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THE SANCTUARIES AND NATIONAL PARKS IN KERALA
Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary
Location: 76º 35’ and 76º 50’ East Longitude and 10º 20’and 10º 26’ North Latitude Area: 277.40 sq.km. Year of formation: 1973 (GO(P)39/73/AD/12.02.0973) Climate: Temperature varies from 15ºC to 32ºC. Hottest period is March and coolest period is January. Topography: Altitude ranging form 300 to 1440m.
Major peaks in the sanctuary are karimala (1438m), Pandaravarai(1290m), Rainfall: Rainfall varies from 1400 to 2300 mm. Drainage: Several streams flowing
through the sanctuary drain the area. The sanctuary also possesses three man-made Forest Types: Forest types include West Coast Tropical Ever green Forests, Moist
Decidious Forests, Dry decidious forests, Bio-diversity: 1408 species of flowering plants which includes 67 species of orchids,
80 sp . of grass family and about There
are 36 species of mammals, 268 sp. Of
birds , 61 species of reptiles, 16 species of amphigians, 47 species of fishes Common reptiles are pythons, cobras, pitvipers,
tortoises etc. The rare species include
Tiger, Lion-Tailed macaque, Mouse deer, Approach: By Road – 100km from Palakkad, 84 km from Coimbatore, and 38 km from Pollachi. Nearest Railway Station: Coimbatore (84 km), Palakkad (100km.) Accommodation:
IB, Thunakadavu (4beds,) IB Anappady (4beds), Treetop Hut at Thunakadavu
and Parambikulam (2beds each), Special Attractions: 1. “Kannimara”, the ever-youthful teak tree, one of the oldest and largest trees in the world (about 360 years old.) 2. Thuvaiar water fall- a river cascading and emptying into the reservoir. 3. Excellent chances of sighting wildlife. 4. Three dams built during 1950s 5. Modern and interactive Wildlife Interpretation Centre 6. Medicinal plants demo garden and Interpretation Centre. Contact Address: 1. Chief Conservator of Forests Forest Headqurters, Vazhuthacaud 2. The Wild Life Warden, Parambikulam Wildlife Division Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary
Location: 76º 55’ and 77º 4’ 5’ East Longitude and 9º 45’ 30’ and 9º 53’ 30’ North Latitude. Area: 105.364sq.km. Year of formation: 1970 (GO.7898/FM3/76/AD/09.02.76) Climate: Temperature varies from 13ºC to 29ºC. Hottest period is March-April. Topography: Altitude ranging from 450to 1272 m. Highest peak is Vanjur Medu (1272m) Rainfall: Average rainfall is 3800 mm. Drainage:
The major rivers flowing through the area at periyar and
Cheruthoniar. The sanctuary consists of
33 sq,km of Forest Types: Forest types include West Coast
Tropical Evergreen forests, Semi Evergreen forests , Moist Deciduous Forests, Biodiversity: Major tree species are Depteocarpus indicus, Palanquium ellipticum,
Calophyllum polyanthum, Vernonia arborea, The
common animals found ar Elephant, Sambar, Barking Deer, Mouse deer, Bonnet
macaque, Nilgiri Langur, Malabar giant squirrel, Approach: By Road-Eranakulam-115 km. Kottayam – 120 Nearest Railway Station: Kottayam (120kms) Nearest Airport: Nedumbassery (120kms) Accommodation: IB, Vellappara (6beds), Dormitory, Vellappara (50beds) IB at Vazhathopu owned by Kerala State Electricity Board Private hotels at Cheruthoni, Kattappana, Thodupuzha Special Attractions: Contact Address; 1. Chief Conservator of Forests (wildlife) Forest headquarters, Vazhuthacaud 2. The Wild Life Warden, Idukki Wildlife Division 3. The Asst. Wildlife Warden. Vellapara, Painavu P.O, Idukki Thattekkadu Bird SanctuaryConstituted during 1983 it is the only Bird sanctuary in Kerala and is licated in Kothamangalam Taluk of Eranakulam District. Location: 76º40’ and 76º 45’ East Longitide and 10º 7’ and 11º North Latitude. Area: 25.16 sq.km Year of formation: 1983 (GO. 35743/FM3/83/AD/27.08.83) Climate: Temperature varies from 20ºC to 32ºC. Hottest period is April-May and coolest period is December- January Topography: Altitude ranging from 35 to 488 m. Major peaks in the sanctuary are Thoppimudi and Nyayapillimudi. Rainfall: Rainfall varies from 1400 to 2300 mm. Drainage: Several marshy land/vayals are found in certain areas
bordering with the Periyar and Idamalayar Rivers. A part pf the Forest Types: Forest Types
includes Tropical Evergreen Forests, Tropical Semi-evergreen forests, Moist
Decidious forests, Bio diversity: Common tree
species are Eleocarpus tuberculatus, Canarium strictum, Evodia aiunenkanda,
Nephelium longata, There are 34 species of mammals, 270 sp of birds,30
species of reptiles, 15 species of amphigians and 47 species of fishes are The common animals found are Leopard, sloth bear., porcupine etc. Elephants are occasional vistors Common birds are Indian
roller, Cuckoo, common snipe, crow phesant, grey drongo, Malabar trogon, wood
peckers, lare pied Rare birds found are Ceylon Frogmouth, Bourdillon’s
Long eared Indian Nightjar, Peninsular Bay owl, Crimson throated barbet, Approach: By Road – 13km from Kothamangalam, kottayam(83km) Nearest railway station: Aluva(48kms) Nearest Airport: Kochi – 71 km. Accomodation: IB, (6beds), Dormitory (50beds) One PWD Rest House at Kothamangalam Special Attractions: Contact Address: 1. Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Forest Headquarters,
Vazhuthacaud 2. The Wildlife Warden, Idukki Wild life Division, 3. The Asst Wildlife Warden, Thattekkad bird Sanctuary Chimmony Wild life Sanctuary Chimmony Wildlife sanctuary
established in 1984 is situated in the Mukundapuram Taluk of Thrissur District. The headquarters of Location: 76º 31’ and 76º 37’ East Longitude and 10º 22’ and 10º 26’ North Latitude, Area: 85.067 sq.km. Year of formation: 1984, (GO(P)259/84/AD/25.08.1984) Climate: Temperature varies from 15º C to 36º C. Hottest period is March – April. Topography: Altitude ranging from 40 to 1110m. Highest peak is Punda peak (1116m) Rainfall: Annual average rainfall is 2980mm. Drainage: There is a dam constructed across the Chimmony river at 75 m above the sea
level. Consequent to the Forest Types: Forest types include Tropical Evergreen Forests, Tropical Semi-evergreen forests, Moist Deciduous Forests etc. Bio diversity: Common tree
species are Palaquium ellipticum, Mesua ferrea, Cullenia exarillitia,
Dipterocarpus indicus, Hopea There are 39 species of mammals, 160 sp of birds, 25
species of reptiles, 14 species of amphibians, and 31 species of fishes are The common mammals found are
Tiger, Leopard, sloth bear, Elephant, Sambar, barking deer, bonnet macaque,
Nilgiri Langur, Approach: By Road – 45 km from Thrissur Nearest Railway Station : Thrissur (48kms) Neareat Airport : Nedumbassery – 60 kms Accomodation: Dormitory (40beds) Special Attractions: Contact Address: 1. Chief conservator of Forests (Wild life) Forest Headquarters,
Vazhuthacaud 2. The Wild Life Warden Peechi Wildlife Division, Peechi – Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary Constituted during 1958, the sanctuary is situated about 20kms east of Thrissur Location: 76º 18’ and 76º 28’ East Longitude and 10º 28’ and 10º 38’ . North Latitude. Area: 125 sq. km. Year of formation: 1958(GO(MS)871/58/06.08.1958) Climate: m Temperature varies from 15º to 38ºC. Hottest period is March – April and coolest period is Dec- January. Topography: Altitude ranging from 45 to 900m . Highest Peak is Ponmudi (923m) Rainfall: Annual average rainfall is 3000mm. Drainage: There are numerous streams, flowing
over the entire PA, which join the three main rivers Kurumali, Manali, and Forest Types: Forest Types include Tropical Ever green Forests, Tropical Semi-evergreen forests, Moist Deciduous forests etc. Bio diversity: Common tree species are Erythrina indica,
Eugenia hemispheria,Dalbergia latifolia, palanquium ellipticum, Newly described flora in the sanctuary are Aglalia
malabarica, Phaeanthus malabaricus, Tarenna trichurensis, Cotton pedunculata, There are 39 species of mammals, 176 sp. of birds, 30 species of reptiles, 17 species of amphibians and 40 species of fishes are reported from the sanctuary. The common forund are Tiger,
Leopard, sloth bear, Elephant, sambar, barkingdeer, bonnet macaque, Nilgiri
langur, slender loris Approach: By Road –20 km from Thrissur Nearest Railway Station: Thrissur Nearest Airport: Nedumbassery - …. Kms. Accomodation: Dormitory (40beds) Special Attractions: Contact Address: 1. Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Forest Headquarters,
Vazhuthacaud 2. The Wild Life warden, Peechi Wildlife Division Silent Valley National Park The core of Niligiri
Biosphere Reserve, the Silent Valley National Park is probably one of th most
magnificent gifts of nature to Location: 76º 24’ and 76º 29’ East Longitude and 11º 4’ and 11º 13’ . North Latitude. Area: 89.52 sq. km. Year of formation: 1984(GO-5462/FSA3/82/AD/15.11.84) Climate: Average minimum temperatuevaries from 8º to 14ºC. and average maximum temperature varies from 23ºto 29ºC Topography: Altitude ranging from 900to 2300m . Highest Peak is Anginda peak (2328m) Rainfall: Annual average rainfall is 2717 to 4543 mm. Drainage: The river Kunithupuzha is passing
through the park. The main tributaries
of the river, kunthancholapuzha, Forest Types: Forest Types include southern hill top
tropical evergreen forests, west coast tropical evergreen forests, Cane Bio diversity: Dalbergia
lanceolaria, cullenia exarillata,Macarangaindica, ficus spp, Maesa indica,
Carpus spp, etc are some of There are 25 species of mammals, 170 sp. of birds, 35 species of reptiles, 12 species of fishes,95 species of butterflies and 255 species of moths are reported from the sanctuary. The common mammals found are Lion tailed macaque, Tiger , Leopard, sloth bear, Elephant, Nilgiri Langur, Gaur, Sloth bear etc. . Approach: By Road –Coimbatore – Anakkatty – Mukkali – 90km. Coimbatore – Palakkad – Mannarkkad – Mukkali – 120km Kozhikode - Palakkad – Mannarkkad – Mukkali – 120km Nearest Railway Station : Palakkad – 58 km; Coimbatore – 90 km Nearest Airport: kozhikode-140 km, Coimbatore – 100 km. Accomodation: Rest house at Mukkali – 3 bed suits(4nos) Dormitory – 40 bed Hut (2 suited ) – 1 no Special Attractions Contact Address: 1. Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Forest headquarters,
Vazhuthacaud 2. The Wild life Warden, Silent Valley Division 3. The Asst. Wildlife Warden Silent Valley NP Neyyar
Wildlife Sanctuary Nestled in the southeast
corner of the Western Ghats, the Neyyar sanctuary is the drainage basin of the
Neyyar river and its Location: 77º 8’ and 77º 17’ East Longitude and 8º 29’ and 8º 37’ . North Latitude. Area: 128 sq. km. Year of formation: 1958(GO(MS)871/58/06.08.1958 Climate: Temperature varies from 16ºto 35ºC Topography: Altitude ranging from 90 to 1868m . Highest Peak is Ponmudi ( 923m) Rainfall: Annual average rainfall is 2800mm. . Drainage: The major rivers are Neyyar and its tributaries, Mullayar and Kallar Forest Types: Forest Types include West coast tropica
evergreen, Southern hilltop triopical evergreen, Southern moist mixed Bio diversity: Common
tree species like Terminalia paniculata, T.bellerica, Pterocarpus marsupium,
Palaquium ellipticum, There are 39 species of mammals, 176 sp. of birds, 30 species of reptiles, 17 species of amphibians and 40 species of fishes are reported from the sanctuary The common mammals found are, Tiger , Leopard, sloth bear,
Elephant, sambar, barking deer, bonnet macaque, Nilgiri Langur, Approach: By Road –Kattakkada – 11 km. . Thiruvananthapuram - 30 km. Nearest Railway Station: Thiruvananthapuram – 30km Nearest Airport: 35 km. Accomodation: IB – 2 beds Rest house, Meenmutty – 10 beds Youth Hostel (dormitory) – 20 beds Dormitory (Kombai)- 20 beds Special Attractions: One day trekking – Neyyar – Kombai – Meenmuty (Boating 9km, upto Kombai and guided trekking to Meenmuty falls (6km). Two day trekking (boating
9km , upto Kombai and guided trekking to Meenmuty falls & to Theerthakkara
– Puivizhuthan Chuna Contact Address: 1. Chief Conservator of Forest (Wildlife) Forest Headquarters,
Vazuthacaud 2. The Wildlife Warden, Thiruvananthapuram Wildlife
Division Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary
Location: 77 6’ 50” and 77 14’ 5” East Longitude and 8 34’ 30” and 8 41’ 25” North Latitude Area: 53 sq km Year of formation: 1983 (GO(P) 379/83/AD/21..12..1983) Climate: Temperature varies from 16 C to 35 C. Topography: Altitude ranging
from 100 to 1717 m. The major peaks in
the sanctuary are Chemmunjimottai (1717
m), Rainfall: Annual average rainfall is 2500 mm Drainage: The major rivers are Karamana river and its tributaries. The peppara reservoir is of an area of 5.82 sq .km. Forest Types: Forest types
include West coast tropical evergreen, Southen hilltop tropical evergreen, West
cast semi-evergreen, Biodiversity: Common tree
species are Terminalia paniculta, T. bellerica, PTEROCARPUS MARSUPIUM,
Palaquium ellipticum, 43 species of mammals, 233 sp. of birds, 46 species of reptiles,
13 species of amphibians and 27 species of fishes are reported The common mammals found are
Tiger, Leopard, Sloth bear, Elephant, Sambar barking Deer, bonnet Macaque,
Nilgiri langur, Approach: By Road – Thiruvananthapuram – 44km Nearest Railway Station: – Thiruvananthapuram – 44km Nearest Airport: – Thiruvananthapuram – 49 km Accommodation: - No facilities by the Department. IB of Kerala Water Authority is very near to the headquarters. Best season to visit: January to March Closure Period : Open throughout the year Special Attractions: Trekking to forest area –
Bonafalls,
Vazahuvanthole water falls,Kalarkad waterfalls, visit to settlement Contact Address: 1. Chief Conservator of forests Forest Headquarters,
Vazhuthacaud 2. The Wildlife Warden Thiruvananthapuram Wildlife
Division, Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary Shendurney wildlife
sanctuafy, part of Agsthyamali
Biosphere Reserve, owes its name to the endemic species, Ghuta Location: 76º 59’ 30 “ and 77º 16’ 30 “ East Longitude and 8º 44 ‘ and 9º14’ North Latitude. Area: 171 sq. km. Year of formation: 1984(GO(P)258/84/AD/25.08.1984) Climate: Temperature varies from 17ºto 35ºC Topography: Altitude ranging from 100 to 1550m . Highest Peak is Alwarkurichi (1550m) Rainfall: Annual rainfall varies from 2600 to 3000mm. Drainage: The major rivers are Shendurney,
Kazhuthuruthy and Kulathupuzha which join together to form the Kallada
river. Forest Types: Forest Types include West coast
tropicalevergreen, Southern hilltop triopical evergreen, West coast tropical Bio diversity: Common tree species are Gluta
travancorica, Terminalia paniculata, T.ballerica, Pterocarpus marsupium, 34 species of mammals, 245 sp. of birds, 36 species of reptiles, 22 species of amphibians and 42 species of fishes are reported from the sanctuary The common mammals found
are, Elephant, Gaur, Sambar, Wild bear, Malabar giant squirrel, Nilgiri langur,
Lion-Tailed Approach: By Road – Thiruvananthapuram – 70 km Kollam - 70 km Shenkottai – 30 Km. Nearest Railway Station: Kollam – 70 Km. Shenkottai – 30 km Nearest Airport: Thiruvananthapuram – 75 km. Accomodation: No facilities by the Department. IB of kerala Water authority is very near to the headquarters. Best season to visit: October- Feburary Closure Period: Open throughout the year Special
Attractions: Trekking to the forests.
The eco-tourism packages offered
a present are Dharbakulam trail, Kallar trail, Boating in the reservoir operated jointly by the Department and Thenmala Ecotourism Promotion Society. Contact Address: 1. Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Forest Headquarter, Vazhuthacaud 2. The Wild life Warden, Shendurney Wildlife Division Eravikulam National Park
Location: 77º 0’ 30 “ and 77º 10’ East Longitude and 10º 10 ‘ and 10º20’North Latitude. Area: 97 sq. km. Year of formation: Declared as Sanctuary in 1975 (GO(-8907/FM3/75/AD/31.03.75) and declared as National Park during 1978 Climate: Mean Summer temperature is29ºC and mean winter temperature is 3ºC Topography: Altitude ranging from 1 400 to 2694m . Highest Peak is Anamudi (2694m) Rainfall: Average annual rainfall is 4500mm. Drainage Forest Types: The major portion of the area is covered with grasslands. There are also several patches of shoals. Bio diversity: Flora
includes species like Actinodaphne bourdilloni, Microtropis, ramiflora,
Pittosporum tetrasperminum, 34 species of mammals, 245 sp. of birds, 36 species of reptiles, 22 species of amphibians and 42 species of fishes are reported from the sanctuary.To be corrected. Nilgiri Tahr, Tiger, Panther, Wild dogs, Civet cat , Jungle cat, Sloth bear, Nilgiri langur, Wild boar etc are the major mammals Approach: By Road – Munnar -15 km Kochi - 135 km Kottayam – 148Km Nearest Railway Station: Aluva – 115Km. Nearest Airport: Nedumbassery – . Accomodation: IB at Munnar and Devikulam Dormitory at Munnar. Best season to visit: Closure Period: Special Attractions: Contact Address: 1. Chief Conservator of Forests Forest Headquarters, 2. The Wildlife Warden, Munnar Wildlife Division, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
Location: 77º 15’ and 77º 17 East Longitude and 10º 15 ‘ and 10º21’ North Latitude. Area: 90.422 sq. km. Year of formation: 1984(GO(P)229/84/AD/04.08.1984) Climate: Temperature varies from 18ºC to 25ºC Topography: Altitude ranging from 500 to 2400m . Major
Peaks in the Sanctuary are Kottakombumalai (2144 m), Vellaikal Rainfall: Average annual rainfall is 100mm. Drainage: Forest Types: The major portion of the area is covered with grass lands. There were also several patches of shoals. Bio diversity: The major species in the throny scrub forests are Acacia
arabica, Acacia leucofolia, Acacia concinna, Prosporis 34 species of mammals, 245 sp. of birds, 36 species of reptiles, 22 species of amphibians and 42 species of fishes are reported from the sanctuary Elephant, Gaur, panther, spotted deer, Sambar, Grizzled giant squirrel, Hanuman monkey etc are the common mammals. Approach: By Road – Kochi _ 200km Coimbatore Pollachi – 60 Km. Nearest Railway Station: Pollachi- 60 Km. Nearest Airport: Nedumbassery . Accomodation : IB at Chinnar . Dormitory at Chinnar Best season to visit: October-November Closure period: Open throughout the year Special Attractions: Contact Address: 1. Chief Conservator Of Forests Forest Headquarters, Vazhuthacaud 2. The Wildlife Warden, Munnar Wildlife Division, Periyar Tiger ReserveThe
Periyar Tiger Reserve, named after the Periyar River, is one of our prestigious
possessions on the High Ranges of Western Location: 76º 55’ and 77º 25’ East Longitude and 9º 18 ‘ and 9º41’ North Latitude. Area: 777 sq. km. Year of formation: Declared
a Sanctuary during 1950 and declared as Tiger Reserve during
1978.F1-2854/AD/11..08..1950 & Climate: Temperature varies from 15ºC to 31ºC Topography: Altitude ranging from 900 to 2000m . Highest peak is Kottamala (2016m) Rainfall: Average annual rainfall is 1700mm. Drainage: The major rivers through the reserve
are Mullayar and Periyar. Several
streams feeding these two rivers and the Forest Types: The forest
types include Tropical evergreen forests, tropical semi-evergreen forests,
moist deciduous forests, Bio diversity: The major
tree species are Vateria indica, Dipterocarpus indicus, Cullenia excelsa,
Palaquium ellipticum, 62 species of mammals, 315 sp. of birds, 45 species of reptiles, 16 species of amphibians and 38 species of fishes are reported from the sanctuary Elephant, Gaur,Tiger,Panther,Sambar, barking deer,
Wildboar, Sloth bear, Nilgiri langur,
Liontailed macaque, Otter, Malabar Approach: By Road – Kumily _ 4km Kochi -190 km Madurai – 145 Km. Nearest Railway Station: Kottayam- 115Km. Accomodation : Tiger Bungalow, Anavachal – 3 rooms (6beds) Trusker camp,Edappalayam – 2rooms (4beds) Bison camp, Manakkavala – 2 rooms (4beds) Dormitory,Thekkady – 40 beds Dormitory, Vallakkadavu – 40 beds Watch Tower, Edappalayam – 2 persons (Rs. 200/day) There are also hotels owned by KTDC
(Lake Palace – 6 rooms: Aranya Nivas – 33 rooms, Periyar House – 44
rooms). Best season to visit: October-Novemberto May Closure period: Open throughout the year Special Attractions: Community sponsored Ecotourism facilities available. A trekking cum rafting programme (limited to 10 persons per day) along the river into the range. (Rs.750/-per head) Tribal hamlet cum Museum at Mannakudy (Rs.100 per person) Fringe area trekking along with protection staff (3 hrs duration, three trips daily, Rs. 500/-per head) Tiger trail – Adventure trekking cum camping programmed limited to 5 person/trip. Jungle inn by the night and Night camping facilities in the forest (4pm to 7 am limited to 2 persons, Rs.1250/pair) Contact Address: 1. Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Forest Headquarters, Vazhuthacaud 2. The Deputy Director, Periyar East Division, Wayanad Wildlife SanctuaryWayanad
wildlife sanctuary is contiguous to the protected areas of Nagarhole and
Bandipur of Karnataka on the north-east and Location: 76º 02’and 76º 27’ East Longitude and 11º 35 ‘ and 11º51’ North Latitude. Area: 344.44 sq. km. Year of formation: Declared a Sanctury during 1973 (GO(MS)182/73/AD/30.05.1973) Climate: Temperature varies from 13ºC to 32ºC Topography: Altitude ranging from 650 to 1150m . The highest peak is Karottimala (1158m) Rainfall: Average annual rainfall is2000mm. Drainage: Cherupuzha, Bavali puzha, Kabani river, Kannaram puzha, Kurichiat puzha, Chedalathu puzha etc Forest Types: The forest types include South Indian Moist
Deciduous forests, West coast semi-evergreen forests and Bio diversity: The major tree species are
Tectona grandis, Terminalia sp, Dalbergia latifolia, Anogeissus latifolia,
Grewia 45 species of mammals, 203 sp. of birds, 45 species of reptiles, 30 species of amphibians and 59 species of fishes are reported from the sanctuary Elephant, Gaur, Tiger,
Panther,Sambar, Spotted deer, Barking deer, Wild boar, Sloth bear, Nilgiri
langur, Bonnet macaque, Approach: By Road – Kozhikode – 110 km Mysore - Ootty - Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode Nearest Airport: kozhikode . Accomodation : IB (two rooms, 4 beds) . Dormitory – 50 beds Seramby – 2 nos, 2 rooms (2+1bed) Tourist Guest House (Govt.)and PWD Rest House at Sulthan Bathery (about 2 kms). There are also private hotels at S.Bathery Best season to visit: December to May Closure period: Open throughout the year Special Attractions: Water falls at Chedalayam. Elephant camp at Muthanga. Trekking and oneday halt package at Tholpetty. Contact Address: 1. Chief Conservator of Forests(Wildlife) Forest Headquarters,Vazhuthacaud 2. The Wild life Warden Wayanad Wildlife Division, Aralam Wildlife SanctuaryLocated on the western slopes of Western Ghats, Aralam is the northern most wildlife sanctuary of Kerala. Location: 75º 47’and 75º57’ East Longitude and 11º 54’ and 11º59’ North Latitude. Area: 55 sq. km. Year of formation: Declared a Sanctury during 1984 (GO(P)300/84/AD/15.10.1984) Climate: Temperature varies from 110C to 400ºC Topography: Altitude ranging from 650 to 1150m. Rainfall: Rainfall varies from 3700 to 5000mm. Drainage: The Cheenkannipuzha forms the main
drainage system on the southern side.
Narikkadavu thodu, Kurukkathodu Forest Types: The forest types include West Coast
tropical evergreen forest. , West coast
semi-evergreen forests, South Bio diversity: The major tree species are
Artiocarpus heterophyllus, Bishofia javanica, Calophyllum elatum, Cannarium
strictum, 23 species of mammals, 188 sp. of birds, 22 species of reptiles, 16 species of amphibians and 39 species of fishes are reported from the sanctuary Elephant, Gaur, Tiger,
Panther,Sambar, Spotted deer, Barking deer, Wild boar, Sloth bear, Nilgiri
langur, Bonnet macaque, Approach: By Road – Thalasseri– 45 km Kannur – 45 km Nearest Railway Station: Thalasseri Nearest Airport: Kozhikode (113kms) . Accomodation : IB (two rooms, 4 beds) . Dormitory – 50 beds There is almost a Government Guest House and many private lodges in Iritty. Best season to visit: November to May Closure period: Open throughout the year Special Attractions: Trekking in the sanctuary. Contact Address: 1. Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Forest Headquarters, Vazhuthacaud 2. The Wildlife Warden, Aralam Wildlife Division, 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 List of Wildlife 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 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 Objectives of the Project: 1. Regeneration and
eco-restoration of the degraded forest of Kottur Reserve. Tourist Information Administration The administrative responsibility
of this park lies with the Wildlife Warden, Trivandrum. The airport and railway
station at For further details contact Chief Conservator (Agasthyavanam) Neyyar
Wildlife Sanctuary, forming the catchment of the Neyyar reservoir, is located
between 80 degree 30 minutes and 80 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 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 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 Fauna The sanctuary has an exquisite
collection of wildlife. The evergreen forests contiguous with the protected
areas of Tamilnadu, The Avifauna is rich and diverse
and include Darters, Little Cormorant, Little Grey Heron, Racket Tailed Drongo,
Emerald Dove 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. Accommodation A Youth Hostel and a Rest House
near the reservoir provides cheap accommodation. Another rest house is situated
at For further details contact: The Peppara region was proclaimed
a sanctuary on 21st December 1983 under the Indian Wildlife Protection Act,
1972. This The forest types of Peppara are: 1. West Coast Tropical
Evergreen
5. Southern Sub Tropical Savannah Tourist Information Peppara is yet to be organised
into a tourist destination, as there is lack of basic amenities. The Forest
Department and The two Inspection Bungalows of
Water Authority are the only available places for accommodation. The famed
tourist spot, 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. 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 C.C.F.(Wild Life) 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:
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 Administration Tourist Information Tourism Accommodation Contact Address
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 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 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
Reptiles Crocodile, varanus, Pond Terapin, Cane Turtle, Gecko Skink, Chameleon, King Cobra, Spectacled Cobra, Krait, Viper, Python, Green Keel Back, Rat Snake, Vine SnakeFishes 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 Tourist Information Tourist info Contact Address
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. 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 :
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. 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.
Fauna Tourist Information
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. 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.
In the first group of tropical forest six subtypes of forests exist.
The second group includes
The third group of Montane Temperate forest includes
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:
Climbers like Entada scandans, Smilax macrophylla are found. Montane Sub Tropical Forest
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 Places of interest Allowed no - 25 -30 persons daily. Staying in forest is not allowed. Accommodation Tariff Adults- Rs. 10/- Accommodation Rs. 300/- for 2 persons Information center Dormitory Season Special facilities for students and scientists For further details please contact
Thattekad
Bird Sanctuary. 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 The forest types here are a combination of
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 Avian Population
Some of the rare birds found here are:
Administration Tourist
Information Accomodation
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 Vegetation The main types of vegetation met with are:
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 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 For further details contact
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