Periyar National Park

Periyar National Park, located in Kerala's Idukki district, is a renowned wildlife sanctuary and tiger reserve set within the scenic Western Ghats. It covers an area of around 925 square kilometers and was established as a national park in 1982.

The park is named after the Periyar River, which flows through it and forms an artificial lake called Periyar Lake, a key feature of the sanctuary. Known for its diverse flora and fauna, the park is home to elephants, tigers, leopards, sambars, and many bird species. Dense evergreen forests, tropical valleys, and marshy grasslands create a rich natural habitat, with some trees reaching impressive heights.

The park also plays a vital ecological role as the watershed for the Periyar and Pamba rivers and includes tribal villages where indigenous communities have longstanding harmony with the forest. Visitors can enjoy wildlife safaris, boat cruises on the lake, nature walks, and bamboo rafting, offering opportunities to witness wildlife in their natural environment.

The climate is pleasant most of the year, with the winter months being ideal for wildlife spotting and exploration. The park is a key conservation area and a popular destination for nature lovers, offering a blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage.