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Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary in the Western Ghats is a part of the Wayanad plateau in Kerala, South India. The Park presents a unique wilderness experience to anyone who would like to spend a day in nature’s lap amidst thick forests and exuberant wildlife.
Wayanad wildlife park is famous for its tigers and leopards. A medley of deciduous and evergreen forests form a thick canopy through which sunlight seeps in to form amazing streaks. It makes for a beautiful sight on a bright sunny day. Several species of birds are also found in this region and it’s a real visual treat for any avid bird watcher. Established in 1973, the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is adjacent to the protected forest areas of Nagarhole and Bandipur of Karnataka on the northeast and Mudumalai of Tamil Nadu on the southeast. The sanctuary is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and houses rare species of animals and birds. It’s an undisturbed environment that is rich in bio-diversity.
History of Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary:
The term Wayanad literally means 'land of swamps'. The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1973 and was brought under the Project Elephant in the year 1991-92. It is the second largest sanctuary in Kerala with a total area of 345 sq. km. The Upper Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (Tholpetty) in the north and Lower Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (Muthanga) in the south are separated by plantations. Tribals who live in harmony with the environment are still found in this region. The bio-diversity of the region is religiously conserved and the efforts have paid off…we now have a beautiful, undisturbed biosphere that is far removed from the crowded towns of South India.
Special attractions in and around Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary:
- Flora: Flora in Wayanad include deciduous forests in the lower regions and evergreen forests in the higher altitudes. Teak trees are aplenty and you will also find marshes and bamboo stems all over the place.
- Fauna: Tigers, panthers, jungle cats, monkeys, leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, jackals, elephants, gaurs, sambar deers and wild boars can be spotted in this sanctuary.
- Birds: Birds spotted here include peacocks, babblers, cuckoos, owls, woodpeckers and jungle fowls.
- Jeep Safaris: Jeep safaris are organized in the sanctuary. It’s a great ride into the jungle and also a great way to spot wild animals and birds. It is compulsory to take a Guide from the Forest Department for the jeep ride. Permission from the Forest Department is required for this safari.
Best Time to Visit Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary:
June - October
Location of Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary:
State: Kerala
District: Northern part of the sanctuary is a part of Cannanore District; Southern part is a part of Calicut district
Distance from Calicut- 98 km, Kasargod- 216 Km, Trivandrum- 502 Km and Cochin- 286 Km.
How to reach Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary:
Nearest airport: Calicut Airport
Nearest railway station: Kozhikode Railway Station
Directions by road from nearby cities: Well-connected to Mysore, Coorg, Bandipur, Nagarhole, and Ooty by regular buses.
Contact
Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala
Park View, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India - 695 033
Phone: +91-471-2321132
Fax: +91-471-2322279
Tourist Information toll free No:1-800-425-4747
Email:
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Climatic Conditions:
Maximum Temperature: 35°C
Minimum Temperature: 13°C
Rainfall around: 4500 mm
Clothing:
Cottons around the year; rainwear during monsoons
Tourist places near Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary:
Kalpetta, Chembra Peak, Edakkal Caves, Kottamunda
This article was contributed by Rupa
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