The Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary is nestles in the south eastern region of the Western Ghats. It is one of the prime locations of wildlife and nature tours in Kerala. Located in Thiruvananthapuram, this wildlife sanctuary is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. A huge number of exotic plants and animals can be seen here. Spreading over 12000 hectares, the prosperous and fertile land of the sanctuary is covered with lush vegetation. It provides shelter to numerous strikingly beautiful and rare species of animals.

The Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary in the southern state of Kerala is famous across the world of its richness of plant and animal life. People from different places visit this Wildlife sanctuary to witness nature at its best and they go back with memories that stay for a lifetime.

This wildlife sanctuary is also a repository of rare herbs with medicinal properties. Located at a distance of only 32 km from Thiruvananthapuram, this sanctuary is a popular picnic spot. The marvelous lake and the picturesque dam add to the scenic beauty of the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The dam across the Neyyar River forms a lake, the water of which has a rich blue color. The beauty of this place is simply breathtaking. People enjoy boating at the lake.

This is one of the oldest and most popular wildlife reserves in Kerala with over a hundred species of animals. Located at the basin of Neyyar River, the beauty of this sanctuary is enhanced by the dams constructed here. This stunning sanctuary spreads over an area of over 9 sq. km.

History

The Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary gained its status in the year 1958 and is thus the old wildlife sanctuary of the state. It is located at the basin of the River Neyyar originating from the Agasthyamalai peak, or the home of sage Agastya. Work in the direction of conservation and protection started only after a separate wing was set up for the same in 1985.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

The temperature of this sanctuary ranges from 16 degree in winters to 35 degree centigrade in summers. The region receives rainfall from the south west monsoon in the months May to July and from the North east monsoon from October to November. The average rainfall in this region is 2800 mm.

The ideal time for tourists to visit this wildlife sanctuary is between the months of November and March.

How to Reach

By Air

The nearest airport is the Thiruvananthapuram, which is around 38 km away from the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary.

By Rail

The Thiruvananthapuram railway station is the closest railway station and it is around 32 km away.

By Road

From Kattakkada, the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary is only 11 km away by road and it is 30 km away from Thiruvananthapuram.

Wildlife

Flora

The wildlife sanctuary has a dense and substantial forest cover with only a few regions covered with grassland. Depending upon the altitude, the vegetation varies from tropical wet evergreen forests to temperate grasslands. This is a paradise for naturalists and wildlife lovers. It is home to many exotic shrubs and herbs. A few plants and animals are found exclusively in the Neyyar Wildlife sanctuary. The apt climate and the terrain make this place an ideal gene pool preserve.

Fauna

The Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary is inhabited by over 39 rare and common species of mammals. Elephants, Gaur, Nilgiri Tahrs, Sambars, Malabar Squirrels, Sloth bears, Jungle cats, and Wild boars are among many animals found here. Apart from the mammals, the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a number of reptiles as well. These include Pythons, Flying snakes, Rat snakes, Cobras and many others.

Avifauna

A huge variety of exotic birds can be seen at the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Some of these are Indian Cuckoos, Common Mynas, Little Egrets, Indian Hill Mynas, Gray Jungle Fowl, Darters, White Breasted water hen and many others.

Activities to Do

One day or two day Trekking

One day trekking package takes you through Neyyar – Kombai – Meenmut. Boating up to 9 km is included in the trekking and the trek ends at the Meenmutty falls which are awe inspiring.

Two day trekking includes a 12 km trek to Theerthakkara – Puivizhuthan Chuna, night camp and boating up to the deer park, apart from the trek included in the one day package.

Crocodile rehabilitation center, deer park, lion safari park etc.

This is a wonderful opportunity to visit all these places and enjoy the beauty of wilderness.

Administration of Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary

The headquarters of the sanctuary is at Sulthan Bathery and it lies in the area of Wayanad division. An Assistant Wildlife Officer takes care of the sanctuary.

Accommodation

The wildlife warden is overall in charge of the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary. This wildlife warden can be contacted in case of any query.

The administrative complex of the sanctuary is located at a distance of 1 km to the west of the Neyyar dam outside the premises of the sanctuary. This complex has staff quarters, rest house, an information center and a youth hostel.

General Information

Fees

• Adult Rs.200/-per head for Indians. (Rs. 100 per head for children)
• Foreigners Rs.300/- per head (Rs. 150 for children)
• Boating charges- Rs. 400 for half an hour for 10 persons and Rs. 1200 for 12 persons.

Nearby Attractions

Crocodile Rearing Center

Here, visitors get to learn how the crocodiles are taken care of and bread.

Deer Farm

This deer farm is located near the wildlife sanctuary and is managed by the forest department. Here, you can see spotted and Sambar Deers.

Lion Safari Park

This park is famous for the wonderful lion safaris which give you can opportunity to see the wild beast in its natural state.

Photo Gallery