Periyar National Park
marks the gateway to the exciting wildlife of Kerala. Situated
in the fairy-tale
land of Thekkady, in the Idukki district of Kerala, Periyar
Wildlife Sanctuary encircles the artificially created Periyar
Lake. In 1895, the Periyar Lake was formed by the construction
of the dam across the Uullaperiyar River. The lake and its
adjoining forest borough were copious in wildlife, which created
a hunting reserve for the Maharaja of Travancore. Periyar
Wildlife Sanctuary was declared a Project Tiger reserve in
1978. It is one of the most precious wildlife resources in
India, and harbors a unique ecosystem consisting of dense
soggy deciduous vegetation, impenetrable evergreen foliage
and an exhilarating aquatic life.
This lovely terrain is an abode for tigers, whose population
is increasing appreciably. The sight of wild frolicking baby
elephants along with the older ones as they drink, bathe and
play on the lake's edge leaves one awe-struck. A boat cruise
on Periyar Lake is the best way to observe these elephants
from close proximity without disturbing them.
How
to Reach Air: The nearest national airports are Cochin
(200 km) and Madurai (140 km). Rail: The nearest major rail junction is
Kottayam. Road: Well connected by bus service to the
major cities.
fairy-tale
land of Thekkady, in the Idukki district of Kerala, Periyar
Wildlife Sanctuary encircles the artificially created Periyar
Lake. In 1895, the Periyar Lake was formed by the construction
of the dam across the Uullaperiyar River. The lake and its
adjoining forest borough were copious in wildlife, which created
a hunting reserve for the Maharaja of Travancore. Periyar
Wildlife Sanctuary was declared a Project Tiger reserve in
1978. It is one of the most precious wildlife resources in
India, and harbors a unique ecosystem consisting of dense
soggy deciduous vegetation, impenetrable evergreen foliage
and an exhilarating aquatic life.
How
to Reach
