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Lying close to the plantations, in the rich jungles of Periyar in Thekkady is one of the world's most fascinating natural wildlife reserves - the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Spread across 777 sq.km, of which 360 sq.km is thick evergreen forest, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978. Noted for its geomorphology, diversity of wildlife and scenic beauty, the Reserve attracts visitors from all over the world.
The splendid artificial lake formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar adds to the charm of the park. This is the only sanctuary in India where you can have the unique experience of viewing wildlife at close quarters from the safety of a boat on the lake. The greatest attraction of Periyar, however, are the herds of wild elephants that come down to play in the lake. |
| Boat cruises on the Periyar Lake |
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The Periyar Lake formed by the construction of the dam across the Mullaperiyar River in 1895, the lake harbors within itself a unique aquatic ecosystem. The numerous little islets in the lake are witness to the intricate inherent interrelationship among the terrestrial aquatic and subterranean life forms. A boat cruise on the Lake is perhaps the best way to watch the wildlife in the reserve
KTDC operates boats which takes about 1 ½ to 2 hours. The Boating starts from 07.30 Am upto 5.30 PM. This which is one of the major attraction here. At the time of boating, if you are lucky, you can have a unique experience of viewing wildlife at close from the safety of a boat at the lake. The probable animals to see are Bison, Gaur, Wild Elephants, Sambhar and a wide variety of birds. Thek |
| Gavi |
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Gavi is a quiet, beautiful and pristine forest haven near Thekkady in Kerala in the Pathanamthitaa district where you can escape to wildreness and the best season to visit Gavi is in Summer or in Monsoons unlike other tourist destinations |
| Pandikuzhi |
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This picturesque spectrum of exotic flora, fauna and gurgling streams is cradled between Chellarkovil and the Tamil Nadu border. A popular picnic spot, Pandikuzhi offers great opportunities for trekking and is a photographer's delight. |
| Mangala Devi Temple |
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This ancient temple is hidden in the dense woods at the top of a oeak 1337 m above sea level. The temple is built in the traditional Kerala style of architecture. Visitors are allowed here only on the Chithra Pournami festival day. The peak commands a panoramic view of the eastern slopes of the Ghats and some hill villages of Tamil Nadu. Permission to visit the area can be obtained from the Wildlife Warden, Thekkady. |
| Vandiperiyar |
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The River Periyar flowing through the centre of this town nourishes its vast tea, coffee and pepper plantations. A major trade centre, Vandiperiyar is also home to a number of tea factories. The Government Agriculture farm and Flower Garden have a delightful array of roses, orchids and anthuria. |
| Pullumedu |
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The winding journey to this hill town, along the Periyar River, offers a stunning view of the rolling hills draped in lush greenery. Velvet lawns, rare flora and fauna add to the beauty of Pullumedu which can be accessed only by jeep. The famous Sree Ayyappa Temple at Sabarimala and the Makara Jyothi illumination at the shrine are visible from here. Since it is part of the restricted forest zone, special permission to visit Pullumedu has to be obtained. |
| Ramakalmedu |
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Rolling green hills and the fresh mountain air make Ramakalmedu an enchanting retreat. The hills top also offers a panoramic view of picturesque villages of Bodi and Cumbum on the Eastern slope of the western ghats. |
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