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Periyar Lake: Where Elephants Come to Drink
Periyar Lake was the preferred holiday destination of the Indian Royals for its scenic beauty. Today, it is a picturesque place for a boat ride and getting a glimpse of wildlife.
In 1895, an engineer in the British army braved many adversities to build a dam across the Mullaperiyar river which led to the formation of the Periyar Lake, that flows within the reserve forest. The lake nurtures a healthy aquatic ecosystem. This lake is one of the few places in India where one can see animals up close from the safe confines of a boat.
Boating tickets have to be bought from the Forest Department office. The cruise is a magnificent experience. You may spot a herd of elephants drinking water on the banks of the lake. The lake also attracts several birds - cormorants, ibis, cranes, storks and kingfishers - for the fish it contains.
At the centre of the lake is a forested island. Through the gaps in the foliage, one can see a palatial mansion in the middle of the island. This used to be the hunting lodge of the Maharaja of Travancore.
While in Thekkady, one must visit the Periyar Lake, located inside the Periyar Tiger Reserve.
Good to Know :
Location: 6 km from the Sterling resort
Follow the guidelines for photography. Keep children safe.
Other Attractions
Elephant Junction: Play Time with the Gentle Giants
3hrsMake a memory of a lifetime by interacting with elephants that live in The Elephant Junction. The mahouts supervise the interactions to make sure that there is nothing to be afraid of these friendly giants.
Ottakathalamedu: Cliff of the Camel 's Back
3hrsOttakathalamedu translates to ‘the cliff of the camel’s back.’ A short 4 km drive from Thekkady, the grassy cliff serves as a great viewpoint.
Bamboo Rafting: River Rafting in the Wilderness
3hrsBamboo rafting is organized by the Forest Department of Thekkady. This day-long programme begins with a hike and is a memorable adventure.
Bullock Cart: Riding a Maatu Vandi
3hrsThe gentle sway of the bullock cart, the pleasing smell of hay, the chatty driver – all come together in Thekaddy to transport you back in time.
Thekkady: Spice Garden and Ayurvedic Plantations
3hrsThekkady provides an excellent opportunity to learn about the world of plants and how they are used in medicine. If you are interested, make some time for a tour of the spice plantations.
Kalaripayattu: India's Oldest Martial Art Form
3hrsThe Kedathanadan Kalari Centre has regular shows in the ancient martial art-form of Kalaripayattu for its visitors, who come from all over the world.