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One
of India's most fascinating natural wildlife sanctuaries, you can
watch wildlife here at eyeball distance. An inimitable admixture of
elephants, unending chains of hill and spice scented plantations,
here the animals of the wild and the simple mountain people. The
tigers, the majestic Asiatic wild elephants and the distinctive
Nilgiri langur, the wild boar, wild dog, bison, bear and leopards
are just some of the wild treats. The herons, egrets, darters,
kingfishers and the great Malabar grey hornbill make your spirits
fly high. Periyar Lake around which the wild -life sanctuary lies,
for a soul - stirring experience.
| Places to visit |
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The Periyar
Wildlife Sanctuary
The Tiger
Reserve lies 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 and comprising of 360
sq. km thick evergreen forest, it is noted for its
geo-morphological diversity of wildlife and scenic beauty.
The wondrous artificial lake formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam
across the Periyar adds to its charm. It also makes it the
only sanctuary in India where you can experience wildlife at
close quarters even as your boat undulate. The large herds
of wild elephants on the lake’s edge are every tourist's
dream. On the other hand, you can also observe wild life in
the sanctuary from the three watch towers.
Kumily
An important
shopping centre and spice trade centre, the main bus station
and most of the medium range accommodation, this plantation
town is situated on the outskirts of the Periyar Sanctuary.
Murikkady
Washed in fresh
spice scented air, Murikkady offers a panoramic view of
cardamom, coffee and pepper plantations.
Pandikuzhi
Cradled between
Chellarkovil and the Tamil Nadu State border, the popular
picnic spot offers great opportunities for trekking and is a
photographer's delight.
Mangala
Devi Temple
Hidden in the
dense woods at the top of a peak, it affords a panoramic
view of the other side of the ghats and the vast plains of
Tamil Nadu; this ancient temple is built in the traditional
Kerala style of architecture.
Chellarkovil
This sleepy
little village slopes down to the famous coconut groves of
Kambam and affords a spectacular view of the plains and
sparkling waterfalls during the monsoons.
Vandiperiyar
Home to a number
of tea factories, it has the river Periyar flowing through
its centre, nourishing its vast tea, coffee and pepper
plantations.
Pullumedu
Velvet lawns,
rare flora and fauna add to the beauty of Pullumedu which
can be accessed only after a splendid winding journey that
offers a stunning view of the rolling hills draped in lush
greenery. |
Do’s and Don’t’s
- Don't stay with or be
coaxed into staying with people you meet at Railway platforms, Bus
stands or shopping areas.
- Don't think you are getting a bargain if a free ride is given by
any transporters to a hotel, check with tourist information office
first.
- Don't allow any one into your room for a drink and snacks or just
a chat unless the person is really well known to you.
- Free rides can culminate in trouble at hotel suggested by the
driver.
- Don't leave your valuables, luggage with the driver. |
