History of Periyar National Park

The history of this National Park starts from the area being under the rule of Pandyas. In 1899, the Periyar Lake Reserve was formed, which happened a few years after the construction of the Mullaperiyar Dam that was built over the Periyar River in 1895. The formation of the lake surely enhanced the charm and the beauty of the valley.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, the reserve was the hunting ground of the Travancore kings, who ruled the place then. The area was declared a Forest Reserve, named Periyar Lake Reserve in 1899 to protect the hunting area of the kings and not let it come under the tea plantations.

In 1934, the lake reserve was converted into a game sanctuary, the Nellikkampetty Game Sanctuary. Some more area was allocated to the place in 1950, and the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary was established. In 1978, the sanctuary was included in the Central Government initiative known as Project Tiger and was renamed the Periyar Tiger Reserve to protect the species of the Royal Bengal Tigers which were deteriorating rapidly due to hunting and poaching.

In 1982, the earlier known Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary came to be included under the umbrella of National Parks, hence being called Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary. Soon in 1992, the Periyar National Park became part of Project Elephant which was launched by the Central Ministry of Environment and Forests to protect the populations of wild Asian elephants in various Indian states.

All these developments made Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary what it is today- beautiful and thriving; attracting visitors from all around the globe to witness its rich biodiversity.

At present, the reserve houses at least 40 tigers and hundreds of elephants and its rich jungles.

Wildlife in Periyar National Park

The astonishing diversity of the wildlife housed by this Wildlife Park can be seen when one delves deep into the area. About 35 species of mammals like Bengal Tiger, Indian Elephant, Gaur, Sambar, Nilgiri Tahr, Lion-Tailed Macaque, etc can be observed here.

A whopping number of bird species fill the sky with all the contrasting colours and never fail to mesmerize the tourists, especially birdwatchers. Around 265 species of birds are present here which include endemic birds like Malabar grey hornbill, Nilgiri wood pigeon, Nilgiri flycatcher, etc. Rare species like Black baza, Nilgiri thrush, Little spiderhunter, etc can also be occasionally spotted.

Periyar is also known to be the habitat of the rare Nilgiri Tahr.

The park has more than 160 varieties of butterflies which include the Swallowtail Southern Birdwing, the largest butterfly in all of India. One can also find other types of insects here.

40 species of rare fish are observed in the Periyar Lake. Some of those are the Periyar barb that is endemic to the Periyar Lake, the Channa barb that is endemic to India, the Periyar trout that is endemic to Kerala and the Periyar latia which is only seen in the Periyar River. Needless to say, the reptilian and amphibian variety is rather astonishing too.

Flora in Periyar National Park

Tourists can enjoy the beauty of the amazing variety of flora present in the Periyar National Park. Endemic orchid species like Habenaria periyarensis and myrtle species like Syzygium periyarensis are found here and owing to that, their name has “Periyar” in them. Apart from them, the park houses medicinal plants like Gloriosa Lily. Tropical evergreen and moist deciduous forests, grasslands as well as river ecosystems are observed in this park. This National Park is like a heavenly abode for nature lovers. About 140 species of orchids adorn this park and make a perfect spot for clicking photos by the wildlife photographers too.

Semi-evergreen and deciduous trees like Teak, Sandalwoods, Mangoes, Jamun, Banyan, Sacred Fig, Bamboo and the exclusive South Indian conifer Nageian Wallichiana are found here.

The park is surrounded by agricultural regions where crops like tea, coffee and cardamom are grown.

The Climate of Periyar National Park

The Periyar National Park experiences a soothing climate in the winter months. The ambient temperature ranges between 15° Celsius in the winter months and 31° Celsius in summer months. Rainfall is satisfactory and occurs between the months of June to September, which is why it is not advisable to make a visit during these months as it might be difficult for tourists to enjoy to the fullest.

Other Information to know before visiting Periyar National Park

How to Reach the Periyar National Park

By Air- To reach the Park by air, the closest airport is the Kochi airport which is around 155 kilometres away from the Periyar National Park. One can also take a flight to the Madurai Airport in Tamil Nadu which is just about 150 kilometres away.

By Road- One can travel by road to Kumily, by a bus from Kottayam, Ernakulam, and Madurai. By car, one can also take the NH183 from the Cochin airport or NH183 and NH85 from the Madurai Airport.

By Rail- Teni Railway Station is the nearest railway station from the Park (around 65 kilometres). Kottayam Railway station is a prominent and close railhead from the Periyar National Park. It is around 100 kilometres away by road from the park.

Entry Fees & Timings of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Indian Adults- INR 25 to 45

Indian Children (below 11 years)- INR 15

Foreign Adults- INR 300 to 500

Foreign Children (below 11 years)- INR 180

Still Cameras- INR 30-100

Video Cameras- INR 250-300

Light Vehicle- INR 50

Heavy Vehicle- INR 100

Renting Binoculars- INR 50 with INR 100 security deposit

The entry tickets can be purchased online or easily be bought from the park office. But it is advisable for the safari tickets to be bought online, beforehand. This saves time and ensures availability. A single-seat costs INR 800 and booking a whole vehicle can cost up to INR 3000.

The timings of the Periyar National Park is from 6 am to 6 pm every day and the park is open on all days of the week. The park timings are constant, but the wildlife safari timings keep changing depending on the weather and other conditions. Early morning visits are favourable because of the cool atmosphere.

The night safari time to spot the rare leopard and other nocturnal animals start from 8 pm.

Right Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is from October till June. It is so because after June, the monsoon season takes over and the sighting of animals becomes harder.

Conservation of Periyar National Park

Periyar National Park is considered as a great example which follows the model of biodiversity and conservation. It has proved to be a sustainable ecosystem in comparison to the others which are present in the country.

What made Periyar National Park become what it is today is the fact that the villagers who reside in the neighbouring places actively participate in the conservation of this park. The primary concerns which are biodiversity conservation and eco-development are understood by the locals and their participation is commendable. In the last decade, it has been estimated that some 26 to 36 tigers have prospered in this span of time.

The whole eco-tourism of the famous Periyar National Park is managed by these locals. Even ex-poachers have found a livelihood in sustainably working with the forest department and educating the visitors.

The fact that becomes clear from this model is that no conservation can be accomplished unless the regional public is participating in it.

Things to Do at Periyar National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary

The Periyar National Park/Sanctuary is widely famous for the opportunities to enjoy the various aspects of nature that it bestows upon its visitors.

There is no end to the list of things which you can accomplish, while at the Park, but the two most important things are the Safari and the Periyar Lake boating.

Morning Safari- A morning safari could be availed to observe various kinds of birds and animals out in the open. It could be a really enriching experience owing to the pleasant weather in the morning and the sight of beautiful birds coloring the sky and the area around the water bodies.

Night Safari- Nightlife lovers can also book themselves a night safari where they can witness nocturnal animals like the Owl and Leopard, which are rarely observed in the daytime.

Periyar Lake Boating- Running in the middle of the Periyar National Park is the Periyar Lake. Tourists can enjoy a boating trip here. This is a tour of one and a half hours, during which different types of animals can be spotted while enjoying the beautiful scenic views of the park from various perspectives. A perk of the early morning expedition is that animals can be spotted at the bank of the lake, along with numerous water birds.

Other Places to Explore- Tourists can also visit the Cardamom Hills and Pandalam Hills which offer a mesmerizing scenery to them and help them recap the rich natural beauty of Kerala.

Interesting Facts About Periyar National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary

Periyar National Park has a really rich background to it, not just in terms of nature but also literally-

The ecosystem of the Periyar Tiger Reserve bags annual economic benefits up to an estimated sum of 17.6 billion rupees.
About 4.05 billion rupees worth of water provision is provided by this national park, annually, to some cities and districts in the neighbouring states.
Just the recreational activities in the Periyar National Park such as boating, trekking, camping, and safaris independently earn a sum of INR 425 million rupees annually.
The local public which is directly or indirectly employed in services related to the wildlife sanctuary benefit from approximately 25 million rupees worth of jobs yearly.

Owning to its amazing storehouse of biodiversity, a huge number of tourists are compelled to pay a visit to the Periyar National Park, especially wildlife photographers and birdwatchers. A calm and adventurous trip with the family can also be enjoyed here, and a solo backpacking trip is also a good choice because this place has something for everyone!

Periyar National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary - Packages, Booking, Tours, Animals & Prices

by Avathi Outdoors | Wildlife Sanctuaries

Periyar National Park

About Periyar National Park

Table of Contents

Instant Book Kabini River Lodge - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Discover Scuba Diving in Pondicherry

Geodesic Dome In Wayanad - Hipnoetic Stays

Instant Book Bandipur Safari Lodge - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

Evolve Back, Kabini

Glamping in a Geodesic Dome - Birds Eye Estate, Chikmagalur

Wilderness Hideaway

Beginners Rock-climbing(Top Rope)- Private Group

Tambdi Surla Temple Visit near Mollem

1N/2D at a Luxurious Wellness Farm Stay

1N/2D at an Enchanting Heritage Home in Murudeshwar

1N/2D at a Cozy Homestay in Dandeli

Scuba Diving for Beginners at Havelock Island

Luxurious Vegetarian Resort near Bangalore Airport

Le Roma Gardenia Presents- The Boho Villa

1N/2D at a Quaint Homestay In Dandeli

1N/2D at a Weekend Retreat in Dandeli

Tiny Cabins in Dandeli!

Single Day Scuba Diving in Pondi

Waterman Training in Mangalore

Elegant Homestay in Vagamon

Charming Tent Stays in Gokarna

Open Water Scuba Diving Certification in Chennai

1N/2D at a Traditional Mud Hut in Bangalore

1N/2D at a Homely Farmhouse

Jungle Night Safari in Goa

A Traditional Organic Farm Stay Near Bangalore

Chorao Chillout Mangrove Kayaking

Luxury Tent Stays in South Goa!

Coconut Island and Nueti Experience

Stay at the Garden Boutique Stay

Early Morning Birding near Mollem

Divar Island Exploration

A Day Out at an Enchanting Nature Resort!

Bamboo Rafting through Forests

Cycle through the heart of Wayanad

1N/2D Cottage and Camping at Manga Lake View Farms

Snorkeling in Goa

1N/2D at a Rustic Homestay in Coorg

Experience Farm Stay at a Pet-Friendly Farm near Bangalore

Surfing Lessons in Pondicherry

Hike on the Mt. Ridges in Coorg

Stay in a French Heritage Villa

Scuba Diving for Beginners in Goa

Comforting Stay at a Gorgeous Resort in Havelock Island

1N/2D at the Mocha Estate

1N/2D at an Elegant Eco-Friendly Resort

1N/2D at a Beach View Resort in Gokarna

1N/2D at a Naturistic Amusement Park

A Fishing Trail at Aguada

Luxury Nature Stay at an Island Resort

The Christian Art Trail at Old Goa

Birding for Beginners in Coorg Forests

Stay at the French Marigold Retreat

Flyboarding in Goa! Discounted Package!

Instant Book Bhagawathi Nature Camp - Jungle Lodges & Resorts | Your Trusted Booking Platform

1N/2D at an Elegant Backwater Homestay

1N/2D at a Luxurious Hillside Resort in Goa

Cozy Cottages in Sakleshpur

Birding for Experienced Persons

Kayaking to a Private Beach

Lunch on the Sea

Hike to the <3 Lake (Chembra Peak Range)

A Day Out at a Food Forest Farm

Riverside Stay at Riverside Inn

1N/2D at a Charming Heritage Bungalow

Stay at the Chigarimala Nature Camp

River-facing Cabin Stay and Water Activities

High Rope Activities in Coorg Rainforest

Stay in an Egyptian Tent House

1N/2D at a Fun Nature Resort in Dandeli

Longest Zipline in Wayanad, Kerala - Prices, Places, Best Time & More

1N/2D at Goa's Casa Baga!

Riverview Homestay in Udupi

1N/2D All Inclusive Camping and Watersports