Periyar Tiger Reserve, located in the state of Kerala in India, is a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The park is known for its vast variety of flora and fauna, but the real highlight of the reserve is its thriving population of tigers. If you’re planning a family trip to India, the Periyar Tiger Reserve should definitely be on your list of places to visit.
The Periyar Tiger Reserve is spread over 925 square kilometers of lush green forests, hills, and valleys. The reserve is home to a diverse range of wildlife including elephants, leopards, deer, and of course, tigers. The reserve also houses a large number of bird species making it a bird-watching haven.
One of the best ways to explore the reserve is by taking a boat ride on the Periyar Lake. The boat ride offers a unique opportunity to spot wildlife along the banks of the lake, such as wild elephants and bison. You can also take guided nature walks and trekking tours to explore the dense forests and get a closer look at the wildlife.
If you’re visiting the reserve with kids, there are plenty of activities to keep them engaged and entertained. You can take them to the Elephant Junction, located just outside the reserve, to watch and interact with the gentle giants. The kids will love the chance to get up close and personal with the elephants, and even feed and bathe them.
Another popular attraction for kids is the Kalari Center, which offers martial arts performances and lessons. The center showcases the traditional Indian martial art form of Kalaripayattu and also offers training sessions for kids.
Accommodations:
- Spice Village: This eco-resort is located near the Periyar Tiger Reserve and offers comfortable cottages and villas. The resort also has a spa, swimming pool, and multiple restaurants serving local and international cuisine.
- Elephant Court: This luxury resort is located near the Periyar Tiger Reserve and offers spacious rooms and suites. The resort also has a spa, swimming pool, and multiple restaurants serving local and international cuisine.
Restaurants:
- Periyar Cafe: This restaurant is located in Kumily and serves a variety of Indian and international cuisine. The restaurant has a casual ambience and is perfect for a quick meal.
- Spice Village Restaurant: This restaurant is located inside the Spice Village resort and serves traditional Kerala cuisine. The restaurant has a beautiful ambience and is perfect for a romantic dinner.
Other travel tips:
- Wildlife safari: Periyar Tiger Reserve is home to several wildlife species, including tigers, elephants, and deer. You can take a guided safari to explore the reserve and observe the wildlife.
- Boat ride: You can take a boat ride on the Periyar Lake and enjoy the scenic beauty of the reserve. The boat ride is also a great opportunity to spot wildlife and birds.
- Spice plantation visit: The region around the Periyar Tiger Reserve is known for its spice plantations, and you can take a guided tour to learn about the different spices and how they are grown.
- Ayurvedic spa treatment: Kerala is famous for its Ayurvedic spa treatments, and you can indulge in a relaxing spa session at one of the many spas located near the Periyar Tiger Reserve.
In conclusion, a trip to the Periyar Tiger Reserve is an unforgettable experience for both adults and children. With its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and engaging activities, the reserve is the perfect destination for families looking for an adventure-filled vacation. So pack your bags, grab your kids, and head to Periyar for an experience you’ll never forget.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A. The Periyar Tiger Reserve is a wildlife reserve located in the state of Kerala in India. It covers an area of 925 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including tigers, elephants, leopards, and a variety of bird species.
A. Taking a boat ride on the Periyar Lake is one of the best ways to explore the reserve and spot wildlife. You can also take guided nature walks and trekking tours to get a closer look at the wildlife and explore the dense forests.
A. The Elephant Junction offers a chance to interact with elephants and feed and bathe them. The Kalari Center showcases traditional Indian martial art form of Kalaripayattu and offers training sessions for kids.
A. The Spice Village eco-resort and Elephant Court luxury resort offer comfortable accommodations near the reserve. Both resorts have a spa, swimming pool, and multiple restaurants serving local and international cuisine.
A. Periyar Cafe serves a variety of Indian and international cuisine, while the Spice Village Restaurant serves traditional Kerala cuisine. Both restaurants offer a unique dining experience.
FAQs
A. A wildlife safari is a guided tour through the reserve to observe the wildlife. The Periyar Tiger Reserve offers guided safari tours to spot tigers, elephants, deer, and other wildlife.
A. The region around the Periyar Tiger Reserve is known for its spice plantations, and visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the different spices and how they are grown.
A. Ayurvedic spa treatment is a traditional Indian wellness treatment that promotes relaxation and rejuvenation. Kerala is famous for its Ayurvedic spa treatments, and visitors can indulge in a relaxing spa session at one of the many spas located near the Periyar Tiger Reserve.
A. The best time to visit the reserve is between October and June, as the weather is pleasant, and the chances of spotting wildlife are high.
A. The nearest airport to the reserve is the Cochin International Airport, which is approximately 140 km away. The reserve is well-connected by road and can also be reached by train.
Leave a Reply