How To Reach Periyar Tiger Reserve
The Periyar Tiger Reserve (PTR), also known as the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, is one of the most protected and ecologically rich areas in India. Established in 1950, it was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978 under Project Tiger. Sprawling over an area that combines evergreen, semi-evergreen, moist de ciduous forests, and patches of grassland, it is an ecological treasure trove nestled in the Cardamom and Pandalam Hills of the Southern Western Ghats. The reserve's landscape is dominated by the artificial Periyar Lake, a reservoir created by the construction of the Mullaperiyar Dam in 1895, which winds through the forest and is the lifeblood for its diverse fauna. The primary attraction is the boating on this lake, which offers a unique vantage point to observe wildlife, particularly herds of Indian elephants, Gaur (Indian bison), Sambar deer, and wild boars, as they come to the water's edge to drink.
While the elusive Bengal tiger is the reserve's flagship species, its rich biodiversity extends far beyond, housing over 60 species of mammals, 320 species of birds, 45 species of reptiles, and 160 species of butterflies. The reserve is managed under strict eco-tourism guidelines, which ensures that its activities are sustainable and directly benefit the local communities, including the indigenous Mannan and Paliyan tribes. PTR offers a plethora of eco-friendly activities like nature walks, trekking, and the thrilling Periyar Tiger Trail, a guided trekking program conducted by former poachers now dedicated to conservation. The presence of dense spice plantations and a pleasant climate makes the entire region a refreshing and memorable experience for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers alike. The reserve is a shining example of successful conservation efforts and is one of the most visited protected areas in India.
How to Reach
Reaching by Air:
The Periyar Tiger Reserve (Thekkady/Kumily) does not have its own airport, and the nearest major airports are located a few hours away.
Cochin International Airport (COK): Located in Kochi, this is the largest and most well-connected international airport in Kerala, approximately 145-150 KMS from Thekkady. It handles flights from all major Indian cities and international destinations. Upon arrival, one can hire a pre-paid taxi or a private cab. The scenic road journey takes about 4 to 5 hours and is the most convenient option for a smooth transfer, offering views of the changing landscapes from coastal plains to the hill ranges.
Madurai Airport (IXM): Located in the neighboring state of Tamil Nadu, this airport is another viable option, situated about 150 KMS from Thekkady. It mainly handles domestic flights connecting to major South Indian cities like Chennai, Bengaluru, and Delhi. The road journey from Madurai is slightly shorter, taking approximately 3. 5 to 4 hours, and is particularly scenic as it passes through the plains of Tamil Nadu before ascending into the Ghats.
Reaching by Train: There is no railway station in Thekkady or the nearby town of Kumily. The closest major railway station is in Kottayam.
Kottayam Railway Station (KTYM): This is the nearest main railhead, located about 107 KMS away. Kottayam is a significant junction on the Southern Railway network, with good connectivity to major metropolitan cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bengaluru. From the station, travelers can hire a private taxi, which takes around 3 hours to reach Thekkady. Alternatively, state-run and private buses are available from Kottayam to Kumily.
Ernakulam Junction (ERS) / Ernakulam Town (ERN): Located in Kochi, these stations are major railway hubs approximately 150 KMS away, offering more train options, including long-distance express services. The road journey from Ernakulam takes about 4 to 5 hours.
Reaching by Road: Thekkady is exceptionally well-connected by road, with the road journey itself being a key part of the experience, winding through spice plantations and mountains.
Private Vehicles and Taxis: Hiring a private taxi or driving a personal vehicle is the most flexible option. The nearest major towns, Kottayam (107 KMS) and Madurai (150 KMS), offer excellent taxi services. The roads, particularly the state highways, are well-maintained and offer a beautiful drive.
Public Bus Service: The town of Kumily, which is the gateway to the reserve, has a busy bus station. Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operates regular bus services from all major cities in Kerala, including Kochi, Trivandrum, and Kottayam, as well as inter-state services from towns in Tamil Nadu like Madurai and Theni. Buses are a very economical and frequent mode of transport, though they take longer than private taxis.
Reaching by Local Transport: Once in Kumily town, the remaining distance to the Periyar Tiger Reserve entrance (around 4 KMS) is easily covered.
Auto-Rickshaws: These are readily available in Kumily and are the most common way to get to the park entrance or the boat jetty. It's advisable to negotiate the fare before starting the journey.
Local Taxis/Jeeps: Taxis can be hired for short distances to the park or for day trips to nearby attractions like Murikkady or Chellarkovil. Jeep Safaris for the park and nearby areas are also available and can be booked through hotels or local tour operators.
Cochin International Airport (COK): Located in Kochi, this is the largest and most well-connected international airport in Kerala, approximately 145-150 KMS from Thekkady. It handles flights from all major Indian cities and international destinations. Upon arrival, one can hire a pre-paid taxi or a private cab. The scenic road journey takes about 4 to 5 hours and is the most convenient option for a smooth transfer, offering views of the changing landscapes from coastal plains to the hill ranges.
Madurai Airport (IXM): Located in the neighboring state of Tamil Nadu, this airport is another viable option, situated about 150 KMS from Thekkady. It mainly handles domestic flights connecting to major South Indian cities like Chennai, Bengaluru, and Delhi. The road journey from Madurai is slightly shorter, taking approximately 3. 5 to 4 hours, and is particularly scenic as it passes through the plains of Tamil Nadu before ascending into the Ghats.
Reaching by Train: There is no railway station in Thekkady or the nearby town of Kumily. The closest major railway station is in Kottayam.
Kottayam Railway Station (KTYM): This is the nearest main railhead, located about 107 KMS away. Kottayam is a significant junction on the Southern Railway network, with good connectivity to major metropolitan cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bengaluru. From the station, travelers can hire a private taxi, which takes around 3 hours to reach Thekkady. Alternatively, state-run and private buses are available from Kottayam to Kumily.
Ernakulam Junction (ERS) / Ernakulam Town (ERN): Located in Kochi, these stations are major railway hubs approximately 150 KMS away, offering more train options, including long-distance express services. The road journey from Ernakulam takes about 4 to 5 hours.
Reaching by Road: Thekkady is exceptionally well-connected by road, with the road journey itself being a key part of the experience, winding through spice plantations and mountains.
Private Vehicles and Taxis: Hiring a private taxi or driving a personal vehicle is the most flexible option. The nearest major towns, Kottayam (107 KMS) and Madurai (150 KMS), offer excellent taxi services. The roads, particularly the state highways, are well-maintained and offer a beautiful drive.
Public Bus Service: The town of Kumily, which is the gateway to the reserve, has a busy bus station. Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operates regular bus services from all major cities in Kerala, including Kochi, Trivandrum, and Kottayam, as well as inter-state services from towns in Tamil Nadu like Madurai and Theni. Buses are a very economical and frequent mode of transport, though they take longer than private taxis.
Reaching by Local Transport: Once in Kumily town, the remaining distance to the Periyar Tiger Reserve entrance (around 4 KMS) is easily covered.
Auto-Rickshaws: These are readily available in Kumily and are the most common way to get to the park entrance or the boat jetty. It's advisable to negotiate the fare before starting the journey.
Local Taxis/Jeeps: Taxis can be hired for short distances to the park or for day trips to nearby attractions like Murikkady or Chellarkovil. Jeep Safaris for the park and nearby areas are also available and can be booked through hotels or local tour operators.
Periyar Tiger Reserve Tourism:-
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