The Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in Thrissur district of Kerala, India. It is situated about 20 kilometers (12 miles) east of Thrissur city and covers an area of approximately 125 square kilometers (48 square miles). The sanctuary was established in 1958 and is named after the two reservoirs it encompasses, Peechi Reservoir and Vazhani Reservoir.
The Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its lush green forests, diverse wildlife, and scenic landscapes. It is part of the Palapilli-Nelliampathy Forest Reserve and is nestled in the Western Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot. The sanctuary primarily consists of moist deciduous forests, tropical evergreen forests, and teak plantations.
The sanctuary is home to a wide range of flora and fauna. It is particularly known for its avian diversity, with over 50 species of birds recorded, including the Great Indian Hornbill, Malabar Grey Hornbill, Indian Roller, and Malabar Whistling Thrush. Other wildlife species found in the sanctuary include elephants, sambar deer, barking deer, wild boar, langurs, macaques, and Indian bison (gaur). Reptiles such as snakes, lizards, and turtles are also present.
Visitors to the Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary can enjoy various activities like trekking, bird watching, and nature walks. There are several well-defined trails within the sanctuary that allow visitors to explore its natural beauty. The sanctuary also has a watchtower and viewpoints that offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
The Kerala Forest Department maintains a forest information center near the Peechi Dam, which provides information about the sanctuary, its wildlife, and conservation efforts. The sanctuary can be visited throughout the year, although the best time to visit is from October to March when the weather is pleasant.
The Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary not only serves as a haven for wildlife but also plays a crucial role in the conservation of the Western Ghats ecosystem. It provides a protected habitat for various species and contributes to the overall ecological balance of the region.
Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary is a scenic tourist spot in Kerala located almost 20 kilometers east of Thrissur. One of the great attractions of this picnic spot is that it offers amazing boating options. This is an ideal destination for travelers who wish to immerse in the breathtaking nature of Kerala. This sanctuary is sprawling over a 125 sq.km area in the catchment of the Peechi and Vazhani Dams.
For A Pleasant Picnic Experience
A part of the Palapilli-Nelliampathy forests, Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary forms the northern boundary of the famous Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary. Ponmudi is the highest point in this sanctuary which offers mind-blowing views of the underlying valley. It has a height of around 923 meters. This sanctuary is home to many large trees like rosewood and teak, many exotic medicinal plants and more than 50 types of orchids. You will be able to watch around 25 species of mammals by visiting the Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary. Plan a family vacation to this wildlife sanctuary so that your children can watch some animals like tiger, deer, leopard, sambar, Asian Elephant, Indian Bison and spotted deer at close quarters. This sanctuary is also home to more than 100 avian species apart from several species of lizards and snakes.
For Different Activities
Spread between the renowned Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary and the lovely Peechy Dam, visiting the marvelous Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary shall be a wonderful travel experience. You can visit this picnic spot through the Peechi Village. This area is famous for trekking and you can approach the forest department to enjoy this activity. However, trekking is allowed only for experienced trekkers. The best time to experience trekking in the Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary is from October to March. Make your booking in advance with the Wildlife Warden at Peechi if you want to enjoy this activity. This is the best activity to watch the exotic wildlife of this sanctuary. The forest department does not arrange jeep safaris for visitors.
How To Reach Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary
Thrissur is the nearest railway station for people who wish to visit the Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary. The nearest Cochin International Airport is around 98 kilometers from this picnic spot. If you would like to stay in Peechi for a couple of days to explore the wildlife sanctuary and other tourist attractions nearby, you can find accommodation at the Rest House and the Information Center at this destination.
