Periyar Lake is nestled cosily within the Periyar Tiger Reserve in Thekkady. It is an artificial lake which is formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam. This tranquil lake located amidst the lush greenery of the Western Ghats is surrounded by dense forests. Tourists can marvel at the serene natural beauty of the place and spot diverse wildlife. Periyar Lake attracts nature lovers from far and wide and serves as an important ecotourism destination in Southern India.
Boat cruises on Periyar Lake are operated by the tourist and forest departments of Kerala. These cruises offer a tranquil journey through the wildlife-rich Periyar Tiger Reserve. They provide ample opportunities for wildlife sightings.
Bamboo rafting is another popular activity that you can indulge in from dawn to dusk. As you glide gently through the serene waters of the lake, be amazed by the scenic views and the wilderness of the lake. While rafting, you can also observe the diverse flora and fauna nearby.
Highlights
• Marvel at the scenic beauty of the calm waters of Periyar Lake which is surrounded by lushly forested hills.
• Enjoy an exciting boat cruise and immerse yourselves in the rich natural abundance of the region.
• Surround yourself with the sounds of the diverse species of birds and animals as you enjoy your boat cruise.
• Spot a plethora of wildlife like elephants, gaurs, sambhars, and vibrant birds on the banks that arrive there to quench their thirst.
• Try bamboo rafting at Periyar Lake and soak in the natural beauty of the tranquil lake and the engulfing forest-clad hills.
How To Reach
By road: Periyar Lake is about 20 km from the city centre and you can easily reach there in approximately 50 minutes via NH183. You can take a private taxi or drive yourself to reach the destination.
Best Time To Visit
Periyar Lake is a year-round eco-tourism destination. You can witness the natural beauty of the Western Ghats and the thriving diverse fauna throughout the year.
- Best season: Months from September to May have an ideal climate for sightseeing. Winter months from October to February are ideal for wildlife spotting and outdoor activities.
- Best day in the week: For a more peaceful experience, it’s recommended to visit on weekdays to avoid crowds.
- Best time of the day: Mornings are best for bird watching. Afternoons are great for sightings of wild animals who reach the lake to quench their thirst.
Enjoy an Exciting Boat Cruise
The boat cruises are operated by the tourist and forest departments of Kerala and offer a tranquil journey. Glide across the serene waters of Periyar Lake and enjoy the lush greenery of the Periyar Tiger Reserve. As you cruise, spot wildlife like elephants, deer, gaurs, and sambhars on the banks of the lake.
Experience Adventure with Bamboo Rafting
As the sun rises, embark on an exciting and adventurous bamboo rafting activity. This dawn-to-dusk programme lets you hike and raft through some of the richest forest tracts of the reserve. You can observe the diverse flora and fauna up close during the ride.
Enjoy Spotting Diverse Wildlife with Safari Ride
Enjoy a safari ride driving through the dense forests surrounding Periyar Lake. The safari takes you through different terrains, each offering a unique ecosystem. You can spot herds of gaur, sambhar, wild boar, and elephants roaming freely in their natural habitat.
Watch Vibrant Birds In Action
Periyar Lake is Heaven for bird watchers. From the melodious calls of the birds to their graceful flight, bird watching at Periyar Lake is a soothing experience. Several species of native and migratory birds like darters, egrets, and kingfishers can be seen perched on the dead trees. The birdlife here is abundant, making it a paradise for bird watchers. So, if you are a birdlife enthusiast, do not miss your binoculars while visiting Periyar Lake.
