In addition to elephant rides, cruises on the lake and treks to the ruined Mangala Devi temple - a beautiful old stone temple situated in the heart of the Thekkady forest, this sanctuary offers the unique opportunity to watch  and photograph wild elephants at close quarters.

The Periyar Wildlife sanctuary is spread across 777 sq km, of which 360 sq km is thick evergreen forest, the Periyar Wild Life Sanctuary was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978.  Noted for its geomorphology, diversity of wildlife and scenic beauty, the Reserve attracts visitors all over the world and  is one of the world's most fascinating natural wildlife reserves.

The splendid artificial lake formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar River adds to the charm of the park.  This is the only sanctuary in India where you can have the unique experience of viewing wildlife at close quarters from the safety of  a boat on the lake.  The greatest attraction of Periyar, however are the herds of wild elephants that come down to the play in the lake.