If we trace the history of this national park, this area was under the Pandya rule as a valley until the 12th century. During the 18th and 19th centuries, the kings of Travancore used to come to this forest area for hunting. In 1899, the Mullaperiyar dam was constructed, resulting in the creation of an artificial lake and transforming the surrounding area. Later, after being declared a Tiger Reserve, this national park was also included under Project Elephant in 1992.
To address the concerns of tea plantations surrounding this area, the Maharaja declared the forest area around the spring as a personal reserve in 1934 to protect wildlife and forests. This reserve was then known as the Nellikampatti Reserve. After India gained independence and political integration took place, efforts were made to transform this area into a wildlife sanctuary by adding some other areas in 1950. Thus, Periyar National Park was established in 1950. Two decades later, the Tiger Reserve project was launched in India, and a part of Periyar National Park was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978. Shortly after, the Periyar River...
As time passed, changes were made to this sanctuary. Accordingly, the India Eco-Development Project was launched in Periyar National Park in 1996. In 2001, this national park was divided into two parts, East and West. Thus, changes continued to occur in the Periyar area over time.
Periyar National Park is one of the most biodiverse places in the world. This national park is known for its grandeur, greenery, and tranquility. It is home to significant wildlife species. The Pamba and Periyar rivers nourish the trees and animals of this forest. Periyar National Park is a reserve for tigers and elephants, along with many other rare and endangered species. In Periyar Park, you can see white tigers, Indian elephants, wild boars, flying squirrels, bears, wild cats, and foxes.
Besides animals, many species of birds are also found here, including migratory birds. It is said that more than 266 species of birds live in this national park. Among the birds that come here are the Malabar Grey Hornbill, Flycatcher, Sunbird, Great Hornbill, Black-necked Stork, and Nilgiri Pigeon. There are 45 species of reptiles including snakes and turtles, and 40 species of fish that reside here. Additionally, more than 160 species of butterflies are also found in the Periyar Tiger Reserve. Periyar National Park is a paradise for wildlife and nature lovers.
You will be surprised to know that there are approximately 1900 species of plants in this national park. These include mainly mango, sissoo, bamboo, sacred fig, sandalwood, jacaranda, gulmohar, tamarind, peepal, jamun, and Indian conifers, as well as many other plants. Coffee, cardamom, and tea gardens are also located here.
Periyar National Park attracts thousands of tourists every year due to its natural beauty and diverse wildlife. You can visit this national park through boat rides, jungle safaris in the form of jeep safaris, and elephant safaris. Now, excellent facilities for boating have also been made available here. Border hiking is also conducted here.
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