07/04/2025
1. Periyar Lake – A Man-Made Wonder
The heart of the reserve is Periyar Lake, created in 1895 by the construction of the Mullaperiyar Dam. This scenic lake is not just beautiful but essential for the wildlife as a water source.
It's also a great place for boat safaris, where you might spot elephants or other animals coming to drink water—something very unique to Periyar.
2. A Model for Eco-Tourism
It's one of India’s earliest Tiger Reserves, but what's really special is how it includes local tribal communities in eco-tourism.
Programs like bamboo rafting, nature walks, jungle patrols etc. are guided by trained locals, especially from indigenous tribes who know the forest deeply.
3. Rich Wildlife Diversity
It’s not just tigers—elephants, sambar deer, Indian bison (gaur), wild boar, macaques, and many bird species like the Great Hornbill live here.
You may even get lucky spotting leopards, jungle cats, or rare birds of prey.
4. Part of the Western Ghats – A Biodiversity Hotspot
Being part of the Western Ghats, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s one of the world’s most biodiverse regions.
Many species found here are endemic, meaning they exist only in this region—not anywhere else in the world.
5. Unique Terrain and Climate
The elevation ranges from about 900 to 1800 meters, creating multiple habitats—like tropical rainforests, grasslands, and montane forests.
