The Wild Heart of Kerala
THEKKADY SAFARI GUIDE
Your Complete Guide to Experiencing the Majestic Wildlife of Periyar Tiger Reserve, Kerala
Discover the Wild Side of Thekkady
Step into the lush wilderness of the Western Ghats at Periyar Tiger Reserve, where forested hills meet the waters of Periyar Lake. The reserve is home to elephants, tigers, gaur, sambar, wild boar, Nilgiri langurs and a rich variety of birds and other wildlife.
Best Time to Visit Periyar
Cooler weather makes this a comfortable time for exploring the reserve. Nature walks and other outdoor experiences are particularly pleasant during this period.
The warmer months can offer rewarding wildlife-viewing opportunities, particularly around water. Periyar Tourism notes that March and April can be favourable for spotting animals near the lake.
The monsoon transforms the Western Ghats into a lush green landscape. Outdoor activities remain subject to Forest Department conditions and programme availability.
Good to know: Periyar's eco-tourism programmes operate under Forest Department regulations. Programme availability, timings and routes may change depending on weather and operational conditions.
Where to Book Your Periyar Wildlife Experience
Your safari
Safari details and availability are subject to forest department regulations. Guests are advised to verify the latest information on the official website. Sterling Holidays provides assistance and information support only.
Official Periyar Booking
Periyar Tiger Reserve's official eco-tourism system offers boating, nature walks, Green Walks, bamboo rafting, Jungle Scout, trekking and other guided programmes. For the latest availability, timings and programme details, check the official Periyar Tiger Reserve booking platform.
Book 45-120 days in advance
Visit onlineSterling Holidays Assistance
Staying at Sterling Thekkady? Our team can help you understand the available experiences and plan your transfers and timings around your stay.
+91 79697 92015
Call safari DeskGate counter booking
Limited slots available at park entry gates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Periyar (Various boarding points)
Pro Tip: Programme availability, age requirements, timings and routes vary by experience. Check the official Periyar Tiger Reserve booking system before planning your visit.
Distance & Travel Time
Sterling Kanha is strategically located for easy access to Kanha
Sterling thekkady
Your starting point
PERIYAR GATE
Main Entry Point
Curated Safari Transport
Resort Vehicle
Charges applicable as per route & vehicle type
Private Taxi
Rates vary based on distance, season & availability
Safari Gypsy
Safari charges applicable as per prevailing rates
SAFARI TIMINGS
Safari timings are provided for reference and may be revised by forest authorities. Please verify the latest schedule before your visit.
Jeep Safari Experience
Morning Safari
Safari timings, routes, and zone allocations are subject to change as per forest department regulations and operational requirements. Guests are advised to refer to the official government/forest department portal for the latest information before planning their visit.
SAFARI TIMINGS
Safari timings are provided for reference and may be revised by forest authorities. Please verify the latest schedule before your visit.
Jeep Safari Experience
Evening Safari
Safari timings, routes, and zone allocations are subject to change as per forest department regulations and operational requirements. Guests are advised to refer to the official government/forest department portal for the latest information before planning their visit.
What to wear
Dess smart for the wild - Comfort meets camouflage
Cotton Shirt
T-Shirts
Wild Brimmed Hat or Cap
UV Protection Sun Glass
Comfortable closed toe shoes
LightScarf for Dustprotection
- Lightweight, breathable clothing
- Comfortable full-length trousers
- A hat or cap
- Sunglasses
- Comfortable closed shoes
- A light scarf for sun and dust protection
- Heavy, thick or non-breathable fabrics.
- Tight or restrictive clothing
- Bright or neon-coloured outfits
- Flip-flops, high heels or slippery footwear
Winter Jacket
Scarf
Winter Gloves
Wool Beanie
Trousers
Shoes
- Layered clothing
- A warm jacket or fleece for early mornings
- Comfortable trousers
- Closed shoes
- A cap or scarf for cooler mornings
- Thin clothing without warm layers
- Shorts or sleeveless outfits without adequate layering
- Open-toed footwear
- Strong perfumes
Safari
Do's & Don'ts
The Periyar Tiger Reserve specifically requires visitors to follow guide instructions, maintain a safe distance from animals and avoid feeding or disturbing wildlife.
DO'S
- Carry your valid ID and booking confirmation.
- Follow the instructions of your guide and Forest Department personnel.
- Maintain silence and observe wildlife from a respectful distance.
- Stay with your group and remain on designated trails.
- Carry sufficient drinking water.
- Wear appropriate footwear for walking and trekking programmes.
- Follow all safety instructions during boat rides.
- Be patient — wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.
DON'TS
- Do not feed or attempt to attract wildlife.
- Do not feed or attempt to attract wildlife.
- Do not make loud noises or play music.
- Do not make loud noises or play music.
- Do not step off designated trails.
- Do not use flash photography around wildlife.
- Do not smoke or light fires inside protected areas.
- Do not attempt to rock or stand in the boat during a boat ride.
Essential Information
Everything you need to know before your safari adventure
Documents Required
-
Valid government-issued photo ID(Aadhaar, Passport, Driving License) -
Printed or digital copyOf safari booking confirmation -
Payment receiptsFor entry fees -
Foreign nationals:Valid passport with visa
Age Restrictions
-
Children below 5 years:Free entry (not recommended for very young children) -
Children 5–12 years:Discounted rates applicable -
No upper age limitbut ensure physical fitness for the safari duration -
Infantsmust be accompanied and held by adults at all times
Health & Safety Guidelines
-
Carry personal medicationsIf you have any health conditions -
Apply sunscreen and insect repellentBefore the safari -
Stay hydratedCarry at least 1–2 liters of water -
Inform your guideAbout any allergies or medical conditions -
Basic first aidAvailable at park gates; nearest hospital in Mandla (60 km)
What to Carry
Essentials
Binoculars
Camera with zoom lens
Sunglasses and hat
Water bottle
Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Optional
Wildlife field guide book
Notebook and pen
Light snacks (no plastic)
Power bank for devices
Motion sickness medication
Cancellation & Rescheduling Policy
30+ days before:
Full refund minus processing fee
15–30 days before:
50% refund
Less than 15 days:
No refund
Rescheduling subject to availability;
₹200 modification fee applies
Safari cancelled due to weather:
Full refund or reschedule at no cost
Got questions? We've got answers
Frequently Asked Questions
Periyar is different from many traditional tiger reserves. Its official eco-tourism programme offers boating, nature walks, trekking, bamboo rafting, Jungle Scout, Gavi safari and several other guided experiences rather than a standard numbered-zone jeep safari.
Boating on Periyar Lake is one of the most popular options, while nature walks and guided trekking offer a more immersive experience on foot. Your choice depends on how you prefer to explore the forest.
Yes. Elephants are among the wildlife species that may be seen around Periyar Lake, particularly during boat rides. Sightings are naturally unpredictable.
No. Periyar is a protected natural habitat and wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed. The reserve is home to tigers as well as elephants, gaur, sambar, wild boar, Nilgiri langurs and numerous bird species.
Current boat departures are 7:30 AM, 9:30 AM, 11:15 AM, 1:45 PM and 3:30 PM. The boat ride lasts approximately 1.5 hours. Reporting requirements apply before departure.
Nature Walk is a guided 4–5 km forest walk lasting around two-and-a-half hours. It takes visitors through different forest habitats and offers opportunities to observe birds, butterflies and other wildlife.
The current Nature Walk programme has a minimum age of 12 years. Other eco-tourism activities may have different age requirements.
Yes. Thekkady and Periyar remain accessible during the monsoon, although individual eco-tourism activities can be affected by weather and Forest Department conditions. The monsoon is also a distinctive time to experience the lush landscapes of the Western Ghats.
Periyar Tiger Reserve is in Idukki district, Kerala, near Thekkady and Kumily. The reserve has a core area of 881 sq. km and a buffer area of 44 sq. km.
The reserve's tourism facilities are centred around Thekkady/Kumily, making access convenient for visitors staying in Thekkady.
Yes. Guests staying at Sterling Thekkady can connect with the resort team for assistance with understanding the available Forest Department programmes, reporting points, transfers and planning their day around their chosen experience.
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