"Visiting Periyar was one of the highlights of our trip to Kerala. The sanctuary is lush and rich in wildlife, and we had an incredible time spotting elephants and enjoying the calm boat ride on Periyar Lake. The guided nature walks were informative, and the natural beauty of the area left us in awe. If you're looking for an immersive nature experience in Kerala, Periyar is the place to be!"
Sights
Explore Periyar, Kerela
Periyar, located in Thekkady in the Idukki district of Kerala, is synonymous with the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, one of India’s most famous protected areas. Spread around the Periyar Lake, this sanctuary is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering a unique blend of lush greenery, diverse fauna, and serene water bodies. The Periyar Tiger Reserve is the centerpiece of this destination, home to majestic tigers, elephants, gaurs, and a variety of birds and reptiles. The sanctuary’s dense forests and grasslands make it an ideal spot for wildlife safaris and treks. One of the highlights is the boat cruises on Periyar Lake, providing visitors with a chance to observe wildlife in their natural habitat, especially elephants and deer coming to the water’s edge.
Places You'll See
Tour Highlights
- Unique tour of Sights and Scenic Beauty
- Well planned Tour itinerary.
- Kitchen as per our own convenience.
- Best hotels through out the tour.
- Stay in destinations that have proper facilities like hospitals, Market.
- Our groups are scheduled back to back, which is very helpful.
Tour Itinerary
Periyar, Kerela
5 Days 6 Nights
Periyar, Kerela:
Periyar Tiger Reserve, Periyar Lake, Spice Plantations, Mangala Devi Temple
Days Plan
Day 1: Arrival and Jungle Walk
- Arrive at Cochin International Airport or Kottayam Railway Station and transfer to Periyar.
- Check into a resort near the Periyar Tiger Reserve.
- Enjoy a guided nature walk through the forests to spot birds, butterflies, and small wildlife.
Day 2: Periyar Lake Boat Safari and Spice Plantations
- Start your day with a boat safari on Periyar Lake, offering a chance to spot elephants, bison, and other animals by the water’s edge.
- In the afternoon, visit nearby spice plantations to learn about the cultivation of cardamom, pepper, and vanilla.
- Relax with an Ayurvedic massage in the evening.
Day 3: Bamboo Rafting and Tribal Heritage Tour
- Opt for a day-long bamboo rafting adventure, which includes trekking and a chance to explore the deep forest areas of the reserve.
- Visit the Tribal Heritage Museum to learn about the indigenous communities of the region.
Day 4: Thekkady Sightseeing
- Visit the nearby town of Thekkady, known for its quaint charm and local markets.
- Explore attractions like Kadathanadan Kalari Centre, showcasing traditional Kerala martial arts, and attend a Kathakali performance.
- Stroll through the local spice markets for souvenirs.
Day 5: Mangala Devi Temple and Departure
- Trek to the ancient Mangala Devi Temple, located within the reserve, offering stunning views of the surrounding forest and mountains.
- Depart for your onward journey.
Notes:
• 2 passport size photos
• Adult – Original + photocopy of any of the ID proof i.e. Aadhar Card / Driving Licence / Voters ID / Passport
• Child – Original + photocopy of any of the ID proof i.e. Aadhar Card / School ID / Passport
• Infant – Aadhar Card / Birth certificate
• NRI / Foreign nationals – Mandatory Passport + Valid Indian visa / OCI card / PIO card
• Above mentioned ID proof is mandatory at the time of booking and carry the same ID proof on tour as well
Periyar, Kerela
Tour Details
Hear from Our
Happy Travelers
— Rajesh K., Bangalore, India
"Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is a nature lover’s paradise. The boat ride on Periyar Lake was peaceful, and we were lucky enough to spot a herd of elephants! The jungle trekking and bird-watching opportunities were fantastic as well. The region is so tranquil, and the surroundings are absolutely beautiful, with lush forests and hills all around. Periyar is a must-visit for anyone seeking a peaceful yet adventurous retreat in Kerala."
— Rajesh Nair, Mumbai
"Periyar was an unforgettable experience! The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary offered a peaceful yet exciting escape into nature. We went on a boat safari and had the chance to spot elephants and a variety of other wildlife along the shores of the beautiful Periyar Lake. The serene atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding hills made it a perfect nature retreat. A must-visit for wildlife lovers and adventure enthusiasts!"
— Emma W., Sydney, Australia
Best Time to Visit:
- The best time to visit Periyar is from October to February, during the winter season when the weather is cool and pleasant, ideal for wildlife safaris and outdoor activities. The monsoon season (June to September) brings lush greenery, making it a great time for nature lovers and those interested in the rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments offered in the region. Summers (March to May) can be warm, but it’s the best time to spot wildlife at water sources in the Periyar Tiger Reserve.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (COK), about 145 km (4.5 hours) away.
- By Road: Well-connected to cities like Thekkady (just 4 km), Kochi, and Madurai via scenic highways.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Kottayam, located about 100 km from Periyar.
Importance of Visiting Periyar:
Periyar is one of Kerala’s most cherished eco-tourism destinations, centered around the Periyar Tiger Reserve. It is renowned for its abundant wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and diverse bird species. The serene Periyar Lake, set against a backdrop of lush forests and rolling hills, offers a unique opportunity to observe animals in their natural habitat. Periyar also provides a gateway to Kerala’s rich spice heritage, making it a holistic experience for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and cultural explorers alike.
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With our team of seasoned travel experts and local guides, we ensure that each trip is crafted to perfection, tailored to your preferences, and filled with unforgettable memories.