Kerala, often called God’s Own Country, is celebrated for its backwaters, beaches, and hill stations. Yet beyond its serene landscapes lies another treasure—the rich and diverse wildlife. The Kerala Wildlife Tours offer travelers a chance to explore lush forests, national parks, and sanctuaries that are home to elephants, tigers, leopards, and countless bird species. For nature lovers, adventure seekers, and conservation enthusiasts, Kerala’s wildlife is an unforgettable experience.
Introduction to Kerala Wildlife
- Kerala is blessed with the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and biodiversity hotspot.
- Wildlife tours focus on national parks, sanctuaries, and eco-tourism destinations.
- The state is home to iconic species like elephants, tigers, leopards, Nilgiri tahr, and hornbills.
- Safari experiences, trekking, and birdwatching make it a holistic journey.
Why Kerala Wildlife Tours are Special
- Biodiversity: Tigers, elephants, leopards, antelopes, and over 500 bird species.
- Unique Landscapes: Rainforests, wetlands, and hill ranges.
- Adventure: Jeep safaris, bamboo rafting, and trekking.
- Conservation Efforts: Protected areas and eco-tourism initiatives.
- Cultural Blend: Wildlife tours often combine with village visits and local traditions.
Major Wildlife Tourism Destinations in Kerala
1. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (Thekkady)
- Located in Idukki district.
- Famous for elephants and Periyar Lake.
- Attractions: Boat cruises, bamboo rafting, and spice plantations.
- Other species: Tigers, leopards, wild boars, and langurs.
2. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
- Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
- Attractions: Muthanga and Tholpetty ranges.
- Species: Elephants, tigers, leopards, bison, and peacocks.
- Activities: Jeep safaris, trekking, and birdwatching.
3. Eravikulam National Park (Munnar)
- UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Famous for Nilgiri tahr (endangered mountain goat).
- Attractions: Anamudi Peak, rolling grasslands.
- Activities: Trekking and photography.
4. Silent Valley National Park
- Located in Palakkad district.
- Famous for untouched rainforests and biodiversity.
- Species: Lion-tailed macaques, tigers, leopards, and rare birds.
- Activities: Eco-tourism treks and guided tours.
5. Parambikulam Tiger Reserve
- Located on Kerala-Tamil Nadu border.
- Famous for tiger conservation.
- Attractions: Trekking, bamboo rafting, and tribal village visits.
- Species: Tigers, elephants, gaurs, and hornbills.
6. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Located in Idukki district.
- Famous for dry deciduous forests and sandalwood trees.
- Species: Grizzled giant squirrel, elephants, and spotted deer.
- Activities: Trekking and eco-tourism programs.
7. Thattekad Bird Sanctuary
- Known as Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary.
- Famous for birdwatching.
- Species: Malabar grey hornbill, Sri Lankan frogmouth, and kingfishers.
- Activities: Birdwatching tours and photography.
8. Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Located near Thiruvananthapuram.
- Attractions: Crocodile rehabilitation center, boating, and trekking.
- Species: Elephants, leopards, and diverse reptiles.
Safari Experiences in Kerala
- Jeep Safaris: Popular in Wayanad, Parambikulam, and Chinnar.
- Boat Safaris: Unique in Periyar Lake.
- Walking Tours: Guided treks in Silent Valley and Eravikulam.
- Birdwatching Tours: Thattekad and Kumarakom wetlands.
Birdwatching in Kerala
- Kerala is a paradise for bird lovers.
- Key destinations: Thattekad, Kumarakom, and Silent Valley.
- Migratory birds: Siberian cranes, darters, and storks.
- Best season: Winter months (November–February).
Conservation and Eco-Tourism
- Kerala has several protected areas and reserves.
- Community-based eco-tourism initiatives support local livelihoods.
- Conservation efforts focus on tigers, elephants, and Nilgiri tahr.
- Awareness programs promote sustainable tourism.
Cultural Blend with Wildlife Tourism
- Wildlife tours often combine with heritage and village visits.
- Examples: Spice plantations in Thekkady, tribal villages in Wayanad.
- Local communities offer cultural immersion with folk music and cuisine.
- Handicrafts and souvenirs reflect Kerala’s traditions.
Cuisine During Wildlife Tours
- Traditional Kerala cuisine adds flavor to wildlife tourism.
- Famous dishes: Appam with stew, Kerala Sadya, Malabar biryani.
- Local specialties: Bamboo rice dishes in Wayanad, spice-infused curries in Thekkady.
- Eco-lodges offer organic and local food.
Types of Kerala Wildlife Tours
1. Tiger Tourism
- Focused on Periyar and Parambikulam.
- Ideal for adventure seekers and photographers.
2. Elephant Tourism
- Focused on Periyar and Wayanad.
- Popular among families and children.
3. Bird Tourism
- Focused on Thattekad and Kumarakom.
- Popular among ornithologists and nature lovers.
4. Rainforest Tourism
- Focused on Silent Valley and Eravikulam.
- Combines trekking with wildlife exploration.
5. Eco-Tourism
- Focused on Chinnar and tribal villages.
- Offers sustainable and community-based experiences.
Sample Kerala Wildlife Tour Itinerary (7 Days)
Day 1: Arrival in Kochi, travel to Thattekad Bird Sanctuary.
Day 2: Birdwatching and photography in Thattekad.
Day 3: Travel to Munnar, trek in Eravikulam National Park.
Day 4: Travel to Thekkady, boat safari in Periyar Lake.
Day 5: Spice plantation tour and bamboo rafting.
Day 6: Travel to Wayanad, jeep safari in Muthanga range.
Day 7: Departure after visiting tribal villages and local markets.
Best Time to Experience Kerala Wildlife Tours
- October to March: Pleasant weather, ideal for safaris and birdwatching.
- April to June: Hot, but suitable for tiger sightings.
- Monsoon (July to September): Lush landscapes, but limited safari options.
Travel Tips for Kerala Wildlife Tours
- Clothing: Comfortable attire; light cottons for summer, warm clothes for winter mornings.
- Health: Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and carry medicines.
- Respect: Follow park rules, avoid littering, and maintain silence.
- Booking: Reserve safaris and eco-lodges in advance.
- Photography: Carry telephoto lenses for wildlife shots.
Conclusion
The Kerala Wildlife Tours offer a journey into the untamed beauty of God’s Own Country. Whether you’re spotting elephants in Periyar, watching hornbills in Thattekad, or trekking through Silent Valley’s rainforests, Kerala provides unforgettable experiences. For adventure seekers, bird lovers, and cultural explorers, Kerala’s wildlife tourism is a perfect blend of nature, heritage, and tradition. Its diverse ecosystems, conservation efforts, and warm hospitality make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to connect with India’s wild side.
