History of Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary
Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular tourist destination located in the Indian state of Kerala. The park is famous for its picturesque landscape and diverse wildlife, including many endangered species.
The park’s history goes back to the early 1900s when the British government declared the Periyar forest reserve a protected area to prevent overexploitation of teak wood. In 1934, the reserve was expanded to become the Periyar Game Sanctuary, dedicated to protecting the habitat of endangered animals like the lion-tailed macaque and the Nilgiri tahr.
The sanctuary was later renamed the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in 1950 In 1978, it was declared a national park and rebranded as Periyar National Park. Today, the park covers an area of 925 square kilometers and is located in the Cardamom Hills of the Western Ghats, which is one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots.
The park is home to a wide variety of animals, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and bison. There are also over 265 species of birds, including the rare Nilgiri wood pigeon and black-necked stork. The park also has many reptiles and amphibians, such as king cobras and Indian rock pythons.
The park’s natural beauty is another major attraction, with its lush forests, hills, and waterfalls. The Periyar Lake is located in the center of the park and is a popular spot for boating and wildlife watching.
Tourists can also enjoy activities like trekking, bamboo rafting, camping, and more. The park is open year-round, with the best time to visit from October to February.
Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary is an important protected area in South India, established to protect the region’s rich biodiversity. The park’s history goes back over a century, and today, it continues to attract tourists from all over the world to experience its natural beauty and incredible wildlife.
Tourism of Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary
Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular tourist spot in India, and it attracts a lot of visitors each year. The park has a lot to offer, from its natural beauty to diverse wildlife, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
One of the biggest draws to the park is the Periyar Lake. Here, visitors can take a boat ride and enjoy the surrounding forests and hills while also spotting wildlife such as elephants, deer, and birds. The lake is an excellent place for wildlife watching and taking in the scenic beauty.
Trekking is another popular activity at the park, with trails for all levels of experience, from easy to challenging. The treks take visitors through the lush forests and hills, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
For a unique experience, visitors can try bamboo rafting on the Periyar Lake. The bamboo rafting tour takes visitors through the heart of the park, offering an entirely different perspective on the wildlife and nature.
Camping is also an option, with several locations offering camping facilities. Visitors can experience the park’s wildlife and nature up close by camping in the midst of the forest.
The park is also a great place for wildlife photography and bird watching, with over 265 species of birds and a variety of wildlife. The diverse range of animals in the park provides a unique opportunity for photographers and bird watchers to capture some incredible shots.
Visitors can also explore the nearby spice plantations and leam about the different spices grown in the region. Guided tours of the plantations are available, offering visitors the chance to experience the region’s rich cultural heritage.
In conclusion, Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature and adventure. With its scenic beauty, diverse wildlife, and range of activities, the park offers a unique and unforgettable experience to its visitors.
How to Reach Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary?
Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the state of Kerala, India. The park is effortlessly accessible by avenue, rail, and air.
By Road: The nearest town to the park is Kumily, which is well connected by road to major cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus from Kumily to reach the park.
By Rail: The nearest railway station to the park is Kottayam, which is approximately 114 kilometers away. From Kottayam, visitors can take a taxi or bus to reach the park.
By Air: The nearest airport to the park is Cochin International Airport, which is approximately 190 kilometers away. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi or bus to reach the park.
Visitors can also book private tour packages that include transportation to and from the park, as well as accommodation and activities. Additionally, the park offers jeep safaris and boat rides to visitors, which can be booked in advance.
Overall, Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary is easily accessible by various modes of transportation, making it a convenient and popular destination for tourists.