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The Western Ghats' scenic village of Periyar, Kerala is encircled by green hills and deep forests. Kerala is a well-liked tourist destination because of the breathtaking natural beauty and animal sightings there. The town is a part of the Periyar National Park, one of the most well-known wildlife sanctuaries in India, and is situated in the district of Idukki, Kerala.
The nearby towns of Murikkady and Vandiperiyar, are full of spice plantations. These plantations welcome visitors who are interested in learning more about the different spices grown there, such as cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon. The area around the town, including the villages of Vandiperiyar and Chellarkovil, is home to numerous tea plantations.
Periyar, Kerala is home to many temples and other religious monuments, including the Mangala Devi Temple and the Kadathanadan Kalari Center, which is a centre for traditional martial arts, in addition to its natural beauty and wildlife. The town also houses a number of cultural institutions and museums, including the Tribal Heritage Museum, which presents the tribal communities' customs and way of life.
Periyar's eco-tourism initiatives, which emphasise sustainable tourism methods, are one of its distinctive features. Visitors can enjoy the area's stunning natural surroundings while taking part in a variety of eco-friendly activities like trekking, bamboo rafting, and nature walks.
Ayurvedic spas and wellness facilities in Periyar, Kerala are also well-known for their selection of procedures and therapies for both physical and mental regeneration. Guests can participate in yoga classes, herbal baths, and other traditional Ayurvedic therapies designed to promote overall health and well-being.
Don’t miss: 7 places to visit in Periyar, Kerala
1. Periyar National Park
The most visited destination in Periyar, Kerala is Periyar National Park, which is renowned for its verdant forests and abundant wildlife. Considered among the best wildlife sanctuaries in India, crowds head here to see elephants, tigers, leopards, and many other animals in the park's natural habitat. Visitors can go on a guided safari, too. The park's hours are 6 AM to 6 PM, and each person must pay Rs. 25 as an entrance fee.
2. Periyar Tiger Reserve
The Bengal tiger is protected at the Periyar Tiger Reserve, which is a section of the Periyar National Park. The reserve's spectacular flora and fauna, including some of the rarest types of plants and animals, can be seen by visitors who join a guided walk through it. An entry fee of Rs. 50 per person is charged, and it is open from 6 AM to 6 PM.
3. Mangala Devi Temple
The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary's historic Mangala Devi Temple is perched atop a hill and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. So, while you visit one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in India, don’t forget to check out this temple, too. The entrance fee to the temple is Rs. 100 per person, and it is open from 6 AM to 5 PM.
4. Murikkady
Among the best places to visit in Periyar is Murikkady- a stunning plantation town close to the village that is well-known for its spice plants. Guests are welcome to tour the plantations and discover more about the many spices, such as cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon, that are grown here. The entry cost is Rs. 50 per person, and the town is accessible from 9 am to 6 pm.
5. Vandiperiyar
This town is noted for its picturesque scenery and tea plantations and is situated close to the Periyar River. The method of producing tea can be understood by taking a tour of the tea factories. The entry cost is Rs. 50 per person, and the town is accessible from 9 AM to 6 PM.
6. Chellarkovil
Chellarkovil is a picturesque village close to Periyar, Kerala that is well-known for its breathtaking waterfalls and expansive vistas of the surrounding hills. Trekking can be done to reach the waterfalls, where guests can cool down in the chilly water. There is no entrance fee and the village is accessible from 8 am to 5 pm.
7. Abraham's Spice Garden
Abraham's Spice Garden is a stunning space close to Periyar, Kerala that is well-known for its variety of spice plants, which include ginger, turmeric, and vanilla. The garden is open for tours, where guests may discover more about the numerous spices that are grown there. The entry fee to the garden is Rs. 200 per person, and it is open from 9 am to 5 pm.
There are so many lovely places to visit in Periyar, Kerala, as the village offers a special fusion of wellness, culture, wildlife, and natural beauty. For those who want to enjoy the best of Kerala's natural and cultural history, it is a must-visit location. We mean it when we say that if you want to see the various facets of Kerala’s true culture, plan your vacation here today.
While you’re there, please check out some of the best beaches in Kerala. And while there are many places to visit in Periyar, if you’re a true animal person, we’re sure these wildlife sanctuaries will be of interest to you.