Peppara National Park

It was in 1983 that the place was granted the status of a wildlife sanctuary. There are huge numbers of bird species that are found in the region probably because of the large presence of butterflies and moths. The birds that are found here are darter, cormorant, egrets and pied kingfisher. There is in fact, an entire gene pool here as the park is very rich in terms of flora and fauna. The Peppara National Park has an undulating hilly terrain. The Peppara National Park is in fact situated around the suburban areas of the Thiruvananthapuram city near the reservoir formed by the Peppara dam that was built to supply water to the city.

Best Time to Visit
The months from October through March are best suited for the tourists visiting the sanctuary.

Climate
The rain fall pattern and the other climatic conditions of the Peppara National Park are somewhat similar to that of the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Here also the South West monsoon causes the rains in the month of May – July whereas the North East monsoon is the reason for the rains that take place in October – November.
Sightseeing
Aaranmula Boat Race
This is an annual event that takes place in the picturesque village of Aaranmula in the month of August or September. This event is actually a part of the Aaranmula Temple Festival. Huge crowd gathers on the banks of river Pamba to watch the numerous snake boats taking part in the race.

Varkala Beach
Definitely Varkala is an important beach, yet the place is also famous as a Hindu pilgrimage where people come to visit the 2000 years old Janardana Swamy Temple. The beach also has several mineral water springs which are famous for the curative properties of the water.

Activities
The best way to see the wildlife in the area is through a boat ride in the reservoir.

How to Reach?
By Air
Thiruvananthapuram is the nearest airport which is about 32 km away.

By Rail
Thiruvananthapuram is the nearest railway station which is 32 km away.

By Road
The place is well connected with the nearby major cities which are easily accessible as there are regular bus services plying between Thiruvananthapuram and Ponmudi.
Accommodation
You can either stay at Thiruvananthapuram itself which is definitely the easier choice or choose to stay at Ponmudi. Here you can stay at the Government Tourist Complex which has a guest house with 24 rooms. The place also has 10 small cottages which are preferred by those looking for some cozy stay and privacy.