The Periyar Tiger Reserve is a renowned wildlife sanctuary and national park in the Idukki district of Kerala, India. Situated in the Western Ghats, it is known for its rich biodiversity, lush landscapes, and significant tiger population. As a result, it is one of Kerala’s most famous wildlife destinations and a key part of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
The Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary (PNP) is a protected area in Pathanamthitta and Idukki districts. It is a well-known reserve for elephants and tigers, covering 925 km² (357 sq mi), with 305 km² (118 sq mi) designated as Periyar National Park in 1982. The park is home to rare, endemic, and endangered species. It also plays a key role as the watershed for two significant rivers in Kerala: the Periyar and Pamba.
Nestled in the Cardamom and Pandalam Hills along the Tamil Nadu border, the park is just 4 km (2.5 mi) from Kumily, Thekkady. It is 80 km (49.7 mi) east of Pathanamthitta Town, 100 km (62 mi) east of Kottayam, 110 km (68 mi) west of Madurai, and 120 km (75 mi) southeast of Kochi. These distances make the Periyar Tiger Reserve a prime destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
1. Location:
The Periyar Tiger Reserve is located in the Thekkady region, in the Idukki district of Kerala. It lies near the Tamil Nadu border and is spread across the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and Periyar Lake.
2. Area:
The reserve covers an area of 925 square kilometers, with about 350 square kilometers designated as the core area of the sanctuary, dedicated to wildlife protection and conservation.
3. Wildlife:
The Periyar Tiger Reserve is primarily known for its tiger population, which is the reserve’s focal point. The reserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife species, including:
- Tigers: The reserve has one of the largest tiger populations in Kerala.
- Other mammals: The reserve is home to elephants, Indian bison (gaur), wild boar, sambhar deer, barking deer, Nilgiri langur, and the Indian leopard.
- Bird species: The sanctuary also hosts over 260 species of birds, including various species of eagles, hornbills, and waterfowl.
- Reptiles: The reserve is rich in reptiles like the king cobra, cobras, and pythons.
4. Periyar Lake:
A significant feature of the Periyar Tiger Reserve is the Periyar Lake, a man-made reservoir created by the construction of the Periyar Dam. The lake provides water for the wildlife and offers boating experiences for visitors, where they can spot animals, especially elephants and various species of birds, along the shores.
5. Flora:
The reserve boasts a rich variety of flora, with tropical evergreen forests, semi-evergreen forests, and montane forests. Some common species of plants found here include teak, rosewood, sandalwood, and bamboo. The flora supports the wildlife, forming an essential part of the ecosystem.
6. Tourist Activities:
- Boating: Visitors can enjoy boating on Periyar Lake, providing an opportunity to spot elephants, deer, and various birds that gather around the lake.
- Jungle Safaris: The reserve offers guided jeep safaris and trekking tours, allowing tourists to explore the rich wildlife and natural beauty of the reserve.
- Elephant Rides: Tourists can also experience elephant rides through the forest, giving them a unique way to explore the wildlife.
- Bird Watching: The diverse birdlife makes the reserve a popular spot for bird watchers.
- Nature Walks: The Periyar Tiger Reserve offers guided nature walks with trained forest guards, allowing tourists to learn about the flora, fauna, and the reserve’s ecology.
7. Conservation Efforts:
The Periyar Tiger Reserve plays a vital role in the conservation of tigers and other wildlife species in the region. It is part of the Project Tiger initiative, launched by the Indian government to protect tigers across India.
The reserve is also crucial in protecting the ecosystem of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is one of the world’s most biodiverse regions.
8. Accessibility:
The Periyar Tiger Reserve is accessible from Thekkady town, which is well-connected by road to major cities like Kochi and Kottayam. The nearest airport is in Kochi, about 140 km away, while the nearest railway station is Kottayam, around 114 km from the reserve.
9. Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit the Periyar Tiger Reserve is during the winter months (November to February) when the weather is pleasant for wildlife viewing. The summer months (March to May) can also be good for spotting wildlife as animals come out to drink water from the dwindling water sources. However, the monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rains, which can make wildlife viewing difficult.
10. Conclusion:
The Periyar Tiger Reserve is one of Kerala’s premier wildlife sanctuaries, offering a unique combination of rich wildlife, stunning landscapes, and cultural experiences. It is an essential conservation area, playing a crucial role in protecting tigers and other wildlife. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, a photographer, or someone who loves nature, the Periyar Tiger Reserve offers an unforgettable experience amidst the beautiful and biodiverse Western Ghats.
