Trekking / Nature Walk - History, Timings & Entry Fee

Several trekking programs are offered in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Short trekking programs are available that cover 4-5 Km and completed in 3 hrs. This is a good option to watch birds, butterflies and some wildlife. The trails often pass through evergreen and moist deciduous forests and grasslands. It costs Rs. 300 per person and a group can have a maximum of 4 persons.

A 12 Km trek (one way) to the ruined Mangaladevi temple in middle of the Periyar Sanctuary is a great option to experience beauty of the park in depth. It is recommended for experience trekkers.

Border Hiking is a conservation oriented hard trek taking up a full day. The trekking starts at 8 AM and ends in the evening. The route passes through undulating terrains. Maximum of 10 tourists can take the programme in two different groups. The trekkers will go with two guides and an armed forest guard.

Tourists can also participate in jungle patrol, which is a night trek programme intended to conserve the forest. Persons having proper physical and mental fitness to trek through the wilderness in the night could take the 3 hours trekking. Two protection watchers and one-armed forest guard will accompany the tourists.

Trekkers must obtain prior permission from the wildlife authorities. Kurisamala to Kumily and Kumily to Pandikuzhi are some of the most favorite trekking routes and Pullumedu, Kurisumala, Ottakathalamedu and Grampi are noteworthy trekking bases in this area. The Forest Department conducts daily treks from the Thekkady Boating Point to the Nellikkampetty area and Manakkavala. Booking can be made with the Wildlife Preservation Officer, Thekkady Ph: 322027,322028.

Trek Cost: Rs. 300 per person.
Trek Timings: 7 AM, 7.30 AM, 10 AM, 10.30 AM, 2 PM and 2.30 PM.

Jungle Patrol Timings: 7 PM, 10 PM and 1 AM
Jungle Patrol Cost: Rs.1000 per Person

Boarder Hiking Timings: 8 AM to 5 PM.
Boarder Hiking Cost: 1500 per person.