Try Elephant Safari in Periyar!

by Smith Jones
Periyar National Park is situated on the hills of the western ghats in the state of Kerala in south -west India. Imagine the fascinating sight of the herds of elephants wandering through the dense forests freely. The only idea of taking the elephant safari in the park can mesmerize you. Taking the ride on the back of the elephant will surely make you feel like the Maharaja of the erstwhile era. Elephant safari is the perfect way to venture into the park and explore the areas where it becomes difficult even for the jeep to travel. While taking the elephant ride you can get up close with the wild predators. The mahut are very gentle people, they entertain you with the interesting stories and are very helpful in getting great pictures. It is astonishing to see group of wild elephants walking and taking bath in the lake. While taking the ride you can also go into the depth of the forest along with the jungle guide and enjoy the walk the wilds. It gives you the opportunity to spot the birds and butterflies and most importantly the large animals. The elephant safari give you the feel as though you are transmitted to the completely different era.



Lake Cruise in the Park : Lake cruise conducted by he forests department is the best way to see the park. Herds of elephants and other animals come oftenly to the lake for water. It is exciting to see the wilds of the jungle so close and the pictures you get are really amazing. While boating you will pass through the creeks, promontories and small islets that houses several wildlife species. You can also simple enjoy the peace and quiet of the Periyar lake and the surrounds.



Souvenir Shops: There are several shops near the gate of the Periyar National Park from where you can buy lots of handicrafts items. You can shop for spices, Kathakali masks, houseboat replicas any many more.



Jungle Trekking : Jungle trekking is the ideal way to discover the hidden insights of the jungle. It gives you the opportunity to explore its immense bounties. The guides are the local people, they can converse in both Hindi and English. Witness the Cardamom Hills where the species are abundantly grown. Trekking in the Periyar sancturay takes to the ruined Mangala Devi temple, which is a beautiful old stone temple. Excellent walking routes gives you the fascinating views of the wide variety of birds.



Entertainment : In the evening you can enjoy the Kathakali dance performed by the local people. You can also indulge in taking the Kerala Style Ayurvedic message. Apart from elephant Periyar gives you the unique opportunity to enjoy the the tiger shows are very well managed with minimum inconvenience to the tigers. You can also enjoy the jeep safari in the park.
http://www.ecoindia.com/parks/periyar-wildlife-sanctuary.html