Kerala, blessed with lush forests, misty hills, and rich biodiversity, offers unforgettable wildlife experiences for travellers seeking nature’s raw beauty. From the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in the south to the pristine Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary in the north, Kerala Wildlife Tours cover diverse landscapes and ecosystems. Whether you are a wildlife photographer, a nature enthusiast, or a traveller looking for offbeat experiences, here areKerala Wildlife Tours you shouldn’t miss on your next visit.
1. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady
Your journey begins with one of the most iconic Kerala Wildlife Tours –Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady. Spread over 925 sq km, this sanctuary is famous for its scenic Periyar Lake surrounded by dense evergreen forests. The highlight here is theboat safari, where you can spot elephants bathing, gaur grazing along the banks, and occasionally even a tiger walking through the forest.
Other experiences include bamboo rafting, jungle patrol with forest guards, and guided nature walks. The cool climate, pleasant forest trails, and rich biodiversity make Periyar ideal for families, couples, and solo travellers alike.
2. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
Moving north,Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border offers a unique wildlife experience. Unlike the evergreen forests of Periyar, Chinnar has dry deciduous forests and thorny scrub forests, giving it a rugged charm. It is home to the endangered Grizzled Giant Squirrel, elephants, spotted deer, leopards, and over 225 bird species.
Guided trekking to the Thoovanam Waterfalls and visits to tribal settlements are key highlights here. For travellers looking for offbeat Kerala Wildlife Tours with cultural immersion, Chinnar is a perfect choice.
3. Eravikulam National Park, Munnar
Famous for the endangeredNilgiri Tahr,Eravikulam National Park near Munnar is a UNESCO World Heritage site candidate. The rolling shola grasslands and mist-covered hills make it a scenic paradise.
The safari bus ride to the Rajamalai region offers sightings of Nilgiri Tahr grazing on rocky slopes, and if you visit during the blooming season of Neelakurinji (once every 12 years), the entire landscape turns a surreal shade of blue-purple. This tour is ideal for those combining wildlife with hill station beauty.
4. Thattekad Bird Sanctuary
For bird lovers,Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, also known as Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, is a must-visit. Located near Kochi, it is home to over 300 species of birds including Malabar grey hornbill, Ceylon frogmouth, and Indian pitta.
Guided birding trails with experienced naturalists here make your Kerala Wildlife Tours deeply rewarding. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times for bird watching and photography.
5. Silent Valley National Park, Palakkad
Known as one of India’s last untouched rainforests,Silent Valley National Park is a haven for serious wildlife enthusiasts. It houses rare species like the lion-tailed macaque, Malabar giant squirrel, Nilgiri langur, and numerous orchids and butterflies.
Guided treks through dense evergreen forests and views of Kunthi River from hanging bridges make Silent Valley one of the most immersive Kerala Wildlife Tours, ideal for trekkers and researchers.
6. Parambikulam Tiger Reserve
Sharing its forest with Tamil Nadu,Parambikulam Tiger Reserve in Palakkad district is famous for its rich tiger population, Indian bison, elephants, and the world’s oldest teak tree – Kannimara Teak.
Activities include jungle safaris, bamboo rafting, and overnight stays in tree houses or eco-lodges managed by the forest department. Parambikulam is highly recommended for eco-tourists and families seeking authentic wildlife experiences.
7. Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary
Located near Thrissur,Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary is less explored but equally fascinating. Home to elephants, leopards, sambar deer, and a variety of birds, it is known for its medicinal plants and orchids.
Boating in Peechi Dam offers beautiful views of the surrounding forests, making it a peaceful addition to your Kerala Wildlife Tours.
8. Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Situated near Thiruvananthapuram,Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary offers a unique blend of wildlife spotting and trekking. It houses elephants, gaur, sambar deer, and a crocodile rehabilitation centre.
For trekkers, the climb to Agasthyarkoodam peak – Kerala’s second-highest peak – is a thrilling experience with panoramic views of the Western Ghats.
9. Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in Kollam district,Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity and eco-tourism initiatives. Jungle camps, guided treks, and boating on the reservoir allow visitors to experience the sanctuary’s peace and beauty.
This tour is ideal for travellers looking for serene Kerala Wildlife Tours away from commercial crowds.
10. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Concluding your Kerala Wildlife Tours journey isWayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Its two zones, Muthanga and Tholpetty, are known for elephant herds, bison, deer, leopards, and even occasional tigers.
Jeep safaris through dense teak and bamboo forests offer thrilling wildlife encounters, making it one of the most popular sanctuaries in Kerala for nature lovers.
Tips for the Best Kerala Wildlife Tours
- Book safaris and eco-stays in advance, especially during winter and holiday seasons.
- Wear muted clothes, trekking shoes, and carry binoculars and a camera with a telephoto lens.
- Follow eco-tourism guidelines to protect wildlife habitats and support local communities.
- Combine multiple sanctuaries if your itinerary allows, to experience Kerala’s diverse ecosystems.
Final Words
From Periyar’s elephant herds to Wayanad’s dense forests,Kerala Wildlife Tours offer a journey into nature’s untouched beauty. Whether you choose a boat safari in Periyar, a jungle trek in Silent Valley, or a jeep safari in Wayanad, these experiences will deepen your connection with the wild and create memories that last forever. So, on your next Kerala trip, step into its forests and explore the wild side that makes this land truly God’s Own Country.
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