Nature lovers are also attracted to Kerala, a jewel in the southern crown of India, by the charm of wildlife sanctuaries. This verdant terrain, nestled between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats, presents a rare diversity of flora and fauna. The wildlife sanctuaries of Kerala are not only biodiversity hotspots but also symbols of the state’s dedication to conservation. They act as a refuge for many species, including elephants and tigers, birds, and amphibians that are endemic to the area. The story of nature’s glory is different in each sanctuary, with its unique ecological character. It is a journey through these sanctuaries that leads to a place where there is a perfect balance between the wild and the serene backwaters, rolling hills and green forests of Kerala, offering an unmatched wildlife experience.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: A Jungle Safari

The Abundant Flora and Fauna

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Kerala, is a magnificent symbol of the abundance of wildlife in India. This sanctuary covers an area of 925 square kilometers and is a thriving habitat for a wide variety of plant and animal species. The forests are dense, predominantly tropical evergreen and moist deciduous, and over 35 species of mammals live here, including the Asian elephant, the rare Bengal tiger, and the unique Nilgiri Tahr. Bird lovers can enjoy viewing more than 265 avian species, which makes it a haven for birdwatchers. The sanctuary is also home to other reptiles such as the King Cobra and Monitor Lizard, as well as a number of butterflies and insects, which contribute to the diversity of species found in the sanctuary. The rich vegetation, which has more than 2000 flowering plants, is a vital refuge for these species, forming a vibrant and symbiotic ecosystem.

Boating on Periyar Lake

One of the most important aspects of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is the mystical boat ride on Periyar Lake. This man-made lake was created by the building of the Mullaperiyar Dam and provides a special opportunity to observe wildlife. As you fly over the calm waters, you may see animals drinking water or elephants splashing at the water’s edge. The boat ride also offers a relaxing way to admire the magnificent scenery of the area. This serene cruise on Periyar Lake, amidst the verdant Western Ghats, is not only about spotting wildlife, but it is a naturally soothing and meditative experience that helps one to get back to the roots of nature.

Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Where Nature Thrives

Discovering Neyyar's Ecosystem

This sanctuary covers an area of 128 square kilometers and is a combination of different habitats including forests and grasslands. It is inhabited by diverse fauna species such as Asian elephants, sloth bears, and many types of deer. The sanctuary is known for its lion-tailed macaques, an endemic species of the Western Ghats. Birdwatchers will enjoy seeing rare species such as the Malabar Grey Hornbill and Kingfishers. The sanctuary’s fauna is equally beautiful, with rare medicinal herbs and a variety of orchids adding to the rich vegetation. Neyyar’s ecosystem is a dynamic one and is a reflection of the natural world of Kerala, which is still untouched.

Neyyar Dam and Its Beauty

The Neyyar Dam is located at the core of the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary and is the most attractive feature of the sanctuary. This dam, which was built across the Neyyar River, is not only an important irrigation structure, but also a beautiful place that tourists visit. It has a serene reservoir that reflects the green hills around it. The surroundings of the dam are known as a picnic spot, which is beautiful and peaceful. Boating facilities are present, which gives the opportunity to tourists to see the reservoir’s still waters and the picturesque scenery from a close distance. The Neyyar Dam is not just a part of the sanctuary’s backdrop; it is a serene refuge where one can bask in the glory of nature and observe the perfect harmony between the man-made and the natural world.

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: In the Heart of Western Ghats

Wayanad's Diverse Wildlife

The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, nestled in the verdant mountains of the Western Ghats in Kerala, is a biodiversity hotspot with a wealth of life forms. These gentle giants are not the only residents of the sanctuary as it is also a home for Bengal tigers, leopards, and Indian bison (gaur). The region’s avifauna is also spectacular, with a few rare birds such as the Malabar trogon and crested serpent eagle. The sanctuary is the home of rich deciduous forests, which provide a good habitat for numerous mammal and reptile species, including different snakes and lizards. The wildlife sanctuary of Wayanad is a living, breathing representation of ecological harmony and natural beauty, providing a true wilderness adventure.

Trekking Trails and Adventure

The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is not only a haven for wildlife lovers but also a paradise for trekkers and adventure lovers. The sanctuary is a diverse landscape that includes hills, valleys, and dense forests, with many hiking trails for all levels of hikers. These trails pass through the core of the sanctuary, giving a close-up view of the wild and an opportunity to see the pristine nature of the Western Ghats. As they walk, trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking views of the terrain and the occasional sighting of wildlife. The Muthanga and Tholpetty regions of the sanctuary are famous for their trekking trails. The excitement of trekking through these trails, along with the joy of discovering the unexplored, makes trekking in Wayanad an unforgettable journey.

Conclusion

The wildlife sanctuaries of Kerala, from the lively Periyar to the serene Neyyar, the thrilling Wayanad, and the mysterious Silent Valley, provide a diverse landscape of biodiversity and natural beauty. Every sanctuary is a distinct ecosystem, full of exotic wildlife and rich vegetation, which allows the visitor to dive into the world of nature. These sanctuaries are not only a place of refuge for wildlife but also a representation of the peaceful coexistence between nature and man. They invite us to discover, appreciate, and preserve the fragile equilibrium of our natural environment.