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Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary

Located at an altitude of 1740 m above sea level, the Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary is famous for the abundance of wildlife found here. Pakshipathalam is situated in the Brahmagiri hills and it boasts of a large population of birds, some of which are rare species. As this sanctuary is located deep within the forest, it can be assessed only by trekking. A 6 km trek will take you right into the bird sanctuary. The region comprises, predominantly of huge and even massive boulders and this place is a paradise for adventure lovers. The deep caves that spot the entire region are home to a wide variety of birds, animals and different species of plants.

A trip to this Bird sanctuary near Thirunelly proves to be full of adventure and excitement and this place is a paradise for ornithologists as this place is ideal for bird watching. The deep rock caves found amidst thick block of rocks and are the abode for several plants and animals. Rare and exotic species of birds and be watched from the watch towers of the bird sanctuary.

The untouched forest, the uneven yet impressive terrain and the huge variety of wildlife in the Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary are awe inspiring. The location is undoubtedly challenging for trekking but it is also equally adventurous and thrilling.

Apart from the wildlife, the breathtakingly beautiful caves are another tourist attraction. Numerous tourists visit the Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary to experience the raw beauty of the caves.

As the name suggests, Pakshipathalam has an affluence of bird life and this is the key attraction of this sanctuary. People visit this place in the state of Kerala from far and wide for the wonderful package that this place offers from trekking to splendid natural beauty to exotic species of birds.

History

The deep rock caves that are one of the major tourist attractions of the Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary date back to ancient times. These caves are said to have been used for meditation by saints during the ancient times.

Garuda, the king of birds and the vehicle of Vishnu, guards over his subjects in Pakshipathalam. The term Pakshipathalam means ‘birds in the nether region’ and it is a cave located in the northern region of the Brahmagiri Hills.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

The best time of the year to visit the Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary is between October and January. It is better to avoid rainy season as trekking and bird watching becomes difficult. The weather during this period is pleasant and apt for bird watching.

How to Reach

By Air

The Karipur international airport is the nearest to the Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary. It is around 23 km away from the town of Kozhikode.

By Rail

Kozhikode railway station is the closest railway station to this place, located at 106 km from the Sanctuary.

By Road

No proper roads are connected to the Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary. You will have to trek for about 16 km to reach the sanctuary. Pakshipathalam is around 7 km from Thirunelli which is approximately 32 km away from Mananthavady.

Wildlife

Flora

The entire bird sanctuary is covered with evergreen forests. These forests, that densely cover the entire area, are home to a wide variety of plants and animal. The evergreen forests are lush and full of life. Rare species of herbs and orchid are found here.

Fauna

The deep caves found here are inhabited mainly by bats but other species of birds are also found here. These birds include cuckoo, babbler, peacock, owl, woodpecker and jungle fowl. An endangered species of birds found here is the ‘Edible Nest Swift’ which makes its nest with the help of its saliva.

Animals like tigers, elephants, jungle cats, leopards, bison and civets are also found here. The watch towers can be used to view birds and animals in their natural environment.

Avifauna

The avifauna found here consists of bats, Edible Nest Swift and several other species of birds. This sanctuary is favored by Ornithologists due to the hue variety of exotic birds found here.

Activities To Do

Bird Watching

Ornithologists love to visit this place because of the amazing bird watching opportunities offered here. Rare species of birds inhabit this place. Special watch towers have been constructed for visitors to watch birds and animals in their natural environments.

Trekking

Trekking through the forests and the uneven terrain is an exciting and thrilling experience. You can go for a trek to the Chembra peak, Neelimala view point, Lakkidi view point or the Kanthanpara waterfalls. Each of these offers a memorable and adventurous experience.

Exploring Caves

A major part of this sanctuary is covered with caves. These caves that date back to the ancient period can be explored. The raw and untouched beauty and the abundance of plant and animal life are breath taking. This place is ideal for people who have a passion for photography.

Administration of Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary

The district Tourism Promotion Council is located at Kalpetta. Special permission needs to be sought from the forest department to visit Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary.

Accommodation

Many hotels, resorts and guest houses are located in Mananthavadi. Accommodations can be availed depending upon your budget. Tourists can either go for traditionally built cottages or a tree house.

The Kerala Tourism guest house located in Thirunelli also provides accommodation but with prior booking.