Periyar National Park in December

October through March offers the clearest wildlife spotting when animals gather around water sources. December and January bring cool mornings perfect for trekking, though you'll compete with peak season crowds. February and March heat up but offer better elephant sightings as they spend more time in the lake. Monsoon season from June to September closes most trails, though the forest looks spectacular if you don't mind leeches and cancelled boat rides. April and May get uncomfortably hot with temperatures hitting 35°C, but accommodation prices drop by half. Morning visits work best year-round — animals retreat to shade by 9 AM. Evening boat rides at 3:30 PM catch animals returning to drink before dark.