Periyar

If you want to witness nature’s beautiful blend of great scenic beauty and rich biodiversity, then Periyar is a must visit place for you. Periyar is agreeably a paradise on Earth. It is also one of the best places to travel in Kerala. Extending along the banks of Periyar River in Kerala, the Periyar National Park is among the most renowned parks in South India. Let’s ignite your excitement a bit more by giving you a detailed insight to some of the activities you can be indulged in while you are in Periyar.

There are multiple options to explore here and one of the perfect places for nature sights is Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Sit near the beautiful Periyar Lake to witness the scenic view of the sanctuary. This place is a perfect example of nature's bounty along with rich biodiversity.

The Periyar National Park is home to a large population of Indian Elephants and Tigers. The Park also serves as a habitat to Bisons, Sambars, Wild Boars and Antelopes. Great Malabar Hornbills, Racket Tailed Drangoes, Darters, Cormorants, Kingfishers, Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, Rufous-bellied Eagle and Crimson-baked Sunbird are among the popular inhabitants of this Park.

One can also enjoy a boat ride to the Periyar Lake formed near the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The boat ride will provide a beautiful view of Elephants grazing near the edges of the shoreline, Deer, Sambar, Gaur and Wild Boars flocking around the place at regular intervals. A majority of the wildlife activity in the area can be viewed during the summer months of March and April. The boat ride will be a surreal experience, and is highly recommended if you are in the area.

Another interesting experience that you can add on to your list here is a tour to the spice plantation and tea gardens.  The spice plantation in Periyar is one of the major spice plantations of Kerala.  Various kinds of spices are cultivated here, and the most abundantly found spice in Periyar is pepper. But there is a variety of cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, ginger, turmeric and curry leaves on the slanting slopes of the spice plantation in Periyar. Visit the Sahyadri Organic tea factory in Peermade. There are specially designed vantage points for you to view this factory housed in a white-washed building.

Kathakali Dance is a must see at Periyar. One of the major forms of classical Indian dance, the Kathakali is a story play genre of art which is marked by distinguished and elaborate colourful make-up, costumes and face masks. This is one of the most amazing dance drama shows here. The Kathakali dance with its varied movement of eyes and change in expression makes it worth watching.

Periyar with its cool chimes and agreeable greenery offers a great escape for the travelers and for those seeking peace.