Established in 1982, Periyar National Park stretches across 350 sq. km in the terrains of Idduki (Cardamom Hills) and Panthanamthitta. The Wild Life Sanctuary is a part of Western Ghats rising highest at 2019m in Kottamalai. Mammals – 62 species, Indian Elephants – 1000, Birds - 320 species, Reptiles- 45b species, Tigers – 24, Butterflies – 160 species, Fishes – 38 types naturally inhabit the evergreen forests of Periyar. The Mullaperiyar Dam on Periyar River has given rise to the artificial Periyar Lake. Both the Periyar Lake and Pamba River which has a 100 m steep valley are significant water sources for thriving creatures of the forest. The Periyar National Park and Wild Life Sanctuary is a protected Tiger Reserve and many safaris are available to tourists to explore the natural habitats of animals.
