The Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve is one of the most captivating wildlife parks in the world. Situated within the confines of the Western Ghats in the southern Indian state of Kerala, it spreads over 350 sq km. It is one of the 18 reserves under Project Tiger. Periyar is a national park as well as a protected tiger reserve, whose total area is about 778 km sq, and is located 1200 to 1800 m above sea level. The terrain ranges from hilly to flat grassland areas at the edges of the man made lake which is a major tourist attraction, 914 m above sea level. Marshy grasslands, rolling and steep hills are also present here. The vegetation is of moist deciduous type.
The Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve offers plenty of opportunities for recreation and enjoyment. One can swim in the lake or get permits for angling that are easily available from the Forest Officer in Thekkady. Boat rides on the lake are definitely a must, and motor launches are available throughout the day from 6 am to 4 pm.
Apart from Elephants, the other animals to be seen in the Periyar sanctuary are Gaur, Wild Pigs, Sambar, Barking Deer, Mouse Deer, Dole or Indian Wild Dog and very rarely, a Tiger. There are, now, an estimated 40 tigers here. Four species of primates are found at Periyar - the rare lion-tailed macaque, the Nilgiri Langur, Common Langur And Bonnet Macaque. Periyar also happens to be the habitat of the elusive Nilgiri Tahr, which is rarely to be seen.
The birdlife comprises of Darters, Cormorants, Kingfishers, the great Malabar Hornbill and racket-tailed Drongoes. The reptilian population boasts Of Monitor Lizards that can be spotted basking in the sun, on the rocks along the lakeshore. Visitors who trek into the Periyar national park often see a Python and sometimes even a King Cobra.
In the lap of the mountains, the Periyar wildlife sanctuary's environ is like a canvas of many shades. The fresh air of the moist deciduous forest gives one a chance to experience the peace and serenity and long to return for more.
The temperature during summers (April-June) ranges from 21°C to 31°C with a high level of moisture in the air. The monsoon (July-August) season brings heavy rainfall and the temperature ranges from 19°C to 21°C. The winter season lasts from October to March and is cool and pleasant. The best months to visit the park are from October to April.
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