Kerala is known for its backwaters, Sun-kissed beaches, and mouthwatering dishes. The Ayurveda treatments are the highest selling points in Kerala. But the wildlife sanctuaries and national parks are other diversities waiting to be explored in Kerala. It is home to some rare and exotic wildlife species. Further, the wildlife sanctuaries are spread in vast stretches making people close to Nature.
Most of the wildlife lives in evergreen, semi-green, and wetlands. There are over 500 species of flora and fauna in all the wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in Kerala. Those who wish to get raw glimpses of wildlife should visit these sanctuaries in Kerala. The beauty lies in the intact forests along with the raw nature.
List of the 10 Best Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks in Kerala:
1. Periyar Tiger Reserve
The Periyar Tiger Reserve is home to about 27 species of tigers. It is a protected area boasting quality biodiversity and scenic sights. Likewise, to get close to the tigers, you can get into a jungle safari. The jeep safaris go deep into the jungles taking you through the royalness of Periyar.
This tiger reserve is open from 6 am to 7 pm.
It costs Rs. 15 for children Rs. 45 for Indian adults. For foreigners, the cost of entry is Rs. 180 for children and Rs.500 for adults.
You can bring in your two-wheelers and other vehicles on paying a nominal fee.
Sloth bears, wild dogs, stripe-necked mongooses, black napped hare, etc. are some worth seeing animals here.
2. Begur Wildlife Sanctuary
The Begur Wildlife Sanctuary is in the Western Ghats, well known for its exotic flora. The climate there is tourist-friendly making so many people visit the place. Besides, various trees are making a fine balance of nature in the sanctuary. Try out the jungle walks and trekking to the dense parts of the jungles.
Peafowl, laughing thrush, Panthers, Wild Boars, etc. are found in plenty in the Begur Wildlife Sanctuary.
You will find a lot of hotels in Kalpetta. You can try out the treehouse resort near Vythiri for an awesome experience.
Carry food and adequate water with you since there are no hotels inside the sanctuary.
3. Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary
Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is located very close to Coorg hosting a wide variety of flora and fauna. Secondly, this wildlife sanctuary is for those people who want to see nature from up close. There is the Central State Farm within the sanctuary for the production of hybrid coconut seeds.
The sanctuary is filled with adventure treks, and jungle walks. You can even hop onto a jungle safari.
If you want to experience camping, nature camps are available for all the tourists.
Mouse Deer, Sambar Deer, flying squirrels, leopards, etc. are some animals you will see in the sanctuary.
There are Government guest houses in Iritty which are 20 km from Aralam.
Note: Alcohol and polythene bags are strictly prohibited in the wildlife sanctuary.
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4. Thattekad Bird Sanctuary
The Bird sanctuary hosts about 500 different species of birds coming from different parts of the world. Likewise, the sanctuary is a paradise for all bird lovers. Along with birds, you will also find varieties of butterflies surrounding the region. Every time you look up at the sky, you will see a new bird.
There are nature walks and trekkings organized for the visitors. Indian Pitta, Ceylon, Frogmouth, etc. are well-known bird species found here. The Hornbill Camp is a government-initiated stay within the bird sanctuary. It’s best to hire a guide to know about the history of the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary.
5. Eravikulam National Park
Eravikulam National Park is located in the Munnar Kerala Region widely known for its endangered mountain goat. It is also called the Nilgiri Tahr. The beauty of the park is simply splendid making it a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you are planning to visit Kerala, you should come to this National Park once.
Nilgiri Langurs, golden Jackal, tigers, leopards, etc. are other wildlife found in the park. It also has over 132 species of birds and 101 species of butterflies.
There are various comfortable resorts and hotels nearby Munnar to spend the night. Since the ticket counter is full all the time, reach the counter early. Or you can do an online reservation by paying Rs. 50 extras.
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6. Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary
The Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary is well known as a picnic spot amongst nature. Apart from the wildlife present here, you will stay quite close to nature also. Moreover, the beauty is just too much to handle, and you will not feel like coming back. There are wildlife safaris and trekking tours organized for travelers.
For all the adventure junkies, try out bamboo rafting on full moon nights. Some animals you will find here are sambars, Indian elephants, Malabar Trogon, Loten’s Sunbird, Fish Eagle, etc. There are dormitories within the sanctuary with 40 beds for the large travel groups. You can do an overnight stay only with the permission of the authorities.
7. Silent Valley National Park
Also known as the Garden For Eden, this National Park is a heaven for all nature enthusiasts and biology students. The place is so quiet and surreal that you can spend quality time here. It is one of the least disturbed regions with an entry time is 8 am to 1 pm. You have to completely leave the park by 5 pm.
There are bird watching tours, wildlife safari, and baths at Bhawani River. There are department stores in the National Park from where you can purchase natural products. Malabar Giant Squirrel, Nilgiri Tahr, Hairy Winged Bat, Great Indian Hornbill, etc. are some animals to look out for. There is the Inspection Bungalow and Forest Guest House with dormitories where you can spend the nights.
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8. Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Consisting of 40 species of mammals, 40 species of fishes, 30 species of birds, and 17 species of Amphibians, Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary should be a must on the list. There is a Crocodile breeding center by Steve Irwin. The wildlife sanctuary is open from 8 am to 4 pm. Visit the Deer Park, Lion Safari Park to check the animals in action.
You can also enjoy boating at Neyyar Lake. There are guest houses of the Kerala government or Department of Tourism hotels. There are dress codes like Khaki, green, brown to match yourself with the jungle color.
9. Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary
The Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary is a blessed region in Kerala filled with natural wonders. Meet various beasts here like cobras, vipers, jungle cats, elephants, etc. Then comes the bird species consisting of Malabar Grey Hornbill, Flycatchers, Bulbuls, etc.
You will also find varieties of woodpeckers in the region. There is a picturesque lake within the sanctuary. Further, it is surrounded by evergreen deciduous trees. Visitors can enjoy boating in the lake.
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10. Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary
This wildlife sanctuary is one of its kind established in 1984. Likewise, it is a forest reserve also famous for its biodiversity. Keep your cameras handy since you can catch any bird or animal species the moment you enter the sanctuary. Go for elephant rides, jeep safaris, and trekking. You can enjoy tribal dance performances to lighten your moods.
Great Eared Nightjar, Bonnet Macaque, Deers, Jungle Cats, etc. are found in plenty. Also, it has plants with great medicinal properties. There are lodging facilities at the Inspection Bungalow with bookings required. You can also do camping provided by the Ecotourism department.
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Conclusion
There is nothing so surreal than experiencing wildlife from up close. Visit Kerala and get in touch with nature from close. You will have the memorable journey of your life!
Find out the other National Parks and Wildlife in India:
- List of Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks in Andhra Pradesh
- Top Must-Visit National Parks in Meghalaya
- How many wildlife national parks are there in Madhya Pradesh?
- 6 Most Amazing National Parks in Maharashtra
- Namdapha National Park Travel Guide
- List of Uttar Pradesh National Parks & Wildlife Sanctuaries
- Manas National Park, Assam
- Karnataka Famous National Park Destinations
- Rajasthan Most Popular Wildlife National Parks
