The Periyar River begins its journey in the Sivagiri hills. It then carves its path through the Periyar National Park and eventually reaches Periyar Lake. Along its course, it is joined by several tributaries, including the Muthirappuzha, Mullayar, Cheruthoni, and Perinjankutti. The river's journey doesn't end there; it further flows into Vembanad Lake before merging with the Arabian Sea.