Nature Walk

Kept to the reserve’s outer trails rather than its core zone, these guided walks are pitched at a slower pace than the boat safari or rafting options, giving visitors time to spot smaller wildlife, birds and forest flora with a trained local guide. Nature Walk is typically explored in about 2-3 hours. The best time to visit is October to March. Nearby points of interest include Valara Waterfalls, Bhoothathankettu Dam and Reservoir, and Thattekad Bird Sanctuary. Other notable highlights include malabar pied hornbill calls at dawn, spotting the elusive Sri Lanka frogmouth, and giant squirrels leaping across canopy gaps. It falls within Periyar, Idukki district, and Kerala, India.

State: Kerala

Ideal Duration: 2-3 Hours

Attractions

Valara Waterfalls
Bhoothathankettu Dam and Reservoir
Thattekad Bird Sanctuary (Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary)
Illithode Eco-Tourism Point
Kalvari Mount (Kallil Temple viewpoint)
Cheeyappara Waterfalls

Things to Do

Riverside Picnic and Kingfisher Spotting
Dawn Birding Walk on the Nature Trail
Tribal Heritage Interpretive Walk
Spice and Medicinal Plant Identification Stroll
Night Amphibian and Insect Walk (with Torch)
Sunset Canopy Viewpoint Trek

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Nature Walk trail, and is it suitable for senior citizens or those with limited mobility?

The main trail is a gentle, well-marked 2-kilometre loop with only a few mild inclines, suitable for most seniors with a moderate fitness level. However, there are optional steeper side paths, so stick to the main loop and use the walking sticks provided at the entrance. It is not wheelchair accessible due to uneven natural terrain.

Are there restrooms, drinking water, and places to sit along the Nature Walk route?

Yes, there is a clean restroom block and a water refill station at the entrance, but there are no facilities inside the forest. You will find a few wooden benches and shaded rest spots at roughly every 500 metres, so plan to carry your own water bottle.

What is the best time of year to visit Nature Walk, Kerala, for pleasant weather and clear trails?

The ideal time is between October and March, when the monsoon has ended and the humidity drops, making walks comfortable. Avoid April to May if you dislike heat, and June to September if you want to avoid slippery, leech-filled paths.

Is there an entry fee, and do we need to book in advance for a group of senior travellers?

The entry fee is nominal (around ₹50 per adult, with a 50% discount for seniors above 60), and groups of 10 or more must book at least a day in advance via the Kerala Forest Department website. On weekends, walk-in slots fill up by 9 a.m., so advance booking is strongly advised for a hassle-free visit.

What kind of wildlife might we see, and are there any safety precautions we should take?

You are likely to spot Malabar squirrels, hornbills, butterflies, and occasionally langurs, but wild elephants are rare on the main trail. Stay on the marked path, avoid wearing bright colours, do not feed animals, and keep a safe distance from any primate groups. Leech socks are recommended during or just after the rainy season.