The
Periyar wildlife sanctuary is situated near Kumily(4 kilometers), Kerala, in
the hills of the Wesern Ghats in India. Spread over an area of 777 square
kilometers, the Periyar sanctuary is an ideal place to watch animals playing
in their natural habitat.
Flora : The rich and diverse flora of Periyar sanctuary
consists of tropical and semi evergreen forests around the reservoir, and
the moist deciduous forest and Woody grasslands in the central part of the
park. The thick vegetation of the area also comprises the marshy areas along
the fringes of the Periyar lake, which inhabits large mammals. Some of the
major trees of the sanctuary are Teak, Rosewood, Terminalia, Eucalyptus,
Sandalwood, Jacaranda(a timber tree with purple flowers), Mango, Jamun,
Tamarind, Banyan, Pipal, Plumeria, Gulmohar and Bamboo and many others.
Fauna : The Periyar wildlife sanctuary homes a diverse
fauna as the wildlife that exists here is unique and diverse. Better known
for its elusive tigers and Asian elephants, the sanctuary shelters species
such as Gaurs, sambars, Nilgiri langurs, wild boars, spotted deers, Malabar
giant squirrels and striped necked mongoose.
Over 260 species of migratory and
domestic birds are found in the Periyar sanctuary. Some of the major species
of birds found in the park comprises the Nilgiri wood pigeons, black-winged
kites, blue-winged parakeets, great Indian hornbills, white-bellied tree
pies, laughing thrushes, fly catchers, darters, cormorants, barbets and
plovers among many others.
Other Attractions
Kumily : A developing town, Kumily is at a mere distance
of 4 kilometers from Periyar.
Cradomom Hills : The scenic beauty of the Cardamom hills
is one of the most pampered tourist spots in Kerala.
How to reach
Air : The nearest airport is at Kochi(Cochin) at a
distance of 200 kilometers from Periyar. One can also take a flight to
Madurai in Tamil Nadu, 140 kilometers from the destination.
Rail : Kottayam at distance of 114 kilometers from
Periyar, is the nearest railhead.
Road
:Periyar is well connected via road ways. Kumily, the nearest town from
Periyar is properly connected with both the states - Kerala and Tamil Nadu
by private buses, state buses or coaches.
Best Time to Visit
The best months to visit the Periyar wildlife sanctuary is from October to
June.
General Information
Avoid the sanctuary in the months of July and August due to heavy rain.
You can take up boat cruise or elephant safari to view the wildlife of the
Periyar sanctuary.
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