Periyar Lake

Periyar Lake is an artificial reservoir created in 1895 by the construction of the Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar River. Located at the heart of Periyar Tiger Reserve in Thekkady, Kerala, this 26-square-kilometer lake serves as a vital water source and wildlife habitat within the protected sanctuary. Visitors can experience guided boat safaris offering opportunities to observe elephants, deer, bison, and diverse bird species along the forested shoreline.

Visitors can expect organized 1.5-hour boat trips on the calm waters of Periyar Lake, departing from the Boat Landing area. The boat ride provides views of the surrounding evergreen forests and opportunities to spot wildlife such as wild elephants, sambar deer, Indian bison (gaur), wild boars, and various bird species including darters, egrets, and kingfishers. Smooth Indian Otters may also be observed. Visitors must travel by reserve bus from Anavachal Parking area to the boat landing, wear mandatory life jackets, and remain seated during the trip. Wildlife sightings depend on chance and patience.

Periyar Lake was created in 1895 with the construction of the Mullaperiyar Dam across the west-flowing Periyar River. The dam was built between 1887 and 1895 under the command of British engineer Colonel John Pennycuick to divert water eastward to the Vaigai River basin in Tamil Nadu. The reservoir formation resulted in the creation of this artificial lake at the center of what later became Periyar Tiger Reserve.

Periyar Lake forms the core of Periyar Tiger Reserve, one of India's premier protected areas and a significant conservation site for tigers, elephants, and other wildlife. The lake and surrounding sanctuary represent important ecological heritage of the Western Ghats region.