THE SANCTUARIES AND NATIONAL PARKS IN KERALA

Sanctuaries

The forests of Kerala, due to their diversity and richness, are home to a wide variety of animals and birds. To preserve and sustain 
this wildlife wealth of Kerala, the Forest Department started a separate wildlife section in March 1985. There are a number of 
wildlife sanctuaries, national parks and biosphere reserves in Kerala. Listed below are the major sanctuaries and national parks, 
their area and the year of formation:

List of Wildlife Sanctuaries  

Description of major sanctuaries

 Agasthyavanam Biological Park

The Agasthyavanam Project

In 1992, the Government of Kerala constituted a scientific committee to study the feasibility of setting up a Biological park in the 
highly degraded forest area of Kottur. The committee suggested that the ultimate objective of the endeavor should be to 
regenerate, conserve and propagate selected wild flora and fauna. The area earmarked had negligible tree and animal population 
though it had abundant water resources. The soil was found  fertile and the climate salubrious. The flora and fauna, which had 
existed here, should have been the representatives of Western Ghats.The Kottur Reserve forests lie in the Paruthipalli range of 
Trivandrum forest division. It lies on the western slopes of the Western Ghats, at the south-east corner in Nedumangad taluk. 
It is contiguous with the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary in the southwest borders and the Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary in the northeast. 
The highly degraded nature of this area was the reason for not including it in any of the sanctuaries.

Area

The total estimated area of the park is 23 sq.km. Of this 17.5 sq.km is to be converted to thick jungle and the rest is for 
manipulative programmes of conservation. Conservatories will be established for a variety of plant species and for the 
reintroduction, production, breeding and propagation of wild animals and birds. Inspite of the good rainfall received, the quick 
drainage of water from the area to the Arabian Sea leaves the place barren for six months. Small check dams, if built, can retain
water in small ponds and preserve the humidity and moisture and promote vegetation growth in the dry season. Thus the 
Agasthyavanam Project, in short, aims at ecotourism, afforestation and conservation.

Objectives of the Project:

1. Regeneration and eco-restoration of the degraded forest of Kottur Reserve.
2. Scientific conservation of the existing flora and fauna.
3. To create maximum biodiversity by reintroducing the extinct endemic species.
4. To achieve maximum sustainable utilization of water and soil.
5. To facilitate documentation of flora and fauna.
6. To encourage research and eco-tourism

Tourist Information

Administration

The administrative responsibility of this park lies with the Wildlife Warden, Trivandrum. The airport and railway station at 
Trivandrum are very close to the Reserve. Bus route extends only till Bonakkadu, making a 35 kms walk unavoidable to reach 
the park. A maximum of  50 persons per day is allowed into the park. Visitors are issued an entry pass from the Trivandrum 
Wildlife Division against  payment of Rs 50. It is better to halt at Athiramal, as there are no facilities for accommodation near 
the park.

For further details contact
Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife),
Forest Headquarters,
Trivandrum 695 014.
Phone : 0471 322217

Chief Conservator (Agasthyavanam)
Phone: 325385

Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, forming the catchment of the Neyyar reservoir, is located between 80 degree 30 minutes and 80 
degree 38 minutes N latitude. Situated in the extreme south of Kerala, it is 30 Kms away from Trivandrum, the state's capital. 
The sanctuary is contiguous with the Kalakkadu Tiger Reserve and Mundanthurai Wildlife Sanctuary of Tamilnadu. Agasthyamala, 
Chettuppara and Varayattumudi are some of the picnic spots, which needs mention. The Agasthyamala valley is one among the 
most famous elephant habitats in the tourist map of India. This, together with the extremely rich fauna diversity, contributed to 
Neyyar declare as a sanctuary in 1958. The sanctuary is 128 sq.km in area and includes Klamala, Kottoor, Nettukaltheri, 
Kottoor extension reserve forest and the Neyyar Lake.

Topography

The topography is rugged with flat meadows and gentle to steep slopes. The altitude ranges from 90 to 1,868m.

Climate

There exist a moderately hot and humid climate, the temperature ranging between 16 to 35 degree Centigrade . This tract 
receives both the Northeast and Southwest monsoon. The mean annual rainfall recorded is as high as 2800mm. The higher 
altitude of the sanctuary results in the region experiencing a montane type of climate even though located in the tropical belt. 
Another interesting feature of the sanctuary is the presence of Agasthyamala (1866m), the second highest peak of Kerala.

Forests of Neyyar

Due to the varied climate and topographic conditions the sanctuary presents a remarkable diversity in vegetation. They include:

1) West Coast Tropical Evergreen
2) West Coast Semi Evergreen
3) Southern Hill top Tropical Evergreen
4) Southern Wet Temperate
5) Southern Moist Mixed Deciduous
6) Southern Montane Grassland

The distribution of forest is obviously affected by the variations in altitude as shown below

Flora

Flora is diverse and exhibits endemism. Out of 1000 species of flowering plants, about 120 are endemic. The sanctuary has a 
profuse population of orchids and about 125 species have already been recorded. The sanctuary is also home to several rare 
endemic plants falling in the list of threatened plants. Semicarpus auriculata, Eugenia floccosa, Eugenia discifera, are some. 
The tree species found in the evergreen forest includes Artocarpus hirsutus (Anjili), Canarium strictum (Thollipine), Cullenia 
exhilarata, Elaeocarpus tuburculatus (Rudraksham), Hopea utilis (Karapongu), Palaquim ellipticum (Pali) etc.The Neyyar, Kallar 
and Mullayar originates from these wet evergreen forests. The deciduous forest of Neyyar also exhibits diversity in species 
composition. The major species identified are Adina cordifolia (Manja Kadambu), Anogeissus latifolia (Mazhukanjiram), Dillenia 
Pentagyna (Kattupunna), Pterocarpus marsupium (Venga). In addition to these species the moist deciduous forest has sizable 
populations of Dalbergia latifolia and Vateria indica. The grassland species include Chrysopogen orientalis and Themida tremila

Fauna

The sanctuary has an exquisite collection of wildlife. The evergreen forests contiguous with the protected areas of Tamilnadu, 
carries viable population of the endangered Lion-tailed Macaques and Nilgiri Langur. The other arborieals include Bonnet Macaque 
and the Malabar Gaint Squirrel. The gorgeous peaks of the area are habitats of the Nilgiri Tahr. The Elephants and Sambars are 
the most frequently sighted animals. Gaur, Barking Deer, Mouse Deer and Wild Boar are the other herbivores sighted. Tiger and 
Leopard are also reported, though scarcely.

The Avifauna is rich and diverse and include Darters, Little Cormorant, Little Grey Heron, Racket Tailed Drongo, Emerald Dove 
and Grey Jungle Fowl. The Neyyar Dam supports a good number of crocodiles also. Python, Cobra and Viper are among the 
commonly seen snakes.

Administration

The Neyyar Sanctuary is a part of the Thiruvananthapuram Wildlife Division and is administered by an Assistant Wildlife Warden.

Tourist Information

Major Tourist Attractions

The Lion Safari Park,  Meenmutti waterfalls and the Agasthyar peak are destinations that add to the splendour of the sanctuary. 
Words cannot explain either the beauty of the magnificent waterfalls in the forests or the delight of trekking the Agasthyar peak. 
The Lion Park, situated in an island near Neyyar is open to tourists on all days except Mondays. The four hectare island provides 
ample area for the lions to roam about freely. The crocodile farm, established in 1977, near the administrative complex at Neyyar, 
now harbours more than a hundred crocodiles of different age groups. Thus it has served the purpose of establishing a breeding 
stock of this endangered species. Boating in Neyyar is a fascinating experience.

Accommodation

A Youth Hostel and a Rest House near the reservoir provides cheap accommodation. Another rest house is situated at 
Meenmutti. The sanctuary can be reached by road from Thiruvananthapuram, 30kms away. The nearest airport/ railhead to the 
sanctuary is at Thiruvananthapuram. The most appropriate period for a visit to the area is December to May.

For further details contact:
The Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife)
Forest Headquarters,
Thiruvananthapuram - 695 014.
Phone: 0471 32217

Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary

The Peppara region was proclaimed a sanctuary on 21st December 1983 under the Indian Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. This 
sanctuary, 53 sq.km in area, is situated in the Nedumangad Taluk of Trivandrum District. The reserve forests of Palode and 
Kotoor constitute this sanctuary. Unscathed by human interference and forest fire, they form an evergreen patch in the district. 
The dam constructed at Aruvikkara across the Karamana River in this region supplies water to the entire city.

The forest types of Peppara are:

1. West Coast Tropical Evergreen
The major tree species found in the forest are Artocarpus hirsutus, Dysoxylum malabaricum, Vateria indica, Palaquim ellipticum, 
Syzigium cumini, Tetrameles nudiflora, Eleocarpus species. These trees reach to a maximum height of 40m. The importance of 
these forests lie in the fact that they are the source of water to perennial rivers. Shrubs, canes and orchids also form part of this 
forest.

2. West Coast Semi Evergreen
These forests are found at the meeting place of evergreen and deciduous forest. The upper strata comprise of mainly deciduous 
species like Terminalia paniculata, Lagerstroemia lanceolata, Grewia tileafolia and Terminalia tomentosa. The middle storey of 
evergreen helps in soil conservation. Climbers, lianes and bamboo clumps are also seen.

3. Southern Hill Top Tropical Evergreen
The species compositions of this forest are identical to that of evergreen, the only difference being the shorter stature of these 
trees.

4. Southern Secondary Moist Mixed Deciduous Forest
The species constituting these forests are mainly deciduous. Lagerstroemia lanceolata, Pterocarpus marsupium, Terminalia  
bellerica are the larger ones.

5. Southern Sub Tropical Savannah
They are predominantly grasslands, with sporadic occurrence of trees. These belong to the climax forests.

6. Reed Brakes
These are thickly packed forests of reeds with intermittent occurrence of Syzigium cumini and Palaquim ellipticum. The reed 
forests, which grow by the streamsides, are abodes of elephant herds. The tender reeds are favourite food of elephants.

Tourism in Peppara

Tourist Information

Peppara is yet to be organised into a tourist destination, as there is lack of basic amenities. The Forest Department and 
Government of Kerala have initiated steps to promote eco-tourism. A Forest Rest House and Wildlife Information Centre has 
been set up. Plans have been formulated for the development of Deer Park, Picnic spots, snack bars etc. At present only limited 
facilities are available for boating. A trip to Bona Falls on the other side of Peppara Lake is an exciting attraction.

Accommodation

The two Inspection Bungalows of Water Authority are the only available places for accommodation. The famed tourist spot, 
Ponmudi, is just 35 kms from Peppara and has better facilities.

How to reach

A journey of 35 kms along the Trivandrum- Ponmudi road takes one to Vithura. A turn to the right, and another 10 kms will lead one to Peppara.

For further details contact
1. Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife),
Forest Headquarters,
Trivandrum -695 014
Phone 0471 322217

2. Assistant Wildlife Warden
Peppara Sanctuary,
Peppara Dam (PO),
Vithura
Trivandrum.

Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary

The Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Mukundapuram taluk of Thrissur District. The sanctuary covers an area of 100 sq.km on the Western slopes of Nelliampathy. The sanctuary lies in between the watershed lines of Kurumali in the North and Muplian in the South and is surrounded by hills.Chimmony was notified as a sanctuary in 1984.

The Naduvazhis or local chieftains once owned these forests coming under the Chalakkudy division. After 1800 AD large areas of these forests were leased out for commercial extraction. In 1813, Colonel Munroe was appointed superintendent of forests and unregulated commercial exploitation led to the degradation of the forests. It was Sir Alvar Chetty who introduced a regulated pattern of exploitation. But again the cyclone of 1940 and the "Grow More Food Campaign" of the 50s added to the pace of degradation.

Forest Types

The major forest types identified are West Coast Tropical Evergreen Forest, West Coast Semi-Evergreen Forest and South Indian Moist Deciduous Forest.

Flora

The thick nature of the forest and abundance of rivers and streams make an ideal habitat for a wide variety of flora. In the tropical evergreen forest grows Pali, Punna, Vediplavu, Kalpine, Anjili, Vellapine, Kambakam, Vellakil, Pathiri etc. The lower canopy comprises of Thazhevetty, Thetti, Kana, Marotti, and Mullilavu. In the lower range of deciduous forests are seen Karimthakara, Chadachi, Venga, Poovam, Anakkara, Karkmaruthu, Irul and Thanni.

Fauna

The sanctuary is a showcase of almost all the major species of fauna seen in peninsular India. Those commonly sighted include Bonnet Macaque, Nilgiri Langur, Lion Tailed Macaque and Slender Loris. The small Indian Civet and common Palm Civet are also sighted, though rarely. It is believed that a small population of Leopard also exists here. The other common species seen throughout the sanctuary are Mongoose, Wild Dogs, Jackals, Sloth Bear, Indian Giant Squirrel, Gaur, Sambar, Barking Deer, Wild Boar and Porcupine

Administration

An Assistant Wildlife Warden with his headquarters at Chimmony, under the control of Chalakkudy Forest Division, manages the sanctuary.

Tourist Information

Wildlife Tourism

Trekking into the interiors of the forests. Accommodation can be arranged at the Inspection Bunglow, near the Chimmony Dam. Lodging facility is available at Ampalloor also.

For further information contact
The Divisional Forest Officer,
Chalakkudy Division,
Thrissur - 680 347.

C.C.F.(Wild Life)
Trivandrum 695 014
Keala
Ph. 0471 32217

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary 

Chinnar, declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1984, lies in the Devikulam Taluk of Idukki District. It is the second most favourable habitat of the endangered Grizzled Giant Squirrel in India. Chinnar extends over an area of 90 sq.km. The pulsating terrain with rocky patches add to the scenic beauty of the sanctuary. As the sanctuary exhibits drastic variation in heights there is a corresponding change in the vegetation.

Chinnar boasts of an unique thorny scrub forest with xerophytic plants. Chinnar falls in the rain shadow region of the Western Ghats and experiences only 48 rainy days in a year during the north east monsoon. The sanctuary has a number of high peaks. The prominent ones include Kottakombumalai (2144m), Vellaikalmalai (1863m), Viriyootumalai (1845m).

The forest types seen are: 

1. Thorny Scrub Forest 

2. Dry Deciduous Forests 

3. High Sholas and

4. Wet Grasslands.

Eravikulam National Park

The Eravikulam National Park is situated in Devikulam taluk of the Idukki district. It was declared a sanctuary in 1975 with the intention of protecting the indigenous population of Nilgiri Tahr (mountain goats). However, in 1978, it was declared a national park taking into consideration its ecological, faunal, floral, geomorphologic and zoological significance. The park covers an area of 97 sq.km of rolling grasslands and highlevel Sholas. The breathtakingly beautiful park is on the same footing as the Alps mountain ranges.

The Elephant Head Peak or Anamudi (2695 m), the highest peak in south India, forms a part of the sanctuary. Its summit is 1500 feet above the plateau and consists of a narrow ridge about 300-400 yards in length, running Northeast and Southwest. A range of hills with open grassy summits extends for some distance to the west. Beyond these mountains are virgin forests seemingly extending to the horizon.

Dodabetta Peak, the highest point on Nilgiris is 2635m high. These high ranges abound in Tahr population, every rocky crag and mountain having its herd. Tea plantations now cover the valleys of the high ranges, leaving the indigenous forest only on the steep slopes. The cliff and the grassy plateau above 600m provide suitable habitat for the Tahr population.

Forest Types and Flora

Most of the area is covered with grasslands except, for several patches of Shola in the valleys. The flora includes Actinodaphni bourdilloni, Syzygium arnottianum.

Fauna
Wildlife sighted include Tiger, Panther and Wilddogs in grasslands and Sholas. Civet cat and Jungle cat also live in the Sholas. The Lion Tailed Macaque and Nilgiri Langur frequent the forest. Elephant, Gaur, Sambar and Barking Deer are also seen. The Atlas moth, the largest of its kind, is seen in the park.

Administration
Eravikulam National Park falls under the jurisdiction of Wildlife Warden, Idukki Division, and is under the direct control of the Assistant Wildlife Warden, with his headquarters at Rajamalai.

Tourist Information

Tourism
Tourists with entry passes can visit the Rajamalai part of the Park. This area is 15 kms north of Munnar and can be reached from Kochi (135kms) and Kottayam (148kms). The nearest airport is at Kochi and railway station at Alwaye, 150 kms form Munnar.

Accommodation
There are private lodges at Munnar. Government guesthouses at Munnar and Devikulam and PWD Rest houses can also serve the purpose.

Contact Address

1. C.C.F. (Wildlife)
   Forest Headquarters,
   Trivandrum - 695 014
   Phone- 0471 322217

2. Assistant Wildlife Warden,
   Eravikulam National Park,
   Rajamalai,
   Munnar (PO)
   Kerala.
   Phone:

Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve 

A Biosphere reserve is a region identified for careful, scientific management. Consistent with the concept of preserving biodiversity in its totality, rather than conservation of plants, animals and micro organsims in isolation, the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve was constituted on 1st September 1986.

A Biosphere is that zone of earth where life exists. It includes all the living forms in the lithosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere. The lithosphere, the outer crust of earth varies in thickness from 15-40 kms. The outer layer of this rocky crust disintegrates to form the soil. Atmosphere is the layer of air surrounding the earth and extending to a height of 600kms. The concept of biosphere reserves evolved at the programme initiated by UNESCO in 1971, i.e., Man and Biosphere (MAB).

Ever since man appeared on the earth's surface, he has continuously exploited the natural resources, for both short term and long term requirements. With industrialization and stress on productivity, the pressure on biosphere increased thereby polluting the air and water. It had been long felt that man should mend his ways to bring a halt to this degradation. A Biosphere Reserve should not be construed as intending to protect wild species, but as an effort to encourage international co-operation, people- environment interaction etc., in the management of ecosystem. The ecosystem must be large enough to ensure self-perpetuation and unhindered evolution of the entire organisms.

The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve extends over contiguous areas of Kerala, Karnataka and Tamilnadu. It embraces the sanctuary complex of Wayanad, Nagarhole, Bandipur, Mudumalai and the entire hillslopes of Nilambur and Nilgiri, the upper Nilgiri plateau, Silent Valley National Park and Siruvani hill. It includes substantial areas undisturbed by man. The vegetation types range from dry scrub, dry and moist deciduous forest, semi evergreen and wet evergreen forest to evergreen Sholas and grassy downs & swamps. The outer areas are inhabited by a number of tribal groups traditionally dependent on forest for their existence.

The total area of the reserve is 5520.4 sq.km. Of this 1455.5 sq.km falls in Kerala, 1527.4 sq.km in Karanataka and 2537.6 sq.km in Tamilnadu. The reserve has a core area of 1240 sq.km and a buffer zone of about 4280 sq.km in area. The average annual rainfall ranges from 500 mm to 7000 mm. Temperature also shows wide fluctuations. It can reach as high as 40 degree Celsius during summer in the rain shadow areas. The major mountain ranges that add to the grandeur include Nilgiri, Nilambur and Siruvani hills. The sanctuary has abundant water supply, thanks to the presence of the rivers Krishna, Godavari, Cauvery and their tributaries like Bhima, Thungabhadra, Kabani and Bhavani.

The parts of the reserve in Kerala include Wayanad Wildlife division, Silent Valley National Park, Mannarkkad, Palghat, Nilambur south and Nilambur north division. The core area is 239.5 sq.km, the forestry zone is 870 sq.km and the tourist zone is 100 sq.km.

Fauna
The mammal population includes more than 100 species. There are also 550 species of birds and 30 species of reptiles. The reserve takes pride in the fact that the largest known population of the two endangered species namely the Nilgiri Tahr and Lion Tailed Macaque are found here. Perhaps the largest south Indian population of Elephants, Tiger, Gaur, Sambar and Cheetal are found here. Fresh water fishes of the genera Horabagrus, Bhavania and Travancorica are also seen.

The tribal population includes the Cholanaikans of Nilgiri, the only surviving hunter-gatherer community of the Indian subcontinent.

Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary 

Parambikulam was first established as a small sanctuary in 1962, the present area of 285 sqkm being notified in 1973. Reservoirs of Parambikulam, Thunakadavu and Peruvarippalam come under Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary. These water bodies abound in crocodile population.

Semi-Evergreen Forests: Covers an area of 30 sqkms. Trees are the same species  found in both evergreen and moist deciduous forests.

Southern Dry Deciduous Forests
The common trees found in this region are Teak, Vengal, Muzhukanjiram, Maruthy, Vaka, Mulluvenga, Rosewood etc in the top canopy and Veppu, Manjanathi, Sandal etc in the middle and lower canopy. Under growth is chiefly of Lantana and Helicteres. Covers an area of 15 sqkm.

Fauna:- The Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary with its wide range of rare and unique flora , is also a rearing place of many mammals, reptiles, beautiful fishes and birds. Some of these are listed below:

Mammals

1. Bonnet Macaque (Macaca radiata)

2. Lion Tailed Macaque (Macaca silenus)

3. Nilgiri Langur (Presbytis johni)

4. Slender Loris (Loris tardigradus)

5. Tiger (Panthera tigris)

6. Leopard (Panthera pardus)

7. Jungle Cat (Felis chausus)

8. Civet (Vivericula indica)

9. Common Mongoose (Herpestes edwardsi)

10. Fox (Vulpus bengalensis)

11. Bear (Melursus ursinus)

12. Elephant (Elephus maximus)

13. Gaur (Bos gaurus)

14. Nilgiri Tahr (Hemitragus hylocrius)

15. Spotted Deer (Axis axis)

16. Sambar (Cervis unicolor)

17. Barking Deer (Muntiacus muntjak)

18. Wild Boar (Sus scrofa)

19. Pangoline (Manis crassicaudata)

Reptiles

Fishes

Aral, Bral, Vattudi, Thilopia, Noori, Mooshu, Poonchutti, Kollotty, Exyprius, Taral

Birds

Darter, Little Cormorant, Black Eagle, Lesser Adjutant Stork, Black Capped Kingfisher, Great Indian Hornbill, Broad Billed  Roller, Black Wood Pecker

Administration
The Sanctuary is under the direct control of the Field Director, Project Tiger and is headed by a Divisional Forest Officer with his headquarters at Thunacadavu.

Tourist Information

Tourist info
Bus service is available between Pollachi, 60 kms away, and Parambikulam. Pollachi also has a railway station. The nearest airport is Coimbatore, 100km away. Boat riding facility is available in the Parambikulam Lake. Tourist guides are available to guide the tourist around the sanctuary. For accommodation, there is a forest rest house in Thunacadavu Besides this, the Parambikulam Project as well as several hotels in Pollachi and Coimabatore also provide easy accommodation.

Contact Address

1. Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife)
   Thiruvananthapuram - 695 014,
   Kerala
   Phone: +91 0471  322217

2. Field Director,
   Project Tiger,
   Kottayam.

3. Divisional Forest Officer
   Parambikulam,
   Thunacadavu - 678 661
   Palakkad, Kerala.

4. Wildlife Warden
   Parambikulam,
   Ph: +91 0425 367223

Periyar Sanctuary

The Periyar Sanctuary in the Idukki district of Kerala, was declared a tiger reserve under Project Tiger, in 1978. The reserve covers hills and verdant forests extending over an area of 777kms. In the north central part of the sanctuary is the Periyar Lake, a vast reservoir of water created when the Periyar River was dammed in 1895. The Periyar River originates from the Shivagiri hills, which is part of the Cardamom Hills in the Western Ghats. The Periyar Lake and the surrounding hilltops extend over an area of 31 sq.km and are fed by heavy downpours on the western side of the mountains. 40 years after the damming, the Maharaja of Travancore had, in a farsighted action, proclaimed the area a sanctuary.

 Most of the forest in and around the lake has remained without change except for some planted with exotic species. The lake, at sunset epitomises the beauty of nature. Blackened stems sticking out of the water provide resting-place for the avian population. The lake runs North to South for some 11kms and lush greenery starts almost from the water's edge. Lofty trees adoring the hilltops, festooned with giant creepers and undergrowth with luxuriant bamboo are a treat to the eyes. The densely forested ravines, called Sholas, are natural home to wildlife.

The reserve now extends over an area of 777kms with a core area of 350 sq.km. Motor launches can be used to go around the lake and into the creeks, to have a close look at the plant species.

Forest Types

As per the report of Chandrasekharan, the reserve forest is a combination of Evergreen (305sq.km), Semi Evrgreen (275sq.km), Moist Deciduous (98 sq.km) and Grasslands (12 sq.km).

The Evergreen Forest has high trees of soft wood species forming a closed canopy. The major species found are Mesua ferrea, Elaoecarpus tuburculatus, Canarium strictum, Cullenia exarillata.

The Deciduous vegetation is limited and the species identified are Tectona grandis, Dalbergia latifolia, Lagerstroemia laceolata, Pterocarpus marsupium.

The grasslands of the sanctuary fall into three categories. Hilltops like Kumarikulam, Kathiramudi are peculiar by the presence of short grasses like Hetropogon contortus. Certain other regions are covered by Cymbopogan species. Succulent grasses like Panicum rippens are seen in marshes and lakeshores.

Periyar is a haven for those interested in watching, studying, and photographing the Indian Elephant. Small herds of elephants can be sighted both during dawn and dusk. A trip around the lake offers the chance to sight elephant herds indulging in activities like chasing, bumping, pushing, and squirting water, wallowing, rolling and swimming. The hills of Periyar are peculiar in having numerous well-stamped path used by generations of elephants. Poaching for ivory has had a telling effect on the elephant population, the great tuskers having almost disappeared. Gaurs are the other typical big animals of the Western Ghats. The fauna also includes :

	Lion Tailed Macaque (Macaca silenus)
	Nilgiri Langur (Presbytis johni)
	Sambar (Cervis unicolor)
	Barking Deer (Muntiacus muntjac)
	Mouse Deer (Tragulus memina)
	Stripe necked and Brown Mongoose (Herpestes vitticolis)
	Common and Clawless Otter (Lutra lutra , Aonyx cinera )
	Gaint and Grizzled Gaint Squirrel (Ratufa indica, Ratufa macroura)
	Wild Gaur (Bos Gaurus)

Tourist Information

Tourist info

October to April are probably the best months to visit Periyar. However, March to April is considered best for viewing Elephants, as they spend long hours in the lake in these summer months. The census figures put the number of Elephants at 800. Otters are a common sight along the shores of Periyar. Wild pigs and Sambars can also be sighted. Periyar is a well-organised sanctuary and it can handle almost 1.5 lakh tourists every year.

Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary

The Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary lies on either side of the Shendurney River and is a valley of lush greenery, acclaimed for its biodiversity. The Shendurney valley was proclaimed a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1984 and is the only sanctuary in Kollam District. The valley was named Shendurney after an endemic tree species 'Chenkurungi' (Gluta travancorica), found here in abundance.

Located in the north of Kulathupuzha valley and separated by Churuttumala ridge, the sanctuary is bounded by the Sahyadri range on the east. The sanctuary is made up of hills interspersed with ravines. Most of the hills are accessible except for a few which are rugged and steep. The highest peak Alvarakurichi is 1550 m tall. The Parappar Dam was constructed across the Kallada River for meeting the irrigation requirements of Kollam and Pathanamthitta districts. The resultant lake covering an area of 13.7 sq.km together with the surrounding forests comprise the wildlife habitat.

The administrative complex of the sanctuary is situated very close to the Thenmala Dam. Boating in the lake and trekking the sanctuary can prove to be an exhilarating experience. Palaruvi, situated on the northern fringe of the sanctuary is an excellent picnic spot. On to the east is the Courtallam Tourist Resort. This area used to have thick evergreen forest before the advent of Europeans. The British planters had ruthlessly cleared the forest for tea and coffee cultivation. However, most of these areas have been reclaimed and brought under forest cover lately.

The total area of the sanctuary is around 100 sq.km, of which 45 sq.km forms the core area. The temperature varies from 16-35 C. The topography of rugged, gentle to steep slopes ranges in height from 90m -1550m. The sanctuary receives an annual rainfall of 3200mm.

Forest Types

	West Coast Tropical Evergreen
	Southern Hill Top Tropical Evergreen
	West Coast Semi Evergreen
	Southern Moist Mixed Deciduous Forest

Fauna
A diverse population of wildlife is present in the sanctuary. Elephant, Gaur, Barking Deer, Tiger, Indian Porcupine, Three Striped Squirrel, Malabar Giant Squirrel, Flying Squirrel, Indian Wild Boar are the most commonly seen mammals. The reptiles present here include the Cobra, Viper, Python, Rat Snake, Flying Snake etc.

Tourist Information

Tourism
The sanctuary can be reached by road from Trivandrum or Kollam. The nearest airport is at Trivandrum, 140 kms away and the nearest railhead is at Kollam. The best season to visit the place is from December to May.

Attractions
Thenmala Dam
Deer Park
Deer Rehabilitation Center

Facilities
Boating : Available in Shendurney Reservoir. Charge  - Rs.35/- ,Time : 9.00 am to 3.30 pm, Advance reservation available.

Season 
December to May.

For further details contact:

1. Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife),
   Forest Headquarters,
   Trivandrum.
   Ph: +91 0471 322217

2. Assistant wildlife Warden,
   Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary,
   Thenmala (PO),
   Kollam 691 308

Silent Valley National Park.

The Silent Valley forest was declared a national park on 15th November 1984, under the 1972 Wildlife Protection Act by the State Government. It extends over an area of 89.52 sq.km.

Located at the southwestern corner of Western Ghats, it forms a part of Mannarkkad taluk of Palakkad district. These forests have found mention in the Mahabharata as 'Sairandri vanam', ie. Forest in Valley. The presence of the river Kunti adds to the mythological dimensions of the park. The absence of cicads render the forest comparatively silent and hence the name Silent Valley. Forming the core area of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Silent Valley perhaps, is one among the most magnificent gifts of nature to mankind. The park is unique in having a well-preserved patch of tropical forest in all its pristine glory. The difficult terrain and remote location has turned a blessing in disguise, by protecting the forest from the insatiable demands of man.

The presence of hills and the wind direction determines the amount of rainfall received at any place in the park. The northern region receives rainfall as high as 7500mm. The western parts and southern parts get 4550mm and 3200mm of rainfall respectively. Most of the area experience rains during the southwest monsoon. The region has a moderate climate, with temperature varying from 8 to 27 degree Centigrade. On the north of this park lies the Nilambur south division and Nilgiri forest. Adjacent to this area are the Mannarkkad division and Attappadi forest on the south and east respectively. The Nilambur division is contiguous with the park on the western side.

The biogeographical peculiarities of Silent Valley carve out a special niche for it among the forest of Western Ghats. Experts treat it on par with an ecological island, considering its isolated existence. The biodiversity of Silent Valley is comparable to that of the Baro Colorado Island in the Panama Canal. The alpha diversity index for both the regions is 4.8. The fauna of Silent Valley includes smaller animals having evolutionary significance like the Ichthyophis longicephalus, a primitive limbless amphibian.

Fauna
The animal population includes the endangered Lion tailed macaque, Nilgiri tahr and Leopard. Rare species like Peshwa's Bat and Hairy winged bat marks their presence here. The presence of Indian Pangoline (Scaly Ant Eater) and Rock Python needs to be mentioned. In addition to the above-mentioned ones, almost all the animals inhabiting Peninsular India are also seen here. To mention a few -Tiger, Jungle cat, Leopard cat, Fishing cat, Common palm civet, Ruddy mongoose, Stripe necked mongoose, Small Indian civet, Brown palm civet, Wild dog, Sloth bear, Otter, Flying squirrel, Malabar giant squirrel, Porcupine, Wild boar, Sambar, Barking deer, Mouse deer, Gaur and elephants.

A total of 170 species of birds have been identified, of which 31 are migrants. These include rare species like Indian black crested baza, Bonellis hawk eagle, Rofous bellied hawk eagle, Shaheen falcon, Short eared owl, Peninsular scop's owl, Ceylon frog mouth, Great Indian hornbill, Nilgiri laughing thrush, Rofous bellied short wing.

Among the 35 species of reptiles identified, Calotes rouxi, Salea horsefielda, Calliophis nigrescens are endemic. The endemic species of frogs found here are Bufo silentvalleyensis, Micrixalus thampii and Ansonia rubigina. Homaloptera pillai is an endemic fish found in the waters of Kunti River. The insects include Gellia kuntiae, Oxylobus silentius, Lanceonotus mukkaliensis, Tricentrus syrandrikae. More than 100 varieties of butterflies and 400 species of moths had been identified.

The forests of Silent Valley
The forests found in Silent Valley can be classified into three main groups

• Tropical forest

• Montane Sub Tropical forest

• Montane Temperate forest.

In the first group of tropical forest six subtypes of forests exist.

	Southern Hill Top Tropical Evergreen Forest.
	West Coast Tropical Evergreen Forest.
	Cane Brakes.
	Wet Bamboo Brakes.
	West Coast Semi Evergreen Forest.
	West Coast Secondary Evergreen Dipterocarpus Forest

The second group includes

	Nilgiri Sub Tropical Hill Forest
	Reed Brakes
	South Indian Sub Tropical Hill Savannah Woodlands

The third group of Montane Temperate forest includes

	Southern Montane Temperate Forest
	Southern Montane Wet Scrub
	Southern Montane Wet Grassland

Tropical Rain Forest

The forests falling under the first group is also referred to as rain forest. Although the entire canopy is formed by evergreen trees, these forests show stratification. Trees of the dominant canopy attains a height of 45m or more and the circumference of some trees can be as high as 5m. Ferns, lichens, orchids and mosses are characteristic features of this forest. The trees of the upper strata bears coloured tender leaves to withstand the high temperature. Butressing and cauliflori are a common phenomenon in these forests. The high humus content and a closed canopy help in better interception and storage of rainwater. A sq.km of the forest can store 50,000 to 2,00,000 cubic metre of water. Thus these forests are a source for perennial rivers. The tree species found in this group of forest are:

1. Upper Canopy
   Cullinea exhalirata, Machilus mcarantha, Elaeocarpus species, Palaquim ellipticum, Mesua ferea, Calophyllum elatum, Canarium strictum, Dysoxylum malabaricum, Vateria macrocarpa, Mangifera indica, Hopea glabra

2. Middle canopy
   Myristica laurifolia, Hydnocarpus wightii, Actinodaphne hookeri

3. Lower canopy including shrubs and bushes
   Olea dioica,Strobilanthus species, Ochlandra beddomei, Elettaria cardamomum,Wild arrowroot.

            Climbers like Entada scandans, Smilax macrophylla are found.
            Herbs are not found here as the canopy, is closed restricting light from reaching the forest floor.

Montane Sub Tropical Forest
These forests are seen at heights of 1500-2000m as a continuation of rain forest. The tree height and species composition helps in identifying these forests. It is believed that the altitudinal, climatic and wind variation has led to the degradation of evergreen forest resulting in Montane Sub Tropical forest. The major species found here are Litsea stocksa, Bishofia jawanica, Olea dioica, Goltheria species.

The last few decades has seen several new species being recorded here. They include Kangaram palghatense, Cucumella silentvalleyii, Silent valleyi nairii, Cassine kedarnathii, Impatients sivarajanii, Garnotia poochiparensis, Hedyotis silentvalleyensis. The new species of orchids identified include Eria tiagii, Porpax chandrasekharanii, Robaquetia josephiana and Bulbophyllum silentvalliensis. Ipsea malabaricum is a ground orchid rediscovered after more than a century. The species of Anodendron rhinosporum, Scutellaria oblonga, Oberonia forcipata and Dendrobium pandurata are Srilankan plants recorded for the first time in India.

Tourist Information

Tourist info
The park is accessible by road from the railhead at Palakkad junction, 70 kms away. The nearest airports are Coimbatore (100 kms) and Kozhikode (85kms). The best period for visting this place is from October to May.

Places of interest
Panthanthodu Evergreen Nature Trail

Facilities
Trekking - Permitted by CCF Thiruvananthapuram.
Places - Mukkali to Sairandhri

 Allowed no - 25 -30 persons daily. Staying in  forest is not allowed.

Accommodation
1. Information center Mukkali- 4 suits
2. Forest dormitory- Mukkali 40 beds

Tariff
Entrance fee

Adults- Rs. 10/-
Students -  Rs. 2/-

Accommodation
Foreigners - $-10
Indians - Rs 200 head

Rs. 300/- for 2 persons
Rs. 350/- for 3 persons 

Information center Dormitory 
Adults - Rs.50/- head
Students - Rs.15/- head

Vehicle charge
Rs. 600/- for 15 persons
Rs. 40/- per additional/head

Season
December to April
Permission is required form wild life warden Silent Valley division

Special facilities for students and scientists

For further details please contact

1. Chief Conservator of Forests (WL),
   Forest Headquarters,
   Trivandrum- 695 014
   Phone: 0471 322217.

2. The Wildlife Warden,
   Silent Valley National Park,
   Mannarkkad (PO),
   Palakkad,
   Phone : 04924 22056.

Thattekad Bird Sanctuary.

The Thattekad Bird Sanctuary is the only one of its kind in Kerala. Located on the banks of Periyar in the Devikulam Taluk of the Idukki district, the diversity and splendidness of its avian fauna is beyond description. It is a part of the Malayatoor reserve of the Kuttampuzha range in Malayatoor division. It extends over an area of 25.2 sq.km and is under the jurisdiction of the Wildlife Warden, Idukki.

The banks of Periyar have always been a haven for bird watchers. Thattekad used to be a beat in the Kothamangalam range. The famous ornithologist Dr.Salim Ali had visited Thattekad more than once. The birds of the sanctuary has been described in his book 'The Birds of Kerala' (1969). During his visit in 1979, Dr. Ali had identified 167 species of birds here. Later Dr.Sugathan had reported 191 species of birds sighted here. Dr.Salim Ali relentlessly tried to get Thattekad declared a sanctuary. His dream came true in 1983.

Topography
Being a part of the Western Ghats, the terrain is undulating and the peaks have elevations ranging 35-523m. The tallest peak is the Njayapilli peak (523m).

Forest types and flora

The forest types here are a combination of

	Tropical evergreen
	Semi evergreen
	Tropical deciduous
	Patches of grasslands

Plantations of Teak (217 ha), Mahogony (5ha) and Dalbergia (7ha) are also common. The regions of the sanctuary at higher elevations are covered by evergreen forest. The major tree species found are Vateria indica (Vellapine), Dipterocarpus bourdillonii (Karanjili), Palaquim ellipticum (Pali), Canarium strictum (Kundirikkam), Elaeocarpus ferrugineus (Rudraksham), Machlius macrantha.

The semi-evergreen forest abounds in Artocarpus hirsuitus, Hopea glabra, Tetrameles nudiflora etc. Bamboo brakes are also seen in this forest. These forests are the habitat of most of the birds.

The deciduous forest has evergreen patches in the wet area and also undergrowth. The major species seen in these forests are Tectona grandis, Dalbergia latifolia, Lagerstroemia lanceolata, Pterocarpus marsupium and Phyllanthus emblica.

Fauna
The animal population of the sanctuary includes Leopard, Bear, Porcupine, Python, Cobra, Jungle Cat, Palm Civet, Brown Palm Civet, Mongoose etc.

Avian Population
The Bombay Natural History Society has reported 235 species of birds, including some rare ones. The birds most commonly sighted are as follows:

Cuckoo (Cuculus canorus) Crow Pheasant (Centropus sinensis) Jungle Nightjar (Caprimulgus indicus) Indian Roller (Coracias benghalensis) Kite (Milvus migran) Grey Drongo (Dicrurus leucophaeus) Malabar Trogon (Harpactes fasciatus) Black Backed Wood pecker (Chrysocolaptes festivus) Large Pied Wagtail (Motacilla maderaspatensis) Grey Jungle Fowl (Gallus sonneratia) Indian Hill Myna (Acridotheres fuscus) Robin Bird (Saxicoloides fulicata) Jungle Babbler (Turdiodes striatus) Darter (Anhinga rufa)

Openbill Stork

Some of the rare birds found here are:

	Crimson Throated Barbet (Megalaima rubricapilla)
	Bee Eater (Nyctyornis athertoni)
	Sun Bird (Nectarinia asiatica)
	Fairy Blue Bird (Irena puella)
	Grey Headed Fishing Eagle (Icthyophagas icthyactus)
	Black Winged Kite (Elanus caerulus)
	Night Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax)

Administration
The Wildlife Warden, Idukki Wildlife Division, manages the sanctuary and his headquarters is at Vellappara. The Assistant Wildlife Warden attends to the day to day administration.

Tourist Information

Tourism
The evergreen spots of the sanctuary are included in the core zone of 10 sq.km. All other areas are open for bird watching. The tourism zone stretches across the buffer zone which comprises of Thattekad- Ovankal, Thattekkad- Kuttampuzha and Kuttikkal- Ovankal roads. The sanctuary is 13-km northeast of Kothamangalam along the Pooyamkutti road. The nearest railway station is at Alwaye, a distance of 48 kms. Kochi, the nearest airport is 71kms from Thattekad.

Accomodation
A PWD Rest House near the Dam site provides lodging facility. Private lodging facility is available at Kothamangalam.

For further details contact

	Chief Conservator of Forests (WF) Forest Headquarters Trivandrum 695 014. Ph: +91 0471 322217
	The Assistant Wildlife Warden Thattekad Bird Sanctuary Njayapilli PO Kothamangalam.

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Wayanad District of Kerala and was notified in 1973. It borders the protected network of Nagarhole and Bandipur in Karnataka in the Northeast and Mudumalai in the Southeast. The sanctuary extends over an area of 345 sq.km as two distinct discontinuous tracts. The Wayanad plateau with rich deep soil and cool pleasant climate has been more or less converted to plantation in the last five decades. Coffee, Pepper and Cardamom are the most widely grown plantation crops, rendering the forest discontinuous.

The Tholpetty Wildlife range lying adjacent to Nagerhole National Park forms the northern pocket. The southern part of the sanctuary comprises of Kurichiat, Sultan Battery and Muthunga Wildlife ranges lying close to Bandipur Tiger Reserve and Mudumalai sanctuary. It forms a part of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. This sanctuary is rich in flora and fauna, elephants being the most frequently sighted animals. Other wildlife sighted include monkeys, deer and birds. Tree species belonging to south Indian moist deciduous forest and West Coast semi evergreen forest are seen.

Topography
The sanctuary consists of undulating hills with elevation varying from 650-1250m. The highest peak is Korattimala (1158m). Two kinds of soil namely black sandy loam and red heavy loams are seen.

Vegetation

The main types of vegetation met with are:

	Tropical Moist Deciduous
	Tropical Dry Deciduous
	West Coast Semi Evergreen
	Southern Tropical Thorn Forests.

 In addition, small patches of moist bamboo brakes and reparian forests are also seen. The most commonly occurring species are Adina cordifolia, Albizzia procera, A odoratissima, Anogeissus latifolia, Cassia fistula, Cedrela toona,Erythrina indica, Ficus bengalensis.The shrubs of the forest floor include Butea parviflora, Grewia hirsuta, Desmodium species. Epiphytic orchids are also found.The forests of Wayanad exhibit an enigmatic beauty during dry season. The flame of the forest - Butea monosperma, Indian silk cotton tree- Bombax malabarica, and Indian coral tree - Erythrina indica and Cassia fistula sets the forest aflame in different colours.

Fauna
Animal distribution and their migration have been well studied in Wayanad. It is one of the finest known elephant habitats in peninsular India and has been included in the Project Elephant scheme. The Gaur population is reasonably strong. But their shy nature and semi nocturnal mode of life makes it difficult to study them. Sambar and Cheetal can be seen openly near roadsides and close to human settlements. Barking Deer, a good indicator species in moist deciduous forests are found near the thicker wooded patches of Wayanad. Four Horned Antelopes and Black Bucks are also seen in plenty. Mouse Deer is a tiny creature, which leads a safe and concealed existence in the grassy hills. The Wild Boar is also widely distributed. Langoors are seen everywhere in the forest. Primates like Bonnet Macaques are confined to Bamboo thickets and Reparian forests. The Malabar Gaint Squirrel occupies null as patches. The Sloth Bear numbers are regulated by the number of termite mounts, seasonal fruiting of trees and availability of honey.

Predators are the best wildlife managers of the ecosystem, controlling the prey population. The Wild dogs hunt in packs and can bring down a healthy Sambar. The Panther's ability to climb trees allow them to survive in varied environments. This adaptability ensures that they out number Tigers, the stronger of the two. Jackals are mostly predators, though at times they feed on fruits. Sambar and Barking Deer inhabit the Sholas. Some rare species such as Nilgiri Martem, Clawless Otter and Brown Mongoose are also found here.

The birds that have adapted to this environment include Nilgiri Verditer, FlyCatcher, Nilgiri Laughing Thrush, Black Bulbul and the Black FlyCatcher.

Tourist Information

Wildlife Tourism
The sanctuary is approachable by road from Kozhikode, Mysore and Ooty. All the above places are connected by rail and is situated within 100kms from Sulthan Battery. The nearest airport is at Kozhikode. Visitors can stay at Sulthan Battery or Mananthody and can visit the sanctuary during daytime. Both Government Rest Houses and private lodgings are available here for easy accommodation. Watchtowers erected at many locations in the sanctuary aids in observing and studying animals. The elephant camp at Muthanga is an added attraction. May to December is the appropriate season for visiting the sanctuary.

For further details contact

	C.C.F. (Wildlife), Forest Headquarters, Trivandrum - 695 014 Phone: (++91) - 471 - 322217 Email: ccfwl@keralaforests.org
	Wildlife Warden, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Sulthan Battery, Wayanad- 673 592 Kerala.