Periyar River

About Periyar River

The Periyar River stretching across approximately 244 kilometers, is the lifeline of Kerala and is celebrated for its crucial role in supporting
the ecosystem, local communities, and industries. Flowing through the lush landscapes of the Western Ghats, the river is home to a rich
variety of flora and fauna, making it a hotspot for biodiversity. In addition to its ecological significance, the Periyar plays a pivotal role in
providing water for irrigation, supporting agriculture across central Kerala. Moreover, it powers several hydroelectric projects,
including the famous Idukki Dam, ensuring the state’s energy needs are met sustainably. The river, often referred to as the “Lifeline of
Kerala,” is not only essential for local livelihoods but also a popular destination for ecotourism and nature enthusiasts.

A tunnel carries water from the lake eastward through the mountains to the Vaigai River in Tamil Nadu, where it is used for irrigation. From
the lake the Periyar River flows in a generally northwest direction through the mountains and onto the coastal plain, past Alwaye,
emptying into the Arabian Sea at Parur.This river has strong undercurrents; nevertheless, it is visited by families, school groups and nature
lovers. It is only 10km from the town of Malayatoor and about 60km from Cochin.The lake is surrounded by a wildlife sanctuary noted for its
herds of elephants.The government is planning to start boating facilities here. Trekking, too, will be arranged. The Iringol forests,
about three km away is a nice getaway for a trek and nature walks in the evenings. There is an ancient temple within the forest.

History of the Periyar River

The Periyar River has a rich history that is intertwined with the cultural and economic development of Kerala. Serving as a natural trade route since ancient times, it connected spice-producing regions with coastal towns, facilitating domestic commerce and international trade with Arab, Chinese, and European merchants. The river’s fertile floodplains supported agriculture, particularly rice and spice cultivation, contributing to Kerala’s prosperity.

In modern times, the construction of the Mullaperiyar Dam in 1895 and the Idukki Dam in 1976 marked significant developments in the river’s history, enhancing irrigation and hydroelectric power generation. The river also holds deep spiritual significance, featuring many temples along its banks and being integral to Hindu rituals, including the famous Sabarimala pilgrimage. Today, the Periyar is vital to Kerala’s economy and cultural identity, although it faces challenges from urbanization and pollution.

Help Line/Phone Number

Police Station:

Kumily Police Station
Kumily, Idukki District
Kerala, 685509
Tel: +91-4869-222325.

Periyar Police Station
Thekkady Road, Kumily
Kerala, 685509
Tel: +91-4869-223012.

Peerumedu Police Station
Peerumedu, Idukki District
Kerala, 685531
Tel: +91-4869-232262.

Nearest Hospital:

Kumily Government Hospital
Kumily, Idukki District
Kerala, 685509
Tel: +91-4869-222034.

St. John’s Hospital
Vellaramkunnu, Kattappana
Idukki, Kerala, 685508
Tel: +91-4868-272076.

Chellam Hospital
Kattappana, Idukki District
Kerala, 685508
Tel: +91-4868-272054.

Vandiperiyar Government Hospital
Vandiperiyar, Idukki District
Kerala, 685533
Tel: +91-4869-236266.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Office
Thekkady, Idukki District
Kerala, 685509
Tel: +91-4869-224571.

Kerala Tourism Helpline
Toll-Free: 1800-425-4747.

Link:

http://malayalamimages.blogspot.com/2009/10/pic-from-periyar-river.html
http://shaileshpune.blogspot.com/2009/08/periyar-tiger-reserve-thekkady-kerala.html
http://aditilyf.blogspot.com/2009/10/periyar-wildlife-sanctuary.html
http://mythekkady.blogspot.com/2009/08/periyar-national-park.html
http://mlamala.blogspot.com/2009/05/periyar-river.html
http://www.fisheyephotos.in/2009/07/river-periyar-at-sunrise-thattekad.html

Location info

• Address: Periyar River, Kerala, India.

• District: Idukki, Ernakulam, Alappuzha Districts

• Nearest Cities: Kochi, Thekkady, Munnar, Aluva

• Best time to visit: November to February for pleasant weather.

• Access points: Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport (Nedumbassery); Nearest railway station: Aluva

Climate & weather

• Summer: March to May - Hot and humid, temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C.

• Monsoon: June to October - Heavy rainfall, temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C. Ideal for nature lovers who enjoy the lush green landscapes.

• Winter: November to February - Cool and pleasant, temperatures range from 18°C to 28°C. This is the best time to visit.

Things to do at Periyar River

- Boating at Periyar Lake: Enjoy a serene boat ride in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you might spot wildlife like elephants, deer, and a variety of bird species along the riverbanks.

- Wildlife Safari: Take a guided safari tour through the Periyar Tiger Reserve, one of the most popular wildlife reserves in India, known for its biodiversity and tiger population.

- Trekking: Explore the forests surrounding the Periyar River with trekking trails that range from easy to challenging, offering breathtaking views of the Western Ghats and the river itself.

- Bamboo Rafting: Experience a unique bamboo rafting adventure on the river, combined with a nature walk through the forest. This eco-friendly activity is a great way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region.

- Bird Watching: The Periyar region is a haven for birdwatchers. You can spot various species, including hornbills, kingfishers, and the endemic Malabar Grey Hornbill.

- Visit Spice Plantations: Tour the spice plantations around the Periyar region, where you can learn about the cultivation of spices like cardamom, black pepper, and cinnamon, and even purchase fresh produce.

Things to visit & highlights

- Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: One of the most famous protected areas in India, known for its elephants, tigers, and lush greenery. A perfect spot for nature lovers.

- Idukki Dam: The massive arch dam on the Periyar River is a marvel of engineering, offering scenic views and a glimpse into Kerala’s hydroelectric power production.

- Thattekad Bird Sanctuary: A paradise for birdwatchers, home to a wide variety of rare and exotic bird species.

- Thekkady: A nearby town famous for its spice gardens and tea plantations, providing a perfect getaway from the bustle of city life.

- Murikkady: Famous for its picturesque landscapes and spice gardens, where visitors can see the cultivation of cardamom, coffee, and pepper.

- Kumily: A small town near Thekkady, known for its vibrant market where you can shop for spices, tea, and souvenirs.

- Munnar: A popular hill station located a few hours away, famous for its tea gardens, rolling hills, and cool climate.

How to reach Periyar River

- By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (approximately 140 km away). From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Thekkady, which is close to the Periyar River.

- By Train: The nearest major railway station is Aluva (about 135 km away). Other nearby stations include Kottayam (approximately 114 km away). From these stations, you can take a bus or taxi to reach the Periyar region.

- By Road: The Periyar region is well connected by road. You can take a bus or taxi from cities like Kochi, Kottayam, or Munnar. The distance from Kochi to Periyar is approximately 165 km, and from Kottayam, it’s about 114 km.

- By Bus: Regular bus services operated by the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) connect Thekkady and Kumily to major cities like Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, and Kottayam.

Hotels & accommodation nearby

- Spice Village Resort, Thekkady: An eco-friendly luxury resort offering a close-to-nature experience with cottages set amidst spice plantations, just 2 km from Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.

- Club Mahindra, Thekkady: A well-known family-friendly resort with modern amenities, located about 3 km from Periyar Lake and offering activities such as nature walks and guided treks.

- Abad Green Forest Resort, Kumily: A mid-range hotel offering comfortable accommodations with a swimming pool and easy access to the Periyar Tiger Reserve, located 1.5 km away.

- Periyar Meadows Leisure Hotel, Thekkady: This hotel offers budget-friendly rooms with views of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, located 1 km from the entrance.

- Wildernest, Thekkady: A boutique resort providing cozy cottages and personalized service in a peaceful setting, located just 2 km from the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.

- KTDC Aranya Nivas, Thekkady: A government-owned hotel located inside the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, offering guests a unique stay surrounded by nature and wildlife.

Nearest visiting places

- Thekkady: Located just a short drive from Periyar, Thekkady is famous for its spice plantations, wildlife, and the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.

- Munnar: Around 90 km from Periyar, Munnar is a scenic hill station known for its tea plantations, rolling hills, and pleasant weather.

- Idukki Arch Dam: Approximately 60 km away, the Idukki Dam is a must-visit for those interested in Kerala’s hydroelectric power history, as well as its breathtaking views.

- Vagamon: Located about 50 km from Periyar, this serene hill station offers tranquil landscapes, pine forests, and adventure activities like paragliding.

- Kumily: A bustling town located just a few kilometers from Thekkady, Kumily is known for its spice markets and as a gateway to Tamil Nadu.

- Murikkady: Just 5 km from Thekkady, Murikkady is renowned for its picturesque spice gardens, offering a unique glimpse into Kerala’s spice cultivation.

- Varkala Beach: Located about 200 km away, Varkala is a popular beach destination for travelers seeking coastal beauty and a relaxing atmosphere.

Nearest petrol pump

- Indian Oil Petrol Pump, Kumily: Located about 4 km from Thekkady, this is one of the closest petrol stations for visitors traveling to the Periyar region.

- BPCL Petrol Pump, Thekkady Junction: Situated at Thekkady Junction, this petrol station offers fuel services and is a convenient stop for travelers heading toward Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.

- Hindustan Petroleum, Vandiperiyar: Around 15 km from Thekkady, this petrol pump is located on the main road to Periyar and is useful for those traveling from nearby towns.

- Indian Oil Petrol Pump, Kattappana: About 30 km from Periyar, this petrol pump is a good option for visitors traveling from Idukki or Munnar regions.

Mobile network coverage

Mobile network coverage around the Periyar River is generally good in major towns like Thekkady and Kumily. Most Indian telecom providers such as Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone-Idea offer 4G services in these areas. However, as you venture deeper into forest areas like the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary or while trekking, network connectivity may become limited or spotty. It’s recommended to carry a fully charged phone and inform others of your plans before heading into remote areas.

Things to carry

Comfortable Clothing: Lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for warm weather, along with a jacket or sweater for cooler mornings and evenings.

Walking Shoes: Comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for trekking and exploring the forested areas.

Sunscreen and Hat: Protection from the sun is essential, especially during outdoor activities like trekking and wildlife safaris.

Rain Gear: If you’re visiting during the monsoon season (June to October), carry a waterproof jacket or umbrella.

Binoculars: Ideal for wildlife spotting and bird watching during safaris or boat rides.

Water Bottle: Stay hydrated, especially during trekking and outdoor activities.

Insect Repellent: To protect yourself from mosquitoes and other insects in the forested areas.

Camera: Capture the beautiful landscapes, wildlife, and scenic views of the Periyar region.

Tips & suggestions

• Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Periyar is between November and February when the weather is cool and perfect for exploring nature.

Permits and Entry Fees: Ensure you have the necessary permits for entry into the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Fees apply for safaris, boat rides, and guided tours.

Optimal Safari Times: Wildlife safaris and boat rides are best enjoyed early in the morning or late in the afternoon for higher chances of spotting animals.

Food & restaurants nearby

Food options are available in the nearest town. Kerala cuisine — fish curry, appam with stew, puttu, and Kerala sadhya — is widely available and famously delicious.

Best time to visit Periyar River

The best time to visit Periyar River is from November to February with pleasant weather. The river is fullest during and after the monsoon (July–November). Summer months (March–May) see reduced water levels. Boating and riverside picnics are best in the post-monsoon months.

Timings & opening hours

River areas are accessible 24 hours. Boating and bathing are recommended only during daylight hours (6:00 AM–6:00 PM). Some riverside temples and ghats have specific access timings.

Entry fee & tickets

Entry to riverside areas is generally free. Boating or rafting charges, if available, vary by operator. Rivers flowing through forest areas may require forest entry permits.

Duration needed

1–2 hours for riverside walks and photography. Additional time for boating, fishing, or picnicking if available.

Safety tips

Be cautious of strong currents and depth variations when near the river. Do not attempt to cross the river during heavy flow. Avoid swimming in unfamiliar stretches. Be mindful of slippery riverbank rocks. During monsoon, water levels can rise rapidly — avoid riverbanks during heavy rain.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (COK) (approximately 0 km). Nearest Railway Station: Ernakulam Junction / Ernakulam Town Railway Station. The destination is well-connected by Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses and private taxis from major towns.

Frequently asked questions

Can I go boating on the river? — Boating availability depends on the river’s width, depth, and current. Some rivers offer boat rides, especially wider stretches. Inquire locally. Is the river safe for swimming? — Swimming in rivers requires caution. Some stretches are safe, while others have strong currents. Check locally and avoid swimming near dams or after heavy rain. What is the best time to visit? — Early morning for the best light and bird sightings. Post-monsoon (October–January) offers the best water levels and scenic beauty.