Periyar Lake Boating
Slots, ticket prices, booking, wildlife sightings
📋 Boating Rates & Booking — Official Boards
Photographed directly at the Periyar Tiger Reserve boat ticket counter. Use as a quick reference for current rates, timings and online booking options.
Important: Online tickets must be collected from the Entrance Counter at least 60 minutes before boat departure. Carry photo ID. Boat tickets are non-refundable. UPI & card payments accepted at counter.
A ride on Periyar Lake is the single most popular activity in Thekkady. The 90-minute trip aboard a KTDC double-deck boat takes you across a flooded forest valley surrounded by dense Western Ghats jungle, with real chances of spotting wild elephants, bison and sambar deer along the shoreline.
Boat slots
- 7:30 AM — best wildlife and light (recommended)
- 9:30 AM
- 11:15 AM
- 1:45 PM
- 3:30 PM — second-best for wildlife
Ticket prices (approx)
- Indian adult: ₹225
- Foreign adult: ₹450
- Child (5–12): ₹80
Always verify on the official site before booking.
How to book
- Online: periyartigerreserve.org (24–48 hrs in advance)
- At the counter near the reserve gate (arrive 60–90 min before slot)
Tips
- Sit on the upper deck — best photos
- Take the 7:30 AM slot for cooler temperatures and better wildlife
- Carry a light jacket — lake breeze is cool year-round
- Life jackets are mandatory and provided
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How do I book Periyar boating tickets online?
Online tickets are released 30 days in advance on two official portals: periyartigerreserve.org (Kerala Forest Department) and boating.ktdcbooking.com (KTDC). 50% of seats are sold online; the other 50% at the counter on the day.
What are the Periyar boating timings?
Five slots daily: 7:30 AM, 9:30 AM, 11:15 AM, 1:45 PM and 3:30 PM. The first morning slot is the best for wildlife sightings.
How much does a Periyar boat ticket cost?
₹45 for Indian adults, ₹30 for Indian children. ₹500 for foreign adults, ₹180 for foreign children. Still camera ₹45, video camera ₹335. Park entry fee is separate.
How early should I reach for the boat?
At least 60 minutes before the boat departure time. Online tickets must be collected at the entrance ticket counter before boat boarding.
Can I see tigers during the boat ride?
Tiger sightings are extremely rare. Most visitors see elephants, wild boar, sambar deer, monkeys and many bird species. The 7:30 AM slot is best for wildlife.
Which slot is best for boating?
The 7:30 AM slot — best wildlife activity at sunrise, smaller crowds and softer light for photos.
Are online tickets refundable?
No, online boat tickets are non-refundable as per the official portal policy.