Environmental education and awareness is an important activity in Periyar, aimed at long-term sustainability of a natural ecosystem. A variety of activities are carried out in and around Periyar Tiger Reserve for promoting environmental awareness and love for nature.

Nature camps for students, members of NGOs and the fringe area communities are regularly conducted in the two dormitories (Thekkady & Vallakkadavu) of Periyar. The activities of the three-day nature camp include classes by experts and forest officials, audio-visual presentations, field visit, boat cruise, visit to interpretation centre etc. Extension programmes including slideshows and film shows are conducted in the fringe areas. Conservation education programmes focusing park values and the stakes involved in its conservation are carried out in the local educational institutions like colleges and schools.

Vanambadikal, a folk theatre group was formed with local artists for imparting conservation ideas through street plays, dance and music. They perform to the local audience especially among fringe area communities.

Plastic free day is regularly organized on the 28th of every month in Periyar with the active involvement of local people, visitors and park officials. Leaflets and brochures, stickers, posters and name slips carrying messages of conservation are distributed to different target groups. A Newsletter for Periyar Tiger Reserve is being periodically published.