Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary – Kerala’s Wild Frontier of Diversity and Adventure
Tucked along the Kerala–Tamil Nadu border, the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most unique and bio-rich protected areas in Idukki district, Kerala. Known for its dry deciduous forests, rare wildlife, and rugged hills, Chinnar offers a stark yet stunning contrast to the lush rainforests Kerala is famous for.
Spread across 90 square kilometers of pristine wilderness in the Western Ghats, Chinnar is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, trekkers, and eco-travelers, and home to some of India’s rarest species, including the endangered Grizzled Giant Squirrel.
A Landscape Like No Other
Unlike most of Kerala’s evergreen reserves, Chinnar experiences less rainfall, giving it a distinctive dry thorn forest and grassland ecosystem. Crisscrossed by rivers and dotted with rocky hills, this sanctuary shares its boundary with the Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu, forming an integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
The region ’s diverse topography supports more than 200 species of birds, 30 species of mammals, and over 100 species of butterflies and reptiles — making it one of the most fascinating wildlife destinations in South India.
Top Things to Do at Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
Wildlife Safari & Trekking: Embark on thrilling guided treks or jeep safaris through the sanctuary’s dry forests to spot elephants, gaurs, spotted deer, and if you’re lucky, leopards or even tigers.
Spot the Grizzled Giant Squirrel: The highlight of Chinnar — this rare, endangered species can be seen leaping across tall trees in the sanctuary.
Bird Watching: Discover colorful birds like the Malabar Whistling Thrush, Grey Junglefowl, and Yellow-throated Bulbul.
Trek to Thoovanam Waterfalls: A scenic 4 km trek from the Alampetty checkpost leads to the majestic Thoovanam Falls, cascading deep inside the sanctuary.
Eco-Stay in Tree Huts: Spend the night at eco-friendly tree houses or forest huts for an unforgettable jungle experience under a starry sky.
Photography & Nature Trails: Capture breathtaking shots of rugged landscapes, unique flora, and elusive wildlife — perfect for adventure photographers.
A Sanctuary of Heritage and Harmony
Chinnar is not just about wildlife — it’s also home to indigenous tribal communities such as the Muthuvas and Hill Pulayas, who live in harmony with the forest. Visitors can take guided tours to their settlements to learn about traditional lifestyles, crafts, and forest wisdom.
The Thuvanam Waterfall and the Marayoor sandalwood forests nearby add to the sanctuary’s natural charm, making it one of the most diverse eco-tourism zones in Kerala.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is from December to April, when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are more frequent. During the monsoon (June–September), access may be restricted due to heavy rain, but the sanctuary turns lush and green.
Visiting Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PMEntry Fee: ₹50 (Indians), ₹150 (Foreigners); additional fees for camera and guided treks.
How to Reach
Location: Marayoor, Idukki District, Kerala
Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport (115 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Pollachi (60 km) or Aluva (200 km)
By Road: Well-connected from Munnar (60 km) and Marayoor (15 km); private vehicles and taxis available.
Why Visit Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary?
Explore Kerala’s only rain-shadow wildlife sanctuary
Spot the rare Grizzled Giant Squirrel and diverse wildlife
Enjoy trekking, eco-stays, and tribal village experiences
Perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and photographers