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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., 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
Community Based Ecotourism
People oriented and park centered community based ecotourism is the hallmark of Periyar Tiger Reserve. These programmes are conducted by local people responsible for the surveillance of the vulnerable parts of the reserve. By taking tourists along, they are involved in the conservation of the forests of Periyar and some valuable revenue is generated for community welfare. People who once made a living by illegal operations in the forests have since become forest protectors and earn their livelihood through these programmes. Hence, as a visitor, when you join them in any of these programmes, you are directly contributing towards forest conservation and community welfare.
Nearest Places
Chellarkovil
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Just 15 km from Kumily, the small village of Chellarkovil is famous for its beautiful views of the cascading waterfalls and lush green plains that slope down into the Cumbum coconut groves. The natural picturesque scenic views amidst unspoiled nature are a treat to city dwellers.
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Kumily
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Located within the Cardamom Hills, is Kumily. It is a prominent destination due to its proximity to Periyar Tiger Reserve and is an important hub of spice trading. The lingering aroma of spices is bewitching and numerous tourists visit this exotic town to enjoy the picturesque views, stay in the hotels and visit the Tiger reserve. Tours to spice plantations are arranged for tourists to view how spices are cultivated.
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Mangladevi Temple
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The ancient Mangala Devi temple is perched atop a thickly wooded hill and affords a panoramic view of the scenic surroundings. The temple is located 15 km from Thekkady.
Built in the Pandian style of Kerala architecture, this quaint temple stands in the dense forest at the top of a peak 1337 m above sea level and is on the fringe of the Tamil Nadu-Kerala boundary.
The 2000 year old temple is dedicated to the brave Mangaladevi or Kannagi, the protagonist of the Tamil epic Sillapadhikaram. A distraught Kannagi is said to have burnt down Madurai after her husband was wrongly accused of being a thief and killed.
Prayers are conducted in this temple only once in a year on Chithra Purnima, the full moon day in the month of April-May. On this holy day, the temple hums with activity as devotees flock here in large numbers.
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Murikkady
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| The panoramic picnic spot, Murikkady is just 5 km from Thekkady close to Periyar Tiger Reserve. The area is known for its rich and aromatic pepper, coffee and cardamom spice plantations. Lush greenery, balmy air and picturesque views have made this an ideal destination to visit |
Pandikuzhi
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Pandikuzhi is situated between the border of Tamil Nadu and Chellarkovil. It is known for picturesque natural waterfalls, streams and myriad of flora and fauna. It is the perfect place picnic spot, just the best to take some awesome photographs and go on a trekking expedition.
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Pullumedu
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The beautiful hill station at Pullumedu is 26 km from Periyar and 43 km from Thekkady. It is known for its scenic beauty. Well landscaped gardens, an array of flowers and wildlife adds to the charm of Pullumedu. The holy shrine of Sree Ayyappa Temple at Sabarimala and the illuminations during Makara Jyothi can be easily seen from this place. Due to its rugged terrain, Pullumedu can be accessed by a jeep and as it is a portion of the restricted forest zone, you need special permission from Wildlife Preservation Officer to visit here.
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Ramakalmedu
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| On the Thekkady-Munnar Road, about 15 km from Nedumkandam is located the scenic Ramakalmedu. With pristine weather, rolling lush green hills and crisp mountain air makes Ramakalmedu an enticing hill retreat. From the top of the hills, you can get panoramic views of the villages of Cumbum and Bodi |
Vandiperiyar
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Just 18 km from Thekkady, Vandiperiyar is the largest town on the banks of the River Periyar. It is one of the commercial hubs of the region with a few large tea factories in operation and is also home to the Government Agriculture Farm and Flower Garden. The township is beautiful with the river meandering close to the city, boating, fishing and other water sports can be enjoyed.
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