Periyar National Park
Thekkady, India
- Bamboo rafting experience
- Boat safari on Periyar Lake
- Jungle trek with guides
- Nature walk and birdwatching
- Visit spice plantations
Known for:
Description:
Periyar National Park, nestled in the heart of Thekkady, Kerala, is a renowned wildlife sanctuary and a biodiversity hotspot. Famous for its dense evergreen forests, rolling hills, and the picturesque Periyar Lake, the park offers a unique opportunity to witness a variety of flora and fauna. Elephants are the star attraction, often seen bathing and playing in the lake. Visitors can explore the park through boat safaris, jeep rides, and nature walks, immersing themselves in the tranquility of nature. The park is also home to tigers, leopards, sambar deer, gaurs, and numerous bird species, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
History:
Established in 1934 as Nellikkampatty Game Sanctuary, Periyar National Park gained its current status in 1982. Initially intended as a hunting reserve for British officials, the sanctuary was later transformed into a protected area for wildlife conservation. The Periyar Lake, formed by the construction of the Mullaperiyar Dam in 1887, plays a crucial role in the park's ecosystem, providing water to the surrounding forests and supporting a diverse range of aquatic life. The park has a rich history of tribal communities, who continue to play a role in its conservation efforts.