About Periyar

Periyar, centred around the Periyar Tiger Reserve and Thekkady in Idukki, is one of India's finest wildlife destinations. Nestled in the Southern Western Ghats, this dual Project Tiger and Project Elephant reserve shelters over 40 tigers and large elephant herds around the scenic man-made Periyar Lake, formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam in 1895. Famous for boat safaris, bamboo rafting, and nature walks led by community conservationists, Periyar also cradles the 9th-century Mangala Devi Temple—offering travellers an unforgettable blend of wildlife, adventure, and heritage.

Why Should Travellers Visit Periyar?

Periyar is an ideal destination for travellers seeking wildlife encounters, scenic landscapes, and authentic Kerala experiences. Located in the Western Ghats near Thekkady, it is famous for the Periyar Tiger Reserve, where visitors can spot elephants, deer, gaurs, and diverse birdlife in their natural habitat. Boat cruises on Periyar Lake offer a unique way to observe wildlife, while guided forest walks and bamboo rafting add adventure to the journey. Travellers can also explore nearby spice plantations, enjoy traditional Kerala cultural performances like Kathakali and Kalaripayattu, and learn about local communities through responsible ecotourism experiences.

Major Attractions in Periyar:

Some of the best places to visit in Periyar and its surrounding region include:

• Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve: A sprawling 777-sq-km sanctuary in the Cardamom Hills, famous for Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, and diverse birdlife, with activities like guided nature walks, bamboo rafting, and night treks.
• Periyar Lake: A picturesque man-made lake created by the Mullaperiyar Dam, where boat safaris offer sightings of wild elephants and other animals along the shoreline.
• Mangala Devi Temple: An ancient 2,000-year-old stone temple in traditional Kerala architecture, hidden deep in the woods at 1,337 metres and requiring prior permission from the Wildlife Warden for visits.
• Pattumala Matha Church: A Roman Catholic pilgrim shrine dedicated to Our Lady of Good Health, built entirely of granite amidst lush tea plantations.
• Mullaperiyar Dam: A masonry gravity dam on the Periyar River at the confluence of the Mullayar and Periyar rivers, located in Kerala but operated and maintained by Tamil Nadu.
• Gavi: An off-the-track wilderness retreat ideal for trekking, birding, and canoeing, home to endangered species like the lion-tailed macaque and Nilgiri Tahr amidst hills, forests, and cardamom plantations.
• Kadathanadan Kalari & Navarasa Kathakali Centre: A cultural venue hosting live performances of Kalaripayattu, Kerala's ancient martial art, and Kathakali, the classical dance-drama.
• Chellarkovil Viewpoint: A scenic spot offering panoramic vistas of cascading waterfalls, misty valleys, and neighbouring villages in Tamil Nadu.

Famous Festivals in Periyar:

Periyar’s festive calendar reflects Kerala’s rich traditions, religious customs, and cultural heritage. The Chitra Pournami Festival at Mangala Devi Temple, held annually on a full moon day in April or May, draws devotees for special prayers and rituals within the Periyar Tiger Reserve. Vishu and Onam is celebrated with great fervour in the region. Visitors can also explore guided ecotourism activities that showcase Periyar’s natural and cultural heritage.

Best Time to Visit Periyar:

The best time to visit Periyar is from October to March, when pleasant weather is ideal for boat safaris, wildlife spotting, and forest walks. April to June offers opportunities to spot animals near water sources, while the July–September monsoon brings lush greenery, refreshing landscapes, and a beautiful setting for nature photography.

Climatic Conditions Periyar: Winter: 15°C–30°C | Summer: 28°C–36°C | Monsoon: 22°C–32°C

Things to Buy in Periyar:

Shopping in Periyar offers a taste of Kerala’s rich spice-growing heritage and local craftsmanship. Visitors can buy aromatic cardamom, black pepper, cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg from nearby spice shops. Locally produced tea, coffee, homemade chocolates, forest honey, and banana chips make delightful edible souvenirs. Wooden handicrafts, elephant figurines, and traditional Kerala textiles are also popular keepsakes.

How to Reach Periyar:

• By Air: Madurai Airport in Tamil Nadu is one of the nearest airports to Periyar, approximately 140 Km away. Cochin International Airport (COK) is around 190 Km away and offers wider flight connectivity. From either airport, travellers can hire a taxi or take a bus to Thekkady or Kumily.
• By Train: Kottayam Railway Station, located approximately 110–114 Km from Periyar, is a major railhead connecting the region with several Indian cities. From the station, travellers can reach Thekkady and Kumily by KSRTC or private buses and taxis.
• By Road: Periyar is easily accessible by road from destinations such as Kochi, Kottayam, and Madurai. Regular KSRTC and private bus services operate to Kumily and Thekkady, while taxis and private vehicles offer a convenient option for reaching the wildlife reserve.