Introduction

Sign up for the Tribal Heritage Program in Periyar and get a glimpse into the lives of the Mannan tribes that are among the oldest indigenous group to inhabit Periyar Tiger Reserve. These tribes continued living in the remotest areas of the tiger reserve till the late 40’s, eking out a living by fishing in the lake and engaging in cultivation. In this two-hour journey, you will be taken on a nature trail to the grey thatched tribal hamlets, shown the traditional fishing and hunting gear, musical instruments, household articles, indigenous medicinal plants, and finally to the Tribal Heritage Museum.

As you walk into depths of the Periyar Tiger Reserve with your tribal guide in tow to explore these quaint hamlets, you will develop a sense of awe for these tribes that inhabited this wild region for so many decades, and lead a simple live of hunting, angling, cultivation, and indulging in music at leisure. Conclude your trip at the heritage museum built inside the Mannan settlement, and pan through the fascinating collection of artifacts related to their ancient agricultural practices, marriage ceremonies, cultural events, dress code, rituals and death ceremonies. Look out for the curious hunting weaponry, fishing gear, indigenous medicine and vessels, cereals, medicinal herbs, bamboo furniture and musical instruments among others.

The program is packed in a way that you get a detailed insight into the culture and heritage of the aborigine of Thekkady, their colorful yet peaceful way of life, and appreciate the efforts taken by the state to preserve the tribe in their authentic atmosphere.

This two-hour program is available on all days, and you can enroll either for the morning slot starting 0800 to 1200 hours, or the afternoon slot beginning from 1400 to 1600 hours. Tourists participating in this 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 group size can vary from 5-10 guests, but a minimum of 2 persons are needed to begin this heritage trail. You are advised to put on your walking shoes, dress up in light cottons and carry along a bottle of drinking water. Not to mention a camera would only add to the experience!

Special Attributes

This program is a wonderful opportunity to interact with the local Mannan tribes of Periyar and experience a day in their lives.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Carry a lot of light cotton clothing for summer, and in winter a layer of woolen suffices.

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

Families, Senior Citizens, Backpackers, Kids

Exposure

You will be inside the dense wilderness of the Periyar Sanctuary. It is always good to carry a sunshade or hat, and dab some sunblock cream.

Avoidable Season

June, July, August

Facilities

Basic, plan accordingly

Things Not Allowed

Food items and pets are not allowed inside the tribal settlement.

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

Nature trail, heritage program