October to March is the best time, when the weather is cool and perfect for outdoor activities and wildlife spotting.
2 to 3 days gives you enough time to explore the main sights and enjoy the natural beauty.
It’s famous for the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, spice plantations, and elephant rides. Visitors can see wild animals and enjoy fresh spices.
₹9,000–15,000 per person (including stays, local tours, and transfers – excluding luxury resorts)
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as the Periyar Tiger Reserve, is the crown jewel of Thekkady’s eco-tourism. Sprawling across 925 sq. km, it’s one of India’s top wildlife destinations, famous for its elephant herds, Bengal tigers, and rich biodiversity.
The sanctuary surrounds the scenic Periyar Lake, offering visitors boat safaris, guided jungle treks, bamboo rafting, and night forest patrols. It’s not just a wildlife hotspot but also a model for conservation and community-based eco-tourism in India.
Spot wild elephants, tigers, leopards, and gaur in their natural habitat
Go on unique boat safaris & bamboo rafting adventures
Explore lush forests, grasslands, and rare flora
Experience tribal heritage & eco-tourism programs
Enjoy birdwatching with over 260 bird species recorded
April, October | Off-peak periods
Why visit?Lesser crowds, better deals, peaceful nature walks
Temp: 20°C - 30°C
October-February | Peak Tourist Season
Perfect for: Cool weather, ideal for jungle safaris, boat rides, and sightseeing
Temp: 15°C - 25°C
June - September
Best for: Lush green landscapes, fewer tourists, scenic spice plantations
Temp: 22°C - 30°C | Rainy and refreshing
March - May | Peak Season
Best for: Warm weather, great for wildlife safaris and spice tours
Temp: 25°C - 35°C
Home to Bengal tigers, elephants, sambar deer, Indian bison (gaur), wild boars, and Nilgiri langurs, Periyar is a biodiversity hotspot in South India.
Take a boat ride across Periyar Lake to witness wildlife drinking from the shores, especially in early mornings and late afternoons.
Join guided treks inside the sanctuary with trained forest guides—perfect for nature enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and adventure seekers.
A unique eco-adventure where you raft over calm lake waters on traditional bamboo rafts, spotting wildlife from a low vantage point.
Periyar is a birdwatcher’s paradise with species like Malabar hornbill, kingfishers, eagles, and darters.
Interact with local Mannan and Paliyan tribes, and learn about sustainable living and forest conservation.
| Zone | Activities |
|---|---|
| Core Zone | Protected for wildlife conservation; entry restricted |
| Buffer Zone | Boat safaris, eco-tourism activities, guided treks |
| Tourism Zone | Periyar Lake activities, plantations, tribal visits |
| Activity | Time Slots |
|---|---|
| Park Entry | 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Boat Safari | 7:30 AM, 9:30 AM, 11:15 AM, 1:45 PM, 3:30 PM |
| Guided Treks & Rafting | As per booking |
Entry Fee: ₹50–₹100 for Indians, ₹500 for foreigners (subject to change)
Safari & Trek Prices: ₹250–₹2000 depending on the activity
By Air: Madurai Airport (140 km), Cochin Airport (190 km)
By Train: Kottayam Railway Station (110 km)
By Road: Well-connected via NH183 from Kochi, Munnar, and Kottayam
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