Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and Tiger Reserve

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is one of South India's most popular tourist attractions. British engineers created the picturesque artificial lake at the heart of the sanctuary in 1895 as a way to irrigate nearby districts and provide water to the city of Madurai.

The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1934 and became a tiger reserve in 1973, it is also known as Thekkady Tiger Reserve, Although the biggest draw to the sanctuary is the 900 or so Indian elephants that roam freely.

Other wildlife found within Periyar includes guar (Indian bison), sambar, wild boar, langur, sloth bear, otters and lion-tailed macaque. Bird watching is another desirable activity with sightings of species such as darters, storks, kingfishers, Malabar Hornbill and racket-tailed Drongoes. Other interesting varieties of birds and butterflies have also been spotted.

The mountain scenery, two-hour lake cruises and guided jungle walks make for a memorable visit! The treks allow visitors to come face to face with elephant herds or to observe the wildlife from watchtowers and viewing platforms. The best time to visit Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is from October to June.

Spice plantations surrounding Periyar welcome visitors on organized tours such as the coffee and cardamom plantations of Murikaddy, pepper plantations of Vandiperiyar and several tea factories.