Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Wayanad wildlife sanctuary is the famous animal sanctuary in Kerala. It has an extent of 344.44 km2 with four ranges namely Sulthan Bathery, Muthanga, Kurichiat and Tholpetty. Wayanad has an excellent salubrious climate that allows flora and fauna to grow excessively. Lakkidi, Vythiri and Meppadi are the high rainfall areas in Wayanad range from 3000 to 4000 m.m.  High-velocity winds are common during the south-west monsoon and dry winds blow in March-April. High altitude regions experience severe cold. Wayanad wildlife sanctuary is the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala.  It is bestowed with lush green forests and rich wildlife. This wildlife area houses some of the rare and endangered species of both flora and fauna.

Wayanad wildlife sanctuary was established in 1973 and it is now an integral part of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.  It is bounded by protected area network of Nagarhole and Bandipur of Karnataka in the northeast, and on the southeast by Mudumalai of Tamil Nadu. A variety of large wild animals such as Indian bison, elephant, deer and tiger are found there. There are also quite a few unusual birds in the sanctuary. In particular, peafowl tends to be very common in the area.

The flora and fauna of Wayanad wildlife sanctuaries are really an exciting sight for the visitors in Wayanad. Trekking through Muthanga and Tholpetty Wildlife sanctuaries realize the wonders of Wayanad are more than words to explain.  Thick and green bushes engrave your path, with interspersed bamboo trees spread out along the way. Usually, moist and dry deciduous forest types cover most of the area, along with patches of semi-evergreen forests. Along 33% of the total area is covered by plantations of teak, rosewood, eucalyptus and silver oak. Some of the finest trails in the state lie here, famous for the untouched and ancient vibe that is a must for any truly invigorating trek.

Observers have noted the presence of the big cats, specifically tigers and panthers, in these parts. One is also regularly able to view Langurs, Bonnet Macaques, Bison, Monkeys, Sambar, Malabar Squirrel and Forest Bears here. The reptilian life here is also diverse with some of the most common species being the Golden Tree Snake, Coral Snake, Green Whip Snake and Pit Vipers. This is also home to the most diverse avian life in the world, including 216 species of birds like Peacock, Owl, Babbler, Black Woodpecker, Golden Backed Three-Toed Wood Pecker, Cuckoo and Jungle Fowl. Malabar Whistling Thrush, Malabar Trogon Shama, Painted Bush Quail, Golden Oriole, Peacock, Paradise Flycatcher, Malabar Grey Hornbill, Pariah Kite, Crested Honey Buzzard and Crested Serpent Eagle are also found here. The largest bee-eater in the world, the rare Blue Bearded Bee-Eater has also been spotted here.  

Wayanad district has the largest population of Adivasi in Kerala. Scheduled tribes here include Paniyas, Kurumas, Adiyars, Kurichyas, Ooralis and Kattunaikkans. Comprising an area of 2126 km2, Wayanad has a powerful history. Relicts and edicts found in various parts of Wayanad speak of an important prehistoric era.

Wayanad is known as one of the most beautiful retreats of Kerala. It always had a great share of the visitors arriving South India. Wayanad with its natural scenic beauty, rich natural resources, the hills, rocks and valley, unique terrain, climate etc provide a lot for catering to the demands of increasing tourists. If you are nature lover then pack your bags and get ready for mind-blowing refreshment at Wayanad.  Don’t get worried about your stay in Wayanad because it has a number of hotels and wildlife resorts which provides you with the best services forever. Welcome to Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.

For more details visit After the Rains Resort and go through our E-Brochure.