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Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area in the Idukki district of Kerala. It is one of the 18 wildlife sanctuaries among the protected areas of Kerala and is located 18 km north of Marayoor on State Highway 17 in the Marayoor and Kanthalloor panchayats of Devikulam taluk.
Wildlife in Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
The sanctuary is known for being the only rehabilitation center for the Indian star tortoise in India and for being home to the Great Grizzled Squirrel of India, which is among the most endangered species on the planet. The wildlife sanctuary is contiguous with Eravikulam National Park to the south. Visitors can indulge in several activities like wildlife watching, bird watching, and butterfly watching and can also choose from several trekking options depending on their physical fitness and strength. The trekking programs are organized by the Department of Forests and Wildlife.
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the rain shadow region of the Western Ghats, which means it receives less rainfall than the other parts of Kerala. This gives it a distinct dry and thorny vegetation, which contrasts with the lush greenery of the neighboring hill stations like Munnar. The sanctuary also has some high-altitude shola forests, grasslands, and riparian ecosystems along the Chinnar and Pambar rivers.
The sanctuary hosts over 200 bird species, 34 mammal species, 29 reptile species, 15 amphibian species, and 156 butterfly species. Some notable animals that can be spotted here include the grizzled giant squirrel, star tortoise, gaur, spotted deer, elephant, leopard, and tiger. In addition, the sanctuary has a substantial population of mugger crocodiles that can be observed sunbathing on the river banks.
Trekking Options in Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is renowned for its picturesque Thoovanam waterfalls, which is situated on the Pamba River. Visitors can reach the waterfall by embarking on a 3-hour trek from the Chinnar check post, which presents an opportunity to witness wildlife and tribal settlements along the way. The waterfall provides a refreshing and tranquil location to unwind and relish in the allure of nature. The Marayoor Sandalwood Forest located 4 kilometers away from the sanctuary is another attraction to consider visiting.
Another highlight of Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is the cultural trekking, which is a 3-hour walk from Alampetty eco shop to Jellimala cultural point and costs about INR 400 per person. This trek allows interaction with the local tribal communities, who live in harmony with nature and practice traditional arts and crafts. The trek also showcases the rich cultural heritage of Kerala, such as folk songs, dances, and rituals.
Plan Your Visit: Location, Timings, Ticket, Stay
The best time to visit Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is from October to February when the weather is pleasant. It is open from 8 AM to 5 PM on all days of the week. The entry fee is INR 30 per person and one has to pay for the trekking and tent stay separately; there are also additional charges for cameras. The sanctuary offers various accommodation options for visitors, such as log houses, tree houses, and tents. These are located at different points in the sanctuary and provide a comfortable stay amidst nature. If you prefer staying at a hotel, resort, or homestay, click on the “Book Now” button on this page to check out the beautiful properties near the sanctuary.
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary can be easily reached by road and is located 9 kilometers away from Marayoor, 49 kilometers away from Munnar, and 63 kilometers away from Palani in Tamilnadu. The Sanctuary has convenient connectivity to several prominent destinations in Kerala, including Munnar and Cochin. The closest railway station to the sanctuary is Udumalaippettai in Tamilnadu, situated at a distance of 37 kilometers, while the nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, approximately 155 kilometers away. Please remember to carry the necessary documents of your vehicle and identify yourself as those are to be presented at the entrance to access the sanctuary.
FAQs
What is Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary famous for?
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is a vital protected area among the 18 wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala. The sanctuary is renowned for its significant contributions towards protecting endangered wildlife species such as the Indian star tortoise and the Giant Grizzled Squirrel of India. Furthermore, the sanctuary is home to a diverse array of bird species, including the Black Eagle, Gray Heron, Serpent Eagle, Yellow-throated Bulbul, and Little Egret, among others.
In addition to its biodiversity conservation efforts, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for its eco-tourism activities, providing visitors with opportunities to explore the sanctuary’s rich flora and fauna through trekking, bird-watching, and butterfly-watching. Visitors can also interact with local tribal communities and experience their traditional arts and crafts, songs, dances, and rituals. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is indeed a haven for wildlife and eco-tourism enthusiasts.
Is Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary worth visiting?
Visiting Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary can be subjective and depends on individual preferences. If you are interested in wildlife, nature, and eco-tourism activities, then it could be an excellent destination to explore. The sanctuary boasts a diverse range of animals and birds, and it is the sole rehabilitation center for the Indian star tortoise in the country. Additionally, the sanctuary offers eco-tourism activities arranged by the Forest Department and tribal communities. However, if these aspects are not appealing to you, then it may not be worth visiting.
Which animals are found in Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary Kerala?
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a variety of animals. Some of the animals found in the sanctuary include the endangered Giant Grizzled Squirrel of India, Indian star tortoise, tufted grey langur, gaur, spotted deer, slender loris, wild elephant, crocodile, tiger, leopard, Panthers, Sambar and spotted deer, elephants, leopards, Hanuman Langur and peacocks.
What is the best time to visit Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary?
The post-monsoon season is the optimal time to visit Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, particularly from December to March. This period is favored for exploring the sanctuary since the heavy rains have refreshed the area, bringing an abundance of vitality and freshness to the surroundings.
Which river flows through Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary?
Two main rivers flow through Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary: the Chinnar River and the Pambar River. The Chinnar River starts near Kumarikal Malai and runs along the northwest border of the sanctuary for 18 km before transforming into the Amaravati River in Tamil Nadu. Meanwhile, the Pambar River originates in the Anaimudi Hills and is fed by seasonal rivulets and some perennial streams that stem from sholas in the higher regions. It travels through the Turner’s Valley in Eravikulam National Park and enters the sanctuary through the Taliar Valley, situated between Kanthalloor and Marayoor villages, flowing eastwards through the sanctuary until it meets the Chinnar River at Koottar.
How far is Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary Safari from Munnar?
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is located 49 kilometers away from Munnar.
What are the eco-tourism activities available in Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary?
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary offers many eco-tourism activities organized by the Forest Department and the Ecodevelopment Committees of the local tribal communities. These activities include river trekking, trekking to the cultural site (dolmens), nature trail to the watchtower, trek to Thoovanam falls, interpretation activities and medicinal garden, tree house at Chinnar, Trekking and camping at Vasyappara.
What are some other tourist attractions near Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary?
There are several tourist attractions near Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. Some of them include:
Eravikulam National Park: This park is located about 45 km from Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary and is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.
Anamudi Peak: This is the highest peak in South India and is located inside Eravikulam National Park.
Marayoor Sandalwood Forest: This forest is located about 20 km from Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary and is famous for its natural sandalwood trees.
Thoovanam Waterfalls: This waterfall is located inside Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary and is a popular tourist attraction.
Kundala Dam Lake: This lake is located about 50 km from Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary and offers boating facilities.
These are just a few of the many attractions near Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. You can plan your trip to include visits to these places depending on your interests and the time available.
