Spice Gardens and Nature’s Trail
Periyar is a green, hilly area on the western Gghats, situated in Thekkady close to the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border. It is a protected area, providing shelter to a number of wild animals, mainly elephants. It is also a tiger reserve. The Periyar lake and the Periyar river are the prime sources of water for the animal life around.
Quick Facts
- The mountainous area around Periyar is known as Cardamom Hills
- Periyar lake was formed by a man-made dam, called Mullaperiyar dam
- It is interesting to note that poachers and smugglers have been rehabilitated to become caretakers of the jungle at Periyar
Popular Attractions
- A boat cruise can be undertaken to spot animals in the hills and areas around the lake, where they come to drink water. One can also go on an elephant safari to explore the different areas of the jungle
- Visit to Spice Gardens and enjoying a cookery show or Ayurveda massage
The “India Kosher Travel” Experience
- it is a treat to watch elephants bathing and playing around in the waters of the Periyar lak
- One can take walks on the many spice plantations around
- A bullock-cart ride is a great way to explore the little hamlets around Periyar
- Gavi is a place a few kilometers from Periyar which also offers many opportunities for trekking, bird-watching and wildlife safaris