Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala, is a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. A variety of flora and fauna are native to this beautiful forest, bursting with life. Its name originates from Peppara dam located nearby. 

After understanding and recognising the ecological importance of the region, it was dubbed a ‘sanctuary’ in the same year that the Peppara dam was built – in 1983. With over 53 sq. kms in its name, Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary is a breathtaking patchwork of tropical evergreen forests, moist mixed deciduous forests and semi-evergreen forests. Its dense forests, rugged terrain and the cool streams that flow past make it the place of every nature lover’s dreams. A splendid heaven on earth, if you will.

It is often that people stop by the sanctuary on their way to Ponmudi, to experience the wonders that nature has to offer. It is situated only 50 kms away from Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala. The sanctuary’s name originates from the Peppara Dam located nearby, a fitting trekking spot meant to offer you only the best of the panoramic views of the breathtaking landscape. However, the real gem of this trip would be the rare species of animals and birds that one will have the opportunity to view.

The dense forests of Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary offer rare, magnificent glimpses of the life that calls it home. The Asian Elephant, Sambars, Barking deer, Wild boars, Nilgiri Langur, Nilgiri Tahr, Sloth bear, Lion-tailed macaque, leopard and many other interesting endemic species of animals are often sighted here. Rare, magnificent bird species such as the Malabar Grey Hornbill, White-bellied Treepie and the Small Sunbird are also spotted within the confines of the alluring forests of the sanctuary. Truly, it is a glimpse of the exquisite beauty of the Western Ghats that one would find the joy of experiencing here. If you seek adventure and the calm, idyllic sights of the quaint wildlife, then Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary is the destination for you!

It is also rather well known that The Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary offers one of the best trekking options in Thiruvananthapuram – the Trek to Vazhvanthol Falls. The trek starts from Kaanithara, near Vithura. The initial trek, through the eucalyptus plantations is a simple and easy trek, though eventually, it moves to be a rather challenging trek, the perfect choice of activity for those in love with the art of trekking. At the end of this 5 km trek is a rather scenic canopy of lush trees and the coolness of the waterfall is the reward to those who brave this trek. It is a sight to behold. One can have the opportunity to also enjoy a cool, refreshing deep in the waters – a fitting end to this wonderous experience, indeed!