As the state of Kerala reveals itself, you gradually find out the richness of the state in terms of wildlife as well as its divine natural beauty. Dig a little deeper and you discover the untouched environment of the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary where you'll actually have to visit in flesh and bones to experience the spell the place casts on you.
The Nilgiri has a system of biodiversity of its own and this sanctuary serves as the focal point of it. The star attractions of the sanctuary are civet cat, tigers, panthers, bison, elephant and wild dogs. The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is equally popular among the Indian as well as the international travellers. While roaming through the area, the places which you can use to recharge yourself are Sultan Bathery and Manathavadi.
The sanctuary was established in the year 1973 with a view to conserve the flora and fauna of the area in a scientific manner without disturbing the general lifestyle of the tribal people living on the periphery of the forest. It is part of the Wayanad plateau and is also known as the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary. It is located in close vicinity of the Bandipur National Park in Karnataka and Musumalai Wildlife Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu.
Best Time to Visit
June through October are the best months to visit the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.
Climate
A reasonable amount of rain is received by the area, mostly between June to August. This is due to the influence of south west monsoon. The months of March, April and May are comparatively warmer.
Sightseeing
Chembra Peak
Though it is a risky adventure, trekking to the Chembra peak is nevertheless a satisfying exercise. It is the highest peak of Wayanad that goes up to the height of 2100 meters above mean sea level. It is only 14 km away from Kalpetta. It takes a day to reach the peak though you can stay there in a temporary camp.
Lakkidi Ghat Pass
It is also called the gateway of Wayanad and it attracts many tourists. It is 55 km east of Kozhikode and just 5 km away from Vythiri.
Activities
Jeep Safari
There is no better way to explore the flora and fauna of the place than a Jeep Safari. This is a very interesting way to discover the wildlife of the sanctuary from the comfort of a vehicle as it increases the chances of animal sighting. You'll need the prior permission of the forest department for the purpose though.
Bird Watching
The sheer number of species of birds that you get to watch here makes it worthwhile to go for bird watching in Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. You are advised to follow all the rules and take necessary precautions while going for bird watching.
How to Reach?
We'll say that the road is the best way to reach the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary because you get to enjoy the landscapes on the way also. Kozhikode is the nearest airport which is about 110 km away from Kalpetta. Kozhikode is the nearest railhead also. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is well connected by road to all the major cities.
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