Set high in the ranges of the Western Ghats in Kerala, is the Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve. The sanctuary has a picturesque lake at its heart, where herds of playful wild elephants are known to love frolicking in the water. They can be observed bathing and swimming here. Enjoy a boat ride on the lake to view the wildlife at close quarters. Other inhabitants of Periyar include the leopard, wild dog, barking deer, mouse deer, Nilgiri langur, bonnet macaque, sambhar, porcupines, squirrels, gaur (Indian bison), wild boar and sloth bear. The area is also famous for its spice plantations – the aroma of ripening spices can be a heady experience. Spices found in Thekkady include pepper, clove, cardamom, nutmeg, ginger, turmeric, vanilla and curry leaves. You can also enjoy an elephant ride in Periyar.