Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Munnar: Discover the Wonders of Kerala’s Hidden Gem

Nestled in the heart of Kerala, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is an undiscovered gem located near Munnar. A perfect blend of biodiversity, serene landscapes, and outdoor activities, this sanctuary offers nature enthusiasts an escape into pristine wilderness. Whether you are a wildlife lover, a trekker, or someone looking to reconnect with nature, Chinnar promises an unforgettable experience.

A Glimpse of Paradise

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of 90.44 square kilometers and is a diverse ecosystem that encompasses dry deciduous forests, wet grasslands, and high-altitude sholas. Located within the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this sanctuary is a biological hotspot, offering a wealth of flora and fauna that draws nature lovers from around the world. Its varied landscapes ensure a wide range of habitats, from dense forests to open grasslands, each supporting unique species.

Fauna: Where Wildlife Thrives

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is home to over 144 species of animals, including several rare and endangered species. The sanctuary is most famous for being one of the few places where the Grizzled Giant Squirrel can be spotted. This elusive mammal is a symbol of the sanctuary’s rich biodiversity. Other animals you may encounter during your visit include:

• Indian Elephants

• Panthers

• Gaur (Indian Bison)

• Langurs

• Leopard Cats

• A variety of avian species such as the Black Eagle and Grey Heron.

Whether you’re spotting wildlife during a safari or trekking through the forest, the sanctuary provides ample opportunities to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Flora: A Botanical Extravaganza

The sanctuary’s flora is just as spectacular as its fauna. Home to over 1000 species of plants, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is a botanical wonderland. Some of the most notable plants include:

• Neelakurinji: Known for blooming once every 12 years, the sight of the Neelakurinji flower carpeting the hillsides is a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle.

• Sandalwood Trees: The fragrance of sandalwood fills the air as you explore the sanctuary’s medicinal and aromatic plants.

• Medicinal plants such as Santalum Album and Elaeocarpus Recurvatus enhance the sanctuary's biodiversity and provide a crucial ecological balance.

The sanctuary’s flora is not only important for maintaining ecological integrity but also has cultural significance as many plants are used in local Ayurvedic treatments.

Engaging Activities

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary offers a range of activities that allow visitors to explore and immerse themselves in nature:

1. Trekking:

Trekking through the sanctuary offers you a chance to explore its diverse landscapes, from dry forests to lush grasslands and highland sholas. The sanctuary’s trekking trails, such as the Chinnar Trek, offer panoramic views and an opportunity to witness its flora and fauna firsthand. These trails are guided by the Kerala Forest Department, ensuring both safety and a deeper understanding of the sanctuary’s biodiversity.

2. Wildlife Safari:

Embark on an unforgettable wildlife safari through Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. You can opt for a jeep safari during the day or a nocturnal safari under the starlit sky. The safaris allow you to get up close with the sanctuary’s residents, offering a thrilling opportunity to see elephants, panthers, and more in their natural habitat.

3. Treehouse Stay:

For those looking for a unique experience, staying in a treehouse within the sanctuary is a must. Imagine waking up to the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves in your treehouse, offering a perfect retreat in nature. The treehouses offer a rustic experience while providing all the comforts necessary for a memorable stay.

Must-See Attractions

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is not just about its wildlife and flora; it’s also home to breathtaking natural attractions:

• Thoovanam Waterfall: Located within the sanctuary, the Thoovanam Waterfall is a hidden gem accessible through a scenic trek. The waterfall, surrounded by dense forests, offers a peaceful ambiance for nature lovers.

• Watchtowers: The sanctuary has several watchtowers strategically placed in high locations. Climbing these towers offers panoramic views of the sanctuary and its diverse ecosystems.

• Peaks: The peaks in the sanctuary, such as Viriyoottu Malai and Kumarikkal Mala, offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, providing perfect photo opportunities for nature photographers.

Essential Information

• Entry Fee and Timings:

  • Entry Fee: INR 10 for adults, INR 5 for children (below 12 years), INR 100 for foreign tourists.

  • Timings: The sanctuary is open every day from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

• Best Time to Visit:
  The ideal time to visit Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is between December and February when the weather is cool, and wildlife sightings are abundant. This period also offers optimal conditions for trekking and other outdoor activities.

How to Reach

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is easily accessible by road. From Munnar, it takes around 45 minutes to reach the sanctuary by car. Visitors can also fly into Cochin International Airport and then take a road trip to Munnar, or arrive by train at Ernakulam Junction Railway Station, followed by a scenic drive to the sanctuary.

FAQs

1. What is the best time to visit Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary?
The best time to visit is from December to February, as the weather is pleasant, and wildlife sightings are more frequent.

2. How can I reach Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary?
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is easily accessible from Munnar by road. You can also fly into Cochin International Airport or take a train to Ernakulam Junction Railway Station.

3. What animals can I see at Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary?
Chinnar is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including the Grizzled Giant Squirrel, Indian Elephants, Panthers, and many bird species like the Black Eagle and Grey Heron.

4. Are there any activities available for visitors?
Yes, visitors can enjoy activities like trekking, wildlife safaris, and treehouse stays to experience nature up close.

5. Is there an entry fee for Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary?
Yes, the entry fee is INR 10 for adults, INR 5 for children below 12 years, and INR 100 for foreign tourists.

Conclusion

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary in Munnar is truly a nature lover's paradise. Its rich biodiversity, scenic landscapes, and thrilling activities like trekking and safaris make it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Whether you’re looking to observe rare wildlife, stay in a treehouse, or explore the beauty of Kerala’s Western Ghats, Chinnar offers an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of this hidden gem.

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary: A Hidden Gem of Kerala’s Wildlife

Kerala, renowned for its lush greenery and rich biodiversity, is home to many wildlife sanctuaries. One of its lesser-known but equally stunning jewels is the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. Nestled in the rain shadow region of the Western Ghats, this sanctuary offers a unique ecosystem of dry deciduous forests, thorny scrubland, and grasslands, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Why Visit Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary?

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is a treasure trove of flora and fauna, offering an incredible range of species in its diverse ecosystems. Unlike other sanctuaries in Kerala, Chinnar’s distinct geography and climate make it stand out. With only two months of rainfall each year, this sanctuary’s arid conditions support rare and endangered species that thrive in dry conditions.

One of the most notable inhabitants of Chinnar is the Giant Grizzled Squirrel of India, a critically endangered species with fewer than 200 individuals left in the sanctuary. These elusive creatures are among the sanctuary’s top attractions, along with herds of elephants, gaur, and a variety of deer species. The sanctuary’s biodiversity is also supported by its extensive Sandalwood forests, adding an extra charm to this already fascinating destination.

Chinnar’s Flora and Fauna

Flora
Chinnar is primarily composed of thorny scrub forests and dry deciduous species like Santalum album (Sandalwood), Terminalia arjuna, and Tamarindus indica. High shoals and wetland species, including Rhododendron nilagiricum, further add to the ecological diversity of this sanctuary. The mixed forests support a range of xerophyte species, adapted to survive in the dry climate.

Fauna
Chinnar is home to a variety of wildlife, including:

• Mammals: Apart from the Giant Grizzled Squirrel, expect to spot elephants, gaur, spotted deer, sambar, panther, and Hanuman langur.

• Birds: With 245 species of birds, including the Indian Peafowl and Hornbill, Chinnar is a birdwatcher’s paradise.

• Reptiles & Amphibians: The sanctuary is rich in reptile and amphibian species, including 36 species of reptiles and 22 species of amphibians.

• Fishes: The sanctuary also supports 42 species of fish, a unique feature that adds to its aquatic biodiversity.

Trekking and Exploration

For nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary offers an incredible trekking experience. The varied landscapes, from grasslands to high shoals, make it an ideal destination for trekking and wildlife observation. Trekking in Chinnar gives visitors the chance to spot herds of deer, majestic elephants, and even the elusive panther while walking through forests rich in medicinal plants and diverse species of trees.

How to Get to Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

By Road

• Kochi: 200 km

• Coimbatore (Pollachi): 60 km

Nearest Railway Station

• Pollachi: 60 km

Nearest Airport

• Nedumbassery Airport: Approximately 200 km

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Chinnar is during the dry months from October to April, when the climate is more favorable for wildlife sightings and trekking. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September), as the sanctuary experiences heavy rainfall, making the terrain challenging.

Top FAQs About Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

1. What animals can be spotted in Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary?

   • Common mammals include elephants, gaur, spotted deer, sambar, and the Giant Grizzled Squirrel. You can also spot panthers and Hanuman langurs.

2. Is Chinnar suitable for trekking?

   • Yes! The sanctuary is an excellent destination for trekking, offering varied terrains such as grasslands, deciduous forests, and shoals, providing stunning views and wildlife sightings.

3. How can I reach Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary?

   • The sanctuary is accessible by road from Kochi (200 km) and Coimbatore (Pollachi) (60 km). The nearest railway station is Pollachi, and the nearest airport is Nedumbassery.

4. When is the best time to visit?

   • The ideal time to visit is between October and April, when the weather is dry and wildlife sightings are abundant.

5. Are there any accommodations near the sanctuary?

• There are various accommodations available in the nearby towns like Pollachi and Munnar, ranging from budget options to more luxurious stays.

Conclusion

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Kerala's hidden gems, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for wildlife enthusiasts, trekkers, and nature lovers. With its rare and endangered species, varied flora and fauna, and stunning landscapes, it is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore Kerala's natural beauty beyond the traditional beaches and backwaters. Whether you're trekking through the scrub forests or spotting elephants in the wild, Chinnar promises an adventure like no other.

Marayoor Travel Guide: Visit Waterfalls, Wildlife Parks, and Historical Sites in Idukki

Marayoor, located in the Idukki district of Kerala, is one of the most picturesque and serene destinations in the state. Situated about 40 kilometers from Munnar, this charming town lies between the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary and the Kanndandevan Tea Estates. Surrounded by majestic mountains on all sides, Marayoor is a perfect retreat for nature lovers, history buffs, and those seeking a quiet getaway.

Why Marayoor is a Must-Visit Destination

Marayoor is an idyllic hill station known for its unique landscape, rich history, and cultural significance. This tranquil destination offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and ancient heritage. With rain shadows, valleys, sandalwood trees, and sugarcane forests, Marayoor is a haven for those wanting to experience Kerala’s lush greenery and the splendor of its untouched nature.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Marayoor is its historical connection to prehistoric times. Evidence of human habitation dating back to 10,000 BC, including megalithic tombs, cave temples, and rock inscriptions, highlights the area’s ancient significance. This makes Marayoor not just a place to relax, but also a window into the past, showcasing its deep historical roots.

The original inhabitants of Marayoor were known as the people of the “Five Villages.” Fleeing royal oppression in Pandyanadu, they found refuge in the forests of Marayoor. The five villages that they established – Marayoor, Kaaryoor, Keezhanoor, Kanthalloor, and Kottakudi – form the foundation of the region’s rich cultural heritage. These villages offer visitors a glimpse into ancient traditions, rituals, and customs that have been passed down for generations.

Main Attractions in Marayoor

Marayoor is known for several significant tourist attractions that draw visitors from far and wide. Here are the top places to explore in this picturesque hill station:

1. Thuvanam Waterfalls One of the most beautiful natural attractions in Marayoor, Thuvanam Waterfalls is a must-see. This stunning waterfall offers visitors an opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of cascading waters surrounded by lush greenery.

2. Rajiv Gandhi National Park Situated near Marayoor, the Rajiv Gandhi National Park is one of the most important parks in the region. It is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The park offers a peaceful escape and an opportunity to witness Kerala’s diverse wildlife.

3. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary While not directly in Marayoor, the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is very close and is a great place to visit for those interested in wildlife safaris and exploring the local flora and fauna. The sanctuary is home to a number of endangered species and offers an excellent chance to experience the wild side of Kerala.

4. Sandalwood Forests Marayoor is famous for its natural sandalwood forests, which are rare and protected. The fragrance of sandalwood wafts through the air, adding to the area's tranquil and peaceful atmosphere.

5. Megalithic Tombs & Cave Temples The region is rich in history, and visitors can explore ancient megalithic tombs and cave temples that offer a glimpse into the early human settlements in the area. These historical monuments stand as a testament to Marayoor's ancient past.

How to Reach Marayoor

Getting to Marayoor is quite easy, and it is well-connected by road. Here are some options for reaching this hidden gem:

• By Road: If you’re traveling from Munnar, Marayoor is easily accessible by passing through Eravikulam, Varayad, and Mattupetty. From Palakkad, you can travel via Pollachi and Chinnar to reach Marayoor.
• By Train: The nearest major railway station to Marayoor is in Ernakulam. From there, you can travel by road to Marayoor.
• By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, which is about 110 kilometers from Marayoor.

Top FAQs About Marayoor

1. What is the best time to visit Marayoor?
The best time to visit Marayoor is from October to March, as the weather is cool and pleasant. The monsoon season (June to September) is ideal for those who enjoy the lush greenery, though travel may be affected by heavy rains.

2. How far is Marayoor from Munnar?
Marayoor is located around 40 kilometers from Munnar, making it an easy and scenic drive away.

3. Are there any accommodations available in Marayoor?
Yes, there are several accommodation options available in Marayoor, ranging from budget guesthouses to mid-range resorts. For those who prefer a more rustic experience, there are homestays and eco-friendly cottages as well.

4. Is Marayoor safe for tourists?
Yes, Marayoor is a safe and peaceful destination. It’s a relatively less commercialized area, which makes it ideal for a relaxing and safe getaway.

5. What are the major attractions in and around Marayoor?
The main attractions in Marayoor include Thuvanam Waterfalls, Rajiv Gandhi National Park, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, sandalwood forests, and ancient megalithic tombs.

Conclusion

Marayoor is a hidden gem in Kerala, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and ancient culture. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a history lover, or someone seeking tranquility, Marayoor has something for everyone. Its serene landscapes, historical significance, and cultural heritage make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Kerala. So, pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey to Marayoor to immerse yourself in the splendor of nature and history!

Idukki - An Amazing Tourist Place in Kerala

Idukki -  An Amazing Tourist Place in Kerala

Idukki which is a landlocked district is blessed with nature’s beauty. The nature attractions in Idukki include hills, valleys, rivers and waterfalls.

The hill stations here offer adventurous activities like trekking, elephant rides etc. There are extensive reserve forests which are rich in a wide variety of flora and fauna. 

The main hill stations in Idukki are Munnar, Devikulam, Chithirapuram, Mattupetti, Peermede etc. There are numerous waterfalls here and some of the main include Attukal falls, Cheeyapara falls, Chellarkovil falls, Nyayamkadu falls, Thommankuthu falls, Powerhouse waterfalls etc. The wildlife reserves in idukki are Eravikulam, Idukki wildlife, Chinnar and Periyar wildlife. These places are all attracted by a large number of tourists. The main places of interests in Idukki are given below

Sightseeing at Idukki...

Vagamon : Vagamon is a hill station that lies in the Kottayam Idukki border. It has a height of 1100 m above sea level. This comprises of three hills Thangal hills, the Kurisumala and the Murugan hills. All these three hills are dedicated to the three religions Muslim, Christianity and Hinduism respectively. The Thangal hills also called as Thangalppara is located at a distance of 5 kms from Vagamon. This is a famous centre of Muslim pilgrimage as the Mausoleum of Sheik Fariduddin is on top of this hill. 

The rock formation at this hill is worth seeing. The Kurisumala is at a distance of 10 kms from Vagamon. This is a centre of Christian pilgrimage as there is a church there. The famous Kurisumala Ashram which is a monastery is located here. The people who visit here is a community who believes in Christianity combined with Indian customs and Gandhian principles. There are 14 crosses on this hill which are kept at certain distance apart. The diary farm located here is also an attraction to the people. The Murugan hill is a Hindu pilgrim centre as there is a Murugan temple which is carved out of rock situated here.

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary : Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Devikulam in Idukki district. The area around this sanctuary is a protected area and it was declared as a sanctuary in the year 1984. The main vegetation found here are dry thorny forests; it is because this area receives rain only 48 days in a year. Besides there are other vegetative types such as deciduous forests, shoals, grasslands etc. Due to the variation in altitude the area will be plain or covered with rocks and cliffs.

Some of the local birds found here include waterfowl, cuckoo, heron, duck etc and the migratory birds include teal, flycatcher etc. The best time to visit here is during the months June to August. In order to watch the migratory birds one has to come during the months November to February. The birds get ready to leave the forest in the dawn and it is the best time to watch them. So the bird watchers can take a trek in the early morning to have a look at them.

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary Idukki Kerala

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary Idukki Kerala 

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, (CWS), is located 18 km north of Marayoor on SH 17 in the Marayoor and Kanthalloor Panchayats of Devikulam Taluk in the Idukki district of Kerala state in South India. It is one of twelve Wildlife Sanctuaries among the Protected areas of Kerala.

It is under the jurisdiction of and contiguous with Eravikulam National Park to the south. Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary is to the north and Kodaikanal Wildlife Sanctuary is to the east. It forms an integral part of the 1,187 km2 (458 sq mi) block of protected forests straddling the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border in the Annamalai Hills. The Western Ghats, Anamalai Sub-Cluster, including all of Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, is under consideration by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee for selection as a World Heritage Site

The altitude ranges from 400 meters (1,300 ft) at east end of the Chinnar River to 2,522 meters (8,274 ft) at Kumarikal Malai peak. Other major peaks in the sanctuary are Nandala Malai 2,372 meters (7,782 ft), Kottakombu malai (2,144 meters (7,034 ft)), Vellaikal malai (1,863 meters (6,112 ft)) and Viriyoottu malai 1,845 meters (6,053 ft). In contrast, Anamudi peak 2,695 metres (8,842 ft), located 23 kilometers (14 mi) away in the adjacent Eravikulam National Park, is the highest peak in South India.

The Chinnar River and Pambar rivers are the major perennial water resources in the sanctuary. The Chinnar originates near Kumarikal Malai, follows the interstate boundary along the northwest edge of the sanctuary for 18 km and becomes the Amaravati River in Tamil Nadu.

The Pambar River originates in the Anaimudi Hills and is joined by seasonal rivulets and a few perennial streams originating from sholas in the upper reaches. It traverses the Turner’s Valley in Eravikulam National Park and flows down into the Sanctuary through the Taliar Valley between Kanthalloor and Marayoor Villages and eastwards through the sanctuary. It joins the Chinnar river at Koottar. The spectacular Thoovanam water falls lie deep within the Sanctuary on the Pambar River. This breathtaking cascade is a major tourist attraction. The Chinnar, Pambar, Kabani and Bhavani are the only rivers of the 44 in Kerala that flow eastwards.

There are 11 tribal settlements inside the Chinnar WLS, each is well demarcated by temporary stone walls. The main inhabitants are Muthuvas and Pulayars. Cultivation of maize, ragi and lemongrass is practiced in the settlements. The Mudhuvas carry out small scale ganja cultivation for their religious purposes.

34 species of Mammals live here, including many Panthers and Spotted deer, 50 -60 Indian Elephants, Gaur, Tigers, Sambar Deer, Common langur, Bonnet Macaque, Hanuman monkey, threatened Nilgiri Tahr, vulnerable Rusty-spotted Cats and about 240 of the only vulnerable Grizzled Giant Squirrels in Kerala. 245 species of birds including Yellow-throated Bulbuls. 52 species of reptiles including 29 species of snakes, Indian Star Tortoise and the largest population of vulnerable Mugger Crocodiles in Kerala live in the Sanctuary. Most common of the 42 species of fishes observed in the Chinnar and Pambar rivers are Garra mullya minnows, River-carp baril, Giant Danio and the endangered hill stream game fish Deccan Mahseer. 22 amphibian species live in the Sanctuary. There are 156 species of butterflies.

There are 965 species of flowering plants in the sanctuary Ecoregions of the sanctuary comprise mostly grassland and wet grasslands vegetation and some South Western Ghats montane rain forests and high shola at the higher western elevations. South Western Ghats moist deciduous forestss at mid elevations give way to dry deciduous forests and thorny scrub forests in the lower dryer eastern edges of the valley. The major Xerophyticspecies in the throny scrub forests are Acacia arabica, Acacia leucofolia, Acacia concinna, Prosporis juliflora, and Opuntia stricta.

The Marayoor Sandalwood forest is located here.

Major attractions include:
Grizzled Giant Squirrel: The riverine forests along with Chinnar and Pambar support a large number of highly endangered Grizzled Giant Squirrels. The sanctuary plays host to the second largest population of Grizzled Giant Squirrels in the world.

Thoovanam Waterfalls: Deep within the sanctuary, the spectacular Thoovanam waterfall is located. The river Pambar flows eastwards through the sanctuary and plummets down from a great height on the river Chinnar. Wildlife Department permit tourists to visit the falls as part of wildlife tourism.

Watch Tower: Standing on the lofty watchtower, one can have a panoramic view of the entire park and the wildlife beauties, adjoining jungles in the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu and also the magnificent mountains far away.

Tourists can enjoy the natural walk along the Chinnar and Pamber river banks. They can also find the grizzled giant squirrel. This is an amazing place for the trekkers also. They can enjoy the scenic beauty of the nature by moving towards Thooyanam Waterfalls. Tourists can enjoy camping here.

Eco-tourism is promoted and organized jointly by the Forest Department and the Eco Development Committees (EDCs) of the local tribal communities, the objective is to empower latter and involve them in the conservation of the forest ecosystem.

Trek paths most commonly used are the Chinnar – Chullipetty and Chinnar – Koottar. Trekking to the Dolmens, the megalithic burial sites of tribal communities in Alampatti, can be arranged. Daytime sighting of crocodiles and boars is possible while hiking along the riverside. The trail will also take you to the enchanting Thoovanam falls and to the watchtower in Jellimalai.
Chinar watchtower

The lofty Chinnar Watch Tower has a panoramic view of the entire sanctuary, and beyond to the jungles of Tamil Nadu to the east and the majestic hills of the Western Ghats in all directions. The watch tower is accessible to the public with the permission of the forest department. The watchtower is a 20-minute walk from the Chinnar check post.