Safari

Periyar National Park offers a range of safaris and activities to explore the park and its wildlife. Here are some of the popular safari options available:

• Boat Safari: The boat safari is one of the most popular activities at Periyar National Park. It takes you on a scenic ride along the Periyar Lake, where you can spot elephants, bison, deer, and a variety of birds. The boat safari is available for about an hour and is conducted in the early morning and late afternoon.
• Jeep Safari: The jeep safari takes you on an adventurous ride through the forested areas of the park, where you can spot wildlife such as tigers, elephants, and gaurs. The safari is available in the early morning and late afternoon.
• Elephant Safari: The elephant safari is a unique experience that allows you to explore the park on the back of an elephant. You can spot wildlife such as deer, bison, and monkeys while enjoying a leisurely ride through the forest.
• Nature Walk: The nature walk is a guided tour through the forested areas of the park, where you can learn about the flora and fauna of the region. It is a great way to explore the park on foot and spot wildlife such as birds, butterflies, and smaller mammals.

All safaris are conducted by trained guides and naturalists who are knowledgeable about the park and its wildlife. It is important to follow the park's rules and regulations to ensure the safety of both visitors and wildlife.

Things To Do Around

Apart from the safaris, there are several other things to do in and around Periyar National Park. Here are some of the popular activities:

• Visit the Spice Plantations: The area around Periyar National Park is known for its spice plantations. You can take a tour of the plantations and learn about the different spices grown in the region, including cardamom, pepper, and cloves.
• Visit the Periyar Tiger Reserve Interpretation Centre: This centre provides an insight into the history and wildlife of the park. You can learn about the conservation efforts being made to protect the park's endangered species and their habitats.
• Attend a Cultural Show: The park organizes cultural shows, including Kathakali and Kalaripayattu performances, which are traditional art forms of Kerala.
• Trekking: The park offers several trekking trails, ranging from easy to difficult. You can explore the park on foot and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Western Ghats.
• Visit the Mangala Devi Temple: The Mangala Devi Temple, located inside the park, is a popular pilgrimage spot for locals and tourists alike.
• Explore the nearby towns: The nearby towns of Kumily and Thekkady offer a range of activities, including shopping for souvenirs, trying local cuisine, and exploring the local markets.
• Visit the nearby waterfalls: The region around Periyar National Park has several waterfalls, including the Attukad Waterfall, which is a popular tourist spot.

These are some of the popular activities to do in and around Periyar National Park. It is important to plan your visit in advance and check for the availability of the activities

How to Reach?

• By Air: The nearest airport to Periyar National Park is the Cochin International Airport, which is approximately 150 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the park.
• By Train: The nearest railway station to Periyar National Park is the Kottayam Railway Station, which is approximately 110 kilometers away. From the station, you can take a taxi or bus to reach the park.
• By Bus: Periyar National Park is well connected by road, and there are several buses that ply between major cities in Kerala and the park.
• By Car: You can also drive to Periyar National Park, which is approximately 270 kilometers from the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram.

Once you reach Periyar National Park, you can explore the park on foot or take a safari to explore the wildlife and scenic beauty of the park. It is important to follow the rules and regulations of the park to ensure the safety of both visitors and wildlife.

Weather

Periyar National Park is located in the Western Ghats mountain range, and the weather conditions can vary depending on the season. Here is an overview of the weather conditions at Periyar National Park:

• Summer (March - May): The summer season at Periyar National Park can be quite hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 28°C to 36°C. It is important to carry light clothing and sunscreen if you plan to visit during this season.
• Monsoon (June - September): The monsoon season at Periyar National Park can be quite rainy, with heavy downpours and thunderstorms. The park remains closed during this season, as the trails and roads can become slippery and dangerous.
• Winter (October - February): The winter season at Periyar National Park is the best time to visit, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The weather is pleasant, and the park is lush green, making it a great time to explore the wildlife and scenic beauty of the park.

It is important to check the weather conditions before planning your visit to Periyar National Park. It is also important to carry appropriate clothing and footwear, depending on the season.

Best Season

The best time to visit Periyar National Park is during the winter season, which lasts from October to February. The weather during this season is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The park is also lush green during this season, making it a great time to explore the wildlife and scenic beauty of the park.

During the summer season, which lasts from March to May, the weather can be hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 28°C to 36°C. This season can be uncomfortable for some visitors, and it is important to carry light clothing and sunscreen if you plan to visit during this season.

The monsoon season, which lasts from June to September, is not a good time to visit Periyar National Park as the park remains closed during this season due to heavy rainfall and the risk of landslides. The trails and roads can become slippery and dangerous, and it is better to plan your visit during the other seasons.

Overall, the winter season is the best time to visit Periyar National Park, but it is important to plan your visit in advance and check for the availability of the activities you wish to do.

Who Can Travel?

Periyar National Park is open to all visitors, both domestic and international, subject to certain rules and regulations. The park authorities have set up guidelines to ensure the safety of both visitors and wildlife, and it is important to follow these guidelines while visiting the park.

Visitors are required to obtain an entry permit from the park authorities to enter the park. The permit can be obtained at the entrance gate of the park, and visitors are required to provide valid identification proof, such as a passport or a driving license.

It is also important to note that visitors are not allowed to carry any plastic items or food items inside the park, as it can harm the wildlife. It is recommended to carry a reusable water bottle, as there are several water refill stations inside the park.

Periyar National Park is a great place to visit for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and wildlife enthusiasts. It is important to respect the rules and regulations of the park and help to preserve the natural beauty and wildlife of the park for future generations.

Stay Facility

Periyar National Park offers a range of accommodation options for visitors, ranging from budget to luxury. Here are some of the stay facilities available at Periyar National Park:

• Government-run accommodation: The Kerala Forest Development Corporation (KFDC) runs several budget-friendly guesthouses and cottages inside the park, such as the Periyar House, Aranya Nivas, and Lake Palace. These accommodations offer basic amenities and are ideal for budget travelers.
• Private resorts and lodges: There are several private resorts and lodges located near Periyar National Park, offering a range of amenities and services. Some popular options include Spice Village, Green Woods Resort, and Elephant Court.
• Homestays: There are several homestays located near Periyar National Park, offering a unique and authentic experience of the local culture and cuisine. Some popular options include Periyar Mist Homestay, Periyar Villa Homestay, and Tiger Paw Homestay.

It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak season, to avoid any last-minute hassles.

How to Do the Bookings?

The safari bookings for Periyar National Park can be done online or in person at the park's entrance gate. Here is how you can do safari bookings for Periyar National Park:

• Online Booking: Visitors can book their safari online through the official website of the Periyar Tiger Reserve. The online booking process is simple and convenient, and visitors can choose the type of safari and the preferred time slot. Payment can be made through debit/credit cards or net banking.
• Direct Booking: Visitors can also do a direct booking at the park's entrance gate. It is recommended to arrive early in the morning as there is a limited number of safaris allowed per day, and the slots can get filled quickly. Payment can be made in cash or through debit/credit cards.

It is important to note that visitors are required to carry a valid ID proof while doing the safari bookings, and they are not allowed to carry any plastic items or food items inside the park. It is also recommended to wear comfortable clothing and footwear and carry a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen during the safari.