PERIYAR NATIONAL PARK & TIGER
RESERVE (KERALA)
Area: 777 sq km
Nearest Railway Station: Kottayam
Best Season: October to April and March to April is the driest
period and by far the best time to view wildlife near the lake
Speciality: Elephants, Tigers
AN INDIAN JOURNEY RATING: 3 Star ***
(
Transportation inside the park is good. Motor launches are ideal
for viewing wildlife but their frequency must be increased. Accommodation
and food are excellent).
Set in Western Ghats is Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve. The park has a picturesque lake at the heart of the sanctuary. Herds of Elephant and Sambhar, Gaur and Wild Pigs wander down the lake side. The best time to spot the inhabitants is during
March-April.
Among unusual species are Flying Lizards and Flying Snakes. The avian variety includes Darters, Cormorants, Grey Horns, Ibis, Great Malabar Hornbills, Kingfishers, Ospreys and Kites.
Summer Palace of ex-Maharaja of Travancore along the lake is a hotel and a great place to stay. Forest Rest Houses, Aranya Niwas Hotel and Periyar House are fabulous options.
