Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the Idukki and Palakkad districts of Kerala, India. It is known for its rich biodiversity, unique flora and fauna, and picturesque landscapes. Here’s some information about Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary:
- Location: Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Western Ghats, bordering the state of Tamil Nadu. It is located about 60 kilometers (37 miles) away from Munnar and covers an area of approximately 90 square kilometers (35 square miles).
- Biodiversity: The sanctuary is home to a diverse range of wildlife species, including mammals, reptiles, birds, and amphibians. Some of the notable species found here are elephants, gaur (Indian bison), sambar deer, spotted deer, langurs, macaques, slender loris, Indian star tortoise, and various species of snakes and lizards. It is also a habitat for several endemic and endangered plant species.
- Flora and Fauna: Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its unique vegetation. It comprises dry deciduous forests, thorny scrublands, and grasslands. The sanctuary is characterized by the presence of rare and endemic plant species, such as the Neelakurinji (Strobilanthes kunthiana) that blooms once in 12 years. It is also home to medicinal plants with significant traditional and Ayurvedic importance.
- Trekking and Nature Trails: Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary offers opportunities for trekking and nature walks. There are designated trails that take visitors through the forest, providing a chance to explore the diverse ecosystem and witness the wildlife in their natural habitat. Trekking through the sanctuary offers a unique experience of being amidst nature and enjoying the scenic beauty.
- Watchtowers and Viewpoints: The sanctuary has watchtowers and viewpoints strategically placed to observe wildlife and enjoy panoramic views of the surroundings. These vantage points offer excellent opportunities for birdwatching and capturing photographs of the diverse flora and fauna.
- Thoovanam Waterfalls: Thoovanam Waterfalls is a major attraction within Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. It is a picturesque waterfall located amidst the forested landscape. Visitors can trek to the waterfall and enjoy the serene atmosphere and natural beauty of the cascading water.
- Eco-Tourism Activities: Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary promotes eco-tourism activities that focus on sustainable tourism and conservation awareness. Visitors can engage in programs like nature camps, nature interpretation centers, and village visits to learn about the local culture, traditions, and the importance of conservation.
Visiting Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary provides an opportunity to experience the pristine beauty of nature and observe the diverse wildlife in its natural habitat. It is advisable to visit with a trained guide and follow the rules and regulations to ensure the protection of the sanctuary and its inhabitants.
The Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for travelers to Munnar. Locates in the Idukki district in Kerala, this is an excellent place to enjoy rich wildlife in its natural habitats. People love to visit this region not only to enjoy its exotic wildlife but also to watch its beautiful environment. Travelers will get a beautiful holiday experience at this hotspot because it lies in the eastern regions of the Western Ghats. Besides, this area is adjoining Tamil Nadu. Visit the well-known Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary if you plan a trip to Munnar.
A Glorious Wildlife Sanctuary
Simply add the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary to your Munnar itinerary in order to watch unique wildlife in the natural habitat. This rain shadow tourist spot can be a good choice for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy many endangered species like Giant Grizzled Squirrel in the thorny scrub forests of this sanctuary. Besides, there are many other wild animals in this picnic spot. So, just take your children to the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary so that they can watch different animal species.
Exotic Flora And Fauna
The Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is famous not only for its fantastic wild animals but also home to many herbs and medicinal plants. This sanctuary houses a large number of rare species like Grizzled Giant Squirrel, spotted deer, wild elephant, tufted grey langur, star tortoise, slender loris, gaur, leopard, tiger, and crocodiles. Besides, it is a natural haven for many insect and bird species. In fact, this wildlife park has around 144 species of animals and around 225 species of birds. The Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary also is a repository of more than 1000 species of flowering plants. Besides, it has an array of medicinal plants in the forests of this sanctuary.
Rich Biodiversity & Great Ecotourism Activities
The Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is a hotspot with rich biodiversity. The south side of it covers by the Eravikulam National Park while the north side is by the Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary. Each visitor should admire its exquisite topography which includes dry thorn scrub, shoals, deciduous forests, grasslands, and riparian forests. The unique topography of this destination makes it an excellent spot for wildlife exploration and trekking. There is also an enchanting sandalwood forest near this wildlife sanctuary.
Winter season is the best time to visit the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. Enjoy plenty of eco-tourism activities during your trip to this sanctuary such as jungle trekking, river trekking, camping and trekking to different cultural sites and tree house stay. Get more information about this wildlife sanctuary by visiting our website www.ksu.in.
| Area | 90.422 sq. km |
| Year of formation | 1984(GO(P)229/84/AD/04.08.1984) |
| Latitude | 10º 15 ‘ and 10º21’ North |
| Longitude | 77º 15’ and 77º 17 East |
| Climate | Temperature varies from 18ºC to 25ºC |
| Best Season To Visit | October-November |
| Climate | Temperature varies from 18ºC to 25ºC |
| Closure Period | Open throughout the year |
| Bio Diversity | The major species in the throny scrub forests are Acacia arabica, Acacia leucofolia, Acacia concinna, Prosporis juliflora, and Opuntia dillenii. Dry deciduous species include Santallum album, Anogeissus latifolia, Terminalia arjuna, Tamarindus indica, Pongamia glabra, Dalbergia latifolia, Tectona grandis, Lagerstroemia laneolata, Cassia fistula, Terminalia bellerica, Emblica officianalis etc. High shoal and wetland species include Rhododendron nilagiricum, Elaeocarpus, recurvatus, Strobilanthus kunthianus etc. 34 species of mammals, 245 sp. of birds, 36 species of reptiles, 22 species of amphibians and 42 species of fishes are reported from the sanctuary. Elephant, Gaur, panther, spotted deer, Sambar, Grizzled giant squirrel, Hanuman monkey etc are the common mammals. |
| By Road | Kochi – 200 KM, Coimbatore via Pollachi – 60 KM |
| Nearest Railway Station | Pollachi- 60 KM |
| Nearest Airport | Cochin International Airport |