In the Idukki district of Kerala a 350 sq km area consisting of lush grasslands, man-made lakes and hills have been reserved to ensure protection area was notified as a National Park and thus came into existence the premier national park of South --India The Periyar National Park. Today, it has become the Cynosure of wildlife enthusiasts, splendor attractions lure visitors not only from all over India but also from abroad.

The elephants are very much visible. However, the Tigris numbering nearly 40, is nearly sighted. On the other hand, the park authorities have been unable to control the menace of poachers whose favorite victims are the tuskers and the Black Nilgiri Langur the former for its valuable tusks and the latter for its blood, flesh and organs, which are said to be endowed with medicinal properties.

Nearly 200 species of birds have been sighted here, making the park a bird watchers paradise Darters, Cormorants, Fish owls, white egrets, kingfishers, Grey herons, Grey hornbills etc. are some of the birds that can be seen.

The best season to visit the park is from April to September. During the dry season lessening of the vegetation, coupled with the increased need of the animals for water, provides the park visitor with an unforgettable experience, as the animals congregate in large numbers along the lake. However, if one wishes to see elephants, the ideal time to visit the park would be March and April. It is best to avoid visiting the park during October-April (On account of the Southwest monsoons).

The ideal way to explore the park is by boats. Motor boats are also available. Independent movement without the permission of the park authorities is not allowed. It is advisable to employ the services of professional guides. One should be taken to avoid the Periyar Leeches, who view the human blood to be equally nutritious! Another sound advice is to make prior booking for accommodation. The forest rest houses, private hotels, Periyar House, Aryan Niwas, Lake palace are some of the places where you can stay.

In the Palghat district of Kerala lies an area of 89 sq. km, which represents one of the last passions of the rain forest of the world. Due to the active interest of conservationists and environmentalists, this area was notified as a National Park in 1984.

The park is home to a rich reserve of rare plants and herbs. Amla, nasemaad, teak, silk cotton, bamboo and climbers like pepper grow here in abundance.

Wildlife found here include the elephant, tiger, lion-tailed macaque, gaur sambhar, panther and wild pig. Besides, the thick undergrowth and foliage provides a suitable hide out for a number of small animals.

The proposal to build a hydel power project here drew student protests from environment and the government was forced to drop the project.

For wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists the Silent Valley National Park can be a rewarding experience. It is recommended to visit the oak during the dry months - September - March. As accommodation is limited it is advisable to make prior bookings with the park authorities.

The park is home to a rich reserve of rare plants and herbs. Amla, nasemaad, teak, silk cotton, bamboo and climbers like pepper grow here in abundance.

Wildlife found here include the elephant, tiger, lion-tailed macaque, gaur sambhar, panther and wild pig. Besides, the thick undergrowth and foliage provides a suitable hide out for a number of small animals.

The proposal to build a hydel power project here drew student protests from environment and the government was forced to drop the project.

For wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists the Silent Valley National Park can be a rewarding experience. It is recommended to visit the oak during the dry months - September - March. As accommodation is limited it is advisable to make prior bookings with the park authorities.

In the Palghat district of Kerala lies an area of 89 sq. km, which represents one of the last passions of the rain forest of the world. Due to the active interest of conservationists and environmentalists, this area was notified as a National Park in 1984.

The park is home to a rich reserve of rare plants and herbs. Amla, nasemaad, teak, silk cotton, bamboo and climbers like pepper grow here in abundance.

Wildlife found here include the elephant, tiger, lion-tailed macaque, gaur sambar, panther and wild pig. Besides, the thick undergrowth and foliage provides a suitable hide out for a number of small animals.

The proposal to build a hydel power project here drew student protests from environment and the government was forced to drop the project.

For wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists the Silent Valley National Park can be a rewarding experience. It is recommended to visit the oak during the dry months - September - March. As accommodation is limited it is advisable to make prior bookings with the park authorities.