Wanna get rid of noisy city life and explore the environs of wildlife living in their natural habitat? So, there are many Wildlife Sanctuaries found in India, every sanctuary has a wide range of flora and fauna. But, Wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala are one of the best places to visit in India for those who want to keep a beady eye on raw Nature. Here you can experience the rare wild animals and birds engaged in their antics in their natural habitat. These wildlife sanctuaries are composed of endangered and threatened species like different types of birds, animals, and plants. Let's have a quick look to explore these surroundings. You never know when you will take up the chance to visit these environs!

Housing a wide range of flora and fauna, Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is located near a picturesque tourist destination, Coorg. The Sanctuary also has a breeding centre for hybrid coconut seeds in India. The wildlife sanctuary is an ideal region for those who want to witness Mother Nature.Location: Near CoorgBest time to visit: December to March&nbsp;Things to do in Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary: Adventure-filled treks, nature camps, jungle walks and wildlife safari.Animals Found: Sambar Deer, Mouse Deer, Malabar Giant Squirrel, Flying Squirrel, Tigers, and Leopards.Timings: 08:00 AM to 05:00 PM (Everyday).

Housing over 500 different varieties of exotic birds which make it the richest habitat for birds in the Indian Peninsular region, Thattekad Bird Sanctuary is a pleasure to watch in Kerala and a place for those who love birdwatching as well as animals. Also, different species of butterflies are found there. It is also known as Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. When you look up in the sky or at trees, you will capture a new species of bird. Amazing, isn’t it?Location: Kothamangalam, Ernakulam districtBest time to visit: October to March&nbsp;Things to do in Thattekad Bird Sanctuary: Bird watching, trekking, and nature walking.Birds Found: Ceylon Frogmouth, Indian Pitta, Malabar Trogon and various butterflies.Timings: 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM (all days).

Endowed with thick forests, clear streams and extremely rich and diverse wildlife, Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most adventurous and vivid of all national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala, named after the Peppara Dam. It is a perfect region for various species to thrive and survive easily combining tropical evergreen forests, deciduous forests, and swamp forests.Location: ThiruvananthapuramBest time to visit: December to March&nbsp;Things to do in Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary: Bird watching, trekking, and visiting Bona Falls, Vazhvanthol Waterfalls, &amp; Kalarkad Waterfalls.Animals Found: Tigers, leopards, sloth bears, bonnet macaques, Nilgiri langur and Nilgiri Tahr.Timings: 10:00 AM to 06:00 PM (All days)

Blessed with mesmerising beauty and rich biodiversity, Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary is the second-largest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala. It is famous amongst tourists and locals for night camp and trekking activities. Apart from that, there is a lake within the sanctuary for animals who come to quench their thirst. Also, there is a watchtower situated nearby the lake.Location: WayanadBest time to visit: Late September to March&nbsp;Things to do in Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary: Jeep safari and bird watching&nbsp;Animals and Birds Found: White-rumped vultures, red-headed vultures, panthers, tigers, jungle cats, jungle fowls and some others.Timings: 07:00 AM to 09:00 AM and 03:00 PM to 05:00 PM (all days)

Scattered over an area of approximately 777 sq km, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is the first and the biggest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala established in the year 1950. There is a Periyar lake within the sanctuary where you can spot flying birds catching their prey and capturing rare wild animals drinking water. Also, elephants are found there in huge numbers.Location: ThiruvananthapuramBest time to visit: October to May&nbsp;Things to do at Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Enjoy an Elephant ride, Jeep safari and boat ride.Animals Found: Nilgiri Langurs, wild boars, barking deer, Indian elephants, white tigers and Bengal Tigers

Neighbouring with Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary, Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary is the most adorable picnic spot for visitors. Located in the Western Ghats, the Sanctuary has a wide range of flora and fauna. It is surrounded by the mesmerising beauty of nature. Also, there is a Chimmini Lake within the sanctuary.Location: Thrissur DistrictBest time to visit: October to March&nbsp;Things to do in Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary: Trekking, jungle safari, bird watching and Bamboo Rafting.Animals and Birds Found: Indian elephants, sambars, grey-headed bulbul, white-bellied flycatcher, Malabar Trogon, Fish Eagle, Loten’s Sunbird, wild dog, lion-tailed macaque, Nilgiri Langur and many other species of plants and animals.Timings: 06:00 AM to 05:00 PM (Everyday)

Blessed with the beauty of nature and uniqueness, Eravikulam National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in one of the most beautiful destinations in Kerala-Munnar. The National Park is home to the endangered species of Mountain Goat which is also known as Nilgiri Tahr. So, whenever you visit Kerala, you must visit this place.Location: Munnar, Kerala&nbsp;Best time to visit: October to January and April to June&nbsp;Things to do in Eravikulam National Park: Trekking, wild safari, nature walks and photography.Animals Found: Nilgiri Tahr, Nilgiri Langur, tigers, leopards, Golden Jackal, striped-necked mongoose, 132 species of birds, 101 species of butterflies and various other types of flora and fauna.&nbsp;Timings: 07:30 AM to 04:00 PM(All days)

Being the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala, Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary is a part of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve where you can witness tigers, leopards chasing gazelles, and unfamiliar species of birds flying in the sky. Blessed with rich biodiversity, this Sanctuary is a must-visit during Kerala to do some real action.Location: Sulthan Bathery, WayanadBest time to visit: October to FebruaryThings to do in Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary: Elephant rides, jeep rides, trekking, bird watching and tribal dance performances.Animals and Birds Found: Elephants, rhinos, jungle cats, tigers, panthers, monkeys and cuckoo birds.Timings: 07:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 03:00 PM to 05:00 PM (All days)

Housing several local and migratory birds, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is one of the unique wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala situated on the banks of the popular Vembanad Lake in Kumarakom. You might get to witness some of the most endangered birds flying freely in the sky.&nbsp;Location: Kumarakom&nbsp;Best time to visit: June to August for local birds and November to March to spot migratory birds.Things to do in Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: Local and migratory bird watching.Birds Found: Egret, cuckoo, heron, waterfowl, water duck and many more residing birds can be spotted. Migratory birds such as Siberian Cranes, larks and skywatchers can be seen during the season.Timings: 06:00 am to 06:00 pm (All days): 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM (All days)

Housing over 32 species of animals, 500 species of butterflies and more than 292 species of birds, New Amarambalam Reserved Forest is an ideal region for wildlife lovers and adventure seekers. Due to its geographical location, this wildlife sanctuary receives heavy rainfall. Also, it has a thick forest surrounded by wide species of plants.&nbsp;Location: Nilambur, Malappuram&nbsp;Best time to visit: November to March&nbsp;Things to do in New Amarambalam Reserved Forest: Bird watching, trekking, jungle safari and nature walks.Animals and Birds Found: The lesser adjutant, white-rumped vulture, Nilgiri wood pigeon, Malabar parakeet, grey-headed bulbul and rufous babbler and crimson-backed sunbird.Timings: 08:00 AM to 05:00 PM (all days)

Located in the plateau region of the Western Ghats, Begur Wildlife Sanctuary has an astonishing diversity of animal life. The sightseer-friendly climate and picturesque surroundings make it one of the famous and unique wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala. The variegation of fauna, flora and wildlife specify a perfect balance of Mother Nature.Location: Western Ghats, KeralaBest time to visit: December to MayThings to do in Begur Wildlife Sanctuary: Jeep safari, trekking and jungle walks.&nbsp;Birds and Animals Found: Peafowl, Black bulbul, bears, Wild boars, Panthers and Laughing Thrush.Timings: 06:00 AM to 08:00 AM and 03:00 PM to 05:30 PM, daily.

Endowed with the beauty of nature and the rich biodiversity, Silent Valley National Park is one of the least disturbed and peaceful national parks in this region, suitable to its name so well. The National Park, also known as ‘The Garden of Eden, is one of the most well-maintained forms of tropical rainforests. It is a perfect place for nature lovers, biology students, and life-sciences scientists.&nbsp;Location: Mukkali P.O, MannarkkadBest time to visit: October to March&nbsp;Things to do in Silent Valley National Park: Wildlife safari, bird watching, trekking, bathing in the Bhawani River at Mukkali and shopping for natural products.Animals and Birds Found: Ceylon Frogmouth, The Great Indian Hornbill, long-legged buzzard, threatened lion-tailed macaque, Nilgiri langur, Malabar giant squirrel, Nilgiri tahr, and hairy-winged bat.Timings: The entry time window is 08:00 AM to 01:00 PM. You have to exit the national park by 05:00 PM

Spread over 77 sq kilometres, Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most beautiful wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala situated in the heart of two rivers Cheruthoni and Periyar. Owing to its dense evergreen forests, the sanctuary has a wide variety of wildlife. Just lost in the beauty of the panoramic view of the surroundings, it is a perfect place for those who are keenly fond of watching&nbsp;‘wildlife shows’ on TV, to get set ready for some real action.Location: Vellappara, Painavu, IdukkiBest time to visit: December to AprilThings to do in Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary: Trekking, boat safari, hiking, jeep safari, visit the waterfalls&nbsp;Birds and Animals Found: Sambhars, Wild Dogs, Jungle Cats and Tigers.Timings: 07:00 AM to 04:00 PM

Surrounded by the lush green mountains of the Western Ghats, Kurinjimala Wildlife Sanctuary is home to some of the most beautiful animals in the country. Apart from the beauty of mother nature, exotic wildlife and the refreshing lush greenery, this sanctuary is one of the most favourable spots for various adventurous and thrilling activities.Location: VattavadaBest time to visit: September to MayThings to do in Kurinjimala Sanctuary: Trekking, strolling among the tea gardens, rappelling and hiking.Birds and Animals Found: Tiger, giant squirrel, sambar, gaur, Nilgiri wood pigeons and Nilgiri tahr.Timings: 07:00 AM to 04:00 PM

Housing nearly 34 species of mammals, 245 species of birds, 36 species of reptiles, 22 species of amphibians and 42 species of fish, Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Kollam district. Established in 1984, this sanctuary is famous for being the major forest reserve in the list of wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala as well as for biodiversity all over the world.Location: Kollam district, Kerala&nbsp;Best time to visit: October to March&nbsp;Things to do in Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary: Elephant rides, jeep safari, trekking, bird watching and tribal dance performances.Animals Found: Hump nose vipers, Great Eared Nightjar leopards, bonnet macaques, elephants, gaurs, jungle cats, and deer. It is also home to some plants having great medicinal value

Are you thinking about going to Kerala? If yes, then definitely visit the most beautiful and popular wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala. Capture the beauty of mother nature and experience the adventurous journey through a visit to all the wonderful sanctuaries. So, backpack for some thrill and action, keep your camera in hand and always open your eyes wide, no wonder, you might get a perfect click of wildlife as well as witness the rare wild animals and endangered species doing their natural antics or habitat.

Are you fond of Tigers? There are many tigers to explore in the sanctuary. Located in the south Western Ghats in Palakkad District, Parambikulam Tiger Reserve is a protected zone blessed with spectacular landscapes.&nbsp;It was proclaimed a Tiger Reserve in the year 2009. It is a perfect place for birdwatchers for there are more than 250 species of birds.Location: South Western Ghats, PalakkadBest time to visit: October to AprilThings to do in Parambikulam Tiger Reserve: Trekking, camping and jungle safari.Birds and Animals Found: Tigers, leopards, Pit Vipers, Asian Elephants, lion-tailed Macaque, King Cobras, Great Pied Hornbill as well as 1400 species of plants.Timings: 07:00 AM to 04:00 PM

Making space among all other national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary is the second oldest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala. Inaugurated in 1958, the Sanctuary is surrounded by two dams- Peechi and Vazhani which is why it is named Peechi-Vazhani. It is located in Thrissur district in the state of Kerala.&nbsp;Location: Thrissur district, KeralaBest time to visit: October to MarchThings to do in Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary: Boat safari, bird watching, trekking, and camping.Birds and Animals Found: Tigers, leopards, Asian elephants, deer and Indian bison.Timings: 08:00 AM to 06:00 PM (all days)

In a row to get listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Idukki district of Kerala. Endowed with breathtaking natural beauty, there are wide variations of trees, flora and kingdom Animalia. There are Eravikulam National Park, Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary, and Kodaikanal Wildlife Sanctuary nearby. It is also a home to endangered giant grizzled squirrels.Location: Idukki, KeralaBest time to visit: December to MarchThings to do in Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary: Hunter Jeep safari, elephant ride, boat ride trekking and nature walks.Birds and Animals Found:&nbsp;Kraits, vipers, turtles, gaur, cormorants, spectacled cobras, mugger crocodiles, and many more exotic species and enjoy beautiful butterfly migration in monsoons.Timings: 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM.

Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary, popularly known as Green Lung of Kochi, is located behind the Kerala High Court. It is home to 32 species of exotic birds and 17 species of butterflies. The Sanctuary is a perfect place for those who have an interest in nature and bird watching.Location: Behind the Kerala High CourtBest time to visit: October to MarchThings to do in Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary: Bird watching and Jungle ride.Birds and Animals Found: Marsh sandpiper, Waterhen, the surrounding mangrove vegetation and various species of butterflies.Timings: 06:00 AM to 06:30 PM

Being an owner of 176 species of birds, about 40 species of mammals, 40 species of fish, 30 species of reptiles and 17 species of amphibians, Neyyar National Park is one of the most popular and best wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala. Located near Neyyattinkara town, the Park is a perfect preserve for a wide diversity of wildlife. Dedicated to the late Australian legend and crocodile expert Steve Irwin, there is also a Crocodile Breeding Centre.Location: Near Neyyattinkara town, KeralaBest time to visit: October to MarchThings to do in Neyyar National Park:&nbsp;Lion Safari Park, Deer Park, capture the wild animals, enjoy boat rides and trekking at Agasthyamalai Hill.Birds and Animals Found: Slender Loris, King Cobra, Travancore Tortoise, lion-tailed macaques and fierce crocodiles at Crocodile Breeding Centre.Timings: 09:00 AM to 04:00 PM (Tuesday to Sunday)

Surrounded by thick forest and greenery, Mathikettan Shola National Park is an ideal preserve for a wide variety of rare wild animals. Once you enter the park, located in the Idukki district, mother nature can absorb you. It has various leading paths that you can easily forget which is why it is called a Maze by local people.Location: Idukki district, KeralaBest time to visit: November to MarchThings to do in Mathikettan Shola National Park: Forest trekking, Jungle safari, and Bird watching.Birds and Animals Found: Tigers, Panthers, Giant Grizzled Squirrels, Flying Squirrels and Nilgiri Tahr.

Are you fond of big Cats or Tigers? Periyar Tiger Reserve is one of the famous 27 tiger reserves in India where you can experience incredible picturesque beauty and rich biodiversity along with close encounters with Tigers. It is a protected region where you can enjoy a jeep safari while watching their antics.Location: Thekkady, Idukki district.&nbsp;Best time to visit: October to AprilThings to do in Periyar Tiger Reserve: Capture a variety of wild animals, boat cruise ride and jungle patrolling at night.Animals Found: Tigers, wild dogs, sloth bears, palm civets, jackals, stripe-necked mongooses or black-naped hares.Timings: 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM.&nbsp;

Top 22 Wildlife Sanctuaries in Kerala: Learn Their Cultural Significance

India > Kerala

Muskan Choudhary 10 Jan 2024

Explore in Kerala

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