Wildlife Sanctuaries in Kerala
Wildlife Sanctuary are of fourteen nestled in the luxuriant forests of the Western Ghats in Kerala. And skirting these exotic destinations are some of the most delightful trekking trails in the country. All awash in the spice-scented air of endless acres of plantations ranging from cardamom, vanilla and pepper to tea and coffee.
1) Neyyar Sanctuary:
A haven for exotic flora and fauna, 12,000 hectares of natural vegetation is spread across an undulating terrain interspersed with rushing brooks, flat meadows and gentle slopes. An ideal trekking destination, the 1868 m Agasthyamala peak is its highest point. (30 km from Thiruvananthapuram) Permitting Authority Ph: 0471-2360762,2272182
2) Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary:
This sanctuary spread over 53 sq km on the Western Ghats, has rich flora and fauna and is dotted with hillocks, forests and eucalyptus plantations (50 km from Thiruvananthapuram) Permitting Authority Ph: 0472-2892344, 0471-2322217, 2360762
3) Shenduruney Wildlife Sanctuary:
Declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1984 the region is unique for its bio diversity remains of stone Age culture and an important Eco tourism resource, Thenmala. (66 km from Kollam) Permitting Authority Ph: 0475-2344600, 0471-2329770
4) Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary:
A charming canopy of dense tropical evergreen forests, tropical semi-evergreen forests and moist deciduous forests fringe the scenic lake that surrounds this protected area on three sides. (55 km from Thodupuzha in Idukki) Permitting Authority Ph: 04862-232271
Snuggled in the Western Ghats, one of the world’s richest bio-diversity spots, is the fascinating natural wildlife sanctuary of Thekkady – the protected Periyar Tiger Reserve. There are two watch towers inside the forest teeming with striking wildlife. (4 km from Thekkady in Idukki) Permitting Authority Ph: 04869-222027
The main attractions of this park situated in the Devikulam Taluk are the Nilgiri Thar and the Neelakurinji flowers that bloom just once in 12 years. The highest peak in Southern region of the park. (15 km from Munnar in Idukki) Permitting Authority Ph;04865-2531587
7) Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary:
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary Situated on the Tamil Nadu border, the Rajamala Udumalpet Road (SH 17) winds right through it, enabling travelers to view wildlife including Elephants, Sambar & Gaur
Also known as Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Thattekad, nestled in evergreen forests, was discovered by the renowned ornithologist of India, Dr. Salim Ali and is named after him. (20 km from Kothamangalam in Ernakulam) Permitting Authority Ph: 0485-2588302
9) Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary:
Established in 1958, this is one of Kerala’s oldest wildlife reserves. Formed around the twin reservoirs of Peechi and Vazhani, the sanctuary is a rich repository of bio-diversity with several endangered herbs, shrubs, rare medicinal plants and innumerable variety of orchids. (20 km east of Thrissur) Permitting Authority Ph: 0487-2699017
10) Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary:
With its dense forests, a variety of birds and butterflies and innumerable trekking trails, this is a sanctuary that provides a heady experience for nature enthusiasts. The Forest Department organizes trekking and bamboo rafting programs in and around the sanctuary. But the highlight of all excursions is the Moonlight Sonata, hitch involves rafting on full moon nights. (37 km from Thrissur) Permitting Authority Ph: 04802-701340
11) Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary:
Sprawled across 285 sq. km, the Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary is home to rare wild animals. Boating/cruising facilities are available at the Parambikulam Reservoir. (110 km from Palakkad) Permitting Authority Ph: 0491-2556393
12) Silent Valley National Park:
The 89.52 sq. km national park is believed to be the sole surviving bit of evergreen forests in the Sahya Ranges. The peculiarity of the Silent Valley Forest is that it is devoid even of the chirping of cicadas. (40 km northwest of Mannarkad in Palakkad) Permitting Authority Ph: 04924-222056
13) Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary:
Established in 1973, the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary encompasses an area of 344.33 sq. km and is made up of two discontinuous pockets – Muthanga in the south and Tholpetty in the north. Muthanga is located 18 km west of Sulthan Bathery while Tholpetty lies 15 km from Mananthavady. (17 km east of Sulthan Bathery) Permitting Authority Ph: 04936-220454
14) Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary:
At this 55 sq. km sanctuary, nature walks, soft trekking, bamboo rafting, coracle boating, stay at tree houses in Pariputhodu and Bhoothamkallu etc. are possible.(35 km from Thalassery in Kannur) Permitting Authority Ph: 0490-2413160