Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is a renowned wildlife reserve located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, India. The sanctuary is a popular tourist destination known for its rich biodiversity and breathtaking natural beauty. Spread over an area of 925 square kilometers, the sanctuary is home to several rare and endangered species of flora and fauna.
Here is a complete guide to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, including its history, wildlife, best time to visit, how to reach, and other essential information.
- History of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1950 by the Government of Kerala to protect the wildlife and biodiversity of the region. The sanctuary was later renamed as the Periyar Tiger Reserve in 1978, after the declaration of Project Tiger. The sanctuary is a part of the Western Ghats, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the eight “hottest hotspots” of biological diversity in the world.
- Wildlife in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its rich diversity of flora and fauna. The sanctuary is home to more than 60 species of mammals, 320 species of birds, 45 species of reptiles, 27 species of amphibians, and 160 species of butterflies. Some of the most commonly spotted animals in the sanctuary include Indian elephants, Bengal tigers, Indian bison, sambar deer, barking deer, Indian wild dogs, sloth bears, and wild boars.
- Best Time to Visit Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary The best time to visit Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is between October and June. The monsoon season in Kerala starts from June and lasts till September, making it difficult to explore the sanctuary during this time. The winter season between October and February is the best time to visit as the weather is pleasant, and the chances of spotting wildlife are higher.
- How to Reach Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary The nearest airport to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is the Cochin International Airport, which is approximately 140 km away. The sanctuary is well-connected by road, and one can easily reach by bus, taxi, or car from nearby cities like Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, and Madurai.
- Tips for Visitors
- Always follow the rules and regulations of the sanctuary to ensure the safety of the wildlife and yourself.
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes as you may have to walk for long distances during the safari.
- Carry sufficient water and snacks during the safari as the sanctuary does not have any food outlets inside.
- Do not litter inside the sanctuary and always carry back your waste.
- Carry a good quality camera and binoculars to capture the stunning beauty of the sanctuary and its wildlife.
- FAQs
Q. Is Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary open throughout the year? A. Yes, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is open throughout the year, except during the monsoon season.
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Q. Is it safe to visit Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary? A. Yes, it is safe to visit Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. However, always follow the rules and regulations of the sanctuary to ensure your safety.
Q. Can we go on a safari in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary? A. Yes, visitors can go on a safari in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Safaris are conducted by the forest department and can be booked at the entrance of the sanctuary.
Q. Are there any accommodation options available inside the sanctuary? A. Yes, there are several accommodation options available inside the sanctuary, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury resorts.
Q. Is it possible to spot a tiger in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary? A. Yes, it is possible to spot a tiger in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. However, the chances of spotting a
