Introduction

Border hiking is an adventure-packed full day activity that is largely conservation oriented, and involves a hard trek starting from 8 in the morning to 5 in the evening. The excursion begins from Bamboo Grove Eco Lodge & Centre adjacent to the famed tiger reserve, where you are required to arrive at least half an hour before the start time. A maximum of 10 tourists can take this program in two separate groups, with each group of trekkers accompanied by two guides and an armed forest guard. The route passes through undulating terrains and myriad vantage points in the Periyar sanctuary affording a spectacular panorama of the Western Ghats, the plains, cardamom forests and secluded valleys.

Dress up in light cottons and put on tough walking shoes, for ranges varying from 900 to 1300 meters (3000 to 4333 feet) will be covered in this 9-hour trek. Behold the vista of lofty escarpments bordering the park, watersheds and the verdant stretch of Cumbam Valley down below. Keep your binoculars handy - there are chances of spotting gaur, sloth bear, elephants, and sambhar along this route, besides colorful birds and butterflies. Vegetarian snacks will be served to you en route to keep you suitably fortified. Border hiking is a wonderful opportunity to explore the Periyar landscape and experience its unspoilt nature.

Tourists who are medically fit aged between 15 to 65 years are only allowed to take this tour. And you have to be a nature lover to completely sacrifice all luxuries and conveniences.

Special Attributes

Border hiking opens up the Periyar wilderness from a different perspective.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress is whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

You can take a bus to Kumily either from Kottayam (about 4 hours) or Ernakulam (approx. 6 hours). At the Kumily bus stop, there are ample minibuses to take you to the park. Local transport such as auto-rickshaw takes you to your hotel of stay in Thekkady.

Enjoyed by

Backpackers

Exposure

The climate is really pleasant in this part of Kerala. During your trek you will mostly be under an overcast sky.

Avoidable Season

June, July, August

Facilities

Great opportunity to commune with nature, and take a closer look at the local flora and fauna.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

You are advised to put on your walking shoes, and carry along your sunshades, sunscreen lotion, and a bottle of drinking water.

Type of site

Hiking trail