Periyar National Park is located high in the ranges of the Western Ghats, in Kerala. The park has a picturesque lake at the heart of the sanctuary. This lake is situated around the contours of the wooded hills. Down to the lake-side herds of elephant and sambar, gaur and wild pigs can be observed from the launches.

During the driest period, specially in March & April, the animals spend a lot of time near the lake. Mostly, elephants can be seen bathing and swimming in the reservoir. Periyar also harbours the leopard, wild dog, barking deer and mouse deer.
There are various species of kingfishers, ospreys and kites as well as orioles, hill mynas, racket tailed drongos, parakeets, including the unusual blue winged parakeet and fly catchers. Species of primates can also be found at Periyar.