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Explore this famous sanctuary in Thekkady with its unique boat safari on Periyar Lake, offering chances to see wild elephants, deer, gaur, and diverse birdlife.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Thekkady, is one of South India's most significant protected areas, centered around a large artificial lake created by the Mullaperiyar Dam. The experience here is unique because the primary mode of wildlife viewing is by boat. Visitors take a 90-minute boat safari on Periyar Lake, which winds through the submerged tree stumps and forested hillsides of the Western Ghats. From the boat, you have a good chance of spotting herds of wild elephants, sambar deer, gaur (Indian bison), and wild boars that come to the water's edge to drink.
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Periyar Tiger Reserve, Idukki, Thekkady, Kerala 685536, Thekkady, Thekkady, Kerala, India
Air
Cochin International Airport (COK) is the nearest airport, located about 155 km away (a 4-5 hour drive). Madurai Airport (IXM) in Tamil Nadu is another option, approximately 140 km away (a 3-4 hour drive).
Train
The nearest major railway station is Kottayam (KTYM), about 110 km away. From Kottayam, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Thekkady, which takes around 3-4 hours.
Road
Thekkady is easily accessible by road from major cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. National Highway 183 connects Thekkady to other towns. Regular state-run and private buses operate from Kottayam, Kochi, and Madurai.
Local Transport
Within Thekkady and the adjacent town of Kumily, auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available. Many hotels and spice gardens are accessible on foot. Jeeps can also be hired for local sightseeing tours.
Nearby restaurants near Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
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