Periyar National Park travel guide: Located in Thekkady, Kerala, Periyar National Park is a unique natural sanctuary. It is not just a forest, but also a safe home to tigers, elephants, various birds, fish and reptiles. Spread over a vast 257 square miles, this forest is traversed by the Pamba and Periyar rivers, which provide life to the animals and plants here.
When you visit here, you will get the opportunity to explore the forest from boat trips to jeep safaris and elephant rides. For those who love adventure, there are jungle trekking, bamboo rafting, walking along the tiger trails, and even camping inside the forest.
All in all, the serene environment, dense green forests and the company of wildlife make Periyar a dream destination – all of which has made it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kerala.
History of Periyar National Park
The story of Periyar begins in 1895, when the Mullaperiyar dam was built and a beautiful lake was created in it. Later, in 1934, this place was declared a sanctuary. Then in 1982, it became a part of โProject Tigerโ. Since then, Periyar has become a great place not only for wildlife but also for nature lovers. In this โPeriyar National Park travel guideโ, we have presented that story in a simple way.
Location and Geography
Located in the Idukki and Pathanamthitta districts of Kerala in southern India. Its main entrance is Thekkady, a beautiful hill station on the border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
- Nearest Towns: Thekkady (4 km), Kumily (2 km)
- Nearest City: Kottayam (Approx. 115 km)
- Google Map Coordinates: 9.4669ยฐ N, 77.2480ยฐ E (MAP)
Entry Time and Opening Hours
- Opening Time: 6:00 AM
- Closing Time: 7:00 PM
- The park remains open all year round, but activities like boating and trekking depend on weather conditions. Always check the latest updates in this Periyar National Park travel guide before planning.
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Entry Ticket Price (Indian and Foreigners)
You cannot enter Periyar Tiger Reserve directly. There is a bus at the gate, you have to enter by that bus only. So you have to buy a bus ticket along with the entry ticket. Below I have given the complete entry ticket and bus price list.
| Category | Entrance Fee Rs. | Bus Fare Rs. | Total Rs. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indian Adult | 45 | 30 | 75 |
| Indian Child (5โ11 yrs) | 15 | 30 | 45 |
| Indian Group of Student | 15 | 30 | 45 |
| Foreign Adult | 500 | 30 | 530 |
| Foreign Child (5โ11 yrs) | 180 | 30 | 210 |
Additional fees may apply for specific activities like boating, guided trekking, or jeep safaris. Make sure to check this Periyar National Park travel guide for updated pricing.
Vehicle Parking Charges
| Category | Price Rs. |
|---|---|
| HMV | 335 |
| LMV | 85 |
| Two Wheeler | 45 |
| Three Wheeler | 45 |
Camera Charges
| Category | Price Rs. |
|---|---|
| Still Camera | 45 |
| Video Camera | 335 |
**Website Link (Boating & Other Activities Online Tickets): www.periyartigerreserve.org/ProgramView
Best Time to Visit Periyar National Park
The ideal time for your Periyar National Park travel guide adventure is between October to March, when the climate is pleasant and wildlife sightings are common.
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How to Reach Periyar National Park
By Air:
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (Approx. 155 km away).
- Taxis and buses are available from the airport.
By Train:
- Nearest Station: Kottayam (Approx. 101 km away).
- From Kottayam, buses or cabs can take you to Thekkady.
Via Road: Thekkady is well connected by KSRTC buses and private taxis from major Kerala cities like Kochi, Munnar, and Alappuzha. Rely on this Periyar National Park travel guide to choose the best mode of transport.
Wildlife and Biodiversity
Periyar is home to over 60 species of mammals, 300+ birds, 45 reptiles, 160+ butterflies, and 1965+ flowering plants. Itโs one of the few tiger reserves where elephants are the stars of the show.
- Mammals: Indian Elephants, Bengal Tigers (rare), Leopards, Gaur (Indian Bison), Sambar Deer, Nilgiri Langur, Malabar Giant Squirrel.
- Birds: Malabar hornbills, kingfishers, darters, Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, Black-necked Stork, Brahminy Kite.
- Reptiles: King cobras, monitor lizards
- Trees: Rosewood, sandalwood, teak
A good Periyar National Park travel guide helps you identify many of these species during your visit.
Best Activities in Periyar National Park
1. Boat Safari on Periyar Lake
- Spot elephants, wild boar, and bison on the shoreline.
- Duration: 1.5 hours
Cost:
| Package Rate | Indian Citizen | Indian Children | Foreigner Citizen | Foreigner Children |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Week Days | 255 INR | 85 INR | 255 INR | 85 INR |
| Holidays | 255 INR | 85 INR | 255 INR | 85 INR |
Timing:
Boating Online Ticket Booking Link:- Website
2. Bamboo Rafting
- Combine trekking and rafting through the jungle.
- Led by tribal guides and forest officials.
- Full-day or half-day options
- Cost: โน1500โโน3000 per person
3. Border Hiking
- Adventure trek along the parkโs edge with armed forest guards.
- Spot wildlife from high elevation points.
- Duration: 6โ9 hours
4. Jungle Night Patrol
- Experience the forest under moonlight.
- Timed walks with guards and guides.
- Strictly regulated and ideal for the adventurous
5. Tribal Heritage Museum Visit
- Learn about the Mannan and Paliyan tribes.
- View tools, medicinal herbs, and cooking techniques.
6. Jeep Safari
- Great for deeper jungle exploration and tiger spotting (if you’re lucky!). This Periyar National Park travel guide recommends booking in advance.
Eco-Tourism and Responsible Travel
One of the best parts about this Periyar National Park travel guide is its emphasis on eco-tourism. The park has won several awards for community-based conservation efforts. Travelers are encouraged to:
- Avoid plastic
- Stick to marked trails
- Follow the instructions of guides
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Accommodations Near Periyar National Park
Stay options near Thekkady include:
- Luxury: Spice Village, Greenwoods Resort
- Mid-range: Abad Green Forest, Peppervine Hotel
- Budget: Jungle Palace Homestay, Periyar Inn
Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Book safaris and treks in advance, especially during peak season.
- Wear neutral-colored clothes for better wildlife viewing.
- Carry binoculars, insect repellent, and a raincoat (just in case).
These tips in your Periyar National Park travel guide ensure a smooth experience
A to Z Summary at Periyar National Park
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Idukki, Kerala |
| Entry Fee | โน45 (Indian adult), โน500 (foreign adult) |
| Best Time to Visit | November to February |
| Main Attraction | Elephant sightings, lake safaris |
| Nearest Town | Thekkady |
| Activities | Boat safari, bamboo rafting, hiking, night patrol |
| Stays | Resorts, homestays, lodges |
| Food | Kerala-style meals & street food |
| How to Reach | By air (Cochin/Madurai), train (Kottayam), or road |
FAQs
Q1. Is Periyar National Park safe for solo travelers?
Yes, itโs one of the safest wildlife sanctuaries in India with guided tours and good local hospitality.
Q2. Can I see tigers in Periyar National Park?
Tiger sightings are rare, but you may spot one if you’re lucky during jeep or boat safaris.
Q3. Are online bookings available for activities in Periyar?
Yes, you can book most activities in advance on the official Periyar Tiger Reserve website.
Q4. How many days are enough for visiting Periyar?
2 to 3 days are ideal to explore the park and nearby attractions fully.
Q5. Is the Periyar National Park travel guide suitable for family trips?
Absolutely! With boat rides, nature walks, and comfortable accommodations, it’s perfect for families with kids.
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Hey there! I’m Santu Chakraborty and I’m not your typical traveler. By day, I wrangle circuits and solve electrical mysteries as an engineer, but my true passion lies in exploring the world and sharing those experiences with you. For the past five years, this blog has been my canvas, where I paint stories of adventure, practical travel tips, and cultural insights to ignite your wanderlust. So, come join me on my journeys and discover the magic that awaits just beyond the horizon!
by Santu Chakraborty 