Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala

Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary is like a beautiful scenery – small, but full of exotic pictures. Spread to the total area of 285 sq km, it is situated in the Annamalai hills of the western ghats to the south of Palakkad (Palghat) Gap in the Palakkad district of Kerala. It is the third biggest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala. There are three dams in the Sanctuary, Parambikula (21.22 sq km expanse of water), Thunakadavu (4.33 sq km) and Peruvarippallam (2.89 sq km), and the Kerala Government has plans to launch another hydroelectric project inside the park. The best time to visit this park is from September to January.

Flora of Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary :

Set admits the hills of Annamalai and Nelliampathy, more than half of the park has fine stands of teak. Thick forests re found in the higher reaches of the hills. The main viewing area is in the coere of the park full of bamboo, sandalwood, rosewood and teak. Kannimara tree forms the main highlight of the floral asset of the park. The tree stands at a height of 48.5 m and has a girth of 6.57m. It is said to be 450 years old. It is probably the last survivor of the wild teak that once grew in this area.

Fauna of Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary :

Parambikulam is one of the biggest territory of Gaur (bison). While other attractions of the forest includes elephants, sloth bears, wild boars, sambhars, chital tigers, panthers and crocodiles. There are also bonnet macaques, spectacled cobras, kraits, vipers, turtles, darters, little cormorants and black eagles.

Things to see and do :

Cruising :

The best chances of viewing the wildlife are during the boat rides on Parambikulam, Thunakadavu and Peruvarippalam inside the park. It offers you the opportunity to spot the Mugger crocodiles that can be seen sun bathing on the lake shore. You can hire rowboats from the Forest Department at the cost of Rs 200 for 5 persons, for one hour, rs 400 for a group of upto 8 or more.

Birding :

To take the essence of the park, experience the early morning bird life and exquisite bird songs (larks, thrushes, warblers): take in spectacular sightings of the large flock of jungle myna, woodpecker, rose-winged and blue-winged parakeet. Make its a point to carry binoculars and a copy of Salim Ali's Birds list.

Trekking tours :

In you want to enjoy trekking inside the park, it is mandatory to be accompanied by a guide. Although there are three three teks conducted inside the park, but the best trek at the Parambikulam Sanctuary is to the Karimala Gopuram, which is also the highest peak. But please keep in mind that you are medically fit as it requires lot of strength and energy. You may even get the chance to spot the highly endangered Nilgiri Tahr on these hills.

Jeep Safaris :

Exploring the forest on the jeep will enable you watch the animals for a longer time.Besides, you will have tremendous opportunity to click plenty of good photographs of animals, birds and wildlife view of forest. You can enjoy the jeep safari till 6 pm till the park is closed.