Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is the revered natural habitat of several rare and endangered plants and animals. This makes it a great destination for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy the tranquility of this sanctuary while admiring the environment. Muthanga and Tholpetty are the two most significant regions in this sanctuary. In the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, there is a beautiful opportunity to observe elephant herds, deer, langurs, and tigers in their natural habitat. With reservations, visitors can also take a bird-viewing tour or a woodland trip. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, a crucial component of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, is a hotspot for biodiversity and should be added to a traveler’s list of things to do in Wayanad.

Quick Fact

The largest tiger population in Kerala is found in the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. Among the 176 tigers living in the state, 75 reside in these massive forests.

History of Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary 

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary was founded in 1973. In 1973, Pazhassi Raja lived in these jungles as a rebel against the British. As you travel along the route, you will see several elephant herds roaming freely in national parks and neighboring states. On the coffee plantations of the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, a tiger was shot and killed in 2012 by the Kerala Forest Department. The local political elites gave this killing high acclaim. However, after reports and concerns over the tiger stealing and murdering domestic animals, the chief of Kerala’s wildlife guardians made plans to carry out the hunt.

Flora and Fauna of Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary 

Most of the sanctuary area is covered in moist deciduous forests, but there are also a few small sections of evergreen forests. The sanctuary’s bamboo groves and deciduous forests are among its main draws. Plantations of teak, rosewood, silver oak, and eucalyptus cover one-third of the sanctuary. The area is home to a variety of tree species, including Careya arborea, Terminalia Chebula, Kydia Calycina, Anogeissus latifolia, Stereospermum coleus, and Dalbergia latifolia. Apart from that, the sanctuary houses various animals, such as herds of elephants and deer walking across the road or in the forests. Some of the famous animals are langurs, Bonnet macaques, monkeys, sambars, bison, and bears.

While you surpass the roads leading to Muthanga and Tholpetty, you will get an enchanting view of the rich flora and fauna. The sanctuary houses various animals, such as herds of elephants and deer walking across the road or in the forests. Some famous animals are langurs, Bonnet macaques, monkeys, sambars, bison, and bears. 

Places to Visit Near Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary 

You can explore several places near this sanctuary that enrich your travel experiences in so many ways. We have curated a list of some of the best attractions near this sanctuary. 

  • Banasura Sagar Dam: The charming Banasura Sagar Dam is in the Wayanad district, nestled within the Banasura Hills. Banasura Dam is the largest dam in the country and the second-largest earthen dam in Asia.
  • Vythiri: It is well-known for its tribal communities and spice farms. Adventure sports, trekking, and relaxing amidst the tranquil beauty of the town are popular with tourists. 
  • Sulthan Bathery: Sulthan Bathery, formerly a key strategic point in the Malabar region, is today the biggest town in the Wayanad district and is well-known for its economic and tourism activities. 
  • Edakkal Caves: Famous for their ancient petroglyphs (rock carvings) and pictorial writings, they are a must-visit for history and archaeology enthusiasts.
  • Pookode Lake: A beautiful freshwater lake surrounded by forests. Boating and a freshwater aquarium are popular attractions here.
  • Soochipara Waterfalls: This three-tiered waterfall offers nature lovers an excellent trek and a refreshing experience.
  • Thirunelli Temple: An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, nestled amidst the Brahmagiri Hills. It’s a revered pilgrimage site.

Safari in Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Jeep Safari 

Expanding the exploration options within the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, the Jeep Safari stands out as a prominent choice for visitors seeking a comprehensive wildlife experience. In open jeeps, guided tours provide an excellent perspective on the sanctuary’s diverse wildlife and flora. Visitors can enjoy better visibility and increase their chances of spotting various animals and bird species during the guided Jeep Safari.

Timing of Jeep Safari 

  • Morning Timings: 7:00 AM – 10: 00 AM 
  • Evening Timing: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary Zones

The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, has several entry gates and zones for visitors to explore. The sanctuary is divided into various zones for the convenience of management and tourism.

Muthanga Zone

The Muthanga Zone, accessed through the Sultan Bathery Gate, represents the vibrant heart of the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. Renowned for its rich biodiversity, this zone offers a diverse landscape comprising dense forests, grasslands, and water bodies. Visitors can embark on captivating safaris, witnessing the majestic elephants, elusive tigers, deer, and many bird species. The well-structured trails and safari routes within Muthanga present an exceptional opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the thriving ecosystem.

Tholpetty Zone

Nestled in the northern region of Wayanad, the Tholpetty Zone is a gateway to an enchanting wildlife experience. This zone, accessible through the Tholpetty entry gate, is renowned for its lush vegetation, teeming wildlife, and diverse habitats. The area’s hilly terrain and dense forests provide a haven for numerous species, including herds of elephants, spotted deer, and an array of avian wonders. Safari adventures through this zone allow visitors to explore the enchanting natural beauty and the elusive creatures that call Tholpetty their home.

Kurichiat Zone

The Kurichiat Zone, accessed via its designated entry gate, offers a tranquil and lesser-explored facet of the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. Tucked away in the northern expanse of Wayanad, this zone beckons with its serene ambiance and undisturbed wildlife habitats. Visitors can relish the solitude and tranquility of nature as they traverse through the zone’s secluded trails. A haven for those seeking peaceful encounters with wildlife, Kurichiat reveals a canvas of lush foliage, diverse avifauna, and glimpses of wildlife dwelling in harmony within its secluded confines. 

Resorts in and around Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary 

A wildlife exploration tour is an incredible experience for wildlife lovers, and staying in the jungle resorts becomes more exciting. Here is the list of popular places to stay near this wildlife sanctuary. 

  • Jungle Castle Home Stay 
  • Adhi Villa Cottage
  • Mayookham Resorts
  • Issacs the Resorts
  • Sterling Wayanad
  • Pugmarks Jungle Lodge
  • Ktdc Tamarind Thirunelly
  • Wayanad Orange Villa

 

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    BEST TIME TO VISIT WAYANAD WILDLIFE SANCTUAERY

    SUMMER SEASON

    (April to June)

    Summer is an ideal choice for those who are willing to spot wild animals in this sanctuary. As per reports, April to June brings out the wild animals to water bodies, allowing you to observe them while enjoying your jeep safari. The downside of this season is that the temperature rises high, making the safari uncomfortable. But you can choose an early morning safari as exploring the jungle is mild.

    MONSOON SEASON

    (July to September)

    Monsoon in Wayanad starts in July and lasts till September, adding humidity to the atmosphere. During this season, you will expect rain showers that can ruin your safari experience and make it challenging to cover the path in the forest. Therefore, this season is uncomfortable. However, if you are a fan of rain and that does not bother you, you can choose this season over others. However, the chances of sighting wild animals are less compared to other seasons.

    WINTER SEASON

    (October to March)

    Winter is perfect for forest exploration in Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary in every term. During this season, you will experience the best climate conditions, and all the flora will bloom, adding another layer of beauty to this forest. You will have an excellent chance to spot wild animals and also for birdwatching. If spotting various species of birds in their natural habitat is one of your reasons to visit this sanctuary, you can choose any month between October and March.

    HOW TO REACH WAYANAD WILDLIFE SANCTUAERY

     
    By Flight
    By Train
    By Road
    Calicut International Airport is the nearest airport, which is around 118 km from the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. It is one of the best modes to reach the sanctuary as it is comfortable and time-saving. This airport is linked with major national and international destinations via regular flights. After landing at the airport, you will get various options to cover the remaining distance between the airport and the wildlife sanctuary. For example, you can cover the remaining distance by taking a car, taxi, or bus. And it will take around 3 hours and 30 minutes to reach the sanctuary.
    Trains are another good option for covering the long distance to Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. Kozhikode Railway Station is the nearest and most important junction to reach the sanctuary. It is located approximately 112 km away from major destinations in the country. The distance between this junction and the sanctuary can be covered in 3 hours and 30 minutes via shared taxi, bus, and cab.
    The nearest bus stand is Sulthan Bathery, around 14 km from the sanctuary. Various kinds of bus services, including luxury, deluxe, and minibosses, reach this point that you can take from the nearby regions. It is advised to book in advance to get the extra layer of comfort for your tour. After reaching the bus stand, it is recommended to catch a taxi to reach the wildlife destinations. Apart from it, if you are planning your tour by vehicle, then road conditions are usually smooth, and you can arrive easily as the road connectivity is good.

    TIPS FOR WAYANAD WILDLIFE SANCTUAERY

    • Do not make noise to disturb animals of the wildlife sanctuary.
    • It is recommended not to wear strong perfume while enjoying your safari ride. 
    • While photography in the jungle, make sure to turn off the flashlight. 
    • Kindly cross-check the climate condition before booking your wildlife tour.
    • Don’t-litter in the park or do not carry plastic material inside the park

    FAQs

    What is the speciality of Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary?

    The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is Kerala’s second-largest wildlife refuge. It is blessed with a variety of species and lush green woodlands. Some of the rare and endangered species of both plants and animals can be found in this natural region.

    Which river flows through Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary?

    Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, which covers an area of 344.44 square kilometers, is next to the tiger reserves in Tamil Nadu’s Mudumalai, Bandipur, and Nagerhole in Karnataka. The Kabini River, a Cauvery River branch, traverses the sanctuary.

    What is the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary ticket price?

    The cost is INR 20 ( Subjective to be changed ) for people in India, INR 10 ( Subjective to be changed ) for kids under 12, and INR 5 ( Subjective to be changed ) for students with valid IDs. There is a 110 INR ( Subjective to be changed ) fee per person for foreigners.

    Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for which animal?

    The white-rumped vulture and the red-headed vulture are just two of the vulture species that may be seen in the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.