Geographically, the Periyar Sanctuary is spread across the districts of Idukki, Kottayam and Pathanamthitta. It lies in Thekkady which is about 4 kms from Kumili in the Idukki district. Bamboo rafting, an adventurous task is permitted in the Periyar reserve. The place is well connected by roads. The nearest railway station is Kottayam(115 kms) and nearest airport is Cochin(190 kms).
Rankings & Ratings #3 in 10 Things to Do in Thekkady
#1 in 2 Boatings in Thekkady
Periyar sanctuary offers a golden chance of enjoying lake waters along with lush green forests and wildlife. Even if you cannot locate wild animals, you can enjoy the greenery and the lake to your heart’s content. The place is ideal for nature photography. There is small chance of seeing wildlife too.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, a jewel adoring the crown of Kerala opens up adventurous eco tourism activities to its visitors. Enriched with rare flora and fauna, the sanctuary adds to the beauty of God’s own country. The eco friendly activities include nature and cloud walks, jungle patrols, border hiking, bamboo rafting, jungle camp, jungle inn and many more. Many tourists prefer bamboo rafting, but only a few of them get a chance each day.
This adventurous activity is part of the nature walk at Periyar and is offered either as a full day or a half day programme. The full day activity begins at 8:00 AM with trekking for about 4 kms (5 hours up and down) through the green habitat. The rafting is for about 3 hours. Breakfast and lunch are served at appropriate intervals. Rafting deep inside the sanctuary near the wildlife is something which no other sanctuary in India offers. Rafters can view the projecting tree stumps, a special attraction of Periyar. Spotting tigers is rare. But animals like elephants, sambar and gaur can be sighted at the edges of the lake.
The half day programme has two time slots of 7:30 AM to 12:30 PM and 9:30 AM to 2:30 PM. It includes 3 hours of trekking and 2 hours of rafting. Packed food and water is provided in both the programmes. Rafting helps to get a wide view of the forest clad hills. Tourists will be accompanied by guides and a guard. Full day rafting is limited to ten persons per day. Children below 12 years are not allowed.
