Introduction

If motorboat cruise on Periyar Lake in search of wildlife was not adventurous enough, a jungle patrol in the dead of the night by shining torch lights will give you the adrenaline-rush. Jungle patrol is part of the regular night patrolling in the fringe of eco-development zones of Periyar Tiger Reserve. You are required to assemble at Bamboo Grove Eco Lodge & Centre adjacent to the famed tiger reserve, half an hour before the start of the tour. The trek could begin between 1900 and 0400 hours, and would continue for about three hours (1900 to 2200 hours, 2200 to 0100 hours and 0100 to 0400 hours). Participants with a reasonable level of physical and mental fitness are invited to take this trek through the wilderness in the night. The maximum capacity of a slot is limited to 8 visitors who will further move in two separate teams. And each team will be accompanied by two protection watchers and one armed forest guard.

Nighttime opens up greater chances of spotting wildlife from up close, and gives you a completely different perspective of the jungle. Trail your guide as he takes you to some less-trodden areas where you could spot animals either in deep slumber or on the prowl. Hear the calls of nocturnal birds – you might even see one flit among the branches in the pale light of the moon. Listen to your guide as he tells you about the indigenous flora and fauna, and if you are lucky you could sight the bigger animals of the cat family. At the slightest stir in the distance, crouch behind a thicket the way your ranger does. You will feel the surge of adrenaline as you wait in anticipation, soaking up the stillness and listening to night noises.

An authentic jungle experience, this!

Suggested footwear: heavy trainers or walking boots.

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. Minimum two people are required to start the tour.

Special Attributes

Nighttime offers better opportunities of observing wildlife at close quarters.

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 especially nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts

Exposure

This is a nighttime activity.

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, dress up in light cottons and carry along a bottle of drinking water.

Type of site

Adventure trek