Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Almost forgot. Can anyone recommend a place in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary?

Don't know how many places are actually in the park, but this one is:

http://www.indiamike.com/reviews/sho...uct/543/cat/21

I heard mixed reviews about it when I was in Thekaddy 2 years ago. Some say its nice to be away from it all, others found it too isolated. All agreed it was a bbit overpriced.

I stayed here:

http://www.indiamike.com/reviews/sho...uct/246/cat/21

Its close to the park and the town, so you could visit either easily.

In periyar there are 2 hotel/resorts run by kerala tourism which are a bit pricy but in kumili town u find accomodation for all budgets...

we stayed there last december for Rs200/- per night for a double bed room...

i suggest if u backpacking just get into town see a few places check into the one u like most..

Periyar House Rs 800/1250 onwards.

Have been to the Periyar 3 times now. Last was in Jan 2006. The most horrible experiences are of this trip in Jan. The crowd seemed similar to the ones in the Delhi Trade fair. A strong advice: DO NOT GO THERE IN DEC. or JAN if you are a wildlife lover. The Saturdays and Sundays should be simply no go. Moreover, if you are staying outside the park area, forget the boat ride in the early morning. They are in the domain of local touts who do not have to buy the entry tickets at the PArk Main Gate as we visitors have to. They get all the tickets for the first boats and sell it at a huge premium. And if you miss the first ride you might not get to see any of the wildlife except for a few boars.
Good luck to all visitors.
Caster

Periyar house is nice, i was there in Feb, crowds ok, but not many animals. WOuld have liked to do a hike in the jungle, but needed boots.

Agree with caster

I am going to be in the Kerala area in a week or so. It looks like Periyar is not really worth the bother at that time, would anyone else like to agree of disagree with that?

More importantly, has anyone got any suggestions what to do instead. My original plan was to do:
Alleppey
Kottayam
Periyar
Cochin

Is it worth just staying in Alleppey for a few more days?

Any recommendations welcomed.

Oh...
even I had Periyar in my list. But now i think i will have to reconsider.
My itenarary for Kerala can be found at
Need Experienced Advice for a 8-9 day itenarary in India

cheers

Ari