The sanctuary is spread at estimated 777 sq- km. One has to treat Periyar as a pleasant escape from the rigours of Indian travel, a nice place to cruise on the lake, and an opportunity to see some wildlife and enjoy a jungle walk, then you will probably find a visit well worthwhile. It is home to bison, antelopes, sambars, wild boars, monkeys,langurs, tigers, leopards, a wide variety of birds,and many elephants.
Boat trips on the lake are thestandard way of seeing the sanctuary.
The best time to visit the sanctuary is between September and May. Places to Stay Lake Palace, Aranya Nivas, Leelapankaj, Periyar House. There are direct buses to Kovalam, Thiruvananthapuram and Kodaikanal. Buses also operate on theEranakulam, Kottayam, Kumily, Madurai route.