Call Of The Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks in Kerala

Kerala, God’s Own Country is renowned for its rich flora and fauna. The dense tropical rain forest is an abode for diverse species of birds and animals. The government has strict policies sustaining the wildlife reserves and preserving the endangered species. Thirteen wildlife sanctuaries and 5 national parks are established around the state, which estimates 24% of the total forest area. These are the exotic attractions for tourists worldwide. Come to take a closer look at the natural habitat and enjoy the wildlife Kerala.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Periyar Wildlife also is known as Thekkady wildlife sanctuary lies at the hills of Western Ghats along the Periyar river lounge, the magnificent wildlife over an area of 675sqkm. The beautiful landscape is famous for the tiger reserve and Indian elephant reserve. With pride, Kerala owns this spot, gathers masses of tourists throughout the year. Diversity is at its best in this sanctuary, it’s the treasure trove for nature lovers with rich flora and unique fauna. The sanctuary comprises of 1800 flowering plants, 171 grass varieties, 143 breeds of orchids, 265 odd varieties of birds and 35 species of mammals. The sanctuary preserves species which at the verge of extinction; langurs, sambars, wild elephants, boars, flying squirrels, etc. The tourist spot provides thrilling boating experience along the Periyar lake, around the reserve with a clear and closer view of the wild. Apart from that, bird watching, wildlife photography, trekking are other adventures.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

Kumarakom, the famous attraction for tranquil backwaters, is the house of large flocks of migratory birds; Siberian stork, darter, egret, teal, and heron. Kumarakom is a birdwatcher’s heaven on earth, sprawling along the lush green and serene Vembanad lake. Tourists can avail backwater cruising along the bird sanctuary, watching diverse birds and listening to its chirps. The paradise is spread across 14 acres of land, provides a feast for tourists and avid birdwatchers.

Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary

The Parambikulam Wildlife sanctuary is situated in Palakkad district, next to the Anamalai Wildlife sanctuary of Tamil Nadu. The protected wildlife sanctuary spreads across 285sqkm, is the habitat of rare species of wild animals; spotted deer, jungle cats, wild dogs, leopards, sambars, Indian bison, etc. Cascade of waterfalls, wandering streams, lush greenery, picturesque landscapes, are fascinating sights for tourists around Parambikulam. Cruising along the lake and trekking are added attractions.

Eravikulam National Park

This 97km national park is located in the Idukki district along the Western Ghats. The wildlife reserve was built to preserve Nilgiri Tahr (mountain goat, an endangered species), including elephants, tigers, sambars, langurs, etc. The rich fauna of the wild is an alluring scene for travelers. The park is set at an altitude of 2000m above sea level, scattered with sholas grassland and small beautiful streams criss-cross the park.

Also, Read: Jim Corbet National Park

Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary

Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary is located 50km Northeast of Thiruvananthapuram district. The sanctuary includes the catchment of the Peppara dam, which is built across the Karamana river providing drinking water for the Thiruvananthapuram city. The panoramic landscape; evergreen tropical rainforest, mixed with thick deciduous forests, crystal clear lake, hilly terrains are mesmerizing sightings around the wildlife reserve, which spread over 53sqkm. Tigers, gaurs, panthers, sambars, wild dogs, Malabar squirrels, Nilgiri langurs, etc are protected in the natural habitat.

Shenduruny Wildlife Sanctuary

The Shenduruny Wildlife Sanctuary is located 70km from Kollam. The Shendurney river flowing midst the wildlife reserve, surrounded with lofty mountains add more charm to the scenic beauty. On either side of the river is the beautiful sanctuary, where thousands of plant and animal species are found; tigers, elephants, deer, monkeys, etc. The holiday location is a relaxing retreat for anyone. Come and enjoy the fantastic excursion spot.