A Complete Guide To Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary

Tholpetty wildlife sanctuary is a wilderness haven nestled amidst Kerala natural embrace
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Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary is a grand natural haven in the heart of the lush Wayanad District of Kerala, India. The sanctuary covers 344.44 square km and is inhabited by large wild animals such as the gaur and the Indian elephant, deer, and the majestic Bengal tiger. One can take jeep safaris, which are a thrilling experience in spotting these magnificent animals in their habitat. Beautiful landscapes form a part of the sanctuary, with four hill ranges, the Sulthan Bathery, Muthanga, Kurichiat, and Tholpetty.

Quick Details

Elevation: 650 to 1,158 metres above sea level
Where To Stay: Forest rest houses, eco-lodges, nearby resorts in Wayanad
Where To Eat: Local eateries in Sultan Bathery, in-house dining at eco-lodges, restaurants in the nearby town
Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary Timings: 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary Ticket Price: ₹ 115 for Indian adults, ₹40 for Indian children, ₹ 300 for foreigners; ₹720 for jeep safari

Location

Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the best destinations for wildlife enthusiasts

Photo: Praveenp / Wikimedia Commons

Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary belongs to Wayanad District, Kerala, India. It includes the northern part of the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and borders Nagarhole National Park in Karnataka, besides Bandipur National Park. The Sanctuary is about 20 km from Sultan Bathery and 100 km from Kozhikode city.

Suggested Read: Jungle Safari Wayanad

How To Reach Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary

This wildlife sanctuary houses a diverse range of flora and fauna, as well as avifauna

Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons

By Road: One can easily reach the sanctuary by private car, taxi, or bus. It takes nearly 30 minutes from Sultan Bathery and about 3-4 hours from Kozhikode.

By Rail: Kozhikode Railway Station is the nearest railway station, about 100 km from the wildlife sanctuary. From Kozhikode, visitors can hire a taxi or bus to Sultan Bathery. This place is situated at the entrance of Wayanad district and is the gateway to Tholpetty.

By Air: The nearest airport to Tholpetty is Calicut International Airport, about 110 km away. One can easily hire a taxi from the airport or book a transfer to the sanctuary in advance. The drive takes about 3-4 hours and passes through various landscapes of Kerala.

Things To Do In Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary

1. Jeep Safari

Jeep safari is the ideal adventure activity for travellers seeking a thrilling experience

Photo: Kureng Workxx / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The Jeep Safari is one of the best Tholpetty wildlife sanctuary activities. Organised by the Forest Department, these safaris run twice daily, offering visitors an immersive experience of the sanctuary’s diverse wildlife. As you traverse through varied landscapes, you can spot various animals in their natural habitat, including elephants, tigers, panthers, and various deer species.

Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Wayanad

2. Bird Watching

Bird watching in Tholpetty wildlife sanctuary is a memorable experience due to its diverse avifauna

Photo: Ade javanese / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, boasting various avian species. The sanctuary’s diverse habitats, ranging from tropical moist to dry deciduous forests with semi-evergreen patches, provide ideal conditions for numerous bird species. Visitors can spot peacocks, babblers, cuckoos, owls, woodpeckers, and jungle fowls.

3. Trekking

This wildlife sanctuary offers daily guided trekking opportunities for tourists

Photo: Tudor Tulok / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

For adventure seekers, Tholpetty offers exciting hiking and trekking opportunities. Guided treks are organised daily from 8 AM – 1 PM, these treks challenge participants with varied terrains of hills and valleys, offering close encounters with wildlife and breathtaking views. As you navigate through the sanctuary, you’ll experience the raw beauty of nature and potentially spot animals in their natural habitat.

Suggested Read: Theme Parks In Wayanad

4. Watchtower Visits

Along with the wildlife tourists can enjoy scenic sights up from this watchtower

Photo: Aneesh Jose / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The watchtower in Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary offers a unique vantage point for wildlife observation. Visitors are escorted to this elevated structure, where they can witness animals like tigers, leopards, elephants, and bison coming to drink water. The watchtower visit is not just about animal sightings, it also offers panoramic views of the sanctuary.

Places To Visit Around Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary

1. Thirunelli Temple

This temple offers the spiritual retreat tourists wish while exploring this wildlife sanctuary

Photo: Vijayakumarblathur / Wikimedia Commons

Located 15 km from Tholpetty, Thirunelli Temple is an ancient Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Set against the backdrop of the Brahmagiri Hills, it offers a serene atmosphere and impressive architecture. The nearby stream, Papanasini, is believed to have sacred waters that cleanse sins. This temple combines spiritual significance with natural beauty, making it a popular destination for devotees and tourists seeking a peaceful retreat.

Distance From Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary: 18.8 km

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Wayanad

2. Iruppu Falls

Iruppu falls near Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary offers many picturesque sights worth capturing

Photo: Dinesh Valke / Wikimedia Commons

Situated 18 km from Tholpetty, Iruppu Falls, also known as Lakshmana Tirtha Falls, is a stunning natural attraction at the edge of the Brahmagiri Hills. The falls hold both scenic beauty and religious significance. Visitors can enjoy the impressive cascade, for the more adventurous, a trek to the upper falls offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The combination of natural splendour and cultural importance makes Iruppu Falls a must-visit destination in the region.

Distance From Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary: 12.5 km

3. Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary

This bird sanctuary serves as a haven for avifauna enthusiasts wishing to spot rare species

Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Located 25 km from Tholpetty in the Brahmagiri Hills, Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. This protected area is home to numerous bird species, including rare and endangered ones, making it an essential stop for birdwatchers. Beyond its avian inhabitants, the sanctuary also features intriguing rock formations and caves, adding geological interest to its natural appeal. The diverse ecosystem provides a unique opportunity to observe various bird species in their natural habitat.

Distance From Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary: 11.2 km

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Wayanad

4. Kuruva Island

This island offers a perfect escape for nature lovers with its lush forests and serene waters

Photo: Mrriyad / Wikimedia Commons

Kuruva Island is a protected river delta on the Kabini River, known for its lush evergreen forests and rich biodiversity. This group of islands offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers, featuring a wide variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can explore the island on bamboo rafts, immersing themselves in the serene atmosphere while observing diverse bird species. The island’s protected status ensures a pristine environment, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil nature experience.

Distance From Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary: 19.1 km

Other Factors To Consider

Trail through the serene forests of Tholpetty wildlife sanctuary to have your ideal getaway

Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons

Tips for Travellers:

    Book in advance: Your accommodation and safari should be booked, especially if you travel during peak season, October to May.

    Dress appropriately: For wildlife safaris and treks, dress in light, comfortable clothing of a neutral colour. Carry along a light jacket, as early mornings are pretty cool.

    Respect wildlife and nature: Observe the animals from a fair distance, avoid littering, and follow all the rules and instructions of the guide when visiting national parks.

    Essentials: Take sunscreen, insect repellents, a hat/cap, and a refillable water bottle. Of course, a good walking pair of shoes is very essential for treks.

    Be a local community supporter: Buy handicrafts or local products from villages surrounding the sanctuary. This will help boost the local economy.

    Keep yourself well-hydrated: The climate is humid and dehydrating. You should drink plenty of water, especially outdoors and on a safari.

Suggested Read: Hill Stations In Wayanad

Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary, nestled in Kerala’s Western Ghats, offers a pristine wilderness experience. This natural haven blends adventure, tranquillity, and rich biodiversity, showcasing breathtaking landscapes and nearby cultural attractions. Visitors can enjoy wildlife safaris and forest treks or simply relax in serene surroundings. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or wildlife lover, Tholpetty promises an enriching and unforgettable experience. Let TripXL assist you in planning your tour to this captivating destination!

Cover Photo: Parmanu Sarkar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

The ideal time to visit Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary would be the dry months from November to May when animals are most visible, and the weather is excellent for outdoor activities.
Tholpetty has a good population of Bengal tigers. Though spotting tigers cannot be guaranteed, the chances of success in spotting these majestic predators through jeep safaris are most likely during the early morning or late afternoon hours.
Yes, you may bring your food and soft drinks to the sanctuary. However, ensure that all refuse/wastes are correctly disposed of and do not litter.
Generally,one can take Tholpetty wildlife sanctuary’s photos, if flash use is avoided, as that is likely to disturb the wildlife. The visitors are also advised to avoid going near the animals and even making loud noises.
Basic accommodation arrangements, like a forest rest house and a tented camp, exist in the Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary for visitors who spend at least an overnight in the sanctuary.

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