The
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Lying close to the plantations,
in the rich jungles of Periyar
in Thekkady is one of the world's
most fascinating natural wildlife
reserves - the Periyar Wildlife
Sanctuary. Spread across 777
sq. km, of which 360 sq. km
is thick evergreen forest, the
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary was
declared a Tiger Reserve in
1978. Noted for its geo-morphological
diversity of wildlife and scenic
beauty, the Reserve attracts
visitors from all over the world.
The splendid artificial lake
formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam
across the Periyar river adds
to the charm of the park. This
is the only sanctuary in India
where you can have the unique
experience of viewing wildlife
at close quarters from the safety
of a boat on the lake. The greatest
attraction of Periyar remains
the large herds of wild elephants
that come down to the lake's
edge. More Pictures Click (New)
The
sanctuary watch towers
There are three watch towers
for observing wild life -
at Edappalayam and Manakkavala
and Thannikudi. Reservations
can be made at the Forest
information Counter, Thekkady.
Tel. : +91-486-322028.
Kumily
This plantation town, closely
associated with Thekkady,
is situated on the outskirts
of the Periyar Sanctuary.
It is an important shopping
centre and spice trade centre,
the main bus station and most
of the medium range accommodation
in the Periyar region is in
Kumily.
Murikkady
Washed in fresh spice scented
air, Murikkady is a panorama
of cardamom, coffee and pepper
plantations.
Pandikuzhi
This picturesque place is
cradled between Chellarkovil
and the Tamil Nadu State border
is a popular picnic spot.
Pandikuzhi offers great opportunities
for trekking and is a photographer's
delight.
Mangala
Devi Temple
This ancient temple is hidden
in the dense woods at the
top of a peak 1337 M above
sea level. The temple is built
in the traditional Kerala
style of architecture. Visitors
are allowed here only on the
Chithra Pournami festival
day. The peak commands a panoramic
view of the other side of
the ghats and the vast plains
of Tamil Nadu. Permission
to visit the area can be obtained
from the Wildlife Warden at
Thekkady. Tel. : 91-486-322027.
Chellarkovil
This sleepy little village
with its spectacular view
of the plains (and cascading
waterfalls during the monsoons)
is a feast for your eyes.
The village slopes down to
the famous coconut groves
of Kambam in neighbouring
Tamil Nadu.
