Located amidst the nature’s marvel in the form of Western Ghats, the beautiful Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is a visitor’s delight. It is located in the Western Ghats’ rain shadow region. This wildlife sanctuary is one of the prominent sanctuaries in the state of Kerala and resides a diverse range of flora and fauna that are typically seen in thorny vegetation.

Besides experiencing thorny vegetation, this wild life sanctuary also experiences variations in rainfall and altitude. This is the reason a lot of diversity in vegetation is seen here. Deciduous forests are also seen besides thorny forest, shoals, grasslands and riparian types. The area is interspersed with rocks, plains, cliffs and hillocks that help a wide spectrum of microhabitats to find a home in this sanctuary.

In terms of a variety of species available, this sanctuary resides a wide array of reptiles that are considered to be unique in the state of Kerala. One of the highly endangered species, Albizia lathamii has reportedly been spotted in the forests of this wild life sanctuary.

A variety of medicinal plants can also be found here. Grizzled Giant Squirrels can also be seen in large numbers in this forest. Besides “Manjampatti’s white bison” can also be spotted here. Avian diversity can also be seen here as there are about 225 species of birds spotted by bird watchers.

History

To the south of Western Ghats in the state of Kerala, the Chinnar Wild Life sanctuary is situated in the high ranges’ eastern part. The sanctuary is sprawled in an area of 90 square kilometers. This sanctuary is considered to be one of the protected areas in the Western Ghats region as this sanctuary is known to offer unique ecological, geo-morphological, floral and cultural significance to the visitors coming here in large numbers. Shoal grassland makes the sanctuary even more unique.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Undulating terrain and wide disparity in rainfall makes the weather and climate of the place quite unique. The altitude of this sanctuary also varies from 500 m to 2300 m from Chinnar to Nandala Malai respectively. Two rivers that flow perennially, River Pambar and River Chinnar drain this area. Since this wild life sanctuary is located in the rain shadow area of Western Ghats, it receives rainfall majorly during October to December. 500 mm is the annual rainfall on an average. Plains are hotter and places at high altitudes are relatively cool. Winters are perfect time to visit this sanctuary.

How to Reach

By Air

This destination can be reached through two airports. Kochi Airport is located about 208 kilometers away from the sanctuary. Moreover, about 115 kilometers away from this sanctuary, another airport, Coimbatore Airport is located. From airports, visitors can catch a bus or hire a taxi to reach this destination.

By Rail

Aluva is the closest railway station to reach this sanctuary. It is about 120 kilometers away from this destination. Private taxis or local buses can be used to reach here.

By Road

From various cities and towns in Kerala and nearby states, bus services are available to reach this destination.

Wildlife

Flora

Since there is a lot of variation in the amount of rainfall received by this place and altitude, there is also a lot of variation in the habitats. The vegetations that can be seen in this sanctuary are deciduous forests, dry thorn scrub, grassland, riparian forests and shoals. Thus, about 1000 different varieties of flowering plants can be seen here. A diverse variety of medicinal trees and plants are also seen. Some major plants seen here are Acacia arabica, Opuntia stricta, Acacia leucofolia, Prosporis juliflora and Acacia concinna in Xerophytics species are recorded.

Fauna

34 mammal species have been reported in this wild life sanctuary that includes spotted deer, Elephants, Panthers, Sambar, Common Langur, Gaur, Bonnet Mcaque, Deer, tigers, Hanuman Monkey, Rusty spotted Cat and Nilgiri Tahr, an endangered species. Grizzled Giant Squirrels can also be spotted here.

Avifauna

About 245 species of birds have been spotted in this sanctuary. The most popular one is Yellow throated Bulbuls. Reptiles including snakes, Mugger Crocodiles and Indian Star Tortoise are also observed in the sanctuary. 42 fish species are seen in Pambar and Chinnar rivers. River carp baril, Fish Deccan Mahseer etc are seen in the rivers. About 150 butterfly species can also be seen here.

Activities to Do

A wide array of activities are offered by this sanctuary and managed by Eco Development Committees.

River Trekking

It is fun to enjoy river trekking in the two rivers flowing here and enjoying the scenic attractions of the area.

Nature Trail

A nature trail to the watch tower located within this sanctuary can also be enjoyed by the visitors.

Administration of Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

The administration of this sanctuary is carried out by the Forest Department, Kerala.

Accommodation

Club Mahindra Lakeview

This Club Mahindra Lakeview is known to offer best facilities and services to the guests staying here. The scenic views from the resort are truly mesmerizing.

General Information

Fees

• Adult Rs.15/-
• Foreigners Rs.150/-
• Children (Below 12 years) -Rs.7/-
• Guide Rs.150/-
• Video / Movie Rs.150/-
• Ordinary Camera Rs.25/-
• Vehicle (Light) Rs.75/-
• Vehicle (Others) Rs.20/-
• Vehicle (Heavy) Rs.150/-

Visiting Timings

Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is open from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Nearby Attractions

Anamudi Peak

Located within the area of Eravikulam National Park, Anamudi Peak is the highest peak in the southern part of India. Its height is about 2700 meters. For trekking in this area, permission from Forest and Wildlife departments needs to be taken.

Mattupetty

About 13 kilometers away from Munnar, Mattupetty is situated that is known for the storage dam and a magnificently beautiful lake close to it. Boat rides can be enjoyed in this lake. The backdrop of hill adds charm to this already charming place.

Location Map

Photo Gallery