Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala

The Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the rain shadow region of Western Ghats of Kerala, India., and represents a large number of plants and animals unique to the thorny vegetation.

Apart from the dry thorn forests, due to the significant variation in altitude and rainfall, it has a wide array of habitat types like deciduous forests, dry thorny forest, riparian types, sholas and grasslands that are interspersed with plains, hillocks, rocks and cliffs which provide microhabitats for varied forms of life.

It is an abode of reptilian fauna and the richest in Kerala in terms of the number of species. Albizia lathamii, a critically endangered species has been reported from the dry forests of Chinnar. It is a well known repository of medicinal plants. The riverine forests along Chinnar and Pambar support a healthy population of Grizzled Giant Squirrel.

The famous ‘white bison of Manjampatti’ has been recently reported from Chinnar. With 225 species of birds, Chinnar is rich in avian diversity. In association with the neighbouring PAs, Chinnar forms part of a viable conservation unit.

A unique thorny scrub forest with xerophyte species, Chinnar is the habitat for the endangered Giant Grizzled Squirrel of India. Their total number here would be less than 200. Located in the rain shadow area of the Western Ghats, unlike other sanctuaries in Kerala, Chinnar gets only less than two months of rain every year. Rich in wildlife, the mixed deciduous forests here are ideal for trekking.
An extensive Sandalwood forest nearby is an added attraction at Chinnar. This is also an ideal place for watching herds of gaur and elephants amble past. Dry deciduous forests, high sholas and some grasslands add to the diversity of the sanctuary. As one travels from Karimuthi to Chinnar, elephants, spotted deer, sambar, hanuman langur and even peacocks can be spotted on either side of the road.

Location:
About 60 km from Munnar, Idukki district
Getting there:
Nearest railway station: Ernakulam about 130 km from Munnar. .
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 150 km from Munnar.

Gavi, Eco touism Project Pathanamthitta,Kerala

           Gavi Eco-Tourism a project of the Kerala Forest Development Corporation has caught the attention of tourists, mostly from European countries. The project is exclusive in many respects and the majority who visited was nature lovers and adventure tourists. Over a short period of time visitors to Gavi gradually increased, especially after 'Alistair International' the world acclaimed tourism major listed it among the leading eco-tourism centres and one of the must-see places in India.

           A highlight of the Gavi eco project is the involvement of the local populace in its activities as guides, gardeners and cooks. This will provide livelihood for the locals and also will help to create awareness on conservation of nature. Gavi, located in Pathanamthitta district offers its visitors activities like trekking, wildlife watching, outdoor camping in specially built tents, and night safaris.

           The road leading to the picturesque Gavi is blanketed by tea plantations, which itself is a refreshing experience. En route to Gavi are places of interest like Mundakayyam, Kuttikanam, Peermedu and Vandiperiyar from where the road deviates to Gavi.

           Once you reach Gavi the serene eco-lodge 'Green Mansion' awaits you like a fairy to embrace you in its protective fold. From the 'Green Mansion', one can savour the spectacular view of the Gavi Lake and the adjoining forests. Besides the accommodation provided in 'Green Mansion' visitors can also try out the tree houses here and can even pitch tents amidst the wilderness. Here one can have outstanding trekking experiences, which are overseen by trained local people. Those who would love to be left alone can do so in the tranquil environs of Gavi or may even go canoeing in the placid waters of the lake or enjoy a breathtaking sunset. Visitors are usually provided vegetarian food and snacks, which further adds to the eco-friendly ambiance of the place.

           The place is rich in flora and fauna. There are hills and valleys, tropical forests, sprawling grasslands, sholas, cascading waterfalls and cardamom plantations. Endangered species including the Nilgiri Tahr and Lion-tailed macaque are often sighted at the outskirts of Gavi. With more than 260 species of birds including the great pied hornbill, woodpecker, and kingfishers, Gavi is a heaven for birdwatchers.

            Some of the breathtaking viewpoints at Gavi like the Valley View offer spectacular view of a deep ravine and the forest below. From Kochu Pampa, a point near Green Mansion eco-lodge one can track the grazing Nilgiri Tahrs.

           The famous pilgrim destination, Sabarimala is a short trek from Gavi. For those interested in observing the nocturnal wildlife, night safaris to Kullur, Gavi Pullumedu, Kochu Pampa, Pachakanam provide ample opportunities for wildlife viewing.

           Another unique feature of Gavi is camping in the forests. One can pitch a tent in the camping site, which is a rarity in many Indian forests. As the dusk stretches into the silence of the night, one can feel the presence of wildlife in the middle of nowhere, an experience that cannot be explained in words. There are also tree top houses where one can enjoy the avian life to the fullest.

           Active involvement of tribals in Gavi makes it a unique venture of its kind in the country. Traditional knowledge of the forest and its way of life helps Gavi to sustain its surroundings in its original state. 

          Gavi is bound to cast its magical spell on every visitor and is surely a place that should not be missed in one's lifetime. Gavi is pristine, and it belongs to the wild, which is a reminder that visitors are responsible for their intentions and actions, which will have a bearing on the upkeep of Gavi for a long time to come.

Location:

Gavi is located about 28 km from Vandiperiyar, which is 18 km from Thekkady.
Nearest railway station: Kottayam, about 114 km away.
Nearest airports: Madurai Airport (Tamil Nadu), about 140 km away; Cochin International Airport, about 190 km away.

Contact AddressPeriyar Tiger Reserve.
Eco-Tourism Project Periyar.

For more details please contact:
Tourist Information Office
Department of Tourism, Thekkady
Phone: 04869-222620

Mankayam falls

Close to the Capital City of Thiruvananthapuram is Mankayam, situated near Palode in Nedumangad Taluk. This water spectacle can be enjoyed at any time of the year. Mankayam was recently launched as a zone for ecotourism, managed by the State Forest Department.

At the Mankayam ecotourism zone, visitors can seek the assistance of guides with the entire activities coordinated by the Vanasamrakshna Samithi (Forest Protection Group), working under the forest department of the State.

Rising from the hill ranges of Chemunchi, the River Chittar, flowing down through the forests of Brymore creates a tributary in the form of Mankayam River. The Mankayam River in its course further down, produces two spectacular waterfalls. One is at Kalakayam, which is one of the biggest waterfalls in the area and the other at Kurissadi. The spectacular falls at Kalakayam and Kurisadi can be seen and enjoyed from view points provided by authorities. The Kurisadi Ghat offers an excellent spot for bathing.
With rich forest setting, the area in and around the waterfalls are overwhelmingly green. Shrubs to gigantic and lofty trees of evergreen and semi-evergreen grasslands are found here.

From Mankayam, visitors can go to nearby picturesque spots and can also go for trekking. An interior area trek here, covering Iruthala Moola - Ayampara is a half day trek, which also would enable one to witness the Ayampara waterfalls and some of the wildlife in the area. Adventure inclined visitors may opt for the one day Mankayam - Varayadin Mottai trek. This trek would take one through rolling valleys, grasslands and shola forests. You would also come across the endangered Nilgiri Tahr; a species of wild goat, at the peak of Varayadin Mottai. Camping options are available here along with trained guides.

Mankayam is situated at Idinjar Falls in Palode in Nedumangad Taluk of Thiruvananthapuram District. The Mankayam River, a tributary of Chittar, flows through this scenic tourist spot. Situated at an elevation of around 500 m above sea level, the fertile soil here has yielded lush foliage that houses interesting species of flora. The entire area from Mankayam to Kalakkayam covers a long stretch of forest vegetation on the banks of the Mankayam River. The undulating terrain with rocky patches shelters the Kalakkayam Waterfall, one of the biggest falls in this area.

Ecotourism Activities
Visits to picturesque spots and treks ranging from soft to hard adventure are possible here. The ecotourism zone extending from Mankayam to Kurisadi is about 1 km and covered with luxuriant vegetation of diverse forest types. Shrubs to gigantic and lofty trees of evergreen and semi-evergreen grasslands are found here. Just 20 m from the main road is the Kurisadi Ghat which is an excellent spot for bathing.

Kalakkayam-Kurisadi Falls
These delightful falls can be seen and enjoyed only from the view point provided with all security measures. Approach roads close to the waterfall is dangerous and visitors are not allowed to go near it.

Trekking TrailsThe following paths are excellent for soft, medium and adventure trekking.

Interior Area Treks - Iruthala Moola-Ayampara - a half day trek where visitors can see Ayampara Waterfalls and a variety of wildlife.

Adventure Trekking - Mankayam-Varayadin Mottai - one day trek taking in the panoramic view of rolling valleys, grasslands and shola forests. The Peak is famous for the Nilgiri tahr, the endangered species of wild goats. Camping facilities are provided at Varayadin Mottai in machans. Camp equipment, kits etc. will be arranged as also trained guides, to accompany the tourists during the tour

For enquiries and bookings,contact:

Divisional Forest Office, Thiruvananthapuram, Ph: 0471-2320637

District Tourism Promotion Council Office, Thiruvananthapuram Ph: 0471-2315397

Getting there
Nearest airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about 55 kms.
Nearest railway station: Thiruvanathapuram Central, about 45 kms.

Paniyeli Poru

Paniyeli Poru is in Ernakulam District of Kerala state in India. Its an amazing sight of Periyar river flowing thorugh rocks and between dense rain forests. The vast view of distant green hillocks and the tranquility around the place is really great.

The name ‘Poru’ ( means fight in Malayalam) was derived from the old custom of raftsmen fighting with the unruly waves, deep vortex, to sail out from the area. The raft forms after bamboo cut from the ‘Edamalayar’ forest, tied as logs. It was the old practice of bamboo cutters, to carry logs to destination like ‘Kalady’ & ‘Malayattoor’, through river ‘Periyar’. Only an experienced raftsman could sail the log through the unruly water here. The area, where the rafts man fights fiercely against these adversities, was later called by ‘Poru’. Now a days logs of bamboo cut from the forest are carried away through the road in Vehicles.
‘Poru’ came in to the limelight of tourist map lately. The crowds began in 2000-01. Heavy rush of tourist appear on saturdays, sundays and Public holidays.During Summer season in March -April, people in large number throng here to escape from the hot, sweat condition. A bathe in fresh, crystal clear water of ‘periyar’ makes your body and mind warm and fresh. Beware about the death trap between the strata of rocks connecting mangroves, existing in the the river belt. Do not immerse in deep and farther water. Don’t step in to water after consuming liquor. The rocks in between the mangroves is slippery due to the in flow of gushy dam water and rain. Normally, the concerned department announce in advance, the opening of shutters of ‘Edamalayar’ and ‘Idukki’ dams.

Mid November to End of May is the good time to visit as the water flow will be reduced during this time thus exposing the rocks and whirlpools. For adventurous travellers, a little known picnic spot, on the outskirts of kochi, awaits you. ‘Paniyeli Poru’, near Vengoor, Perumbavoor, has natural water falls, small rivulets, offshore surrounded by rich flora and fauna, where the visitors can rest etc. There are no restrictions, but the visitors must be cautious. The strong water currents and deep vortex formed between the strata of rocks and mangroves can be dangerous. Youths in inebriated condition had fallen here fatally. Beware about the strong under currents, before stepping into the water.The slippery rocks and pebbles may lead to danger. Nearly 150 youths have died here during the last one decade. The latest casualty being the death of a girl student on November 5,2005. It is the first, incident, in which a female tourist lost her life here. Resting, by sitting on the offshore surrounded by dense trees, is a unique experience. The sweet, melodious sound of birds, the bustling sound of water waves makes your heart, mind and body cheerful. The river ‘Periyar’ flowing in between two main lands ‘Malayattoor’ in the north and ‘Paniyeli’ in the south, provides a Panoramic view to the visitors. The hilly terrain of St: Thomas mount, western Ghats, the famous kraal at Kodanad etc. forms part of ‘Paniyeli Poru’.

Get in
Paniyeli Poru is 55 kilometres from Kochi. The nearest railway station is Aluva that is 35 km from this place. Poru is 20 km away from Perumbavoor, the nearest town. From here take a left deviation from the MGM School Junction, Kuruppumpady, on the busy Aluva-Munnar (AM Road) road. There are bus services from Perumbavoor to Paniyeli on half-hour duration. One has to walk at least a kilometre to Poru after alighting the bus at Paniyeli. Jeeps and motorcycles can take you up to Poru. The roads to Poru are not tarred and in very bad shape. It is better to leave the cars and scooters and trek all the way.

Get around
Although the dense forest on the shore of ‘Periyar’ is devoid of wild animals, deer, pig, and python can be seldom seen. Leeches are also rampant along the pathway leading to ‘Poru’. The milky waterfall at ‘poru’can be seen from the distant shore. It is risky to reach there by crossing over the strata of rocks and mangroves. Even during hot summer, when water level falls, it is dangerous to cross over the strata of rocks, unless vigilant. It is advisable to enjoy the beauty of water bursting, by sitting on the shore. Even if the water level is below buttock level, the gap between the rocks may be slippery and fathom. Even a good swimmer cannot with stand and tide out of the strong water currents here.
There is no organised rescue system in ‘poru’ now. It is the locals who come into the rescue of those who fell into trap. The visitor some times, under estimate the tranquil of water in the surface. A little distance away from the off shore is advisable for swim and bathe. Even though, the water level may be buttock bottom, the fathom can be dangerous. Many have fallen here fatally after hitting on rocks, while slipping away.
The nearest fire and rescue service is at Perumbavoor, 20km away from ‘Poru’. More over, the fire force is not equipped with the rescue operation of this type. Those who slip away in the water currents, cannot be saved by the traditional away of rescue operation carried out by the Fire force. Dwellings, a little in number are situated 1-2 km away from the water falls.

Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary

Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary



Aralam wildlife sanctuary is the northernmost protected area of Kerala state, situated in the southeast part of Kannur District. It lies between 11° 54 and 11° 59  North latitude and 75° 47  and 75° 57 East longitude.
The sanctuary area falls in Aralam, Kelakam and Kottiyoor revenue villages and is located in the Northwest slopes of Western Ghats contiguous with the forests of Coorg (Kodagu) district of Karnataka state.
The PA (Protected Area) is comprised of Aralam Range, the only Range of Aralam wildlife division, which is part of Northern Wildlife Circle (Northern Region) Palakkad. The extent of the sanctuary is 55 km² .

The sanctuary was constituted in the year 1984 as per GO (P) 300/84/AD dated 15-10-84.
It was formed by carving out areas from the Odanthode Malavaram of Thalassery special division which was an erstwhile private forest, subsequently taken over by Govt. as per the provisions of the Kerala Private Forests (Vesting and assignment) Act 1971 and from the Kottiyoor RF of Wayanad Forest Division.
The Vested Forest portion of the sanctuary is 32.64 km² and the 22.36 km² is part of Kottiyoor RF (Reserved Forest).

Till 30.6.98 this sanctuary was a Range in Wayanad Wildlife Division. It started functioning as an independent wildlife division since 1.7.98 as per GO (MS) 36/98 dated 27.5.98.
In the First Management Plan the entire area was divided in to two zones viz: the Core Zone and the Buffer Zone.
The Aralam Sanctuary is spread over 55 sq km of undulating forested highlands on the slopes of the Western Ghats. The highest peak here - Katti Betta - rises to a majestic 1145 m above sea level.
Covered with tropical and semi evergreen forests, the Aralam Sanctuary is home to a vast variety of flora and fauna endemic to the Western Ghats. Elephant, gaur, sambar, spotted deer, barking deer, Nilgiri langur, Hanuman langur, Malabar giant squirrel, etc can be seen here.
Aralam, a village in Thalasserry, is also noted for the Central State Farm, a 3060 hectare farm started in 1971 by the Government of India. This is one of the main production centres of hybrid coconut seeds in the country.

Getting there:
Nearest railway station:  Thalasserry, about 35 km.
Nearest airport:  Karipur International Airport, Kozhikode about 71 km from Thalasserry town.

Situation:Northern most protected area of Kerala and situated in South east Kannur District.

Location:
Latitude 110 541 and 110 591 North Longitude 750 471 and 750 871 East

Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary

Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary

Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the western valley of Nelliampathy in the Mukundapuram taluk, the Thrissur district of Kerala. Some part of this sanctuary is located near the Peechi – Vazhani sanctuary and the rest of the part is located near the Parambikulam sanctuary. An artificial lake has been formed here by the dam across the Chimmini River. The Chimmini Wildlife sanctuary was established in 1984 and occupies the watershed areas of the Kunumali and Mupliyam rivers and is encircled by the hills. This wildlife sanctuary covers an area of 75 square km and the lake covers an area of 10 square km. The vegetation here comprises of the evergreen forests, semi evergreen forests and the leaf shedding trees. The highest point, the Punda peak (1116 m) is located on the eastern side of the Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary. There are also various trekking trail paths up the rocks and into the forests of the sanctuary.

 

Wildlife attractions in the Chimmini Wildlife SanctuarySome of the wildlife animals found in the Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary are Leopard, elephant, bear, wild pig, wild bison, tiger etc.

Vegetation in Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary
Palai, Punna, Vediplavu, Kalpine, Anjili, White Pine, Thampakom, White Akil, Pathri, Nedunar are the evergreen forests found in the upper part and trees like Vetti, Thetti, Kara, Narakom, Marotti, Cheru, Mullilavu, etc. are found in the lower parts. Manja Kadambu, Ayani, Elavu, Pongu, White teak, Manimaruthu, Kanakkaitha, Vakkaplavu are some of the semi-evergreen forests found in the Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary.

Some interesting facts:

Latitude and Longitude: 10 degree 22' - 10 degree 26' North and 76 degree 31' - 76 degree 37' East
Area: 75 square kms.
Altitude: 40 m - 1116 m above sea level.
Rainfall: 2980 mm
Tourist season: December to April
Temperature: 24 to 36 Degree Celsius in summers and upto 15 Degree Celsius in winters

How to reach Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary
By Air:
The nearest airport is located at Kochi (Cochin) which is about 50 kms.

By Rail:
The nearest railway station is located at Thrissur, about 35 kms.

By Road:
This wildlife sanctuary can be easily reached by Amballoor (12 km), located on the Ernakulam – Thrissur road.

RHODOVALLEY

Rhodovalley, named so because of the abundance of rhododendrons found here is one of the most spectacular spots in the Munnar hills. The beautiful shola-grasslands of the 'Silent Valley' plateau in Munnar at altitudes over 2,000 metres, sheltering highly endangered species of wildlife are ideal for adventures. A great way to enjoy the landscape is to trek through the various trails that crisscross these mountain paths. The cool mountain air, lush grasslands, gushing streams and the blooming rhododendrons all add to the experience.

Ecotourism Activities
                    The Rhodovalley ecotourism packages are based on fixed tariffs. Programme is free for children below 5 years.

Trekking Camps:

                  Starting at the Silent Valley Tea Estate, the trek halts at the Rhododendron Valley Camp, the Land's End Camp and the Lake View Camp.

Back Home to Wilderness Camps (2 days) - Trek from the Silent Valley Estate to a forest hut in approximately 2 hours. Next day, through the valley of rhododendrons to Meesapulimala and then hike down to Silent Valley by evening.

Back Home to Wilderness Camps (3 days) - Trek from Silent Valley to Land's End Camp. Next day, climb to Meesapulimala and then back again to the Rhodovalley campsite. Third day, proceed back to Silent Valley.

Back Home to Wilderness Camps (Kadalar Trek) - Trek from Rajamalai, home of the endangered Nilgiri tahr through thick shola forests to the Orchidarium site at Kadalar. Overnight stay at the camp and return by jeep the next morning to Munnar.

In and Around
Orchidarium and flower garden adjacent to the KFDC Office on Mattupetty Road. For those interested in seeing the orchid farm at Kadalar, a special nature tour involving a jeep journey and trek to the forests at Kadalar, is available. Mattupetty Dam, Lockhart Gap, Kundala and Devikulam Lakes are other attractions in the vicinity.

Accommodation:
              Dormitory facility is available near the KFDC Office at Munnar. Visitors can also opt to stay at the various resorts in and around Munnar.

Location:

 Perched at 6,000 ft in the Western Ghats at the confluence of three rivers. Adjacent to it is Anamudi, which at 8,841 ft is the highest peak in South India.

Distance:
Air: Nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, 121 km away.
Rail: The nearest railhead is Aluva, but the Ernakulam Junction station is better connected to other cities.
Road: NH 49 links Kochi to Munnar. Aluva is about 120 km while Palakkad is 150 km away.

For enquiries and bookings, contact:

Kerala Forest Development Corporation, Kottayam, Ph: 0481-2581204. mail@keralafdc.org
District Tourist Promotion Council Office
Idukki, Ph: 0486-2232248
Munnar, Ph: 04865-231516