The primary source of water for the wildlife of the Periyar wildlife sanctuary, the artificially formed Periyar lake plays home to a unique aquatic ecosystem. Much like the wildlife, tourists flock to the lake in large numbers to enjoy the thrill of boat rides and catch a glimpse of Thekkady’s wildlife. Boating on the Periyar Lake was one the earliest tourism programmes introduced in Thekkady.Formed after the creation of the Mullaperiyar dam in 1895, the lake has stood tall as a proud representative of Thekkady's beauty and the excitement it offers to visitors.

A huge draw to the Periyar Lake is undoubtedly the spectacular view that unfolds once tourists step foot on the banks of the lake. As an added blessing, visitors also often get to see a variety of wildlife that come down to the lake to drink water. Tree stumps that project out from the water as the last remaining evidence of submerged forest land are both amusing and thought-provoking. The Periyar lake is certainly the perfect place to go as part of your little getaway.