Ancient Temples
The Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa temple situated close to the buffer zone of the sanctuary is a famous south Indian pilgrim centre. The temple which is open on select days in a year draws around 5 million pilgrims an year.
The Mangaladevi temple, situated on the northern boundary of the Reserve is about 1,000 years old. The temple which comprises four granite structures is visited by thousands of pilgrims during the annual Chitra Pournami festival that falls some time during April or May. Since the 12-km trekking trail to the temple is through dense forests the Forest Department takes special care to protect the wild.
For details, contact:District Tourist Information Office
Thekkady – 685 059
Tel: +91 4869 222 620
Forest Information Centre
Boat Landing
Periyar Tiger Reserve
Tel: +91 4869 222 028
Eco Tourism Centre
Periyar Tiger Reserve
Ambady junction
Kumily
Tel: +91 4869 224 571
Topography and Climate
