The Periyar Tiger Trail Trekking And Camping

Summary

The Periyar Tiger Trail is located at Thekkady, about 4 km from Kumili in Idukki district of Kerala.In Periyar Tiger Reserve there is a rich diversity of vertebrates. The diverse forest types, vayals, marshes, and a large aquatic habitat together support 62 species of mammals.The trek route passes through hills and valleys with a variety of tropical plants and wide-open spaces. Enroute vegetarian meals will be prepared and served and country tents will be pitched for holing up in the night. Trekking groups are accompanied by armed forest guards with good communication equipments, and geared to face any emergency situation.Periyar tiger Reserve, Thekkady, is an example of nature’s bounty, with great scenic charm, rich bio diversity and providing veritable visitor satisfaction. Sprawled over an area of 777 Sq km(Altitudinal ranges of 900 meters to 1300 meters). Periyar is one of the 27 tiger reserves in India. Zealously guarded and efficiently managed reserve is a repository of rare, endemic and endangered flora and fauna and forms the major watershed of two important rivers of Kerala, the Periyar and Pamba.It is an adventurous trekking and camping programme in dense forest. It is offered in two packages, one- night and two-night stays, depending upon the preference and the budget of the tourist. Trekking in the Thekkady Tiger Trail is in reality participation in forest patrols within Periyar Sanctuary and National Park. Trekking with tourists during peak season is normally limited to two occasions a week. Each trekking is unique in the sensethose different paths are chosen randomly. The physical condition of the trekking tourist determines to some degree the difficulty of the path chosen.From the beginning, the trekking follows an easy footpath, but then the team enters terrain and vegetation of varying difficulty to penetrate, in an untouched landscape without tracks.

The beautiful trail is crisscrossed with hills, streams, wide open areas and unique flora. You can come across giant squirrel, Nilgiri langur, monkeys, and elephants while on rare occasions, even tigers.Periyar Tiger Reserve (PTR) is the oldest and largest protected areas of Kerala.Other important places to be visited in the village are:school of dancing , mural arts and architect (ancient thought) and the very famous metal mirror making family(only one family involved in this).In forest campsites only vegetarian food will be provided but in village camps both vegetarian and non vegetarian food peculiar to kerala will be serve.

Things To Look for

Kumily :

Situated just 4-kms from Periyar, Kumily is a growing town where tourism is fastly catching up just like the spice trade, the major occupation of this small town. The town is also well equipped with the excellent hotels and resorts for accommodation.

Cradomom Hills :

Periyar and Kumily are the most convenient points from which visitors can easily explore Kerala’s beautiful Cardamom hills. Guide will approach you at offers of trips via jeep or taxi to the hills and if you can get a group together, these trips work out as a good travel value.

Boat Cruises :

Boat cruises make the best option to check out the wilds of Periyar Sanctuary.Today the Periyar lake presents an excellent boating spot for tourists. Although it is unusual to see many animals from the boats, still you spot a family of Elephants, Wild Boar, and Sambar Deer by the water’s edge. The upper deck is best for wildlife viewing when taking a boat cruise, but better turn up half an hour early to get the best seat.

Avian Species :

There are about 260 species of Birds and about 100 varieties of Butterflies that can be seen in the territory of the park. The major types of Birds spotted are the Blue-winged Parakeets, Great Indian Horn bill, Nilgiri Wood Pigeons, Black-winged Kite,White-bellied tree Pies, Laughing Thrushes, Fly Catchers, Darters, Cormorants, Barbets and Plovers amongst the many.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary:

The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is located at Thekkady, about 4 km from Kumili in Idukki district of Kerala, Situated within the confines of the Western Ghats Periyar National Park Kerala and Tiger Reserve is one of the most captivating wildlife parks in the world. Elephant in Periyar is another major attraction. Over 250 species of birds have been seen at Periyar National Park. Reptiles seen in the wildlife sanctuary include crocodiles in the lake, tortoises, frogs and snakes including King Cobras and Kraits.

Eravikulam National Park:

Eravikulam National Park attracts the travellers with its irresistible grace and beauty. It is spread over 97 sq km in the Rajamalai hills. This park was established to protect the Nilgiri Tahr also known as the Nilgiri Ibex.

Periyar Lake:

It is an enriching experience to take a boat cruise along the Periyar Lake. If you wish to see the varied topography of the forests of Periyar then arrange for a boat cruise on the Periyar Lake. If you are a keen observer you might get to se the spotted tigers, playful elephants or the red eyed bisons.

Murikkady :

It is Situated 5 kms from Thekkady. Washed in fresh spice scented air, Murikkady is a panorama of cardamom, coffee and pepper plantations.

Pandikuzhi :

This is about 5 kms away from Kumily. Cradled between Chellarkovil and the Tamil Nadu State border, this picturesque place is a popular picnic spot. Pandikuzhi offers great opportunities for trekking and is a photographer’s delight.

Periyar River:

The Idukki Dam is built across the river and generates the major chunk of electrical power for the state from its many big and small hydroelectric projects. It rises in the Western Ghats range near the border with Tamil Nadu state and flows north to Periyar Lake near Kottayam. The lake, 12 square miles (31 square km) in area, is an artificial reservoir created by damming the river.

Location info

• Distances: Approximately 100 km east of Alappuzha, 110 km west of Madurai and 120 km southeast from Kochi.

• Camping Sites: Staff Eco Developmet Committee, Camping sites are ideally located near water sources.

• Trek Length: Area of 777 Sq km(Altitudinal ranges of 900 meters to 1300 meters)

Helpline & emergency contacts

tourism@periyartigerreserve.org
Tel. 91 4869 224571

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vi all provide coverage across Kerala. 4G is reliable in Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode, and along the coastal belt. Coverage may be weaker in remote sections of the Western Ghats, deep forest reserves, and certain backwater stretches. Most hotels, houseboats, and cafes in tourist areas offer free Wi-Fi.

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.

Hotels & accommodation nearby

Accommodation is available in the nearest town or city. Options range from homestays to luxury resorts. Kerala’s homestay network is excellent and offers authentic local experiences.

Climate & weather

Kerala has a tropical monsoon climate with warm, humid conditions year-round. The best time to visit is November to February, when temperatures are a pleasant 22°C–30°C with low humidity and clear skies. March–May is hot and humid (up to 36°C). The southwest monsoon (June–September) brings heavy rainfall — the landscape transforms into lush green and this is the best time for Ayurvedic treatments. The northeast monsoon (October–November) brings shorter showers. Hill stations (Munnar, Wayanad) remain cooler year-round.

Nearest petrol pump

Petrol pumps are available in the nearest town or on the approach road — check locally for the closest option.

Accessibility

Accessibility information is not currently available for this site. Contact the venue directly or check with your accommodation for the latest accessibility details.

Rules & restrictions

Standard visitor rules apply. Check locally for any specific restrictions at this site.

Best photography spots

The best photography spots are typically during the golden hours (early morning and late afternoon). Scout the location first to identify the best angles, and consider the direction of light at different times of day.

Best time to visit The Periyar Tiger Trail Trekking And Camping

The best time for trekking at The Periyar Tiger Trail Trekking A Camping is from November to February when the weather is cool and dry with clear skies. Post-monsoon (September–November) offers lush green landscapes. Monsoon trekking is not recommended due to slippery trails and leeches. Summer treks are possible in early mornings but afternoons can be hot.

How to reach The Periyar Tiger Trail Trekking And Camping

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.

Timings & opening hours

Trekking routes are accessible from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM. All trekkers must start their trek before 10:00 AM and must complete it before sunset. Night trekking is not permitted without special permission.

Entry fee & tickets

Trekking permit fees: INR 100–500 per person for day treks. Guide charges: INR 500–1,500 per day. Forest entry fee: INR 25–50 per person. Some restricted areas (like Agasthyakoodam) require special permits from the Forest Department months in advance.

Duration needed

Half day (3–5 hours) for short treks. Full day (6–8 hours) for moderate treks. Multi-day treks require camping arrangements and advance booking.

Safety tips

Always hire a local guide for trekking routes — especially in forested and hilly areas. Carry sufficient water (at least 2 litres per person) and snacks. Start your trek early in the morning (before 7:00 AM) and aim to finish before 3:00 PM. Wear sturdy trekking shoes with good grip. Inform someone about your trekking route and expected return time. Check weather conditions before heading out.

Things to carry

Trekking shoes with good grip and ankle support (essential), rucksack/backpack (30–40 litre capacity), 2–3 litres of drinking water, high-energy snacks (nuts, dry fruits, energy bars), a first-aid kit (bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, blister plasters), insect repellent, sunscreen, hat, raincoat/poncho, whistle (emergency), torch/headlamp with extra batteries, a map or GPS-enabled phone, and a small towel. Hire a local guide for unfamiliar routes.

Nearby visiting places

Fort Kochi, Mattancherry Palace, Cherai Beach, Bolghatty Island, Marine Drive, Chinese Fishing Nets, Hill Palace Museum, Kerala Kathakali Centre, St. Francis Church

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.

History of The Periyar Tiger Trail Trekking And Camping

The trekking trails at The Periyar Tiger Trail Trekking A Camping traverse the beautiful terrain of the Western Ghats, a mountain range that runs parallel to Kerala’s coast and is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Ghats are one of the most biologically diverse regions on Earth, with trekking routes passing through shola forests, grasslands, tea plantations, and spice gardens. These trails have been used by local communities for centuries for travel and trade between the coast and the interior.

Things to do at The Periyar Tiger Trail Trekking And Camping

Trek through scenic trails passing through shola forests and grasslands, spot wildlife and birds along the trail, photograph the panoramic mountain views, enjoy a packed lunch at a scenic viewpoint, identify unique flora including medicinal plants and orchids, camp overnight (on multi-day treks), learn about the ecosystem from your guide, and challenge yourself physically while connecting with nature.

Things to visit & highlights

The scenic trekking trails through forests, grasslands, and plantations, panoramic viewpoints offering stunning valley views, diverse flora including endemic species and orchids, wildlife sightings along the trail, and the sense of adventure and connection with nature.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a guide for trekking? — Yes, a local guide is strongly recommended and mandatory in some areas. Guides know the terrain, can point out wildlife, and ensure your safety. What fitness level is required? — Most treks in Kerala range from easy to moderate. Some treks (like Agasthyakoodam and Chembra Peak) require good physical fitness and stamina. Check difficulty levels before booking. What should I carry? — Sturdy trekking shoes, 2–3 litres of water, snacks, sunscreen, hat, raincoat, insect repellent, first-aid kit, and a camera. Do I need a permit? — Some treks require permits from the Kerala Forest Department. Agasthyakoodam treks require advance permits (limited to 100 per day) during the season.

Quick facts

• Type: Tourist Attraction
• State: Kerala
• Category: Trekking Camping

Visitor information

Please check locally for current visitor information.