Thekkady in Idukki District of Kerala is a lovely wildlife destination. It is green everywhere and very quiet and serene. One can get the exotic smell of various spices where ever one goes. A traveller can shop for spices from here. It is an exciting place to have a quiet holiday. Adventure lovers can opt for bamboo rafting and forest visits. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in India, is located in Thekkady in Idukki district of Kerala. It is spread around Mullaperiar Dam & Reservoir built across Periyar River.

At a distance of 156 Kms from Kochi and 214 Kms from Trivandrum, it is located at a distance of 4 Kms from Kumily on Kerala - Tamil Nadu boarder. It was established in 1950 and named after the Periyar River. The sanctuary is spread across 777 sq. kms, of which 360 sq. kms is thick evergreen forest. It was declared as Tiger Reserve in 1978.

The park is famous for Asian Elephants, Tigers, Gaurs, Sambars, Lion-tailed Macaques, Nilgiri Langurs, Wild Boars, Spotted Deer, Barking Deer, Stripe-necked Mongoose, Wild Dogs, Sloth Bears, Malabar Giant Squirrel, Civet, Nilgiri Tahr, etc.

This is the only sanctuary in India where you can watch wildlife at close quarters from the safety of a boat from the lake. The main attraction of the sanctuary is group of wild elephants that come to play in the lake. The park offers elephant rides, jeep safari, boating in the lake, tiger trails and forest treks. All cruises, treks start from boathouse in Thekkady.