Kerala Wildlife Tours: Discover National Parks, Sanctuaries, and Rare Species

Tucked between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, Kerala is more than just a land of backwaters and beaches. Its untouched wilderness, dense forests, misty mountains, and rich biodiversity make it one of India’s premier eco-tourism destinations. Kerala Wildlife Tours offer an immersive experience into this vibrant ecosystem, giving travelers the chance to discover national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and rare species found nowhere else on Earth.

Whether you’re a passionate wildlife photographer, birdwatcher, or nature enthusiast, Kerala’s protected areas offer unforgettable encounters with exotic animals and pristine natural beauty.

The Biodiversity Hotspot of South India

Kerala lies within the Western Ghats—one of the world’s eight “hottest hotspots” of biological diversity. This region hosts:

• Over 500 species of birds
  
• 140+ species of mammals
  
• Rare reptiles and amphibians
  
• Thousands of plants, many of which are endemic
  

Kerala Wildlife Tours allow travelers to explore these wonders through eco-conscious travel, jungle treks, boat safaris, and guided expeditions led by trained naturalists.

Top National Parks to Explore

1. Eravikulam National Park – Home of the Nilgiri Tahr

Located in Munnar, this national park is famous for the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, a rare mountain goat species. The rolling grasslands and Shola forests also offer spectacular views of the Western Ghats. Visit during the Neelakurinji blooming (every 12 years) for a surreal landscape of blue flowers carpeting the hills.

Key Species: Nilgiri Tahr, Indian Muntjac, Dusky Striped Squirrel
Best Time: September to March

2. Silent Valley National Park – A Pristine Rainforest

One of India’s least disturbed rainforests, Silent Valley in Palakkad is home to rare species like the Lion-tailed Macaque and the Nilgiri Langur. Strictly protected, it offers limited and guided access to ensure conservation.

Key Species: Lion-tailed Macaque, Great Indian Hornbill, Malabar Civet
Best Time: December to April

3. Mathikettan Shola National Park – A Hidden Gem

This relatively lesser-known park in Idukki is a biodiversity treasure, home to several medicinal plants and rare animals. Perfect for those seeking offbeat Kerala Wildlife Tours.

Key Species: Sloth Bear, Indian Leopard, Indian Pangolin
Best Time: October to March

Famous Wildlife Sanctuaries in Kerala

4. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady

The most visited wildlife reserve in Kerala, Periyar is known for its elephant population and scenic boat safaris on Periyar Lake. Visitors can also opt for bamboo rafting, nature walks, and overnight camping inside the forest.

Key Species: Elephants, Bengal Tigers, Sambar Deer, Gaur
Activities: Boat safari, bamboo rafting, jungle camp

5. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, this sanctuary shares borders with Karnataka and Tamil Nadu and serves as a wildlife corridor. It’s ideal for jeep safaris and bird watching.

Key Species: Indian Bison, Tigers, Elephants, Peacocks
Highlights: Tholpetty and Muthanga ranges, tribal village visits

6. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

Known for its dry deciduous forests, this sanctuary is home to the endangered Grizzled Giant Squirrel. Chinnar is great for eco-tourism with nature trails, treehouse stays, and tribal heritage experiences.

Key Species: Grizzled Giant Squirrel, Star Tortoise, Indian Leopard
Best Time: November to May

7. Thattekad Bird Sanctuary

Also known as the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, it is a paradise for bird watchers with over 300 species of birds, including many Western Ghats endemics.

Key Species: Malabar Grey Hornbill, Sri Lanka Frogmouth, Indian Pitta
Best Time: October to March

Rare and Endangered Species Found in Kerala

Kerala Wildlife Tours provide a rare chance to see some of the world’s most elusive and endangered animals:

• Nilgiri Tahr: Found only in Eravikulam National Park
  
• Lion-tailed Macaque: Silent Valley’s shy forest dweller
  
• Grizzled Giant Squirrel: Spotted in Chinnar
  
• Great Indian Hornbill: Kerala’s majestic bird icon
  
• Tiger & Leopard: Roam across Parambikulam and Wayanad reserves
  

Conservation efforts in Kerala have played a major role in protecting these species through eco-tourism, responsible forest management, and community participation.

Activities on Kerala Wildlife Tours

• Jungle Safaris & Boat Cruises: Explore forest interiors via jeep or scenic boat rides.
  
• Trekking and Nature Walks: Guided walks led by tribal guides or naturalists.
  
• Camping & Treehouse Stays: Sleep amidst nature for a truly immersive experience.
  
• Birdwatching Expeditions: Perfect for ornithologists and nature photographers.
  

Best Time to Go

The ideal time for Kerala Wildlife Tours is from October to March when the weather is cool and dry. The post-monsoon period is lush and green, improving visibility and access to wildlife trails.

Travel Tips

• Book Safaris in Advance: Especially for popular parks like Periyar and Eravikulam.
  
• Wear Earthy Colors: Helps you blend into the environment during sightings.
  
• Carry Binoculars & Field Guides: Essential for spotting birds and animals.
  
• Travel Responsibly: Don’t litter, feed animals, or disturb habitats.
  

Conclusion

From evergreen rainforests to dry scrub jungles, from elusive big cats to colorful avian species, Kerala Wildlife Tours offer an incredible spectrum of nature experiences. Each national park and sanctuary tells its own story—of conservation, coexistence, and natural wonder.If you dream of discovering rare species in their natural habitat, walking through dense jungles, or simply soaking in the sounds of untouched nature, Kerala’s wild side is calling. So gear up and embark on a journey through the lush, wild heart of God’s Own Country.