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The Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary is a beautiful, little-known place where nature and animal fans can relax. This is a safe place for the rare Grizzled Giant Squirrel, a threatened species, to live in Tamil Nadu. The refuge is home to many other plants and animals besides these rare ones, such as lions, wild boars, spotted deer, and many types of birds. It is a place that everyone who wants to see nature in its pristine form should go. The refuge is a great place to visit if you like taking pictures, watching birds, or being close to animals.
Location
Photo: Firos AK / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary is nestled in the Western Ghats, bordering the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. It is located in the Virudhunagar district of Tamil Nadu and covers an area of around 485 square km.
How To Reach Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Chinmayisk / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The closest airport to the Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary is 80 kilometres away at Madurai Airport. One can hire taxis or board buses from here to reach the sanctuary.
By Train: To reach there, it is to be noted that the nearest railway station is Srivilliputhur Railway Station, which is only 10 km from the sanctuary. Many trains connect Srivilliputhur daily to Madurai, Chennai, and Coimbatore, and travellers can easily reach them.
By road: The sanctuary is accessible by road. The location of the Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary is reachable by bus from Srivilliputhur. Driving or hiring cabs from nearby towns such as Madurai and Coimbatore is easy.
Places To Visit In And Around Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary
You can visit some fantastic places nearby while exploring the Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary. Here are five must-visit destinations:
1. Srivilliputhur Andal Temple
Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Srivilliputhur Andal Temple is an excellent example of a Dravidian architectural marvel. It was erected in the name of Goddess Andal. It is one of the 108 Divya Desams and places of religious importance for Vaishnavite followers. The towering 192-foot gopuram or temple tower of the temple is an attractive feature. Inside the temple are some extraordinary intricate sculptures and carvings that tell various stories about Hindu mythology. The temple hosts its share of festivals, mainly the Aadi Pooram festival, which draws thousands of devotees nationwide.
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
2. Meghamalai Hills
Photo: A. J. T. Johnsingh / Wikimedia Commons
Meghamalai Hills often called the High Wavy Mountains, is a popular destination adjacent to the Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary. This hill station is situated at 1,500 metres and is celebrated for its verdant tea gardens, aromatic cardamom fields, and misty mountains. The journey to Meghamalai is thrilling, featuring winding roads that offer breathtaking views of the Western Ghats. It serves as a haven for nature enthusiasts, trekkers, and photographers, with plenty of trekking trails and vantage points to explore and capture the stunning view.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
3. Ayyanar Falls
Photo: Timrael / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Ayyanar Falls is a captivating tourist attraction near the Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary. Nestled within the sanctuary, it is far removed from city life, surrounded by dense forests that create a peaceful and serene atmosphere. The clear, calm waters of the Ayyanar River cascade down rocky cliffs, making it an ideal spot for picnics, relaxation, and nature walks. The falls are also considered sacred, featuring a small temple dedicated to Ayyanar, the local village deity. Visitors can enjoy refreshing dips in the natural pool at the base of the falls, which is especially popular in summer.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
4. Kollan Kondan Hills
Photo: yoshitaka2 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Kollan Kondan Hills, which is close to Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary, is ideal for those who like hiking and adventure. Trekkers find the hills covered in deep woods challenging and rewarding, which provide breathtaking panoramic views of the Western Ghats. There are many chances to see animals and unusual birds along the strenuous walk to the summit. Once you reach the peak, you’ll be greeted by awe-inspiring vistas of the surrounding landscape, featuring the sanctuary’s vast woodlands and nearby tea plantations.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
5. Periyar National Park
Photo: Anand2202 / Wikimedia Commons
One of India’s most well-known wildlife reserves is Periyar National Park, near the Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary. The park is famous for its abundance of tigers and elephants and is close to the Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary. A range of safaris are available to visitors, including boat safaris on Periyar Lake, which provide a distinctive viewpoint of the park’s fauna. In addition to tigers and elephants, the park is home to more than 265 species of birds, deer, and monkeys.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹25 per person
Where To Stay
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Several accommodation options near Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary cater to different budgets. There’s something for everyone, from affordable guest houses to comfortable hotels in Srivilliputhur. Many hotels offer scenic views of the nearby hills and forests, providing a perfect place to relax after a day of exploration. If you prefer something more luxurious, you can opt for resorts near Meghamalai Hills, known for their tranquil atmosphere and excellent services. Book your stay in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.
Where To Eat
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Finding food around the Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary location is relatively easy. Several restaurants and eateries in Srivilliputhur offer a variety of local and South Indian cuisine. Many eateries serve fresh, home-cooked meals, making it a delightful culinary experience. If you visit Meghamalai Hills or nearby tourist spots, you will find roadside food stalls offering snacks and beverages.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Suhayl091 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The best time to visit Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary is from October to March when the weather is more relaxed and wildlife sightings are more frequent. The sanctuary is lush and green during these months, making it ideal for trekking and wildlife photography. The winter season offers pleasant daytime temperatures, perfect for exploring the refuge without the heat and humidity of the summer months. However, if you’re interested in bird watching, the sanctuary sees an influx of migratory birds during the monsoon season, which lasts from June to September. Make sure to check the Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary timings before your visit.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Subramanya C K / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of The Trip:
The average cost for a trip to Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary can vary depending on your preferences. For a day trip, including transportation and meals, expect to spend around ₹2,000 to ₹3,000 per person. The cost will increase if you plan to stay overnight, especially if you opt for accommodations in nearby resorts. For a two-day trip, including hotel stays, food, and transportation, you can expect to budget between ₹5,000 and ₹7,000 per person.
Tips For Travellers:
- Ensure to check the Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary timings in advance.
- Wear comfortable clothes and carry only essentials.
- Always carry water with you during your visit.
- Book accommodation and travel arrangements early, especially during peak season.
- Follow the sanctuary’s rules and respect wildlife habitats.
The Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary is a hidden gem in Tamil Nadu, offering visitors a chance to connect with nature and witness rare wildlife up close. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a first-time visitor, this sanctuary has something for everyone. For a seamless travel experience, consider booking your trip with TripXL, where you can find curated packages to suit your needs.
Cover Photo: Cyrillic / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
