Periyar Lake, Thekkady(Periyar), Kerala India

Periyar Lake was formed by the construction of the dam across the Mullaperiyar River in 1895. There is a good chance of seeing any of the inhabitants of the reserve, except tigers and other carnivores, on the 1½ to 2 hour boat trip on the lake; especially on the morning and late afternoon cruises where animals head for the lake to drink. We also recommend taking a detour to Lake Palace, situated on an island on the lake, to enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch meal before embarking on the boat trip.

Boating on Periyar Lake is very low intensity, and will be suitable for most people. The boat jetty is located 3km inside the Tiger reserve. It is highly recommended to walk from the entrance of the reserve to the boat jetty even though rickshaws are available. You will be able to walk to the edge of the lake on this 3km walk and often you will be able to spot large family groups of monkeys in the tree tops.

Boating on Periyar lake was the first programme that was introduced in Periayar Tiger Reserve.