Cradled in the verdant jungles of Wayanad, the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary is an oasis where the untamed beauty of Nature thrives. Spread across acres of pristine wilderness, this sanctuary offers a glimpse into the tapestry of rich flora and fauna that call it home. 

An integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary attracts thousands of visitors each year owing to its lush greenery and the promise of wild animal sightings and experiences that will last a lifetime. Situated 16kms from Sultan Bathery, the sanctuary is a rainforest that connects Nagarhole and Bandipur of Karnataka on the northeast and Mudumalai of Tamil Nadu on the southeast. 

Considered to be the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala, it is also bio geographically one of the most vibrant and richest tracts of peninsular India. Established in 1973, the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary is resplendent with semi-evergreen, moist deciduous and dry deciduous forests. 

Declared a Project Elephant site to conserve India’s Asian Elephants in their natural habitat, Muthanga has a large population of pachyderms. It is a common sight here to see these majestic animals wander freely in herds through the forests and its surrounding areas. 

A thriving oasis for myriad wildlife species, the sanctuary is renowned not just for its elephants. The Bengal Tiger, Indian Gaur, Sambhar Deer, Spotted Deer, Malabar Giant Squirrel, Wild Boar are all commonly sighted here. The Reserve is also a much loved haunt for bird watchers given its rich avian population that includes over 203 species of birds. It is home to threatened species of vultures such as the Red-headed Vultures and the White-rumped Vultures and other birds like the Malabar Grey Hornbill, peacocks, babblers, cuckoos, owls, woodpeckers, jungle fowls, snipes etc. In every sense, a slice of heaven for bird watchers.

Another interesting aspect of Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary is that the local tribals live not only around the forest areas but within them as well. The aim of the management is to strike a balance between protecting and preserving the wild animals as well as the indigenous tribes here. 

As you venture into the forests you will find yourself enveloped by a treasure trove of botanical wonders. Towering teak trees, majestic rosewood, fragrant sandalwood, bamboo groves and every aspect of the jungles throw light on the rich biodiversity and natural abundance of the sanctuary. Wild orchids, medicinal herbs and aromatic spices all vie for your attention as you traverse into the forest. 

Be it trekking, bird watching, a visit to the elephant camps or jeep safaris, the activities available that will help you enjoy the natural bounty of the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary to the fullest is plenty. The guides will reveal to you treasures hidden within plain sight that will open your eyes and mind to a world of wonder and awe in the lap of nature. The sanctuary is not just a place of natural beauty it is also a testament to the relevance and importance of conservation and protection of the fragile ecosystem and nature’s bounty.