Nestled in the serene Western Ghats of Kerala, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and eco-tourists. Located in the Idukki district, close to the Tamil Nadu border, this sanctuary is a protected area known for its rich biodiversity, rare species, tribal settlements, and dry deciduous forest ecosystem—making it a unique tourist destination in Kerala.
📍 Overview of Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
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Location: Idukki district, Kerala (near Marayoor)
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Area: Approximately 90.44 square kilometers
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Altitude: Ranges between 500 meters to 2,400 meters
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Nearest Towns: Munnar (60 km), Marayoor (16 km), Udumalpet (37 km)
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Climate: Semi-arid, with moderate to cool temperatures
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Declared As: Wildlife sanctuary in 1984 under the Wildlife Protection Act
🌿 Key Attractions of Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
1. Wildlife Diversity
Chinnar is home to rare and endangered species like:
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Grizzled Giant Squirrel
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Indian Star Tortoise
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Leopard
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Spotted Deer
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Indian Elephant
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Hanuman Langur
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Albino Gaur (White Bison)
2. Flora
With a semi-arid ecosystem, the sanctuary features:
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Dry deciduous forests
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Grasslands
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Rare medicinal plants
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Sandalwood trees
3. Bird Watching
A haven for bird lovers, Chinnar hosts over 225 species of birds, including:
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Yellow-throated Bulbul
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Indian Roller
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Peafowl
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Grey Junglefowl
4. Eco-Tourism Activities
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Trekking trails: Guided treks to tribal settlements, viewpoints, and waterfalls
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River Trekking: Along Chinnar and Pambar rivers
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Treehouse Stay: Eco-friendly tree huts for a rustic jungle experience
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Camping: Overnight stay near waterfalls and forest watchtowers
5. Cultural Exploration
Visit tribal villages such as the Muthuvas and Hill Pulayas, learn about their lifestyle, and purchase organic products and crafts.
🕓 Best Time to Visit Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
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October to March is ideal, with cool weather, ideal for trekking and wildlife viewing.
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Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) due to slippery paths and heavy rain.
🎟️ Entry Fees and Timings
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Timings: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
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Entry Fee:
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Adults (Indian): ₹10
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Foreigners: ₹100
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Still Camera: ₹25
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Video Camera: ₹150
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Additional charges apply for trekking, camping, and guides. All activities are regulated by the Forest Department to ensure eco-conservation.
🧭 How to Reach Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
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By Road: 60 km from Munnar via Marayoor on the Munnar-Udumalpet Road
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By Train: Nearest railway station is Pollachi (65 km)
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By Air: Cochin International Airport (150 km)
🏕️ Stay Options Near Chinnar
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Tree houses inside the sanctuary
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Forest guest houses
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Homestays in Marayoor
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Budget and luxury hotels in Munnar
🌱 Eco-Conservation and Sustainable Tourism
Chinnar is part of the Western Ghats UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its ecological value. The sanctuary promotes:
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Plastic-free zones
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Eco-tourism with tribal guides
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Rainwater harvesting and solar energy
❓ Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Where is Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary located?
It is in Idukki district, Kerala, near Marayoor and Munnar.
2. What is Chinnar famous for?
It is famous for dry deciduous forests, grizzled giant squirrels, eco-tourism, and tribal culture.
3. What animals can I see in Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary?
Leopard, elephants, Indian gaur, langurs, star tortoise, giant squirrels, and various birds.
4. Is accommodation available inside the sanctuary?
Yes, tree houses and eco-camps are available with prior booking.
5. What are the main activities in Chinnar?
Trekking, birdwatching, river walks, cultural visits, and wildlife spotting.
6. Is Chinnar open all year?
Yes, but it’s best visited between October and March.
7. Are guides available for trekking?
Yes, experienced forest guides are mandatory for all treks.
8. Can we take children to Chinnar?
Yes, it is a family-friendly eco-tourism destination.
9. Is Chinnar suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely, it’s safe and ideal for solo nature and photography enthusiasts.
10. How far is Chinnar from Munnar?
It is approximately 60 km from Munnar and easily accessible by road.
🧳 Conclusion
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is not just a forest – it’s a living, breathing example of biodiversity, sustainability, and tribal harmony. With its unique flora, fauna, and eco-tourism activities, it stands out as a must-visit destination in Kerala for all nature enthusiasts. Whether you want to experience the thrill of spotting rare wildlife, the serenity of untouched landscapes, or the culture of Kerala’s tribes – Chinnar is your ultimate eco-tourism escape.
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