Wayand wildlife sanctuary - Second largest wildlife reserve in Kerala

Eco-tourism in these areas helps to promote awareness of wildlife conservation in the minds of tourists and to preserve the sanctuary and its property. Eco-tourism programs include visits to elephant camps, off-road jeep safari, trekking, bird watching, tribal folktales, etc.

Formed in 1973, it is the second-largest wildlife reserve in Kerala. It comes underneath the Project Elephant jurisdiction in 1992 to preserve wild elephant populations. Wayanad sanctuary is rich in biodiversity and the accessibility of getting water and food throughout the whole year is the biggest attraction of the sanctuary.

Management focuses on scientific preservation with proper consideration for the general lifestyle of tribal people and others residing in and around the forest. The wet evergreen forest of Muthanga is gifted with a multitude of trees and other plants. You can see Maruthi, Karimaruthi, rosewood, Vendak, Vengeal, etc. Go and get thrilled about the sight of the wild animal wandering around the sanctuary. The sanctuary is also endowed with its incessant inhabitants of large birds such as peacocks, cuckoos, owls, woodpeckers, babblers, jungle birds, etc.

These forests once sheltered the iconic Pazhassi Raja, renowned for being one of the first to strongly oppose and win significant triumphs over the British. Inside, the main pockets of the sanctuary witness one of the herds of elephants walking around calmly, as Langurs and Malabar Squirrels watch out for all the new guests.

The entire region is under an exquisite emerald carpet, with rows of highlands scattered with landscapes. Karottimala is the tallest peak, flanked by other astonishing mountain peaks. A tranquil pleasant ambiance is a regular feature here, with an average of 2200 millimeters of precipitation and heavy rainfall during the monsoon season between June and September.

Trek through either Muthanga or Tholpetty to discover a captivating and bewitching floral display. Dense and green bushes etch your path, with bamboo trees scattered throughout the way. Typically wet and dry evergreen forest covers most of the region, together with patches of semi-deciduous forests. More than a quarter of the total area is covered by eucalyptus, teak, rosewood, and silver oak plantations. Many of the greatest nature trails in the state lie here, popular for the unspoiled and historic vibe that is a must for any genuinely energizing trek.

You can explore this wildlife reserve from June to October. Regular bus services are available to reach this destination. Wayanad wildlife sanctuary is located 7 km from Bandipur National Park, 47 km from Mudumalai Elephant Park, and 85 km from Nagarhole Wildlife Sanctuary. Sultan Bathery, 14 km away, is the nearest town to the sanctuary.

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit place in your Wayanad tour packages.