New Delhi: Periyar National Park, also known as Periyar Tiger Reserve, is a protected area located in Kerala’s Idukki and Pathanamthitta districts. It is a living canvas of the artistry of nature where the forest’s emerald hues meet the pristine lake’s tranquil blues. Amid the melodious bird songs and rustling leaves in the Periyar National Park, you will see tigers, elephant herds, and a diverse array of wildlife. If given a chance, you should dive into this ecological sanctuary’s heart, where every moment in an opportunity to cherish the wildlife sanctuaries’ timeless beauty in all its glory.
The history of the Periyar National Park
In 1934, the first official action was taken to protect the region’s biodiversity and wildlife when Chithira Thirunal Balarama Varma, the Maharaja of Travancore declared the forests around Periyar Lake a private reserve to stop the encroachment of tea plantations and was founded as the Nellikkampatty Reserve. In 1950, it became a wildlife sanctuary and in 1978 it became a tiger reserve. Periyar Tiger Reserve is also part of the UNESCO’s World Heritage Site ‘Western Ghats’. It has achieved 23 awards and recognitions for excellence in diverse fields.
The beauty of Periyar National Park
Periyar National Park is a beautiful wildlife sanctuary whose rich biodiversity is on point. Tourists go there from all over the globe due to its mesmerizing blend of wildlife and adventure. All globetrotters love to get lost in spellbound wild creatures and vegetation and these minute details of the Periyar jungle enrich every traveler.
The park is famous for its unique and diverse flora and fauna. The diversity of wildlife includes Bengal Tiger, Indian Elephant, Leopard, Gaur, Sambar, Indian Wild Dog, Barking Deer, Mouse Deer, Monitor lizard and a variety of birds and reptile species. A few white tigers are also found there. The park is home to 266 species of birds including migrants. Endemic birds include the Nilgiri wood pigeon, Malabar grey hornbill, Nilgiri flycatcher, blue-winged parakeet, white-bellied redstart, black-necked stork and crimson-backed sunbird.
What to do in the Periyar National Park?
You can indulge in boat safari in the Periyar National Park at the Periyar Lake. Also, there is trekking and rafting, camping, nature walk, night trekking and many more. The boat safari can be done early in the morning and you can spot animals like Elephants, Wild Boar, and Sambar by the edge of the water bodies.
Periyar National Park, also known as the Periyar Tiger Reserve, is a treasure trove of biodiversity nestled in Kerala’s Idukki and Pathanamthitta districts. Established in 1934, it boasts a remarkable history, evolving from a private reserve to a part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
