Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Chellarkovil Viewpoint is a hidden gem that promises breathtaking vistas and a serene atmosphere, making it a favorite among nature lovers and photographers. Perched high on the Western Ghats, this viewpoint offers a magnificent panoramic outlook over the vast plains of Tamil Nadu that stretch out endlessly below. The dramatic landscape is characterized by rolling green valleys, distant misty mountains, and occasionally, glimpses of cascading waterfalls, especially vibrant during and immediately after the monsoon season. The air here is often cool and refreshing, providing a welcome respite. What makes Chellarkovil truly special is the unique geographical transition it represents. From this vantage point, one can clearly observe the subtle yet distinct changes in topography, vegetation, and even climate between Kerala's lush hills and Tamil Nadu's drier plains. There's a watchtower equipped with a telescope, allowing visitors to get a closer look at the distant villages, agricultural fields, and the intricate patterns of the landscape. The sunrise and sunset views from Chellarkovil are particularly spectacular, with the sky ablaze in hues of orange, pink, and purple, casting a golden glow over the entire valley ? a paradise for landscape photographers. Apart from the primary viewpoint, there are smaller waterfalls nearby, often referred to as "Aruvikuzhi Falls," where visitors can enjoy the cool spray and capture more scenic shots. The journey to Chellarkovil itself is part of the experience, winding through beautiful spice plantations and local villages, offering glimpses into rural life in this border region. It's an ideal spot for a peaceful picnic, quiet contemplation, or simply to marvel at the grandeur of nature's canvas.

The boat safari on the artificial Periyar Lake is undoubtedly the most iconic and popular way to experience the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The lake, formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam, acts as a permanent water source that draws a significant amount of wildlife to its shores, particularly during the dry season. As you glide silently across the tranquil waters, you're positioned perfectly to observe animals coming down to drink, graze, and cool off. The experience unfolds against a backdrop of submerged tree stumps, a testament to the forest that was inundated when the dam was built, creating a unique and almost surreal landscape. The early morning (7:30 AM) and late afternoon (3:30 PM) boat trips are highly recommended as these are the times when animals are most active and likely to be seen. Keep a keen eye out for Asian Elephants, often seen in herds, gracefully moving through the vegetation or splashing in the water. Indian Bison (Gaur), with their impressive size, are also frequent visitors to the lake's edge. You might spot Sambar deer foraging, Wild Pigs rooting around, and various species of monkeys like the Nilgiri Langur. The lake itself is home to a variety of aquatic birds, including Darters, Egrets, and Kingfishers, often perched on the dead tree branches protruding from the water. Binoculars are highly recommended to enhance your viewing experience and spot animals camouflaged in the distant foliage. The boat safaris are conducted by the Kerala Forest Department and KTDC, using double-decked boats that provide good vantage points for all passengers. Despite the relatively short duration (around 1.5 hours), the peaceful atmosphere and the potential for close wildlife encounters make this a truly memorable and relaxing way to immerse yourself in the heart of the sanctuary. It's an essential activity for first-time visitors to Periyar.

Elephant Junction provides visitors with an opportunity for direct interaction with Asian elephants, offering various activities centered around these magnificent creatures. Unlike the wild elephants in Periyar National Park, these elephants are domesticated and trained, allowing for a more hands-on and up-close experience. The aim of these camps is to provide an educational and enjoyable interaction, often with an emphasis on responsible elephant tourism. The most popular activity at Elephant Junction is the elephant ride. Visitors can mount these gentle giants and embark on a short trek through designated trails, often winding through small spice or rubber plantations. This unique perspective from atop an elephant provides a different way to experience the local landscape. Beyond rides, many camps offer a range of interactive experiences. This might include elephant feeding, where you can offer bananas or other approved fruits to the elephants, feeling their trunks as they gently accept the treat. Another highlight is the elephant bathing experience, where visitors can participate in washing and scrubbing the elephants, a truly memorable and playful interaction that highlights the bond between the mahouts (caretakers) and their animals. Some camps also demonstrate how elephants are used in timber logging (a traditional practice, though now often done for demonstration purposes) or how they respond to commands. While controversy exists regarding elephant tourism, many of these centers in Kerala strive to maintain good welfare standards, providing elephants with proper care, diet, and rest. The interactions are typically supervised by experienced mahouts, who share insights into the elephants' behavior, training, and the importance of their conservation. It's an experience that can be particularly appealing to families with children, offering a chance to learn about and connect with elephants in a controlled environment.

For those who wish to experience the Periyar forest on foot and connect more intimately with its smaller wonders, a "Nature Walk" or "Green Walk" is an excellent choice. These are interpretative trekking programs led by trained local tribal guides, offering a deeper understanding of the forest ecosystem, beyond just spotting large mammals. The walks are designed to be relatively easy to moderate, making them accessible to a wide range of visitors. The guided treks typically last for 2.5 to 4 hours, taking you through different types of forest patches, including moist deciduous and evergreen areas, along natural trails. Your tribal guide, with their intricate knowledge of the forest, will point out various flora ? identifying medicinal plants, unique trees, and exotic orchids. They will also help you spot smaller creatures often missed from a vehicle or boat, such as diverse species of birds (including endemic ones like the Malabar Grey Hornbill), colorful butterflies, interesting insects, and sometimes even reptiles or amphibians. While large animal sightings are less frequent on these walks compared to the boat safari, you might still encounter smaller mammals like Giant Squirrels, Nilgiri Langurs, or the occasional Sambar deer. These walks emphasize silent observation and appreciation of the forest's subtle nuances. The guides often share local folklore, traditional uses of plants, and insights into their community's harmonious relationship with the forest. It?s a fantastic opportunity for birdwatching, macro photography, and simply immersing yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of the jungle. The "Green Walk" specifically focuses on providing a better understanding of the various trees and plants found in Periyar, making it particularly insightful for botany enthusiasts. These walks are a testament to Periyar's successful eco-tourism model, providing direct benefits and empowerment to the local communities who are the true guardians of the forest.

Ottakathalamedu is a lesser-known but equally captivating viewpoint near Thekkady, offering an expansive panorama that extends beyond the immediate hills to encompass distant towns and even parts of Tamil Nadu. The name "Ottakathalamedu" literally translates to "camel's head hill," referring to the shape of the rock formations at the summit. The journey to this viewpoint involves a pleasant drive, often through spice and tea plantations, followed by a short, easy trek to the top. This makes it an accessible option for most visitors seeking stunning scenic beauty without extensive physical exertion. Upon reaching the summit, visitors are greeted with a breathtaking 360-degree view. On one side, the lush green expanse of Kerala's Western Ghats unfolds, with rolling hills, valleys, and forest patches stretching as far as the eye can see. On the other side, the plains of Tamil Nadu are visible, especially clear on a bright day. The cool breeze at this elevation adds to the refreshing experience. It?s an ideal spot for photography, capturing the vastness of the landscape and the dramatic interplay of light and shadow, especially during sunrise or sunset. The quietude of Ottakathalamedu makes it perfect for introspection, enjoying a moment of solitude, or a peaceful picnic amidst nature. Unlike some of the more crowded spots, Ottakathalamedu retains a sense of untouched tranquility, allowing visitors to truly connect with the natural grandeur of the region. It's a great alternative or addition to the more popular viewpoints, providing a different perspective of the captivating border region between the two states.

Border Hiking is a strenuous yet incredibly rewarding full-day trekking program for adventure enthusiasts seeking a deeper and more challenging exploration of the Periyar Tiger Reserve. This conservation-oriented activity is designed to take visitors through the park's peripheral regions, offering unique perspectives of its diverse ecosystems and providing breathtaking panoramic views. The trek is typically led by a team comprising a trained tribal guide and an armed forest guard, ensuring both safety and expert insights into the forest. The trail winds through varied landscapes, including dense forests, grasslands, and challenging hill ridges. The altitudinal changes provide a wide range of vantage points from which to observe the sprawling plains of Tamil Nadu on one side and the verdant, hilly expanse of the Periyar forests on the other. This activity is not just about physical exertion; it's also a serious opportunity for wildlife observation. Due to the varied habitats covered, participants have a higher chance of spotting a diverse range of animals. Gaur (Indian Bison), with their formidable size, are often sighted in these higher altitudes, as are Sambar deer and occasional elephants. The elusive Sloth Bear can also be encountered. The journey is also a treat for birdwatchers, as numerous species inhabit these varied elevations. The armed guard ensures safety, while the tribal guide shares their deep knowledge of the forest ? identifying animal tracks, calls, and various plant species with medicinal or traditional uses. Border Hiking is a testament to Periyar's commitment to involving local communities in conservation, providing them with sustainable livelihoods while offering an authentic and challenging wilderness experience to visitors. It?s an unforgettable journey that combines adventure, breathtaking scenery, and deep ecological insight.

The Tribal Heritage Museum, accompanied by a "Tribal Heritage Walk," offers a unique and poignant cultural experience within the Periyar Tiger Reserve, providing a window into the lives and traditions of the indigenous tribal communities of the region, particularly the Mannans and Palians. This initiative is a vital component of the Kerala Forest Department's eco-development program, designed to empower and involve tribal communities in conservation and sustainable tourism. The museum itself is not a grand edifice but a thoughtfully curated space showcasing the traditional artifacts, tools, and practices of these communities. Visitors can explore displays featuring ancient agricultural implements, traditional fishing and hunting gear, a variety of musical instruments crafted from natural materials, handcrafted household utensils made from bamboo and other forest produce, and traditional costumes used during rituals and ceremonies. Informative panels provide insights into their social structures, unique customs, age-old folk tales, and their remarkable, centuries-old knowledge of forest resources ? not just for sustenance but also for medicinal purposes, forming the basis of their traditional healing practices. The experience is greatly enhanced by the accompanying Tribal Heritage Walk, which is typically guided by members of the tribal community themselves. This guided walk takes visitors through a natural trail, leading towards a tribal hamlet. It offers a rare opportunity to respectfully interact with the local people, observe their daily routines, and understand their deep-rooted and harmonious coexistence with the forest. This program highlights the importance of preserving indigenous cultures and their invaluable ecological wisdom, demonstrating how their traditional way of life is intrinsically linked to the health and biodiversity of the Periyar Tiger Reserve. It's an authentic, respectful, and educational cultural immersion that provides a profound understanding of human-nature relationships in this protected landscape.

Murikkady offers a captivating experience for nature lovers and those interested in the spice wealth of Kerala, without the intense crowds of the Periyar Tiger Reserve. This serene hamlet is renowned for its sprawling spice plantations, particularly for cardamom, pepper, coffee, and vanilla. A visit to Murikkady provides an insightful opportunity to engage in a guided plantation tour. These tours allow visitors to walk through the fragrant fields, learn about the cultivation process, from planting and harvesting to drying and processing. The air in Murikkady is thick with the distinct aromas of these spices, creating an olfactory delight. Guides often explain the various uses of these spices, not just in cuisine but also in traditional medicine and cosmetics, providing a deeper appreciation for Kerala's "Spice Garden" heritage. Beyond the plantations, Murikkady is characterized by its lush greenery, rolling hills, and tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for leisurely walks and photography. The landscape is dotted with small streams and charming local houses, offering glimpses into rural Keralan life. It's a perfect place to unwind, soak in the natural beauty, and enjoy the cool, refreshing climate. Many visitors choose to buy fresh, organic spices directly from the farms or local shops, ensuring authenticity and supporting local livelihoods. Murikkady serves as a peaceful escape from the more activity-driven areas of Thekkady, allowing for quiet contemplation and a genuine connection with the agricultural heartland of this beautiful region.