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Periyar, best known for its wildlife, is a must-see
for all visitors to Kerala. The Periyar Lake lies at the heart
of the sanctuary which is a veritable paradise for all wildlife
lovers. Where else can one view the animals in their natural
surroundings while cruising on the lake, or better still come
within a few feet of a herd of wild elephants and still be
at ease! The majestic gaur, deer, wild boar and the distinctive
Nilgiri langur are often spotted along the lake as also water
birds.
Periyar's wildlife variety includes the tiger, sambar, barking
deer, mouse deer, the Nilgiri tahr, wild dog, porcupine, lion
tailed macaque, Malabar squirrel and sloth bear. The reserve
has also attractions for the bird watcher as varieties of
birds like the hornbill, blue winged parakeet, whistling thrush,
flycatcher and water birds are to be seen here.
Observation towers are set about the reserve for the more
enthusiastic of nature watchers and a cool summer palace of
the former Maharaja of Travancore is a hotel run by the Kerala
Tourism Development Corporation Ltd. The ideal time to visit
is between the months of December and May.
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