Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kerala, India. The sanctuary is located in the Wayanad district of Kerala and is spread over an area of 344.44 sq. km. It is surrounded by beautiful mountains, dense forests, and rolling hills, making it a nature lover’s paradise. Established in 1973, the sanctuary is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna.
Flora:
The sanctuary is rich in biodiversity and is home to more than 1,800 species of plants. The vegetation of the sanctuary ranges from moist deciduous forests to dry deciduous forests, and from sholas to grasslands. The forest is dominated by teak, rosewood, sandalwood, and bamboo. The sanctuary is also home to several rare and endangered species of plants like the Wayanad Robusta, Cullenia exarillata, and Vateria indica.
Fauna:
The sanctuary is home to a diverse range of animals and birds. Some of the commonly found animals in the sanctuary include elephants, tigers, leopards, Indian bison, sambar deer, spotted deer, and wild boars. The sanctuary is also home to several species of primates like the bonnet macaque and the lion-tailed macaque. The sanctuary is also home to more than 250 species of birds like the crested serpent eagle, Malabar grey hornbill, and the white-bellied treepie.
Tourist Activities:
The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers. The sanctuary offers a wide range of activities for tourists, some of which are:
- Jungle Safari – Visitors can take a jungle safari in a jeep or on an elephant to explore the sanctuary and its wildlife.
- Trekking – The sanctuary has several trekking trails that take visitors through dense forests, waterfalls, and rolling hills.
- Birdwatching – The sanctuary is a paradise for birdwatchers as it is home to more than 250 species of birds.
- Boating – Visitors can take a boat ride on the Papanasini River and enjoy the serene surroundings.
- Nature Walks – Visitors can take a nature walk and explore the sanctuary at their own pace.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is from November to May when the weather is pleasant and the sanctuary is open to visitors. The sanctuary remains closed during the monsoon season from June to October.
How to Reach:
The nearest airport to the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is the Calicut International Airport, which is located about 100 km away. The nearest railway station is the Kozhikode Railway Station, which is about 110 km away. The sanctuary is well connected by road, and visitors can take a bus or hire a taxi from nearby cities like Bangalore and Kozhikode.
Entry Fees:
The entry fee for Indian citizens is Rs. 10, and for foreign nationals, it is Rs. 100. The fee for a jeep safari is Rs. 600, and for an elephant safari, it is Rs. 1200. The fee for trekking varies depending on the duration of the trek.
Accommodation:
The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary has several forest rest houses and cottages that can be rented by visitors. Visitors can also stay in nearby towns like Kalpetta and Sultan Bathery, which have a range of hotels and resorts.
Conclusion || Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
In conclusion, the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Kerala. The sanctuary offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty and diversity of Kerala’s flora and fauna and is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits it.
Book Your Flights : Here 30% OFF on Booking
Book Your Hotels : Here 20% OFF on Booking
0 Comment