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PERIYAR
NATIONAL
PARK
In
the southern part of the Western Ghats of Kerala and encompasses steep
and hilly terrain, the reserve's main distinction is a large reservoir
created by an over 100-years-old dam on Periyar
river after which the area is named. The surrounding slopes are densely
wooded but grassy areas at the waters' edge are where animals come to
graze. In the restricted areas on can go on foot which makes
bird-watching highly enjoyable. Otherwise, entry to Periyar is by boat on the reservoir. Dry trees provide perches for cormorants
and darters. A view of elephants and otters is
possible on the lake. Sambar, wild boar, barking deer and
gaur can be
seen grazing or drinking at the waters' edge. Nilgai, langur,
bonnet
macaques and the Malabar giant squirrel may be seen at close quarters
near the entrance. Nilgiri tahr and the lion-tailed macaque
are also
seen here.
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General
Information |
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Altitude
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900-2000
metres.
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Climate
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Winter
minimum 18, Summer maximum 32 degrees. Except December to January,
area receives rain throughout the year, the wettest being May to
July. |
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Access |
Nearest
town is Kumily, 4 km from entrance at Thekkady. State and private
buses to kumily. Nearest railway station is Kottayam, 115 km away.
Madurai, 145 km away, is the nearest airport and Kochi is 190 km.
By road, Thekkady is on the main route from Kottayam to Madurai in
Tamil Nadu. Take the Kottayam-Tiruchirapalli Road, and turn east
to Madurai at Theni- Allinjaram. Distances from these towns, and
from Kochi, make driving to Periyar a vehicles are not required
for movement within the park. |
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Best Time
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Open
throughout the year but October to April best visiting time.
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Where to Stay
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- Spice Village
- Taj Garden
Retreat
- Aranya Niwas
- Cardamom
County
- Lake Palace
- Periyar House
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Suggested
Programme
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DAY
01
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KOCHI
/ PERIYAR (190 km)
Depart for Periyar by car from Alleppey via Kottayam. Boat
cruise on the backwaters.
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DAY
02
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PERIYAR
Morning boat safari to view wildlife. Afternoon plantation
visits to the high hills and the low valleys.
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DAY
03
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PERIYAR
/ KOCHI
Depart for Kochi by car.
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For
further information and reservation please contact
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