Love watching animals roam freely in their natural surroundings? With dense forests, peaceful rivers, and rolling green hills, Kerala shelters countless wild creatures. The wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala give you the perfect chance to experience nature up close and personal. You might spot elephants walking gracefully through the trees or hear birds chirping from every direction. These protected forests also safeguard endangered species like tigers, deer, and various monkey families.
Kerala has numerous beautiful sanctuaries offering both calm and adventure during your stay. Some became famous for rare bird sightings, while others let you trek through jungles or take quiet boat rides across backwaters. This guide covers 22 of the best wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala that every nature enthusiast should explore. Adding these places to your Kerala tour packages makes your trip even more thrilling and brings you closer to wild nature.
22 Best Wildlife Sanctuaries in Kerala
Kerala has incredible forests and protected areas where you can see amazing wildlife living freely. From dense jungles in the Western Ghats to quiet wetlands near the coast, each Wildlife sanctuary in Kerala offers unique experiences and beautiful natural surroundings. Here is the list of 22 best wildlife sanctuaries that show you the true wild side of Kerala.
1. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
This famous wildlife sanctuary lies between lush hills and a big lake called Periyar. It is known for its herds of elephants moving freely near the water. Tigers and leopards also live here, though sightings are rare. You can enjoy a boat ride across the Periyar Lake, where animals often come to drink. The forest covers a large area and helps protect the watershed of two important rivers. It was the first wildlife sanctuary in Kerala and remains one of the best places to experience wild nature up close.
Location: Thekkady, Idukki district, Kerala.
Entry Fee: Indian visitors approx. ₹45; foreign visitors ₹500. Boat ride charges approx. ₹225 per person (boat is the main visitor activity).
Timings: Boat trips run in fixed slots from early morning to late afternoon; park areas open from sunrise to sunset.
2. Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary
This sanctuary sits in the south of the state and covers over 128 km² of forest and hills. A safari park, a crocodile-research centre and a dam with boating make it interesting beyond just wildlife. It hosts elephants, sloth bears, Nilgiri langurs and many birds. It lies in the drainage basin of the Neyyar River and parts of it extend up to Agasthyamalai peak at 1,868 m height. That gives it rich plant life, including rare medicinal species. It is a great example of how a sanctuary in Kerala balances nature, wildlife and tourism.
Location: Near Kattakkada, Thiruvananthapuram district, Kerala.
Entry Fee: Indian adults approx ₹250; children (5–12 years), ₹125; foreign visitors approx. ₹300.
Timings: Generally open to visitors from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Closed Day: Some visitor facilities are closed on Mondays.
3. Peechi‑Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary
One of the older protected forests of the state, this sanctuary was set up in 1958. It covers about 125 km² and includes the area around two dams, Peechi and Vazhani. It is home to rare birds and many mammals, and helps regulate the flow of a major river in the region. Big trees, thick undergrowth and green canopy dominate the landscape, so it is very different from open plains. It offers hiking, nature walks and an opportunity to see a less-visited side of Kerala’s nature. It is a rich habitat in the category of a sanctuary in Kerala that wildlife fans should know.
Location: Around Peechi and Vazhani dams, Thrissur district, Kerala.
Entry Fee: Indian visitors approx. ₹40; student concession available; foreign visitors approx. ₹60. Special activity charges (boating, guided treks) vary and are additional.
Timings: Visitor access commonly from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
4. Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary
This large protected area lies in the Anamalai region of the Western Ghats and features many forest types, evergreen, deciduous and grasslands. It supports about 1,400 species of flowering plants and has big mammals like elephants and gaurs. The area has three man-made reservoirs, adding freshwater habitats to the forest. Sustainability is a focus here, and local tribal communities live in harmony with wildlife. It is harder to reach but the effort rewards you with rich nature and quiet ambience.
Location: Palakkad district, on the Kerala–Tamil Nadu border.
Entry Fee: Park entry approx. ₹85 per Indian visitor and approx. ₹300 per foreign visitor. Vehicle entry and programme fees apply. Jungle safari charges approx. ₹500 and explorer trail charges approx. ₹400 per person.
Timings: Safaris and programmes start early in the morning; scheduled slots run through the day.
5. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
This sanctuary covers around 344 km² and is among the largest in the state. It lies in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and connects to forests in neighbouring states, giving it great ecological value. You can spot elephants, tigers, leopards, deer and many bird species here. The terrain includes bamboo thickets, moist deciduous forest and patches of high-altitude grasslands. It is a prime example of a wildlife sanctuary in Kerala where the wild animals and people live side by side.
Location: Wayanad district, part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Kerala.
Entry Fee: Indian visitors approx. ₹20; children and students concession; foreign visitors approx. ₹110. Jeep safari and guide charges differ and are additional.
Timings: Safari sessions are held in the early morning and late afternoon; general visiting hours are during daylight.
6. Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary
This wildlife sanctuary spreads all around the Idukki Dam and its huge lake. The forest stays green with very tall trees where elephants and deer walk around freely without fear. You can watch birds flying low over the lake water and listen to their calls bouncing off the surrounding hills. This sanctuary also helps protect two important rivers that begin flowing from here. The peaceful lake, cool fresh air, and thick jungle make it one of the most relaxing sanctuaries you can visit in Kerala.
Location: Around the Idukki Dam and reservoir, Idukki district, Kerala.
Entry Fee: Indian visitors approx. ₹10 to ₹15; foreign visitors approx. ₹150. Vehicle and camera charges may apply.
Timings: Common visiting hours are about 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
7. Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary
Peppara is a quiet forest area near the capital city. It is home to elephants, langurs, and many kinds of birds. The small waterfalls and green hills make the whole place look fresh and alive. There are easy walking trails where you can enjoy the sound of the forest. This sanctuary in Kerala is perfect for anyone who wants to see nature without crowds or noise.
Location: Near Peppara Dam, Thiruvananthapuram district, Kerala.
Entry Fee: Indian visitors approx. ₹50; foreign visitors approx. ₹150. Camera charges may apply.
Timings: Visitor access commonly from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
8. Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary
Thattekkad is the first bird sanctuary in Kerala and one of the most famous for birdwatching. It may be small, but it is full of life. You can spot hornbills, woodpeckers, and bright-coloured pittas in the trees. The river nearby makes the place even more peaceful. Many travellers call it the best wildlife sanctuary for seeing rare and beautiful birds.
Location: Thattekkad, near Kothamangalam, Ernakulam district, Kerala.
Entry Fee: Trail packages available; Salim Ali trail ticket approx. ₹45 per person; other guided trails start approx. ₹500 per person.
Timings: Official visiting hours generally 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM; guided trails run in early morning and late afternoon slots.
9. Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary
Chimmini sits near the beautiful Chimmini Dam and is surrounded by green forest. The place is known for elephants, deer, and butterflies of every colour. The walking trails go through thick trees and small streams. The air is cool and fresh, and the sound of water follows you everywhere. It is one of those wild places that still feels untouched by people.
Location: Near Chimmini Dam, Thrissur district, Kerala.
Entry Fee: Indian visitors approx. ₹10; children concession available; foreign visitors approx. ₹100. Vehicle and camera charges may apply.
Timings: Typical visiting hours are from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
10. Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary
Aralam is a small forest area on the slopes of the Western Ghats. It has elephants, boars, and many butterflies that fill the air during the season. It has elephants, boars and numerous butterflies that fill the air in season. The forest is green all year round, and there are rivers running through the forest. This place feels quiet and simple, which makes it perfect for people who really love spending time in nature. This wildlife sanctuary gives you a calm, green atmosphere and shows you small natural wonders everywhere you look.
Location: Brahmagiri hills area, Kannur district, Kerala.
Entry Fee: Indian visitors approx. ₹15; foreign visitors approx. ₹200. Vehicle and camera charges may apply.
Timings: Visitor access normally available during daylight hours, commonly from about 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
11. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
Chinnar is a dry forest area that looks different from most green forests of Kerala. The place is known for spotted deer, monkeys, and the rare grizzled giant squirrel. It also has many small rivers and rocky hills that give it a wild charm. The weather stays dry for most of the year, making it easy to walk and explore. Many people call it one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala because of its rare species and open landscape.
Location: Marayoor and Chinnar regions, Idukki district, Kerala.
Entry Fee: Indian visitors approx. ₹10; foreign visitors approx. ₹100. Charges apply for guided jeep safaris and nature walks.
Timings: Daylight visiting hours; safaris and guided programmes run in the morning and late afternoon.
12. Kurinjimala Sanctuary
Kurinjimala is a high-altitude forest filled with rolling hills and wide grasslands. It becomes special when the blue Neelakurinji flowers bloom once in twelve years and cover the slopes in colour. The sanctuary also shelters elephants and gaurs that roam freely in the open land. The view of misty hills and distant valleys looks peaceful and untouched. This wildlife sanctuary is a quiet escape for those who love open nature.
Location: Near Vattavada, Idukki district, Kerala.
Entry Fee: No fixed entry fee for general visitors; guided eco-treks and permission passes are issued by the Kerala Forest Department and charged separately depending on the route.
Timings: Open during daylight hours for authorised eco-tourism programmes only.
13. Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary
Shendurney is part of the Agasthyamalai hills and has dense forest mixed with rivers and streams. It is known for its freshwater fish, rare orchids, and thick greenery. A large dam inside the forest forms a lake where boat rides are allowed. The area is calm, and you can often see monkeys and deer near the water. This sanctuary in Kerala shows how rich and varied the state’s forests are.
Location: Near Thenmala, Kollam district, Kerala.
Entry Fee: Indian visitors approx. ₹30; foreign visitors approx. ₹250. Boating and guided trek packages start around ₹200 to ₹500 per person.
Timings: Open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
14. Eravikulam National Park
Eravikulam is famous for the Nilgiri tahr, a rare mountain goat that lives only in this region. The hills are covered with green grass and turn blue when the Neelakurinji flowers bloom. There are viewpoints that offer wide views of the Western Ghats. The place is clean, quiet, and carefully protected by forest staff. It is one of the most visited wildlife sanctuary in Kerala because of its beauty and rare animals.
Location: Near Munnar, Idukki district, Kerala.
Entry Fee: Indian adults ₹200; children ₹95; foreign visitors ₹420. Shuttle bus fee included in ticket.
Timings: Open from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily (except when closed for Nilgiri tahr calving season between February and March).
15. Silent Valley National Park
Silent Valley is one of India's oldest forest areas and home to many rare plants and animals you won't find easily elsewhere. This place is famous among people due to its dense evergreen vegetation and a clear flowing river, Kunthipuzha. In certain areas, the forest is so thick that the sun can hardly penetrate to the area below. You can spot lion-tailed macaques, spotted deer, and many colourful bird species here. This peaceful sanctuary in Kerala feels like a hidden world that nature still owns completely.
Location: Palakkad district, Kerala.
Entry Fee: Indian visitors ₹50; foreign visitors ₹500. Jeep safari charges approx. ₹1,500 per vehicle (max five people).
Timings: Visitor entry from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM only; closed on Tuesdays.
16. Mathikettan Shola National Park
Mathikettan Shola is a quiet forest tucked between the hills of Idukki. The name means “head turning,” as locals once said the thick forest could make anyone lose direction. It is home to elephants, gaurs, and rare bird species that live in the misty valleys. The trails are full of tall trees, moss-covered rocks, and small streams. Many travellers call it one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala for its peaceful surroundings and untouched natural beauty.
Location: Between Poopara and Bodinayakanur roads, Idukki district, Kerala.
Entry Fee: No general entry fee; trekking and eco-tour programmes require Forest Department permission, and charges depend on chosen route.
Timings: Access restricted to approved eco-tourism visits during daylight hours.
17. Pampadum Shola National Park
Pampadum Shola is the smallest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala, but it has incredible natural beauty packed inside. The thick forest blocks most sunlight from coming through, which creates a cool and mysterious feeling everywhere. This sanctuary is known for leopards, tigers, and jungle cats that roam deep inside the dense woods. Bird lovers also come here because they can see many different species flying around. The quiet atmosphere, thick morning mist, and rare wild animals make this a very special place for people who truly love nature.
Location: Near Vattavada and Munnar, Idukki district, Kerala.
Entry Fee: Indian visitors ₹20; foreign visitors ₹300. Trekking and guided walk fees range from ₹200 to ₹500 per person.
Timings: Open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
18. Anamudi Shola National Park
Anamudi Shola is a protected forest area located near Munnar. The place stays cool all year and is filled with evergreen trees and medicinal plants. It shelters elephants, gaurs, and leopards, along with many butterflies and birds. The forest paths are peaceful and covered in mist most of the time. This wildlife sanctuary is best known for its green hills, clean air, and calm environment that feels far away from busy life.
Location: Kanthalloor and Marayoor range, Idukki district, Kerala.
Entry Fee: Indian visitors ₹20; foreign visitors ₹300. Charges apply for guided eco-treks and camera use.
Timings: Park open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
19. Karimpuzha Wildlife Sanctuary
Karimpuzha is a large area of evergreen forest that connects Silent Valley with the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Elephants, deer, and many bird species live here and move freely through the thick green woods. Small waterfalls and streams flow through the forest, making it perfect for short nature walks and treks. This sanctuary also does an important job protecting water sources for villages and towns nearby. This wildlife sanctuary gives you a raw natural forest experience without any tourist crowds or noise.
Location: Palakkad district, Kerala, adjoining Silent Valley National Park.
Entry Fee: No fixed entry fee for independent visitors; entry allowed only through Forest Department eco-tourism packages, which are charged per programme.
Timings: Open for authorised visits from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
20. Malabar Wildlife Sanctuary
Malabar Wildlife Sanctuary lies in the Western Ghats and is full of rivers, hills, and dense vegetation. It is home to elephants, langurs, civets, and colourful butterflies. The region also has many medicinal plants that add to its ecological value. The forest stays fresh and green through most of the year due to heavy rainfall. This wildlife sanctuary in Kerala is ideal for people who enjoy quiet landscapes and natural beauty without crowds.
Location: Near Kozhikode, Western Ghats region, Kerala.
Entry Fee: Indian visitors ₹50; foreign visitors ₹300. Nature walks and eco-trek charges vary from ₹200 to ₹400 per person.
Timings: Open to visitors between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM.
21. Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary
Chulanur is the only sanctuary in Kerala that was made to protect peafowls. The area is open and green, allowing visitors to see these birds dancing during the rainy months. Apart from peafowls, you can spot small animals, reptiles, and several bird species. The sanctuary also works to increase awareness about wildlife protection. Its calm setting and easy walking paths make it perfect for family visits and bird lovers.
Location: Palakkad district, Kerala.
Entry Fee: No entry fee for visitors. The sanctuary conducts guided birdwatching and education tours organised by the Forest Department at nominal charges.
Timings: Visitors allowed during daylight hours between 7:00 AM and 5:00 PM.
22. Kottiyoor Wildlife Sanctuary
Kottiyoor is a beautiful forest area with rivers and hills all around. The place has many different types of trees, clear flowing streams and wildlife including elephants, deer, and monkeys. The sanctuary also matters culturally because an ancient Kottiyoor temple stands inside the forest. When monsoon rains arrive, the entire area becomes bright green and bursting with life. This remains one of the most peaceful wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala, where nature and culture live together.
Location: Kannur district, Kerala.
Entry Fee: No entry fee for general visitors. Special eco-tourism and pilgrimage routes inside the forest are managed by the Forest Department with separate charges.
Timings: Sanctuary open for visits from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM; restricted during heavy monsoon months.
Conclusion
There are indeed some special places in Kerala where nature remains untouched and animals are free to move around. All wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala are a beauty in themselves, whether it is in the form of dense forests and running rivers or mountains covered in mist. Visiting these sanctuaries lets you see elephants walking through trees, birds singing from branches, and rare animals living peacefully in their natural homes. Whether you love animals, enjoy trekking, or simply want quiet time in nature, these sanctuaries have something for everyone. Plan your visit soon and discover the wild side of Kerala that stays hidden from most travellers.
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