Explore Wayanad

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary presents a unique wilderness experience to anyone who would like to spend a day in nature’s lap amidst thick forests and exuberant wildlife.

Map of India: Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Wayanad wildlife park is famous for its tigers and leopards. A medley of deciduous and evergreen forests form a thick canopy through which sunlight seeps in to form amazing streaks. It makes for a beautiful sight on a bright sunny day. Several species of birds are also found in this region and it’s a real visual treat for any avid bird watcher. Established in 1973, the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is adjacent to the protected forest areas of Nagarhole and Bandipur of Karnataka on the northeast and Mudumalai of Tamil Nadu on the southeast. The sanctuary is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and houses rare species of animals and birds. It’s an undisturbed environment that is rich in bio-diversity.

History of Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary:The term Wayanad literally means 'land of swamps'. The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1973 and was brought under the Project Elephant in the year 1991-92. It is the second largest sanctuary in Kerala with a total area of 345 sq. km. The Upper Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (Tholpetty) in the north and Lower Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (Muthanga) in the south are separated by plantations. Tribals who live in harmony with the environment are still found in this region. The bio-diversity of the region is religiously conserved and the efforts have paid off…we now have a beautiful, undisturbed biosphere that is far removed from the crowded towns of South India.

Special attractions in and around Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary:

Flora: Flora in Wayanad include deciduous forests in the lower regions and evergreen forests in the higher altitudes. Teak trees are aplenty and you will also find marshes and bamboo stems all over the place.Fauna: Tigers, panthers, jungle cats, monkeys, leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, jackals, elephants, gaurs, sambar deers and wild boars can be spotted in this sanctuary.Birds: Birds spotted here include peacocks, babblers, cuckoos, owls, woodpeckers and jungle fowls.Jeep Safaris: Jeep safaris are organized in the sanctuary. It’s a great ride into the jungle and also a great way to spot wild animals and birds. It is compulsory to take a Guide from the Forest Department for the jeep ride. Permission from the Forest Department is required for this safari.

Best Time to Visit Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: June - October

Location of Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary:State: KeralaDistrict: Northern part of the sanctuary is a part of Cannanore District; Southern part is a part of Calicut district Distance from Calicut- 98 km, Kasargod- 216 Km, Trivandrum- 502 Km and Cochin- 286 Km.

How to reach Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Nearest airport: Calicut AirportNearest railway station: Kozhikode Railway StationDirections by road from nearby cities: Well-connected to Mysore, Coorg, Bandipur, Nagarhole, and Ooty by regular buses.

Contact Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala

Park View, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India - 695 033

Phone: +91-471-2321132Fax: +91-471-2322279

Tourist Information toll free No:1-800-425-4747

Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Climatic Conditions:Maximum Temperature: 35°C Minimum Temperature: 13°C Rainfall around: 4500 mm

Clothing: Cottons around the year; rainwear during monsoons

Tourist places near Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Kalpetta, Chembra Peak, Edakkal Caves, Kottamunda

Wayanad has 26% forest cover, far greater than any other district in Kerala. Wayanad is home to two major wildlife reserves: Muthanga and Tholpetty. Taken together, these two sanctuaries are home to an incredible range of flora and fauna, including several endangered species. As part of the Western Ghats, they constitute an important swathe of the last surviving tracts of a unique ecosystem. For wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers Wayanad’s wildlife sanctuaries are must visit destinations!