The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is Kerala’s second largest wildlife sanctuary. Home to rare, endangered and endemic species of flora and fauna, this sanctuary serves as a significant habitat and migration corridor for its prolific wildlife. It shares its borders with the Bandipur, Nagarhole and Madumalai national parks, which form a major part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Being one of the safest natural habitats for Royal Bengal tigers, Asian elephants and vultures, thousands of nature-lovers from around the world are attracted to the verdant landscapes of Wayanad each year.
What you’ll see
The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is always lush with semi-evergreen and moist deciduous forests. These tangled thickets are the perfect home to numerous species of avifauna, both native and migratory, like the Indian peafowl, cuckoos, babblers, owls and more. One of the keystone species of Wayanad is its vultures, especially the critically endangered white-rumped vultures and red-headed vultures.
Wayanad is also an important habitat for the majestic Bengal tigers and plays a significant role in connecting other major tiger habitats and reserves, like the Bandipur, Nagarhole and Madumalai national parks. On your safari, you will hear the shrill trumpets of the Asian elephants, that are another one of the keystone species of the sanctuary. Among these, you will also find several panthers, gaur, deer, bonnet macaques, langurs, bears and more.
The marshy riverside, tropical climate and evergreen shrubbery make for the perfect home for several species of monitor lizards and snakes, including pit vipers, geckos, coral snakes and of course, the deadly King Cobra.
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary Safari
The vast expanses of the sanctuary can be explored via a thrilling safari ride, which can accommodate up to 7 people. The compact vehicle takes you deep into the jungles and gives you the best chance to encounter Bengal tigers and Asian elephants. With multiple pitstops throughout your ride, this is the perfect option for wildlife photographers and avid birdwatchers.
If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, you can opt for a trek or nature walk through the sanctuary to truly connect with the awe-inspiring nature and wildlife surrounding you.
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary Zones
The sanctuary is divided into four ranges or sections, with the most popular Muthanga range sharing its borders with the Bandipur and Madumalai national parks and the Tholpetty range connecting to the Nagarhole national park. The other less frequented sections of the sanctuary are Sulthan Bathery and Kurichiat, which house hundreds of species of flora and fauna.
Where to stay
There are plenty hotels, resorts and homestays surrounding the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary that can suit any budget and travel dates.