Periyar Lake

Periyar Lake, nestled in the heart of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala, is a man-made reservoir known for its scenic beauty and rich biodiversity. Surrounded by lush forests, it offers a serene escape into nature and is a popular spot for boat cruises to observe wildlife.

Opening Hours

Open: 24 Hours

Close: Open all day

Closed on: Never

Entry Fees

Indian Visitors: ₹0

Foreign Visitors: ₹0

Children (Below 15 years): Free

How to Reach Periyar Lake, Thekkady, Kerala, India

  • Nearest Airport: Madurai Airport, 140 km away
  • Nearest Railway Station: Kottayam Railway Station, 114 km away
  • Nearest Bus Stop: Kumily Bus Stand, 4 km away
  • Nearest Metro Station: Not available
  • Cab Availability: Available from Kumily

Best time to visit Periyar Lake, Thekkady, Kerala, India

The ideal time to visit is during the following months:

NovemberDecemberJanuaryFebruary

Top Attractions Nearby Periyar Lake, Thekkady, Kerala, India

  • Periyar Wildlife SanctuaryWithin the lake area
  • Mullaperiyar DamAdjacent to the lake
  • Mangala Devi Temple15 km
  • Vandiperiyar18 km
  • Chellarkovil20 km
  • Kumily4 km
  • Gavi40 km

Travel Vlogs

Top Itineraries to Plan your visit of Periyar Lake

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Top Things to do at Periyar Lake

Slide 1

Boat Cruise on Periyar Lake

Enjoy a serene boat cruise on Periyar Lake, offering stunning views of the surrounding wildlife and lush greenery.

Slide 2

Jungle Safari

Embark on a thrilling jungle safari to explore the rich biodiversity of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.

Slide 3

Bamboo Rafting

Experience the unique adventure of bamboo rafting in the tranquil waters of Periyar Lake.

Slide 4

Nature Walk

Take a guided nature walk through the dense forests around Periyar Lake to discover its flora and fauna.

Slide 5

Bird Watching

Periyar Lake is a haven for bird enthusiasts, offering a chance to spot a variety of exotic and migratory birds.

Slide 6

Visit the Spice Plantations

Explore the aromatic spice plantations near Periyar Lake and learn about the cultivation of various spices.

Slide 7

Elephant Ride

Experience the thrill of an elephant ride through the scenic paths around Periyar Lake.

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Top Shopping Ideas during Periyar Lake visit

Slide 1

Spice Market

Explore the vibrant spice markets near Periyar Lake, offering a wide range of aromatic spices like cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon.

Explore the vibrant spice markets near Periyar Lake, offering a wide range of aromatic spices like cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon.

Slide 2

Handloom Textiles

Discover the exquisite handloom textiles of Kerala, including traditional sarees and fabrics, showcasing the rich cultural heritage.

Discover the exquisite handloom textiles of Kerala, including traditional sarees and fabrics, showcasing the rich cultural heritage.

Slide 3

Bamboo Crafts

Find beautifully crafted bamboo products, from furniture to decorative items, reflecting the skilled craftsmanship of local artisans.

Find beautifully crafted bamboo products, from furniture to decorative items, reflecting the skilled craftsmanship of local artisans.

Slide 4

Coir Products

Shop for eco-friendly coir products, including mats, rugs, and baskets, made from the natural fibers of coconut husks.

Shop for eco-friendly coir products, including mats, rugs, and baskets, made from the natural fibers of coconut husks.

Slide 5

Wood Carvings

Admire the intricate wood carvings that depict Kerala's mythology and folklore, perfect for adding a touch of tradition to your home.

Admire the intricate wood carvings that depict Kerala's mythology and folklore, perfect for adding a touch of tradition to your home.

Slide 6

Jewelry

Browse through a selection of traditional Kerala jewelry, featuring unique designs in gold and silver, inspired by the region's cultural motifs.

Browse through a selection of traditional Kerala jewelry, featuring unique designs in gold and silver, inspired by the region's cultural motifs.

Slide 7

Ayurvedic Products

Experience the healing power of Ayurveda with a range of natural products, including oils, soaps, and herbal remedies, available in local markets.

Experience the healing power of Ayurveda with a range of natural products, including oils, soaps, and herbal remedies, available in local markets.

Travel Tips

  • Visit Periyar Lake early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.
  • Opt for a boat ride during these times for a chance to see wildlife and enjoy the pleasant weather.
  • Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for walking, as some areas around the lake may require a bit of trekking.
  • Always follow the safety instructions provided by the boat operators and guides, especially during the boat safari.
  • Respect the local culture and traditions by dressing modestly and behaving respectfully in and around the lake area.
  • Carry water and snacks, but avoid littering to keep the natural beauty of Periyar Lake intact.
  • Be mindful of the wildlife and maintain a safe distance, especially during sightings of elephants, tigers, and other animals.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit and plan accordingly, as the lake area can experience sudden changes in weather.
  • Consider hiring a local guide for insightful information about the lake's ecosystem, wildlife, and cultural significance.
  • Photography is allowed, but ensure to turn off the flash when photographing wildlife to avoid disturbing them.