9 Amazing Wildlife Sanctuaries To Visit In Kerala

Kerala is widely celebrated for its sun-kissed beaches, serene backwater cruises, and rejuvenating Ayurveda treatments. However, another remarkable aspect of Kerala earns it the title of "God’s Own Country"—its thriving wildlife. Scattered across the state, Kerala’s wildlife sanctuaries offer nature enthusiasts an opportunity to immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty of nature and observe a diverse range of untamed species.

The rich biodiversity of Kerala is home to many endemic species, flourishing in various habitats ranging from tropical evergreen and semi-evergreen forests to moist and mixed deciduous forests, as well as expansive grasslands.

# Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

Located along State Highway 17, approximately 18 km north of Marayoor town in Idukki district, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary spans about 90 sq. km. It is a paradise for birdwatchers, with 225 documented species of birds.

The sanctuary’s most prominent attraction is the endangered Grizzled Giant Squirrel, which thrives in the dry thorny forest. Other wildlife includes Spotted Deer, Tigers, Bonnet Macaques, Gaurs, Elephants, and Nilgiri Tahrs. Chinnar is also home to a significant population of Mugger Crocodiles, along with various snakes and Indian Star Tortoises. Being in the rain shadow region of the Western Ghats, Chinnar receives rainfall for less than two months annually, making dry thorny scrub the predominant vegetation.

# Eravikulam National Park

Spread over 100 sq. km in the Idukki district along the Western Ghats, Eravikulam National Park is situated 13 km northeast of Munnar. It serves as a crucial habitat for the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, a species of mountain goat.

Once pushed to the brink of extinction due to hunting during British rule, conservation efforts by the Kerala Forest Department have helped restore their population to approximately 750.

The park also shelters around 25 species of mammals, including Tigers, Leopards, Golden Jackals, Indian Muntjacs, and lesser-known species such as the Indian Porcupine, Small Clawed Otter, and Nilgiri Langur. The sanctuary is further enriched by 132 bird species.

# Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

A paradise for bird lovers and ornithologists, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is home to a variety of indigenous birds, including egrets, cormorants, Brahminy kites, waterfowls, and herons. The sanctuary also welcomes migratory birds like the Siberian Stork, Darter, Teal, and Egret.

Situated on the eastern bank of Vembanad Lake—the largest freshwater lake in Kerala and the longest in India—the sanctuary hosts a rich diversity of coastal and freshwater fish species.

Access to the sanctuary requires a boat ride, and visitors can enhance their bird-watching experience by exploring the scenic lake via motorboats or houseboats.

# Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Located in Thekkady town, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary extends across the Idukki and Pathanamthitta districts. At its heart lies the Periyar Lake, originally created as a water reservoir. The park, encircling this 26 sq. km lake, offers visitors a chance to explore its beauty by boat.

The slopes of the Cardamom and Pandalam Hills of the Western Ghats provide an ideal habitat for Bengal Tigers, Indian Elephants, Sambar Deer, Gaurs, Malabar Giant Squirrels, Flying Squirrels, and a variety of birds like Woodpeckers and Kingfishers. The sanctuary also functions as a Tiger Reserve, with wild Asian Elephants being another key highlight. Surrounded by lush tea, coffee, and cardamom plantations, the sanctuary’s serene ambiance is a perfect retreat for nature lovers.

# Silent Valley National Park

Covering 90 sq. km in the Palakkad district, Silent Valley National Park is one of the most untouched and pristine rainforests in India. Nestled in the Nilgiri Hills, this park provides an ideal habitat for the rare Lion-Tailed Macaque, which is endemic to the Western Ghats.
Other notable wildlife includes Leopards, Sloth Bears, Malabar Giant Squirrels, Nilgiri Langurs, Spotted Deer, Mouse Deer, and Gaurs. The park is also home to rare and endangered birds such as the Malabar Parakeet, Great Indian Hornbill, Grey-headed Bulbul, and Rufous Babbler.

# Thattekad Bird Sanctuary

Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, Kerala’s first established bird sanctuary, is an evergreen lowland forest located in Kothamangalam Taluk of Ernakulam district. It covers 25 sq. km along the northern shore of the Periyar River.

Described by renowned ornithologist Salim Ali as "the richest bird habitat on peninsular India," the sanctuary hosts around 500 bird species, including Jungle Fowls, Shrikes, Sunbirds, White-Breasted Water Hens, Hornbills, and Night Herons. Several mammals and reptiles also inhabit the area.

# Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Divided into two separate reserves—Muthanga and Tholpetty—the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is a vital component of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, covering approximately 344 sq. km.

Established in 1973, the sanctuary features moist deciduous and semi-evergreen forests that support a rich diversity of wildlife. It is part of the "Protect Elephant" project, making elephant sightings common. Other wildlife includes Tigers, Indian Bison, Monitor Lizards, Wild Dogs, Panthers, and Civet Cats. The sanctuary is also home to 216 bird species, including the Black Woodpecker, Painted Bush Quail, and Pariah Kite.

# Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary

Located in the heart of Kochi, Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is an ecologically significant mangrove forest that serves as a haven for various resident and migratory birds. The most frequently sighted species include the Little Cormorant and Black-Crowned Night Heron. Despite spanning just 2.74 hectares, this urban sanctuary offers a critical refuge for birds amid the bustling cityscape. The small pond within the sanctuary, surrounded by dense mangroves, provides an ideal nesting and breeding ground for many avian species.

# Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary

Situated on the western slopes of the Western Ghats in Kannur district, Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary covers 55 sq. km, with altitudes ranging from 50m to 1,145m. Established in 1984, the sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna typical of the Western Ghats’ tropical and semi-evergreen forests.

Wildlife in Aralam includes Jungle Cats, Indian Bison, Elephants, Wild Boars, Sloth Bears, Sambar Deer, Leopards, and various squirrel species.

Kerala’s diverse wildlife sanctuaries provide an unparalleled experience for nature lovers, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to explore the state’s rich natural heritage.