Periyar National Park,Kerala

• Periyar Lake and scenic boat cruises
• Guided jungle walks and nature trails
• Elephant and wildlife sightings (boat-based and on foot)
• Birdwatching (many resident and migrant species)
• Spice gardens and nearby spice plantations
• Thekkady / Kumily town — gateway to the reserve
• Periyar Interpretation Centre and tribal cultural programs

• Large artificial lake (Periyar Lake) that concentrates wildlife along its shores
• Dense tropical evergreen and moist deciduous forests of the Western Ghats
• High biodiversity including endangered and endemic species
• Scenic hills and panoramic viewpoints around the reserve
• Close cultural interaction with spice-growing communities

• Boat cruises on Periyar Lake (best for wildlife viewing and photography)
• Guided nature walks and short treks in designated zones
• Jeep safaris in buffer areas (where permitted)
• Bamboo rafting (available seasonally and in designated sectors)
• Birdwatching and early-morning guided bird walks
• Visiting spice gardens and taking spice plantation tours
• Watching tribal cultural performances and handicraft demonstrations

September to May (dry and cooler months). The monsoon (June–August) brings heavy rain and many activities are restricted.

Tropical montane climate — warm and humid in low-lying areas, cooler at higher elevations. Heavy rainfall in monsoon months; pleasant and relatively dry from autumn through spring.

Entry fees, boat cruise charges and timings are set by the Periyar Tiger Reserve authorities and change periodically. Boat cruises usually operate with morning and afternoon departures; guided walks and safaris run during daylight hours. Check the official Periyar Tiger Reserve / Kerala Forest Department website or local ticket counters for up-to-date fees, timings and advance booking requirements.

Periyar is accessed via Kumily/Thekkady in Idukki district, Kerala. Nearest major railheads and airports are in cities such as Kottayam, Madurai and Kochi—travel times vary by route. Road access is good from major Kerala towns; taxis and buses connect Kumily/Thekkady with nearby cities. Within the reserve, movement is regulated — use authorized boats, guides and permitted trails.

Plan 1–2 full days for Periyar to include a boat cruise, a nature walk and a visit to a spice plantation; extend to 3–4 days if combining with nearby hill stations or extended trekking.

Light, breathable clothing for daytime; a warm layer for early mornings/evenings. Good walking shoes, rain jacket or poncho (in monsoon), insect repellent, binoculars, hat and sunscreen. Carry water and basic first-aid supplies.

Try Kerala specialties such as appam, stew, fish and vegetarian curries at local eateries in Thekkady. Popular souvenirs include locally grown spices (cardamom, pepper, cinnamon), handicrafts and tribal artifacts, spice mixes and tea/coffee from nearby plantations.