Kerala is a magical kingdom of the most exciting wildlife experiences in Asia. From protected national parks to dense forest reserves, many wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala boast of unique and exotic species of flora and fauna in abundance including tigers, Asian elephants, deer, and rare species like Nilgiri Tahr, Giant Malabar Squirrels, and Nilgiri Thrush.
List of Wildlife Sanctuaries in Kerala
There are 14 wildlife sanctuaries and 2 tiger reserves in Kerala. We have included the top 10 wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala that attract both international and domestic tourists in our list.
Each of these wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala with diverse flora and fauna is a paradise for nature and wildlife lovers.
There is so much to explore in the wild spaces of Kerala which you can discover only when you visit the below-mentioned national parks in Kerala for a truly enriching and exotic vacation in the wilderness of the Nilgiris!
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1. Eravikulam National Park, Munnar
Eravikulam National Park is known to the world as the sacred haven of the Nilgiri Tahr, the endangered goat-like mammal that lives in the Western Ghats. It is one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala and is spread over an area of 97 sq. km.
Eravikulam National Park is situated in Munnar, the most popular tourist spot in India. The park also features the Anamudi Peak, South India’s highest peak. This national park in Kerala houses a plethora of flora and fauna making it a top spot for Munnar sightseeing. People flock to this national park to enjoy the beauty of nature.
Strategically located in Devikulam Taluk of Idukki district, Eravikulam National Park is home to many endangered species and a dynamic biodiversity. The rare Neelakurinji flowers (small blue flowers) that bloom once every 12 years are one of the major attractions of the land.
Along with offering breathtaking views, this is one of the best national parks in Kerala for trekking and hiking. Some exciting flora include epiphytic orchids and balsams, and the amazing fauna include Nilgiri Langur, Indian Bison, and leopards.
How to reach Eravikulam National Park
By air: Madurai International Airport is the nearest airport to Eravikulam National Park about 142 km away, and Cochin International Airport is the second nearest airport at 111 km away via NH 85.
By rail: Angamali Railway Station is the nearest station (about 108 km away from Munnar) and Aluva is the second nearest and busiest station (109 km away from Munnar).
By road: Munnar is the nearest town to the park located 13 km away. It is well connected by roads from Kerala and the neighboring state of Tamil Nadu.
Eravikulam National Park timings: It remains open on all days and is closed from February to March every year due to the calving time of the Nilgiri Tahr. The visiting hours are from 7 AM to 6 PM.
Best time to visit Eravikulam National Park: September to February is the perfect time to visit the park.
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2. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is a perfect example of rich and dynamic wildlife and the biggest and most popular among the wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala. Spread across 925 sq km of protected forest, the 350 sq km park was not declared a national park till the year 1982.
The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary also features a Tiger Reserve and an Elephant Reserve as it is home to a massive population of tigers and elephants. This is one of the most renowned wildlife sanctuaries in South India known for its wild elephants roaming freely and the thickly established Western Ghat forests.
Apart from tigers and elephants, the four main species that can be seen at Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary are Nilgiri Langur, Gee’s Golden Langur, Lion-Tailed Macaque, and Bonnet Macaque.
Tourists can enjoy boat cruising at Periyar Lake and can get a deep insight into the vibrant wildlife of Periyar by taking a Jeep safari or even an elephant safari.
How to reach Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
By air: Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport located 200 km away from the forest reserve. Madurai International Airport is the second nearest airport located 140 km away.
By rail: Kottayam is the nearest railway station 114 km away.
By road: Kumily is the nearest town and railway station to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (about 4 km away).
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary timings: 6 AM to 8 PM
Best time to visit Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: October to June is the ideal time to visit this wildlife sanctuary.
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3. Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary, Thenmala
Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary is an undisturbed natural sanctum in one of the most beautiful destinations in Kerala – Kollam. As a wildlife lover, if you wish to see free-roaming animals and enjoy the beauty of nature, then Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary is the best choice for you among all the wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala.
The long and muddy trekking trails invite tourists to watch the compelling beauty of evergreen forests. Parappar Dam built across the Shendurney River is a perfect picturesque point near the sanctuary. The place is home to the rare tree species Gluta Travancorica, locally known as Chenkurinji.
Ecotourism activities like trekking, camping, and boating here allow visitors to watch herds of untamed deer and elephants. Guests can opt for a jungle trekking and camping program called Idimuzhanganpara Nights and Kurunthotti Top Hut Camping to explore the wilderness with ease and proper guidance.
Covered by evergreen forests, an astounding variety of plant species, and rich wildlife, this Kerala national park is a must-visit for tourists visiting Kollam.
How to reach Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary
By air: The nearest airport is the Trivandrum International Airport 53 km away from the park.
By rail: The nearest railway station is the Shengottai railhead in Tamil Nadu (15 km away).
By road: Buses operate regularly from Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam to the park at nominal fares.
Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary timings The park remains open on all days, but it is advisable to visit between 6 AM and 7 PM.
Best time to visit Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary: October to June is the ideal time to visit.
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4. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Munnar
The diverse ecosystem sprawling along the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats is the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. Covering an area of over 90 sq km in the Idukki district, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary was upgraded as a protected national park in the year 1984 and is one of the most recent wildlife reserves in Kerala.
This unique sanctum is a World Heritage Site and home to the Great Grizzled Squirrel of India, one of the most endangered species on the planet. Comprising dry deciduous forests, hillocks, green plains, waterfalls, and other rich biodiversity, a visit to this sanctuary is highly recommended on your Kerala holiday.
Situated amidst the Western Ghats, this national park in Kerala is the most promising destination to enjoy nature in full swing and is one of the best wildlife sanctuaries of Kerala.
How to reach Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
By air: Coimbatore Airport is the nearest aerodrome located at a distance of 115 km from Chinnar. Cochin International Airport is the second nearest airport located 208 km away.
By rail: Pollachi Rail Junction in Tamil Nadu is the nearest railway station located 60 km away, followed by Kerala’s Aluva railway station 200 km away.
By road: It is situated on the Marayoor – Udumalpet Road. The most popular town near Chinnar is Munnar, which is only 65 km away.
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary timings: 8 AM to 2 PM
Best time to visit Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary: November to February is the ideal time to visit this wildlife sanctuary.
5. Parambikulam Tiger Reserve, Palakkad
The Parambikulam Tiger Reserve is situated in the Chittur taluk of the Palakkad district and Thrissur district of Kerala. Located in the Western Ghats, this is one of the most scenic wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala and is known for its tireless efforts to preserve the dwindling tiger population.
The protected area is placed at an altitude of 1,438 meters above sea level and was declared a Tiger Reserve in the year 2009. The first scientifically managed teak plantation in Kerala belongs to this sanctuary.
Nestled between the Anamalai Hills and the Nelliyampathy Hills, it covers around 643.66 sq km of greenery and is regarded as the top protected ecological park in India. ‘Kannimara’, the world’s oldest teak believed to be 350 years old, is the other major attraction of this place.
The woods and wildlife of this national park are ideal for a romantic escapade, exploring wildlife, and an adventurous holiday.
How to reach Parambikulam Tiger Reserve
By air: The nearest airport is Coimbatore International Airport 110 km away.
By rail: Pollachi Rail Junction in Tamil Nadu is the nearest railway station 39 km away, followed by Palakkad station 79.3 km away.
By road: The nearest town is Pollachi in Tamil Nadu. Hire a taxi via Parambikulam Road and Ambarampalayam-Sethumadai Road to reach Parambikulam.
Parambikulam Tiger Reserve timings: 8 AM to 2 PM
Best time to visit Parambikulam Tiger Reserve: From November to April the climate is well set for tourists to indulge in bird watching and wildlife sighting.
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6. Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary, Idukki
Idukki means “nature”, and Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary is the perfect justification for that. Elegantly cradled by two famous rivers – Cheruthoni and Periyar – and located about 750 meters above sea level, this sanctuary is spread over a grand 77 sq km of area.
Located within proximity to Idukki Arch Dam, this captivating Kerala national park and wildlife sanctuary is ideal for birdwatching and is also home to exotic species of snakes.
It mainly comprises evergreen and deciduous forests and is home to a wide range of spectacular wildlife like elephants, tigers, sambar deer, jungle cats, gray jungle fowl, Malabar gray hornbill, cobras, and vipers to name a few.
How to reach Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary
By air: The nearest airport is the Cochin International Airport 113.8 km away.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is Kottayam 85.3 km away.
By road: The closest commercial hub is Ernakulam 120 km away from where you can board a bus or hire a taxi to the sanctuary.
Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary timings: 9 AM to 6 PM
Best time to visit Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary: December to April tends to be an ideal time to visit Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary.
7. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Wayanad
An integral division of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary boasts amazing wildlife and fantastic landscapes. Out of all the wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala, this one is the second largest area-wise. Established in 1973, it’s a proud extension of the Bandipur National Park in Karnataka.
Famous for its rich biodiversity, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala is the real pride of Kerala. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most picturesque nature parks in Kerala with hilly terrain interspersed with dense valleys and the Lakkidi river cutting through its landscape like a large serpent!
While exploring the forest reserve, tourists can also get to know about the incredible tribal communities settled here such as the Adiyars, Paniyas, Kurichyas, Kattunaikkans, and Ooralis.
Recent studies prove that Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary has the largest tiger population in Kerala, which is why it has come to be known as the Tiger Kingdom of Kerala. The protected area is also listed under Protect Elephant and hence acts as a major elephant reserve in the country.
How to reach Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
By air: Karipur International Airport in Kozhikode is the nearest airport located 125 km away.
By rail: Calicut Railway station in Kozhikode is the nearest railhead.
By road: The nearest town is Sulthan Bathery, 14 km away from the sanctuary
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary timings: 7 AM to 10 AM, 3 PM to 5 PM
Best time to visit Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: June to October is the perfect time to visit.
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8. Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, Kothamangalam
Popularly known as Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Thattekad Bird Sanctuary is the first bird sanctuary in Kerala. It’s named after the eminent ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali, based on who’s recommendations, the Government of Kerala established this sanctuary in 1983.
Positioned on the Njiyapilli Hill, the scenic beauty of this sanctuary cannot be described in words. Located northeast of Kochi, this is the largest bird sanctuary in Kerala.
The sanctuary is a low-lying forest area, thus the name Thattekad (meaning “flat forest”). It is spread across an area of 25 sq. km. and is located between the tributaries of Kerala’s longest river – Periyar – which offers the perfect marshy conditions for birds to nest and thrive.
A must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts and birders, this sanctuary housing over 280 rare species of water and land birds is considered the richest bird habitat of peninsular India. It’s fun to watch its rare avian life freely flying through the forests.
Some of the species you can see here are Sri Lankan Frogmouth, White-bellied Treepie, Rufous Babbler, Bronzed Drongo, White-bellied Blue Flycatcher, Indian cuckoo, Yellow-browed Bulbul, Racket Tailed Drongo, the Malabar Grey Hornbill, and Shama.
How to reach Thattekad Bird Sanctuary
By air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport 43 km away.
By rail: The nearest railway station is Aluva 48 km away.
By road: It’s located 12 km away from Kothamangalam. Private and state-run buses ply between Kerala’s major cities and Thattekad.
Thattekad Bird Sanctuary timings: 7 AM to 5 PM
Best time to visit Thattekad Bird Sanctuary: All seasons except the monsoon are ideal for visiting this sanctuary.
9. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kumarakom
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is the ultimate destination for birdwatchers! Located in Kumarakom in the Kottayam district of Kerala, it is also known as the Vembanad Bird Sanctuary as it is erected on the banks of Vembanad Lake.
Located in Kottayam taluk, this is among the most breathtaking bird sanctuaries in Kerala and the favorite destination of many native and migratory birds. Erstwhile Baker’s Estate, this reserve is spread across 14 acres of land and even shelters several migratory birds from the Himalayas and Siberia.
From sociable birds to prey birds, birders can see a wide variety of aviaries including wood beetles, waterfowl, cuckoo, owls, Siberian Cranes, parrots, flycatchers, teals, and larks. The added thrill of boating trips makes this one of the most exciting wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala and a delight for bird watchers and nature lovers.
How to reach Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
By air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport situated 94 km away.
By rail: Kottayam Railhead is the nearest station about 13 km away.
By road: Private and public bus services are available from major cities in Kerala. You can also hire a taxi from Kottayam.
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary timings: 6:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Best time to visit Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: It is best to visit the sanctuary from June to August before the breeding season of wetland birds begins.
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10. Silent Valley National Park, Palakkad
A magical extension of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, the Silent Valley National Park got its status as a national park in 1984. Legend has it that Sairandhiri (the other name of Panchali from Mahabharata) hid in this place along with her husband, Pandavas, hence the name “Sairandhri Vanam”.
Tourists can see the majestic Nilgiri Plateau to the North and the lush Mannarkkad Plains to the South. This nature park preserving the evergreen forests of the Sahya Ranges is one of the most magnificent gifts of nature.
A perfect place for peace and tranquility, Silent Valley features an incredible range of flora and fauna. Tourists can expect to see leopards, elephants, and Malabar Giant Squirrels among other species during their visit.
With breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and over 1000 species of flowering plants, Silent Valley National Park weaves wonders for tourists! Tourists can trek into the dreamy wilderness and opt for a 2-day camping getaway with Keerippara Camping to unwind amid untouched nature.
How to reach Silent Valley National Park
By air: Coimbatore International Airport (73.9 km away) is the nearest airport.
By rail: Palakkad station (49.8 km away) is the nearest railhead.
By road: The nearest town is Mannarkkad located 32 km away.
Silent Valley National Park timings: 7 AM to 2:30 PM
Best time to visit Silent Valley National Park: December to April is an ideal time to visit to watch the beguiling beauty of nature and wildlife here.
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While Kerala is famous for its backwaters, beaches, and lush greenery, these national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala too are a must-visit for wildlife lovers, nature enthusiasts, and birdwatchers. Plan your trip to Kerala with Iris Holidays and enjoy the experience of watching wild animals roam free in their natural habitat in Kerala.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wildlife Sanctuaries In Kerala
Which is the biggest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala?
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is the biggest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala spread over an area of approximately 777 sq km. Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve (PNP) is a protected area located in the districts of Idukki and Pathanamthitta in Kerala.
Which is the first wildlife sanctuary in Kerala?
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is the first wildlife sanctuary in Kerala. The first official action towards the conservation of wildlife and biodiversity in Kerala was in 1934 by the Maharaja of Travancore, Chithira Thirunal Balarama Varma, by declaring the forests around Periyar Lake as a private reserve to stop the encroachment of tea plantations.
Can we see tigers in Kerala?
The forests of Kerala provide the right environment for tigers to thrive. Kerala’s first tiger reserve, Periyar Tiger Reserve, with an area of 925 sq km, came into being in 1978. Parambikulam Tiger Reserve is another great tiger reserve in Kerala located in Palakkad. It is often called the Tiger Kingdom of Kerala.
What is the forest area of Kerala?
According to reports, Kerala currently has a total of 20,321 sq km of forest cover, which is 52.30% of its total geographical area. Much of the forest cover of Kerala is spread over the Western Ghats, which is one of the world’s 18 biodiversity hotspots and is considered to be a repository of endemic, rare, and endangered species of flora and fauna.
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