Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts located in Thiruvananthapuram district in the southern state of Kerala, India. Spread over an area of 75 square kilometers, this sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for eco-tourism.
The sanctuary is situated about 50 kilometers northeast of Thiruvananthapuram city and is nestled amidst the Western Ghats. It is surrounded by lush green forests, rolling hills, and the serene Peppara Dam Reservoir. The diverse terrain of the sanctuary includes tropical moist evergreen forests, grasslands, and freshwater streams, creating a perfect habitat for a wide variety of wildlife.
The Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary is open to visitors from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM on all days of the week, except on Mondays and national holidays.
There is a nominal entry fee for visitors to the sanctuary, with separate rates for Indian and foreign nationals. The entry fee for Indian adults is INR 25, while children below 12 years of age can enter for INR 5. Foreign nationals are charged INR 50 for entry.
The sanctuary is home to a rich diversity of plant and animal species. The lush green forests are filled with a variety of trees, including teak, rosewood, ebony, and bamboo. The sanctuary is also inhabited by a range of wildlife such as elephants, tigers, leopards, sloth bears, sambar deer, lion-tailed macaques, and a wide array of bird species.
Visitors to Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary can engage in a range of activities such as nature walks, trekking, bird watching, and wildlife photography. The sanctuary also offers guided tours and educational programs for visitors to learn more about the flora and fauna of the region.
For those looking to explore the sanctuary in a more adventurous way, jeep safaris are available at an additional cost. The charges for a jeep safari vary depending on the duration of the safari and the number of participants. It is recommended to book jeep safaris in advance to ensure availability.
Children below 5 years of age can enter the sanctuary free of charge. For male and female visitors above 12 years of age, the entry fee is INR 25 for Indians and INR 50 for foreign nationals. Senior citizens above 60 years of age are eligible for a discounted entry fee of INR 10.
Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary offers facilities such as seating areas, shaded rest spots, and easy walking trails for senior citizens to comfortably explore the sanctuary. The staff at the sanctuary are also trained to assist senior citizens and provide any necessary support.
The best time to visit Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary is from the months of November to March, when the weather is pleasant and the wildlife sightings are at their peak. The monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rainfall, making it difficult for visitors to explore the sanctuary.
Located in the vicinity of Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary are several other attractions that visitors can explore. Some of the nearby places of interest include Agasthyakoodam Peak, Bonacaud Tea Estate, Meenmutty Waterfalls, and Neyyar Dam.
Visitors to the sanctuary can avail of the designated parking facilities available near the entrance. There is ample space for cars, bikes, and buses, ensuring a hassle-free parking experience for all visitors.
Visitors to Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary are required to adhere to certain rules and regulations to ensure the safety of the wildlife and the preservation of the natural habitat. Some of the guidelines include maintaining silence, avoiding littering, refraining from feeding the animals, and following the instructions of the sanctuary staff.
Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary is easily accessible by road from Thiruvananthapuram city, with regular bus services and taxi options available. The nearest railway station is Thiruvananthapuram Central, which is well-connected to major cities in the region. The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport, located approximately 50 kilometers away from the sanctuary.
Overall, a visit to Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and witness the beauty of Kerala's biodiversity up close. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, this sanctuary has something to offer for everyone.