"Immerse in lush landscapes and wildlife adventures."
Periyar National Park, also known as Thekkady, is a renowned wildlife sanctuary located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, India. Established in 1982, the park is spread across an area of 925 square kilometers and is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species.
The Periyar National Park is located in the Idukki district of Kerala, in the southern part of India. It is situated around the Periyar Lake, formed by the construction of the Mullaperiyar Dam. The park is known for its lush green forests, picturesque hills, and diverse wildlife.
The park is open from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm on all days of the week. However, it is advisable to check the official website or contact the park authorities for any changes in timings before planning your visit.
The entry fee for Periyar National Park varies for Indian and foreign tourists. Indian adults are charged Rs. 33 per person, while foreign tourists are charged Rs. 450 per person. Children below 12 years of age can enter for free.
Periyar National Park is home to a wide range of flora and fauna. The park is known for its rich biodiversity, including species like elephants, tigers, sambar deer, gaurs, and Nilgiri langurs. The park is also home to a variety of plant species, including teak, rosewood, sandalwood, and bamboo.
Visitors to Periyar National Park can enjoy a variety of activities, including boat cruises on the Periyar Lake, guided nature walks, bamboo rafting, and jeep safaris. These activities provide visitors with the opportunity to explore the park's diverse wildlife and natural beauty.
The charges for jeep safaris in Periyar National Park vary depending on the duration of the safari and the number of people in the group. On average, the cost of a jeep safari ranges from Rs. 1,500 to Rs. 3,000 per person.
Children below 12 years of age can enter the park for free. The entry fee for males above 12 years of age is Rs. 33 for Indian tourists and Rs. 450 for foreign tourists. Similarly, females above 12 years of age are also charged the same entry fee as males.
Senior citizens above the age of 60 years are eligible for a discount on the entry fee to Periyar National Park. They can avail of a special concession on the ticket price upon showing relevant identification documents.
The best time to visit Periyar National Park is during the winter months of November to February when the weather is cool and pleasant. This period is ideal for wildlife sightings and outdoor activities in the park.
There are several attractions near Periyar National Park that visitors can explore, including the Periyar Tiger Reserve, Thekkady Lake, Kadathanadan Kalari Centre, and Pandikuzhi. These places offer a mix of wildlife, culture, and nature experiences.
Periyar National Park provides ample parking space for visitors who wish to bring their vehicles. There are designated parking areas within the park premises where visitors can safely park their cars or bikes.
Visitors to Periyar National Park are required to follow certain rules and regulations to ensure the safety of the wildlife and the environment. Some of the common rules include maintaining silence during wildlife sightings, not feeding the animals, and not littering the park premises.
Periyar National Park is easily accessible by road from major cities in Kerala like Kochi, Kottayam, and Thiruvananthapuram. The nearest airport is Kochi International Airport, located around 190 kilometers away. Additionally, the park is well-connected by rail, with the nearest railway station being Kottayam.
Visitors can also opt for guided tours or private transportation services to reach the park. It is recommended to plan your trip in advance and check for any travel advisories or restrictions before visiting Periyar National Park.
