Located in the heart of the verdant expanse in Kerala, the Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary is a call for most nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The sprawling, massive area of this sanctuary is known for conservation and provides a soothing retreat to the core of nature. The landscapes here are unspoiled, and the flora and fauna differ. Visitors can immerse themselves in the serene ambience, enjoying the sights and sounds of nature in this pristine sanctuary nestled in the heart of lush greenery.
Quick Details About Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary
Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary Timings: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary Ticket Price: ₹50 for Indian citizens; ₹300 for foreign nationals
Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary Location
Photo credit: PP Yoonus / Wikimedia Commons
The Parambikulam Sanctuary lies in the district of Palakkad, bordering the state of Tamil Nadu. It extends over a vast expanse deep inside the Anamalai Tiger Reserve, part of a significant biodiversity hotspot known as the Western Ghats.
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Kerala
How To Reach
Photo: Mads Thomsen / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
To reach Parambikulam Sanctuary, you can travel via road by opting for a bus or a train:
By Bus: Bus services are operated at frequent intervals from Palakkad and Pollachi to Anaimalai. Local transportation is available for the sanctuary from Anaimalai, which is at a distance of 38 km.
By Train: The nearest railhead is Pollachi Junction, around 55 kilometres away. Taxis or buses can be hired from here to reach Anaimalai and the Sanctuary.
Things To Do
Here are a few exciting things to do in Parambikulam Sanctuary for an unforgettable experience:
1. Wildlife Safari
Photo: Manukrishna CK, Praveen R / Wikimedia Commons
Experience the thrill of a wildlife experience across varied habitats, from heavy forests to open grasslands, at Parambikulam. Safaris, provided with expert guides, present excellent views of elephants, Indian gaurs, sambar deer, and, if luck permits, even the tiger. Activities that disturb the wildlife are not allowed at the Sanctuary to minimise disruption. This ensures a responsible and enjoyable tourist experience, focusing on preserving the natural environment.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In South Kerala
2. Trekking
Photo: Achim Bongard / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Trek through the Sanctuary’s trekking trails across beautiful landscapes with panoramic views of the surrounding hills and forests. Trails like the Cochin Forest Trail and the Karimala Hike offer different levels of treks. Hence, visitors stroll around to see the endemic flora and bird calls by exotic birds and come close to the natural beauty of the Sanctuary.
3. Boating In The Parambikulam Reservoir
Photo: photoklickr / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Take a relaxed boat ride on the Parambikulam Reservoir. The forested area and calm waters will create a perfect atmosphere. This place offers a peaceful retreat steered through the tranquillity of nature. One can even observe the wildlife on the shores of the reservoir, and with sunset boat rides, some of the mesmerising views of the serene landscapes of the Sanctuary are opened for view.
Suggested Read: Hill Stations In Kerala
4. Bird Watching
Photo: Tina Nord / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
More than 250 species of birds have been recorded within the Parambikulam Sanctuary. Inside the Sanctuary, the exclusive birding trails and viewpoints allow one to capture glimpses of colourful avian-like the Malabar pied hornbill, great Indian hornbill, and the various migratory birds that come over here during the winter season. This bird-watching activity is immensely informative and rewarding.
Places To Visit Around Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary
Several places around the famous Parambikulam Sanctuary complement a visit, providing ample opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Some of them include:
1. Topslip
Photo: Sreers04 / Wikimedia Commons
Located adjacent to the Anaimalai Hills, Topslip provides wildlife jeep safaris, elephant rides, and nature walks in the backdrop of the Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary. It is a great place to learn about different plants and animals while enjoying beautiful nature.
Things To Do: Wildlife safaris, tribal interactions, educational walks
Suggested Read: Theme Parks In Kerala
2. Athirappilly Waterfalls
Photo: Pranchiyettan / Wikimedia Commons
This ‘Niagara of India,’ located near Thrissur, is currently one of the largest falls in Kerala. The waterfalls cascade amidst thick green forests, enabling a spectacular sight. It has several other spots offering amazing views for photography and relaxing purposes.
Things To Do: Trekking, photography, nature walks
3. Valparai
Photo: UtharaMalabar (talk) / Wikimedia Commons
A lovely hill station in the Anaimalai Hills is known for tea plantations, varied wildlife, and scenic beauty. One can enjoy the day at tea estates and indulge in sightseeing, and there are misty hill walks.
Things To Do: Tea Estate Tours, Lion-tailed Macaques Spotting
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Summer In Kerala
Where To Stay
Photo: Sasha Kaunas / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Parambikulam Sanctuary offers a lot of accommodation options nearby including Misty Valley Hill Resort, Casa Rio Resort, Cotsvilla Resort and many more. You can always make your bookings in advance before planning a trip.
Where To Eat
Photo: Davide Cantelli / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
If you want to enjoy some delectable Kerala delicacies, then places such as Meen Chatti, Dhaba Cafe, and Tented Niche are among the top. You can savour some amazing meals at the sanctuary’s canteen as well.
Suggested Read: Jungle Safari In Kerala
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Towfiqu Barbhuiya / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of Trip
A typical visit to the Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuaries costs between ₹5,000 and ₹10,000 per person for each trip. It includes transportation, accommodation, meals, and activities prescribed.
Tips For Travellers
- Clothing should be light, comfortable, and made of some material that allows the maximum breathability of the skin because one will be in the wild, walking.
- Sunscreens and mosquito repellents could be a handy addition to your bag, apart from good cameras for capturing brilliantly during wildlife safaris.
- Respect the wildlife and follow the rules and regulations.
- You can support the local community by purchasing locally-made products.
Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary is a natural area where you can connect with Kerala’s untouched beauty. From riding through diverse ecosystems on a wildlife safari to climbing scenic trails and relaxing in the tranquillity of a boat ride, each moment within these precincts reverberates with what is beautiful and necessary about conservation. Why not book your trip to Parambikulam Sanctuary through TripXL today?
Cover Photo: Yaatrik / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only