The drive to Thekkady itself is enchanting as the road winds through tranquil countryside, rich plantations & thick jungles. The sanctuary, 60 km from Idukki, 195 km from Cochin and 120 km away from Kottayam is open throughout the year, but the best season is from September to March.
A breathtakingly beautiful sanctuary located nearly 1800 m above sea level in the dense semi- and evergreen deciduous forests of Idukki district.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is a fascinating natural wildlife reserve spread across 777 sq. km, which was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978. The Sanctuary is centred around the 24 sq km artificial lake formed by Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar river. There are three watch towers to observe wild life at Edappalayam and Manakkavala and Thannikudi.
Activities:
The forest department arranges plantation eco-tours through the spice, coffee and tea plantations, as well as visits to tea factories, tribal hamlets in and around the hills. To enjoy the forest experience you can go for elephant rides, boat cruises on the Periyar Lake, and trekking in Kurisumala, Pullumedu, Ottakathalamedu, Grampi, Nellikkampetty and Manakkavala.
The Arubi creek (16 kms), Crusoe Island (19 kms), Manakkavala (11 kms), Mullakudy (29 km), Pavarasu (19 kms), Periyar Dam (12 kms), Thannikudy (38 kms) and Peermede (41 kms) are ideal picnic spots. The Tribal Heritage Programme gives you a glimpse into the tribal way of life with its tour of the grey thatched tribal hamlets, traditional fishing and hunting gears, indigenous medicinal plants, as well as the Tribal Heritage Museum.
GENERAL INFORMATION
- District: Idukki
- Language: Malayalam, Tamil, Hindi and English
- Best time to visit: September to March
- STD Code: +91 486
- Importance of the place: Houses one of the best sanctuaries in India, Periyar
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