Periyar National Park: A Journey into the Heart of Kerala

Periyar National Park is a beautiful wildlife sanctuary located in the Idukki district of Kerala, India. The park is home to a wide variety of animals, including elephants, tigers, leopards, deer, monkeys, and birds.

There are a few different ways to visit Periyar National Park. You can drive or take a bus to the town of Kumily, which is the gateway to the park. From Kumily, you can take a jeep safari, an elephant safari, or a boat cruise on the Periyar Lake.

If you are looking for a place to stay near Periyar National Park, there are a number of hotels, resorts, and homestays to choose from. The prices vary depending on the type of accommodation you choose and the time of year you visit.

Here are some of the best places to stay near Periyar National Park:

• KTDC Periyar House is a government-run hotel located in Kumily. It is a good option for budget travelers. Click for more details in their website.

• Thekkady Lake Resort is a luxurious resort located on the shores of the Periyar Lake. It is a great option for those who want to enjoy the natural beauty of the park.Click for more details in their website

• Woodnote Thekkady is a eco-friendly resort located in the heart of the park. It is a great option for those who want to experience the wildlife of the park up close.

• Forest Canopy is a treehouse resort located in the park. It is a unique and unforgettable way to experience the wildlife of the park.

No matter what your budget or preferences, you are sure to find a place to stay that is perfect for you near Periyar National Park.

Here are some tips for visiting Periyar National Park:

• The best time to visit the park is during the monsoon season (June-September), when the landscape is lush and green and the animals are more active.
• Wear comfortable shoes and insect repellent.
• Bring a camera and binoculars.
• Be respectful of the wildlife and do not feed or disturb the animals.
• Follow the instructions of your guide.

How to visit:

BY AIR:
The nearest airports to Periyar/Thekkady are Madurai Airport and Cochin International Airport. Madurai Airport is located approximately 140 km away from Periyar, while Cochin International Airport in Kochi is around 190 km away. Cochin International Airport is well-connected to major cities around the world and is only 27 km from Kochi city. From either of these airports, travelers can hire taxis or take buses to reach Thekkady.

BY RAIL:
The closest railhead to Periyar/Thekkady is located in Kottayam, which is about 110 km away. From the Kottayam railway station, tourists have the option to hire taxis or take buses to reach Thekkady. Kottayam has good rail connectivity with major cities in India, making it convenient for travelers to reach Thekkady by train.

BY ROAD:
Thekkady is well-connected by road to nearby cities and towns. State-run and private buses operate regular services to Thekkady from cities like Kochi, Kottayam, and Madurai. The distance from Kochi to Thekkady is approximately 190 km, from Kottayam it is 110 km, and from Madurai it is around 140 km. Travelers can choose to drive their own vehicles or hire taxis to reach Thekkady by road.

These are the three main means of transport available to reach Periyar/Thekkady. Travelers can select the mode of transport that suits their preferences and convenience, whether it’s by air, rail, or road.