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Exploring the Wonders of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the picturesque state of Kerala, India, is a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Spread over 925 square kilometers, this magnificent sanctuary offers a diverse range of flora and fauna that will leave you awestruck. In this blog, we will take you on a virtual tour of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, highlighting its stunning biodiversity, thrilling adventures, and the importance of conservation efforts.

Biodiversity at Its Best:

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is renowned for its rich biodiversity. The sanctuary is home to a plethora of wildlife species, making it a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. As you embark on a jungle safari, keep your eyes peeled for the majestic Indian elephants, which are the park's most famous residents. With around 1000 of these gentle giants roaming freely, you're bound to encounter them during your visit.

Apart from elephants, Periyar is inhabited by other charismatic megafauna, including tigers, leopards, Indian bison, sambar deer, and wild boars. The presence of such a diverse range of wildlife ensures that every safari is an adventure waiting to unfold.

Birdwatcher's Paradise:

If you're an avid birdwatcher, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary won't disappoint. With over 265 species of birds, including the vibrant Malabar grey hornbill, the elusive great Indian hornbill, and the dainty kingfisher, this sanctuary provides ample opportunities for bird enthusiasts to capture stunning photographs and witness the avian wonders of the Western Ghats.

Boating on Periyar Lake:

One of the unique attractions of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is the Periyar Lake. The best way to experience the tranquility of the lake and spot wildlife is by taking a boat ride. As you glide through the serene waters, you'll often see herds of elephants and other animals quenching their thirst at the water's edge. The experience is magical, offering a glimpse into the secret lives of these magnificent creatures.

Trekking Adventures:

For those seeking a more active and immersive experience, Periyar offers an array of trekking trails that wind through its lush forests. The guided treks cater to varying levels of fitness and interests, from the easy nature walks to the challenging tiger trail. Trekking allows you to get up close with the flora and fauna, making it an ideal activity for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Plant Life and Spice Plantations:

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is not just about its fauna; it's also about its flora. The park boasts a diverse range of plant species, including evergreen and deciduous forests. What makes this sanctuary even more special is its proximity to spice plantations. A visit to the spice gardens surrounding the sanctuary is an educational experience, where you can learn about the cultivation and processing of spices like cardamom, pepper, and cloves.

Conservation Efforts:

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is not just a tourist destination; it's a hub for wildlife conservation efforts. The park's success story in protecting and preserving the Indian elephant population is particularly commendable. Conservationists and park authorities work tirelessly to ensure the safety of these magnificent creatures and their habitat. Visitors can learn about these efforts through educational programs and exhibits at the park's visitor centers.

The Importance of Responsible Tourism:

As visitors, it is our responsibility to ensure that our presence does not harm the delicate ecosystem of Periyar. This includes following ethical wildlife viewing practices, refraining from littering, and respecting the rules and regulations of the sanctuary. Responsible tourism plays a crucial role in preserving this natural treasure for future generations to enjoy.

Conclusion:

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is a gem nestled in the heart of Kerala, offering a mesmerizing blend of wildlife, adventure, and natural beauty. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, a birdwatcher, an adventure seeker, or simply someone who appreciates the wonders of nature, a visit to Periyar should be on your bucket list. It is a testament to the beauty and importance of our natural world, and a reminder of the need for conservation efforts to protect it. So, pack your bags, embark on an unforgettable journey, and let Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary leave an indelible mark on your soul.

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Periyar Safari Booking: A Thrilling Adventure into the Heart of the Wild

Periyar National Park, located in the mesmerizing state of Kerala, India, is a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife aficionados. Spanning across the picturesque Western Ghats, this national park is renowned for its diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. The best way to experience the park's natural splendor up close is through a Periyar safari. In this blog, we'll delve into the process of Periyar safari booking and the unforgettable adventure that awaits within.

Understanding Periyar National Park

Before delving into the details of safari booking, it's crucial to understand the significance of Periyar National Park. Nestled amidst the lush greenery of the Western Ghats, this sanctuary is home to a wide array of flora and fauna. From majestic elephants and elusive tigers to rare species of birds and butterflies, Periyar's ecosystem is a treasure trove of biodiversity.

Choosing Your Safari Type

Periyar National Park offers different types of safaris, each providing a unique experience. The two most popular options are boat safaris on Periyar Lake and jeep safaris through the dense forests. The boat safaris allow you to observe animals from a distance as they gather along the lake's edge, while the jeep safaris take you deep into the heart of the jungle, offering a chance to spot wildlife in their natural habitat.

Booking Process

Booking a Periyar safari is relatively straightforward. To secure your spot, follow these steps:

a. Online Booking: Visit the official website of Periyar Tiger Reserve or the Kerala Forest Department to access the online booking portal. Select your preferred safari type, date, and time slot. Make sure to book well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

b. Offline Booking: If you're more comfortable with offline methods, you can visit the Periyar Tiger Reserve office in person and make your booking.

c. Authorized Agents: Alternatively, you can choose to book through authorized travel agents or tour operators, who can help arrange your safari and offer additional insights into the experience.

Safari Etiquette and Tips

To ensure a responsible and respectful safari experience, keep the following tips in mind:

a. Follow Guidelines: Adhere to the instructions provided by the park authorities and your safari guide. These guidelines are in place to ensure the safety of both visitors and wildlife.

b. Respect Wildlife: Maintain a safe distance from animals and avoid disturbing them. Remember, you're a guest in their natural habitat.

c. Carry Essentials: Pack essentials such as water, sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable clothing. Binoculars and a camera will enhance your safari experience.

d. Early Mornings are Best: Morning safaris offer the best chances of spotting wildlife in their active state. The cool, crisp air also adds to the magical ambiance.

The Safari Experience

As your safari unfolds, be prepared for thrilling encounters with the wild. The gentle rustle of leaves, the distant call of birds, and the possibility of spotting a majestic elephant or a graceful deer create an atmosphere of excitement and wonder.

Conclusion

A Periyar safari booking promises an adventure that connects you with the untamed beauty of nature. Exploring the depths of Periyar National Park, with its diverse flora and fauna, is an experience that will leave an indelible mark on your memory. By following the booking process, respecting wildlife, and embracing the thrill of the wild, you'll embark on a journey that brings you closer to the heart of the jungle and the magic it holds.

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A Wildlife Trip to Thekkady from Madurai

Out of the entire South Indian tourism, combined tour packages of Kerala and Tamil Nadu are quite popular. For a mini break of three to four days in South India, a trip from Madurai to Thekkady and back to Madurai can be crafted for sightseeing and wildlife experience. If you are a resident of Madurai, then you can directly transfer to Thekkady from Madurai via road, covering 141 km, and only book for Periyar Tour Packages. On the contrary, if you are planning to visit Thekkady from other cities, then reach Madurai first and spend a day there sightseeing. 

Let's begin to map the trip day-wise.

Reach Madurai on day 1.

Madurai city has both an airport and a railway station that directly connects to almost all the major cities of India. Madurai is settled on the banks of River Vaigai in Tamil Nadu. Being an ancient city, Madurai treasures religious, cultural, traditional and architectural richness. One of the popular temple towns in Tamil Nadu, there are a plethora of wanders welcoming the tourists visiting.

On reaching Madurai, get into your hotel and freshen up after the checking-in formalities. In the evening you can wander around the streets of Madurai near your hotel or enjoy some shopping at the local market.

Madurai sightseeing on day 2.

Since you have only one day for sightseeing at Madurai, there is no need to stuff the day with rigorous travelling to multiple spots. Instead, you can skim out some of the most popular destinations. After breakfast, begin with the day’s activity.

Meenakshi Amman Temple

Azhagar Kovil

Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal

Koodal Azhagar Temple

Gandhi Memorial Museum

Thirupparankundram Murugan Temple

Kazimar Big Mosque

Yanaimalai 

Transfer to Thekkady on day 3

After a drive of approx 3 hours and 30 minutes, reach Thekkady from Madurai by starting pretty early in the morning. You can opt for going to the wildlife safari after lunch in the forests of Periyar National Park. Tigers, wild boars, Indian bison, Nilgiri langurs, sambar deer, king cobras, Malabar hornbill, etc. are among the wildlife attractions in Periyar. After the safari go for a boat cruise on the beautiful Periyar Lake. 

Other activities in Thekkady on day 4

This is an optional day for you to stay in Thekkady. Go for a morning safari in Periyar National Park, visit Mangala Devi temple and the Tribal Heritage Museum. The alternative way to spend the day is to get involved in activities like bamboo rafting, and trekking to Kurisumala, Pullumedu, Grampi and Ottakathalamedu. You can also go for a spice plantation tour in Thekkady. Visit Pandikuzhi, almost 5 km from Thekkady to witness the cardamom, pepper and coffee plantations.

Wrapping Up

You can wrap up the vacation on the fourth day and return to Madurai on the same day. Else, stay overnight at Thekkady and leave for Madurai the next morning. For a prolonged vacation, plan an itinerary to tour the other parts of Kerala along with its various national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. 

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Connect to Spirituality Amid Wilderness at Mangala Devi Temple

The Mangala Devi Kannagi Temple is a 1000 years old, ruined granite stone temple standing upright at an altitude of 1337 metres above sea level. The temple was built in reverence to Mangala Devi, also known as Kannaki and beholds a significant historical significance. The temple is located in the forest of Periyar Tiger Reserve and is among the top tourist attractions in Thekkady. Since its inception, the deity of Kannaki has been a symbol of moral power, which is present in every ordinary woman. The legend behind the temple says that Kannaki burnt the entire town of Madurai with a curse after learning that her husband was punished and killed because of wrong allegations of theft in the royal court. Kannaki went to the forests of Periyar after burning down Madurai.

The tale of Kannaki has been immortalised by the famous poet-prince Ilanko Adikal in his Tamil epic Silapathikaram, one of the five epics in Tamil literature.

The Architecture of Mangala Devi Temple

The construction of the temple bears a resemblance to that of Pandyan architecture. There is no concrete record of the time of construction of the temple. However, it is believed that it was initiated by Chera Ruler Chenkuttuvan. Locals also believe that Gajabahuka Gamani, the Lankan King and other prominent personalities of the time attended the ceremony of the idol installation.

At present, the temple is in a ramshackle state but the steps leading to the temple and the boundary walls are still upstanding to manifest the glory of the bygone era. A visit to the location of the temple tickles the tourists’ minds with a question mark about how the huge stones and granites had been brought to such an altitude in those days. The archaic temple complex of Mangala Devi constitutes of four stone structures that encompass the deities of other Gods such as Lord Shiva, Lord Ganapathy and Karuppa Swamy. Also, there are several structures carved on the stone walls of the temple complex.

Another striking fact is that there is a secret underground pathway that the locals believe is a passage that connects to either Meenakshi Temple or the palace of the Pandya King.

Festival at Mangala Devi Temple

Unlike the other temples of Kerala, Mangala Devi Temple is not open to tourists and devotees around the year. The common public can only enter the temple on the full moon night during the occasion of Chithra Pournami celebrated between April and May. The deity of Mangala Devi is brought from Kambam during the temple festival due to the ruined state of the temple. The idol is made up of Panchaloha (5 metals).

The main deity of Goddess Kannaki is adorned with silk and flowers and prayers and oblations are offered during the daytime. Women cook and offer pongala to the deity on the occasion and seek blessings.

Since the temple is located in the forest area of Periyar National Park you need to get prior permission from the forest officials to visit the place. The 12km long way to the temple is covered by a jeep and en route through the dense foliage and grasslands, you can also catch views of Nilgiri Tahr and other species of fauna and flora.

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Blend of Wildlife and Houseboat Experience in Kerala Trip

Wildlife and nature enthusiasts heading up to Kerala can blend up an unique itinerary with Periyar National Park and Alleppey Backwaters. Kerala is mostly about tourism and the state offers endless options to its visitors to carry back unforgettable memories. 

You can commence your Kerala trip by exploring the wilderness at Periyar National Park and later moving to Alleppey to experience the houseboat cruise.

Periyar National Park:

Breathtaking scenic beauty and rich biodiversity are closely associated with Periyar National Park. Periyar is significantly one of the protected regions for tigers and elephants. The 100 years old artificial yet picturesque lake is among the central attractions and is located at the heart of the national park. 

Flora - moist deciduous forest. Tropical evergreen forest and semi-evergreen forests.

Fauna - tiger, elephant, wild pig, Indian wild dog, sambar, barking deer, mouse deer, gaur, Nilgiri langur, bonnet macaque and many more species of mammals, birds, butterflies, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fishes. 

Types of safari available: 

Boat safari

Elephant safari

Jeep safari 

Popular tourist attractions in and around Periyar Wildlife sanctuary - 

Cradomom hills

Pandalom hills

Kumily

Periyar lake

Pullumedu 

Mangla Devi Temple

The months from October to June are considered the best time to visit Periyar National Park. The nearest airport from Periyar is in Cochin in Kerala and Madurai in Tamil Nadu. The nearest railway station to reach Periyar National is at Kottayam.

Houseboat Experience at Alleppey Backwaters:

Approximately 138 kms away from Periyar National Park, the backwaters of Alleppey is located. 

Alleppey is one of the cleanest places in Kerala and the backwaters here are very famous and it was known to be Venice of the East. Houseboat experience at Alleppey, meandering through the backwaters of Kerala should be included in your bucket list of Kerala trip. Surrounded by water and serenity, the houseboats float calmly on the backwaters, and with your favourite company in the boat you will derive a memorable and unique experience. Cruising in the houseboats is the best way to wander through the beautiful backwaters of Kerala engulfed with picturesque scenery.

You can opt for either a day time cruise which lasts for about 2-5 hours, or you can choose an overnight stay in the houseboat. The experience is going to be in a class by itself..

These houseboats comprise of all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay including a dining space, television, bedrooms, luggage storage room, washroom, kitchen (to provide freshly prepared meals), balcony space to chill and enjoy the stunning beauty of the backwaters and palm trees. Both private and sharing basis houseboats are available to suit your preferences. Throughout your house boat ride, apart from the palm trees and other houseboats and shikaras, there will be the views of small villages and the inhabitants indulged with their daily chores. 

Opt for the meals included or excluded in your package in the houseboat to savour the authentic Keralian cuisines, specially the sea food and meals served on the banana leaves give an exceptional feel while eating. The menu mostly includes-

Lemon/fruit/tender coconut juice as welcome drink

For lunch:  Veg – Sambar, Thoran, Aviyal, Veg Fry, Salad, Pickle, Curd, Papad etc.

                 Non veg – Karimeen Fish Fry

Coffee / Tea and Snacks (mostly  Banana Fry) for evening snacks

Dinner: Non-veg - Chicken Curry, White Rice, Chapati, Cauliflower Manjuri.

             Veg – Dal Fry and Mutter Paneer or  Mix Veg Korma or Aalu

Idli or Dosa with Chutney and Sambar and Coffee or Tea for breakfast.

You can request for changes or additions in the regular menu according to your choice.

Alleppey houseboats routes:

Alleppey or Alappuzha round trip around the legendary Punnamada lake.

A picturesque cruise from Alleppey to Kottayam witnessing the toddy farmers.

Alleppey to Mankotta through the villages specialising in coir making.

Alleppey to Kumarakom route for birdwatching.

Alleppey to Kidangra through the famous Vembanad Lake and Pathiramanal Island.

Delve in the history of houseboats by Alleppey to Alumkadavu route.

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Why Periyar National Park is Famous Wildlife Destination in South India

Periyar National Park is a protected area located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, India. The park was established in 1982 and covers an area of about 925 square kilometers.

The park is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including over 35 species of mammals, 265 species of birds, and 45 species of reptiles. Some of the notable species found in the park include the Indian elephant, Bengal tiger, Indian bison, sambar deer, and the lion-tailed macaque.

The park is also famous for its artificial lake, which was created by the Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar River. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake to spot wildlife or enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding forest.

Periyar National Park is an important conservation area and is recognized as a Tiger Reserve by the Indian government. The park is also a popular destination for eco-tourism and attracts a large number of visitors every year.

Why Periyar is So Popular?

Periyar National Park is a famous wildlife destination in South India due to several reasons:

Rich Biodiversity of the Sanctuary: The Park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. It is one of the few places in India where you can spot the majestic Indian elephant in their natural habitat. Other animals found in the park include tigers, leopards, gaur, sambar deer, wild boars, and barking deer.

Scenic Natural Beauty: Periyar National Park is located in the Western Ghats, which is known for its scenic beauty. The park is surrounded by lush green forests, hills, and rivers, which make it a paradise for nature lovers.

Boat Safari Activity: The Park is famous for its boat safari, which takes visitors through the Periyar Lake. The boat ride offers a unique opportunity to spot animals drinking and bathing on the lake shore.

Elephant Safari Ride: Visitors can also enjoy an elephant safari in the park. The safari takes you through the dense forest where you can spot a variety of wildlife and experience the thrill of riding an elephant.

Healthy Ecotourism: The Park is a popular destination for ecotourism. The park authorities have set up eco-friendly cottages and tree houses to promote sustainable tourism in the area.

Periyar National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature and wildlife.

Wildlife in Periyar National Park

Periyar National Park is a wildlife reserve located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, India. It is known for its diverse range of flora and fauna, and is home to many endangered species.

Some of the wildlife species found in Periyar National Park include:

Elephants: Periyar National Park is home to a large population of wild elephants. These majestic animals can be seen wandering through the forests, especially near the water bodies.

Tigers:  Although sightings of tigers are rare, there is a small population of these big cats in the park. They are mostly found in the dense forests and are known to be elusive.

Indian bison: The Indian bison or gaur is a large, powerful animal that is found in the forests of Periyar National Park. These herbivores can be seen grazing in the grasslands and open areas of the park.

Sambar deer:  The sambar deer is one of the most common deer species found in the park. They are the largest of the deer species found in India, and can be seen grazing in the grasslands and near the water bodies.

Nilgirilangur: The Nilgirilangur is a primate species that is found in the forests of Periyar National Park. They are arboreal animals, and can often be seen jumping from tree to tree.

Malabar giant squirrel: The Malabar giant squirrel is a large, brightly colored squirrel species that is found in the forests of the Western Ghats. They are known for their distinctive fur, which can range from bright red to deep purple.

Sloth bear: The sloth bear is a nocturnal animal that is found in the forests of Periyar National Park. They are omnivorous and feed on a variety of foods, including insects, fruits, and honey.

King cobra: The king cobra is one of the largest venomous snakes in the world, and is found in the forests of Periyar National Park. They are known for their distinctive hood, and can grow up to 18 feet in length.

These are just a few of the many species of wildlife that can be found in Periyar National Park. The park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.