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Tamil Nadu is home to a diverse array of wildlife sanctuaries, showcasing the region’s rich biodiversity and commitment to conservation. The wildlife sanctuaries in Tamil Nadu sanctuaries, set against stunning landscapes, provide a sanctuary for various flora and fauna, including endangered species. Visitors can explore these protected areas through guided safaris and nature trails, promoting eco-tourism while fostering awareness about the importance of preserving these natural habitats.
10 Best Wildlife Sanctuaries In Tamil Nadu
Here is a list of the top 10 best wildlife sanctuaries to visit in TamilNadu:
1. Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Rajeshrjo / Wikimedia Commons
Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, nestled in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, is a biodiverse haven known for its rich flora and fauna. Established in 1940, this sanctuary spans approximately 321 square kilometres and is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Visitors can spot elephants, tigers, leopards, and various deer species. The sanctuary offers jeep safaris and guided treks for wildlife enthusiasts. Its lush landscapes, including dense forests and grasslands, create a picturesque backdrop for birdwatching, with over 200 avian species recorded.
Distance: Approximately 150 km from Coimbatore
How To Reach: Accessible by road from Ooty, Coimbatore, and Mysore. The nearest railway station is in Coimbatore.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹50 for adults, ₹25 for children
2. Anamalai Tiger Reserve
Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons
Anamalai Tiger Reserve, located in the Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu, covers an area of approximately 958 sq km of verdant forests and rolling hills. Established in 1976, it aims to conserve the Bengal tiger and its habitat. It has a wide range of wildlife that includes elephants, leopards, and an endemic bird species like the Malabar grey hornbill. The stunning vistas open up to the visitors through jeep safaris, trekking, and eco-tourism initiatives. The Aliyar Dam nearby as well as the scenic viewpoints like the Top Slip offer panoramic views.
Distance: Approximately 90 km from Coimbatore
How To Reach: Accessible via Pollachi by road; nearest railway station is in Pollachi.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹50 for adults, ₹25 for children
3. Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve
Photo: Yercaud-elango / Wikimedia Commons
Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve, situated in the Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu, covers an area of approximately 895 square kilometres. It is considered a significant site for tiger conservation. The reserve was established in 1988. Rugged topography, dense forests, and diversified ecosystems characterise this reserve. Wildlife ranges from tigers and leopards to Indian elephants, with several species of deer roaming along these forests.
Distance: Approximately 120 km from Tirunelveli
How To Reach: Accessible by road from Tirunelveli and Kanyakumari; nearest railway station is in Tirunelveli.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹100 for adults, ₹50 for children
4. Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary
Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons
The Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary situated about 75 km from Kancheepuram in Tamil Nadu, is one of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries in Tamil Nadu. During the course of the migratory season extending between November and March thousands of waterbirds including painted storks, ibis and spoonbills fly into these wetlands, where luxuriant wetlands serve as an excellent nesting ground. Visitors can sit in the designated viewpoints and enjoy bird watching amidst a peaceful environment.
Distance: Approximately 85 km from Chennai
How To Reach: Accessible by road from Chennai and Kanchipuram; nearest railway station is in Chengalpattu.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹10 for adults, ₹5 for children
5. Vallanadu Black Buck Sanctuary
Photo: Magda Ehlers / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Vallanadu Blackbuck Sanctuary, close to the Tuticorin district, is a wildlife sanctuary in Tamil Nadu. It is known for conserving the graceful antelope species known as the blackbuck. The sanctuary was opened in 1976 to conserve a revived population of blackbucks, which otherwise had faced massive declines due to loss of habitat. This scintillating species can be seen in the wild by the visitors along with other wildlife such as spotted deer and different species of birds. T
Distance: Approximately 35 km from Thoothukudi
How To Reach: Accessible by road from Thoothukudi; nearest railway station is in Thoothukudi
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹10 for adults, ₹5 for children
6. Sathyamangalam Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Sathya K Selvam / Wikimedia Commons
Sathyamangalam Wildlife Sanctuary, covering about 1,400 square kilometres in Tamil Nadu, is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is known for its rich biodiversity. It is home to several endangered species, including tigers, elephants, and leopards, making it a crucial conservation area. The sanctuary offers opportunities for trekking and wildlife safaris, allowing visitors to explore its stunning landscapes and observe its diverse fauna. Sathyamangalam is also significant for its efforts in preserving the traditional lifestyles of local communities.
Distance: Approximately 70 km from Erode
How To Reach: Accessible by road from Erode and Coimbatore; nearest railway station is in Erode
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹50 for adults, ₹25 for children
7. Guindy National Park
Photo: Sivahari / Wikimedia Commons
Guindy National Park, situated in the heart of Chennai, is one of the smallest national parks in India, covering about 2.70 square kilometres. Established in 1976, it serves as a green oasis amidst the urban landscape. The park features a mix of dry evergreen forests, scrublands, and wetlands, providing habitat for diverse wildlife. Visitors can spot species like blackbucks, spotted deer, and over 130 bird species. The park also has a children’s park and a snake park, making it family-friendly. Guindy National Park is essential for urban wildlife conservation and offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.t
Distance: Located in Chennai
How To Reach: Accessible by public transport; nearest railway station is Chennai Egmore.
Timings: 5 AM – 6:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹20 for adults, ₹10 for children
8. Srivilliputhur Grizzled Squirrel Sanctuary
Photo: Maddie Franz / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Sriviliputhur grizzled squirrel sanctuary stretches to the area of about 480 square kilometres in the Western Ghats region of Tamil Nadu. It is dedicated to the preservation of the endangered grizzled giant squirrel. The sanctuary, which was set up in 1980, has a hilly back-drop, dense ever-green forests, and is rich in biodiversity with many species of flora and fauna in their respective habitats such as Nilgiri langurs and many endemic birds.
Distance: Approximately 60 km from Virudhunagar
How To Reach: Accessible by road from Virudhunagar; nearest railway station is in Virudhunagar
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹50 for adults, ₹25 for children
9. Point Calimere Wildlife And Bird Sanctuary
Photo: PJeganathan / Wikimedia Commons
Point Calimere Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary, located at the southern tip of Tamil Nadu, is a coastal sanctuary renowned for its diverse wildlife and avian population. Covering about 21 square kilometres, it features a mix of mangroves, salt marshes, and coastal habitats. The sanctuary is a vital stopover for migratory birds, including flamingos, pelicans, and numerous shorebirds during the winter months. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, photography, and exploring the beautiful coastline.
Distance: Approximately 60 km from Nagapattinam
How To Reach: Accessible by road from Nagapattinam and Thanjavur; nearest railway station is in Nagapattinam
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹50 for adults, ₹25 for children
10. Meghamalai Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Gnanavelss / Wikimedia Commons
Meghamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu, is a lush, biodiverse haven renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich wildlife. Spanning over 600 square kilometres, it is home to various species, including elephants, tigers, and a wide array of birds, making it a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The sanctuary features captivating hill stations, tea plantations, and cascading waterfalls, providing visitors with breathtaking views and serene trekking trails.
Distance: Approximately 140 km from Theni
How To Reach: Accessible by road from Theni and Bodinayakanur; nearest railway station is in Madurai.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹50 for adults, ₹25 for children
Wildlife sanctuaries in Tamil Nadu offer diverse ecosystems, from tiger-rich reserves to serene bird sanctuaries, perfect for nature lovers. Explore these incredible locations and witness wildlife up close, whether it’s spotting tigers, elephants, or migratory birds. Plan your visit with TripXL for a hassle-free experience, securing the best deals on accommodations and activities. Enjoy an unforgettable journey through Tamil Nadu’s natural beauty with personalised itineraries tailored to your interests.
Cover Photo: Manoj K / Wikimedia Commons
