Kerala is not just about peaceful backwaters and lush green landscapes. It is also home to some of the most diverse wildlife habitats in India. The state has an incredible variety of flora and fauna, with its dense forests, national parks, and wildlife sanctuaries offering a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. If you are interested in spotting the exclusive tiger, witnessing majestic elephants in their natural habitat, or enjoying a bird-watching experience, you can visit Kerala’s wildlife destinations. You will never forget the adventurous places.
This article will explore the top wildlife destinations and the thrilling activities you can do in Kerala’s wildlife adventures.
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Top Wildlife Destinations in Kerala
1. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Thekkady and is one of the most famous wildlife reserves in Kerala. It is spread over 925 square kilometers. It’s mainly known for its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty. It offers unique boat safaris, where tourists can spot wildlife.
- Best time to visit: October to June
- Major attractions: Asiatic elephants, Bengal tigers, leopards, wild boars, gaurs (Indian bison), and a variety of bird species.
- Activities: Boat safaris, nature walks, bamboo rafting, and trekking.
2. Eravikulam National Park
Eravikulam is situated in the picturesque hill station of Munnar, Eravikulam National Park. It is famous for being home to the Nilgiri Tahr, a rare mountain goat species. The park’s rolling hills and mist-covered landscapes make it a favorite among nature lovers and trekkers.
- Best time to visit: September to May (Closed during the calving season of Nilgiri Tahr in February and March)
- Major attractions: Nilgiri Tahr, leopards, elephants, butterflies, and Neelakurinji flowers.
- Activities: Trekking, wildlife photography, and eco-tourism trails.
3. Silent Valley National Park
Silent Valley National Park is tucked away in the Western Ghats. It is a beautiful representation of the last remaining rainforest of Kerala and an ecological paradise. This park is particularly famous for its biodiversity and the presence of the endangered lion-tailed macaque.
- Best time to visit: December to April
- Major attractions: Lion-tailed macaques, Malabar giant squirrels, Nilgiri langurs, and a variety of orchids and medicinal plants.
- Activities: Trekking, guided nature walks, and bird watching.
4. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is settled in the northern part of Kerala. It forms a crucial part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The sanctuary is divided into two sections—Muthanga and Tholpetty. It is known for its high elephant population.
- Best time to visit: November to May
- Major attractions: Elephants, tigers, Indian leopards, peacocks, Malabar hornbills, and sloth bears.
- Activities: Jeep safaris, bird watching, and trekking.
5. Thattekad Bird Sanctuary
Thattekad Bird Sanctuary is also known as Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. It is a paradise for bird watchers. This Sanctuary is located near the Periyar River and is home to cover 300 species of birds. To make it one of the best birding spots in India.
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Major attractions: Indian pitta, Malabar trogon, Sri Lanka frogmouth, and various species of woodpeckers.
- Activities: Bird watching, photography, and nature walks.
6. Parambikulam Tiger Reserve
Parambikulam Tiger Reserve is lying on the Kerala- Tamil Nadu border. It is well preserved sanctuary, known for its sustainable eco-tourism practices and a significant tiger population.
- Best time to visit: September to April
- Major attractions: Bengal tigers, leopards, Indian gaurs, sloth bears, and crocodiles.
- Activities: Jungle safaris, eco-tourism programs, and camping.
Thrilling Activities for Wildlife Enthusiasts
1. Jungle Safaris
There are many of Kerala’s national parks and wildlife sanctuaries offer jeep safaris. It allows visitors to explore the forests while spotting various species of wildlife up close. The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and Parambikulam Tiger Reserve are particularly famous for their guided safari experiences.
2. Boat Safaris at Periyar Lake
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary provides a unique experience of boat safaris and allows visitors to witness wildlife as they come to the lake’s edge to drink water. It also offers an excellent opportunity to spot elephants, deer, and even tigers in their natural habitat.
3. Trekking and Nature Walks
People who enjoy exploring on foot, and trekking trails in places like Silent Valley and Eravikulam National Park. It offers a chance to immerse themselves in Kerala’s untouched wilderness.
4. Bird Watching Expeditions
Thattekad Bird Sanctuary is a hotspot for bird enthusiasts. It offers guided tours to observe and photograph rare bird species in their natural habitat.
5. Bamboo Rafting and Camping
Adventure lovers can indulge in bamboo rafting, an eco-friendly way to navigate the forests and waterways in Periyar and Wayanad. Camping in designated eco-tourism zones offers an immersive experience in the wild.
