Kerala Tourism - Plan your trip with complete Kerala travel guide including top places.

Periyar Kerala

Being popular as the Spice Village, Periyar is a must visit refreshing destination in Kerala. Periyar lies in the suburban areas, in the lap of the spice gardens of Kerala. The distinguishing aspect of Periyar lies in Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve, which is a must-include place in the Kerala itinerary. Along with rejoicing in the wilderness at Periyar National Park, there are endless opportunities to embrace nature’s sightings to the heart’s content.

How to Reach -

  • By Flight - Nearest airport is Cochin International Airport at a distance of 150 kms.
  • By Train - Nearest railway station is Kottayam Railway Station at a distance of 96.6 kms.
  • By Road - Road routes are well connected with Periyar by bus services from various cities of and beyond Kerala. Hiring cabs is also a convenient option.
periyar national park
periyar tour

Best Places to Visit

Periyar National Park - One of the highly famed national parks in South India, Periyar National Park is an admired jewel in Thekkady, adorned with rich biodiversity and scenic beauty. Spotting elephants and tigers, jeep safari, elephant safari and boat cruises are the main attractions here.

Kadathanadan Kalari Centre - A renowned place for witnessing the traditional form of martial art Kalaripayattu. This martial art form exhibits several techniques for self defence, weaponry, as well as the healing process.

Vandiperiyar - Vandiperiyar is a small and scenic town in Idukki district, with the Periyar River meandering through the centre of the town. The river water facilitates the irrigation of spices, tea and coffee, making Vandiperiyar the leading trade centre of tea. Flower Garden and Government Agriculture Farm are the major tourist attractions here.

Kumily - Earlier known as Kuzhumoor, Kumily is located at the outskirts of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Also known as a plantation town, Kumily is a busy and important commercial town of Kerala. The Tribal Heritage Museum is a must visit place in Kumily.

Ramakkalmedu -Nestled on the eastern part of Idukki district, Ramakkalmedu is an eye-pleasing hill station, with a mythological story attached to its history. The statue of Kuravan and Kuruthi adds splendor to the lush greenery and high rolling mountains of Ramakkalmedu.

Chellarkovil - At a distance of 11 km from Kumily, Chellarkovil is a tranquil village with lots of foliage and waterfalls. A viewpoint named ‘God’s Own Balcony’ serves the mind blowing view of sunrise and sunset with a telescope placed there. Trekking to this balcony incorporates a guided spice tour, ayurvedic garden tour and a few village activities.

Vandanmedu -Vandanamedu records the world’s largest production of cardamom. Situated in the Idukki district the village is carpeted with rugged topography and velvety green forests. The favorable climate and soil quality also leads to a fair production of pepper and coffee production.

Pullumedu - Eravikulam National Park wears the crown of UNESCO World Heritage Site and also the natural habitat of the endangered mountain goat Nilgiri Tahr. September - November and April - June is the best time to visit the national park and its uniqueness lies in the walking trails, unlike the other national parks that offer jeep safari.

Mangala Devi temple - The temple stands at an altitude of 1337 meters above sea level, enclosed with the dense foliage of Periyar Tiger Reserve. The 1000 years old temple is dedicated to Goddess Mangala and is constructed of huge pieces of granite.

Abrahams’s Spice Garden - The spice garden serves the intention to enhance knowledge regarding spice cultivation. Abraham’s Spice Garden was established in 1952, where you can smell, taste and buy the organic spices.

Top Things to Do:

Take a jeep safari: If you are a nature and wilderness enthusiast, then the jeep safari through the protected areas of Periyar National Park will pour thrill to the trip. The safari provides not only close encounters with wild animals, but also with a vast array of flora and avifauna surviving there.

Experience elephant safari: Riding on the elephant back and wandering through the Periyar National Park woodlands is something not to be missed. Select your safari type from the Elephant Junction and set your expedition.

Embark into tiger trail: Following the pug marks of tigers and other animals accompanied by the thrilling past experiences shared by the guides (former poachers) will definitely accelerate your adrenaline rush.

Bamboo rafting at Periyar: Bamboo rafting is counted among the fun-filled yet adventure activities. A group of 10-12 people with armed guards and professional guides embark on the raft for 2-3 hours in the forest tracks of Periyar Tiger Reserve to derive a unique experience.

Boat cruise on Periyar Lake: A boat cruise on the Periyar Lake is one of the most loved activities by the tourists. Surrounded by the forests of Periyar National Park, you can get the chance to spot wild animals while floating through the Periyar Lake.

Kerala Tour Packages:
About Kerala Nature: