FAQ
What are the best eco-tourism destinations in Kerala for birdwatching?
The best eco-tourism destinations in Kerala for birdwatching include spots rich in biodiversity, offering birdwatchers the chance to observe a wide variety of avian species in their natural habitats. From dense forests to tranquil backwaters, these locations provide ideal settings for nature enthusiasts to enjoy Kerala’s vibrant birdlife. Some of the top birdwatching destinations are:
Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary
Established by the eminent ornithologist Dr Salim Ali, the Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary is situated near Kothamangalam in Ernakulam district. Spanning over 25 square kilometres, it is home to more than 270 species of birds, including the Malabar Trogon, Sri Lanka Frogmouth, and various species of hornbills. The sanctuary offers guided bird treks and unique stay options like the Frogmouth and Hornbill towers, providing excellent vantage points for birdwatching.
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
Located on the banks of Vembanad Lake in Kottayam district, the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary covers 14 acres and is a paradise for bird lovers. It attracts a variety of migratory birds such as Siberian cranes, herons and egrets, especially from November to February. Visitors can explore the sanctuary through guided birdwatching tours and enjoy boat rides on the lake, offering serene views of the avian population.
Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary
Situated near Kozhikode, the Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary is spread over a cluster of islands where the Kadalundi River meets the Arabian Sea. It is home to over 100 species of native birds and more than 60 migratory species, making it an ideal spot for Nature enthusiasts, especially during the migration season from November to March.
Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary
Known as the 'green lung of Kochi,' the Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is an ecologically sensitive area situated in the heart of the city behind the Kerala High Court. This mangrove ecosystem serves as a refuge for a variety of bird species, including both resident and migratory birds, and is a significant stopover for many avian travellers.
Arippa
Located on the Thiruvananthapuram-Shenkottai State Highway in Kollam district, Arippa is a prime birdwatching destination in South Kerala. Home to over 270 species of birds, it offers adventure trails through nearby forests and accommodation options like the KFDC Inspection Bungalow, providing excellent vantage points for observing birdlife.
Forest reserves such as Parambikulam, Silent Valley, and Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary also offer birdwatching opportunities combined with trekking services, allowing visitors a glimpse of the rich biodiversity of the Western Ghats.
Kerala’s backwaters are also rich in avian diversity. Ponnani Kole Wetlands and Thrissur Kole Wetlands are important habitats for migratory birds, while the serene Vellayani Backwaters in Thiruvananthapuram and Nooranad near Kayamkulam, known as the Bird Village, provide tranquil birdwatching experiences. Eco-tourism initiatives in Neyyar, Gavi, Choolannur and Thekkady further enhance the state’s offerings, allowing visitors to combine birdwatching with Nature treks.
These destinations not only offer rich birdwatching experiences but also promote eco-tourism, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Kerala's natural beauty while supporting conservation efforts.
