Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary, Palakkad (2024) - Images, Timings

Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary, Palakkad Overview

Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary in Palakkad, Kerala, is an ecologically rich sanctuary within the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its biodiversity, it is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species. Adjacent to Vazhani Dam, the sanctuary features tropical moist deciduous forests and offers opportunities for eco-tourism while playing a crucial role in preserving the local ecosystem.

Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary Highlights

1. Nature Walks and Trekking

The sanctuary provides excellent opportunities for nature walks and trekking. The trails inside the sanctuary take visitors through dense forests, over small streams, and across undulating terrain. Th (Read More)ese treks offer a close encounter with the sanctuary's rich biodiversity, providing a refreshing experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. The treks also offer scenic views of the surrounding hills, making the journey more rewarding.

2. Bird Watching

Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary is a birdwatcher’s delight, with a wide variety of bird species calling the area home. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to spot many species of bi (Read More)rds in their natural habitat. Birdwatchers are often treated to sightings of colorful parakeets, woodpeckers, and eagles flying through the forest canopy.

3. Photography

The lush landscape and diverse wildlife make the sanctuary a perfect destination for photographers. From capturing the grandeur of elephants in the wild to photographing the tranquil beauty of the Vaz (Read More)hani Dam, the sanctuary offers plenty of opportunities for nature and wildlife photography.

4. Picnicking

The sanctuary is a popular spot for picnicking, especially near the Vazhani Dam. Families and groups of friends can enjoy the peaceful environment while being surrounded by nature. The cool breeze fro (Read More)m the reservoir and the pleasant shade of the trees create the perfect setting for a relaxing day outdoors.

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Wildlife

Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary is home to an impressive variety of wildlife, including large mammals, reptiles, and birds. Some of the commonly spotted animals include:

Elephants: The sanctuary is frequented by herds of wild elephants, which are one of its main attractions.
Tigers and Leopards: Though sightings are rare, these big cats roam the sanctuary's deeper, more secluded areas.
Deer species: Various species of deer, including sambar deer and spotted deer, can be seen grazing in the open areas of the forest.
Wild boar: These are commonly spotted and are known for their foraging behavior.
Sloth bears and porcupines: The forested areas provide the perfect habitat for sloth bears, and the sanctuary is also home to porcupines and other small mammals.
The sanctuary is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with many native and migratory birds flocking to the region. Some of the birds you may spot include kingfishers, herons, hornbills, and drongos. Reptile species like cobras, python, and monitor lizards are also found in the sanctuary, making it a haven for herpetologists.

Vazhani Dam and Reservoir

One of the main highlights of the sanctuary is the proximity to the Vazhani Dam, which is a popular attraction in its own right. The Vazhani Dam, built across the Vazhani River, is one of the largest earthen dams in Kerala. The reservoir created by the dam is a significant water source for nearby towns and villages. The reservoir is surrounded by lush greenery, offering a picturesque setting that enhances the sanctuary's scenic beauty.

Visitors often enjoy the view of the dam and the peaceful atmosphere it provides. Boating facilities are available in the reservoir, giving tourists a chance to explore the water and enjoy the serene surroundings.

Flora

The sanctuary's dense forest cover is dominated by tropical moist deciduous trees, interspersed with patches of evergreen forest. The sanctuary is home to numerous medicinal plants, some of which are unique to the Western Ghats region. Common tree species include teak, rosewood, mahogany, and bamboo. The thick undergrowth also supports a wide range of shrubs and herbs, contributing to the area’s ecological diversity.

Conservation Efforts

Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary plays a crucial role in the conservation of wildlife in the Palakkad region. The Kerala Forest Department, which manages the sanctuary, has taken several initiatives to protect the habitat of endangered species and promote environmental awareness among local communities. Anti-poaching measures and wildlife protection programs are implemented to ensure the sanctuary remains a safe haven for its inhabitants.

In addition to wildlife protection, the Forest Department also works to promote sustainable eco-tourism in the region, balancing conservation efforts with the interests of tourists and nature lovers.

How to Reach

Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary is located about 22 kilometers from Thrissur and approximately 70 kilometers from Palakkad. The sanctuary is well-connected by road, and visitors can reach the sanctuary by bus or taxi from nearby towns. The closest railway station is in Thrissur, and the nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, located about 75 kilometers away.

Best Time

The sanctuary is open to visitors throughout the year, though the best time to visit is during the cooler months between October and March. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and wildlife sightings are more frequent. However, those who enjoy the lush greenery of the monsoon season may prefer to visit between June and September, when the sanctuary is vibrant and full of life.