Periyar

India

Where the wild meets the spice-scented hills

1 Group Tours·1 Operators·from ₹36,999

Periyar, centered around the Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve in Kerala's Idukki district, is a wildlife sanctuary and spice plantation hub. The park, with its lake and ever...

Best forWildlife EnthusiastsNature LoversHoneymoonersFamily VacationsPhotographersSpice Plantation ToursBudget TravelersWeekend Getaways

Easy to Moderate

|No strenuous activity required for boat safari. Jungle walks require moderate fitness as they involve walking on uneven terrain. Bamboo rafting requires basic swimming ability.

Updated today

Photos

Top Operators

Kailasa Holidays

1 trips · ✓★ 4.7

Upcoming (1)

Destination

GOD'S OWN COUNTRY: KERALA ESCAPE

Kailasa Holidays4.7(372)

Kochi•Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram

6 days•Next: On request

₹36,999 / person

See all 1 trips in Periyar

Explore Nearby

If you like Periyar, you might also enjoy these destinations.

Trips by Departure City

Find Periyar trips departing from your city.

From Kochi

1 trip available

From Thiruvananthapuram

1 trip available

What to Expect

Expect a cool, misty climate, lush green hills, and a mix of wildlife spotting and plantation walks. The main activity is the boat safari on Periyar Lake, which is calm and scenic. You'll also find bamboo rafting, jungle walks, and spice plantation tours. The town of Thekkady (the gateway) has a bustling market and many homestays. Evenings are quiet, with bonfires and Kathakali performances in some resorts. Mobile connectivity is patchy inside the park, and facilities are basic.

Things to Do

Boat Safari on Periyar Lake

1-2 hours·₹300-₹500 per person

Group

Jungle Walk (Guided by Forest Dept.)

2-3 hours·₹200-₹400 per person

Group

Bamboo Rafting

2-3 hours·₹1500-₹2000 per person

Group

Spice Plantation Tour

1-2 hours·₹100-₹300 per person

Group

Kathakali Performance

1 hour·₹200-₹400 per person

Group

Elephant Ride (at elephant camp)

30 minutes·₹500-₹1000 per person

Group

Murikkady Viewpoint

1 hour·Free

Group

Chellarkovil Viewpoint

1-2 hours·Free

Group

Plan Your Trip

How to Reach

By Air: Kochi International Airport (COK) is about 140 km away. From there, hire a taxi (4-5 hours) or take a bus to Kumily/Thekkady. By Train: Nearest major railhead is Kottayam (114 km) or Madurai (140 km). From there, take a taxi or bus. By Road: Well-connected by bus from Kochi, Kottayam, and Madurai. The drive through the Western Ghats is scenic. Self-driving is possible, but be cautious of hairpin bends.

Travel Tips

1Book boat safari tickets online at least a week in advance during peak season.

2Carry a light jacket for the boat ride even in summer; it can get chilly on the water.

3Use the services of a forest guide for jungle walks; they know where animals are likely to be.

4Stay in Thekkady town for easy access to restaurants and transport.

5Try a spice plantation tour to understand Kerala's spice trade.

6If you're driving, fill up fuel before entering the hilly areas; petrol pumps are scarce.

7Respect wildlife: don't feed animals or make loud noises.

8Check the park's closure dates for monsoon before planning.

Local Guide

Food & DiningVeg Friendly

Try local homestay food for authentic Kerala cuisine. For hygiene, eat at busy restaurants with good turnover. In the evenings, many resorts offer traditional Kerala meals with a cultural show.

FAQs

Is Periyar National Park worth visiting?

Yes, if you love nature and can handle uncertainty. The boat safari is unique, and the surrounding spice plantations are beautiful. But don't expect a safari like Africa; animals are often far away.

What is the best time to visit Periyar?

October to March is ideal, with cool weather and good wildlife sightings. Avoid June to September when the park is closed for monsoon.

How many days are enough for Periyar?

Two days is sufficient: one for the boat safari and one for a plantation tour or jungle walk. If you're a serious wildlife enthusiast, add a day.

Is Periyar safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, the area is generally safe. But avoid walking alone in remote areas after dark. Stick to organized tours and homestays with good reviews.

Can I see tigers in Periyar?

Tigers exist, but sightings are extremely rare. You're more likely to see elephants, bison, and deer. Don't come expecting a tiger.

What should I wear for the boat safari?

Wear comfortable clothes in muted colors (like khaki or green) to blend in. Carry a light jacket as it can get cool on the water. Avoid bright colors and strong perfumes.

Are there ATMs in Thekkady?

Yes, there are a few ATMs in Thekkady town, but they may run out of cash during peak season. Carry enough cash for small purchases.

How do I book the Periyar boat safari?

You can book online through the Kerala Forest Department website or in person at the ticket counter. Online booking is recommended during peak season to avoid queues.

Is Periyar suitable for families with kids?

Yes, the boat safari is enjoyable for kids, and the spice plantations are educational. However, long treks may be tiring for young children.

What is the mobile network coverage in Periyar?

Coverage is patchy, especially inside the park. Airtel and Jio work in Thekkady town, but don't rely on connectivity during safaris.

Group Trips to Periyar

Looking for a group tour to Periyar, Kerala? Periyar National Park, also known as Thekkady, is a wildlife paradise nestled in the Western Ghats. It's one of the best places in India for a wildlife group trip, offering boat safaris on the lake, jungle walks, and spice plantation tours. Our Periyar tour packages are designed for Indian travelers aged 20-35 who want an authentic experience without breaking the bank. Whether you're planning a group vacation with friends or a family holiday, Periyar has something for everyone. The best time to visit is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are frequent. You can combine Periyar with nearby destinations like Munnar, Alleppey, or Kumarakom for a complete Kerala tour. Book your Periyar group tour today and explore the wild side of God's Own Country. Our travel experts ensure a seamless experience, from permits to accommodations. Don't miss the chance to see elephants in their natural habitat. Periyar group tour packages start at just ₹36,999. So why wait? Plan your next adventure with TripzSearch and make memories that last a lifetime. Periyar awaits you!

Destination data helps you shortlist trips quickly. Refreshed periodically.