
Bailey15
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Jun 6, 2009, 6:00 PM
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Periyar wildlife sanctuary is located in Thekkady, Kerala
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Kerala is a South Indian state that is covered by dense forests and greenery. The southern district of Idukki is famous for its natural forest cover. More than 50% of the land is covered by forests. This district is famous for its landscapes and spice plantations. A wildlife sanctuary is located in Periyar Kerala. It is located amidst the splendid Western Ghats, close to the spice plantations. It is spread over an area of 777 sq kms out of which 360 sq kms is dense forests. This provides one of the best places for viewing the wild elephants in their natural environment. The Periyar Wildlife sanctuary was declared as Tiger reserve in 1978 to protect the Indian tiger. The terrain of the reserve is undulating which provides an ideal place for the wildlife. The North eastern boundary of the reserve is a ridge which forms the boundary between Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Apart from the tiger, the other wild animals in this sanctuary include elephants, bison, gaurs, and sloth bears. Early morning and evening times are the best for viewing wildlife. The view is scenic and enchanting. A man-made Periyar lake is the heart of the sanctuary. It has an area of 26 sq kms. The beauty of this wildlife sanctuary is increased by the lake. The tourism department has made arrangements for boat rides in the lake. The boat rides are of one hour and two hour durations. A boat cruise in the lake is the best way of watching the wildlife. The partially submerged trees across the lake with the braches spreading provide the ideal place for the birds to perch. Many species of birds can be seen here. Some of them include the hornbill, kingfisher, raptor and others. The lake was conceived by the British engineer, Col. V.Pennycuick, who was the chief engineer of Madras Presidency. This also provides the visitors an opportunity to see the elephants playing in the lake in the evening. One can also join for nature walks, jungle patrol, tiger trail, elephant ride and bullock cart safari. All these ensure a memorable visit to the Periyar wildlife sanctuary.
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