Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Munnar | Thattekad Sanctuary

Ways to Experience this attraction

Birdwatching & Bird Photography at Thattekkad

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Munnar Birding and Bird Photography Trip

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Munnar Tea Trek

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Munnar Mountain Jeep safari & Trekking

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Munnar mountain hiking (7hrs)

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Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Munnar Overview

Named after the 'BirdMan of India', Dr Salim Ali, a famous ornithologist, Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is one of the major attractions in Munnar. Finding itself at the foothills of the Western Ghats, it occupies an area of 25 km sq. Also known as Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, the place is even called as the richest bird habitat of Peninsular India. Bird watching is addictive. Once you encounter this beauty there is no turning back. You would wish to watch more and more. Here you can find Crimson-Throated Barbet, Sunbird, Bee-eater, Night Heron, Black-winged Kite, etc.

This place came to light in the year 1983 by recommendations made by famous ornithologist Dr Salim Ali. It shelters 270 avian species. Rufous Babbler, White-bellied blue flycatcher, Wynaad laughingthrush, Malabar grey hornbill, are some species that are found here. While you are here, do savour the joy of bonfire and fishes on the grill under the open sky. The best time to make the most out of this sanctuary is from October to March. During this time you can spot the maximum indigenous and migratory bird species.

Fauna at Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

The species recorded here are spread over a wide range. This area has some 270 avian species which include great Indian hornbill, crimson throated barber, Sri Lanka frogmouth, peninsular bay owl, pied avocet, black bittern, fairy bluebird, crested serpent eagle, Yellow-browed bulbuls, whiskered terns, and jack snipe, etc. The Indian Pitta pays a visit to the site every 6 months. The Sanctuary is also known as the 'Cuckoo Paradise'. It is a home to different varieties of cuckoos such as Drongo cuckoo, Large hawk cuckoo, and Indian hawk cuckoo.
The Edamalayar forest that is located about 15 km from this place lends some of its species to the Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary. The mountain hawk eagles, dark-fronted babbler, emerald green pigeons, White-rumped needletails and brown-backed are some of them.

Bird Watching at Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

The paved walks provided within the criss-crossed water channels are a perfect way to navigate through the mangrove thicket. You would encounter more than a 100 native species of birds over here. Bird watching along with a thoughtful guide is indeed a fantastic experience. It is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and bird lovers. The guides here are passionate birders hence would impart vast knowledge to you.

Best Time To Visit Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

During November-February, the migratory season is at its peak. Birds from Himalayan regions and other parts mark their visit at this time of the year. Moreover, the breeze of winters leaves the place with unmatchable beauty, hence making it the best time for your vacation.

How To Reach Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

Thattekad is located 54 kms from Cochin. The route goes through Muvattupuzha and Kothamangalam from where it takes around two hours to reach the sanctuary. Moreover, no train services are available, and public transport is limited to taxis and buses. You can take a bus to Muvattupuzha (26km) and then to Thattekad Bird Sanctuary. The Kothamangalam bus station is 13 kms from the sanctuary. From here, an autorickshaw will be to the rescue. For an uninterrupted journey to the sanctuary, you might hire a taxi.