Kerala boasts of abundant biodiversity and is an ideal destination for Nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Here are a few forest destinations and sanctuaries you would love to visit.
Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary: Located in Thekkady, it is one of the most famous wildlife reserves in India.
Home to diverse flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, deer and a variety of bird species, it offers activities like boat safaris, Nature walks and bamboo rafting.
Silent Valley National Park: Nestled in the Western Ghats, it is known for its unexplored tropical evergreen forests.
The place is home to a variety of endangered species, including the lion-tailed macaque and the Nilgiri langur. With over 200 bird species, it is also a haven for birdwatchers.
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Encompassing the entire Wayanad district, this sanctuary is rich in flora and fauna.
The place offers opportunities to spot elephants, leopards and various species of deer.
The sanctuary features a diverse landscape with dense forests, waterfalls and trekking trails.
Parambikulam Tiger Reserve: Located in the Annamalai Hills, it is known for its thriving population of tigers and elephants. It offers unique treehouse accommodation for a closer feel of Nature.
Boating in the Parambikulam reservoir and guided safaris are the popular activities here.
Thattekad Bird Sanctuary: It is also known as Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. A perfect haven for birdwatchers, the place is home to over 500 species of birds, including the rare Ceylon Frogmouth and the Malabar Grey Hornbill. Guided birding tours and Nature walks are available here.
Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary: Encompassing the Idukki arch dam, it is known for its diverse flora and fauna.
Offers panoramic views of the Idukki reservoir and surrounding hills.
Home to elephants, bison, deer, and various species of snakes.
Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary: Located in the northern part of Kerala, it is known for its dense forests and diverse wildlife. The sanctuary houses species like the Malabar giant squirrel, elephants and several species of birds. The place also offers trekking opportunities and the chance to explore tribal villages.
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary: Situated on the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats, it is known for its unique thorny vegetation. Home to the endangered grizzled giant squirrel and the star tortoise, the place offers trekking trails and guided walks.
Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary: Located near Thrissur, it is known for its scenic beauty and rich biodiversity.
This sanctuary features a dam, offers boating facilities, and is a haven for a variety of resident and migratory bird species. Trekking trails are available for Nature enthusiasts.
Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Near Thiruvananthapuram, it is known for its diverse ecosystems, including grasslands and evergreen forests. It is home to elephants, wild boars and various species of deer.
The Neyyar Dam and Lion Safari Park are popular attractions here.