and most charming boat cruises at Periyar Lake will bring the wildlife experience more rewarding.
Boat cruises calls the best option to check out the wilds of Periyar Sanctuary. Today the Periyar Lake is adorned with an excellent boating spot for the tourists. Although it is unusual to see many animals from the boats, still you spot a family of Elephants, Wild Boar, and Sambar Deer by the water’s edge along with some water-bodies. The upper deck is best for wildlife viewing when taking a boat cruise, but better turn up half an hour early to get the best seat. To maximize the chances of sighting, the tourists can also take the 7.00 am boat. Besides, they can also book for their own boat (on renting).
Geographical Details
Altitude: 100m – 1700m above sea level span
Vegetation: tropical evergreen and moist deciduous forests, grasslands, stands of eucalyptus, and lake and river ecosystems.
Water Resources: Periyar and Pamba
Core Area: 325 sq km.
Buffer Area: 600 sq km
Coordinates: 9.4622° N to 77.2368° E
Rainfall: 2500mm
Temperature: 15 – 30 degree Celsius
Periyar National Park Tours
Popular Fauna at Periyar National Park
It is the largest land mammal on the Asian continent. They inhabit dry to wet forest and grassland habitats in 13 range countries spanning Southeast Asia. Asian elephants have adapted to surviving on resources that vary based on the area.
Smooth-coated otters are the largest of Asia’s otters and have a very smooth, sleek pelage. Their fur is velvety and thick and has two layers: their guard fur keeps their underfur dry under water to keep their body heat.
Found in the forests of India the Lion-tailed macaque gets its name from its long tail, which has a tassel at the end – like a lion! Unfortunately, they are classed as Endangered and have an estimated population of less than 2,500 individuals!
Safaris at Periyar National Park
Boat Safaris
Boat or Canoe safaris on the Periyar river are also possible – there are quite a few migratory waders, plovers, raptors and storks which are seen. Elephants are seen in huge herds by the river with the other herbivores.
Canter Safaris
The main type of safari in Periyar national Park is Canter (minibus) safari inside the National Park. This is conducted twice per day – in the morning & in the afternoon. The canter can accommodate around 15 – 20 people at once.
Walking Safaris
Periyar National Park also offers walking safaris on guided tiger trails within the buffer zone of the park. Here, the guest is accompanied by a naturalist and a forest guard. On the trail, you are acquainted with the best of flora and fauna by expert naturalists and guides the park has to offer. These trails are fruitful for people who wish to take a break from regular jeep safaris and explore the park vegetation at close quarters.
Accommodations at Periyar National Park
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Guest Testimonials
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We just finished the first half of two tiger safari tours in India. The first was on the Banhavgar National Park. Our guide was Sanjay Gupta, who had 25 years of experience in the park and with the tigers. He was wonderful, sharing his experience and knowledge throughout our three full days together. He was definitely a highlight of our trip, as a great guide makes for a great experience, whether you see tigers or not! And we did see tigers...
Nature Safari India organized our private 2 Weeks Safari in Central India plus a couple of Sightseeing and we are very happy to having choose this agency. I found them on the responsible tiger tourism association (TOFTigers) and I liked them from the very first contact. From the first email more than two years ago to the end of our trip in April 2022, the service was great, the selection of the itinerary, Parks, lodges and guides was perfect...
Deepkul and the Tiger Safari India team put together an incredible experience for us in Kanha and Bandhavgarh. All the details were taken care of as per our preferences and budget including transportation, food, lodging, and our amazing safari guides. Deepkul was easy to communicate with and always quick to respond to any questions before and during our trip. Highly recommend!
