While Kerala is quite popular for its backwater, beaches and lush greenery, it’s a great place to explore for all wildlife lovers, too. Kerala has an abundance of wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. It’s like paradise for all animal and nature lovers. The national parks in Kerala are also very well-maintained and make sure that tourism doesn’t affect animals and their natural habitat. You will find some of the largest tiger reserves in Kerala. No matter which part of Kerala you are visiting, you will find a wildlife sanctuary or a national park within close distance. The wildlife sanctuaries here are totally instagrammable and if you’re lucky you might even get to spot some of the rare species of animals and birds here.
Check out some of the best national parks in Kerala that you must visit.
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Kumarakom is one of the most enchanting national parks in Kerala, situated on the banks of the Vembanad lake. It is home to a lot of migratory birds like herons, siberian cranes and so on. If you have a keen interest in ornithology, this national park in Kerala will be like paradise to you. September to March is the ideal time to visit this beautiful place in Kochi. You will also get to enjoy the Kumarakom backwaters while you're at it.
Periyar National Park is known for its tiger reserve. Not just tigers, the national park is also home to elephants. One of the best things about the Periyar National Park is that you can visit any time of the year. Apart from tigers and elephants, you will also come across different species of birds, reptiles and so on. You will be in awe of the natural beauty of this place and will certainly not resist posting photos or videos on social media.
About 200 km from the Idukki district, the Silent Valley National Park is also known for its tiger reserve. It also houses the largest number of the endangered lion tailed macaque. In addition to the rainforest area and wildlife, the natural beauty of the park will leave you mesmerised. It's a great place for all you wildlife and nature photographers to head to. Even if it’s not the biggest national park in Kerala, it ensures that you have a wonderful and memorable time.
The Eravikulam National Park is about 15 km away from Munnar and is among the most beautiful national parks in Kerala. It houses close to 26 species of mammals including White Bellied Shortwing, Flycatcher, Nilgiri Pipit and so on. What's special about this place is the Neelakurinji Flowers that bloom every twelve years. You cannot miss the sight and you must ensure that you plan your trip accordingly. The park usually remains closed from January to April since it is the calving period for the Nilgiri Tahr.
The Pampadum Shola National Park is one of the smallest national parks in Kerala. Apart from the flora and fauna, this is an ideal place for trekking and picnics. You can head over to the park with your group of friends for a fun trek or even plan a picnic with your family. Either way, it's the best spot to take loads of pictures and create new memories with your favourite set of people.
The Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, also called the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary) houses a lot of wild animals namely tigers, panthers, jungle cats, Indian Bison, wild dogs, bears and so on. Sign up for a guided tour of the sanctuary for the best experience. The ideal time to visit the sanctuary is from October to May.
The Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most famous national parks in Kerala, which is quite close to Munnar. Not only will you be treated to the magnificent view of the Western Ghats but you will also come across a few endangered species of squirrel called the Giant Grizzled Squirrel. Monsoon lasts longer here than most of the other parts of Kerala but it only makes the park look more beautiful.
Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary is open throughout the year and is close to the Peppara Dam on Karamana River. It houses close to 233 species of birds, 43 species of mammals, 13 different species of amphibians, 46 species of reptiles and 27 species of fish. You cannot miss visiting this place for the world.
The only wildlife sanctuary you'll find in Kannur is the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary. The tall trees, lush greener and the exotic wildlife here make it a must-visit in Kerala. You can sign up for a safari through the forests to witness animals in their natural habitat and take loads of pictures. It is certainly something worth boasting about.
You will leave Kerala feeling impressed and in awe of all the sanctuaries and national parks in the state. The government also makes it a point to preserve wildlife and ensure that tourism does not come in the way of animals and birds leading their normal lives.
