The Kalakkadu Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu, India. Established in 1988, the sanctuary is spread over an area of 223 square kilometers and is known for its diverse flora and fauna. The sanctuary is home to several endangered species and provides a natural habitat for a wide variety of wildlife.
The Kalakkadu Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Western Ghats region, near the town of Ambasamudram in Tirunelveli district. It is located at an altitude ranging from 100 meters to 1,800 meters above sea level. The sanctuary is known for its dense forests, rolling hills, and gushing streams that add to its natural beauty.
The Kalakkadu Wildlife Sanctuary is open to visitors from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM on all days of the week.
There is a nominal entry fee for visitors to the sanctuary, which helps in the conservation and maintenance of the wildlife habitat.
The sanctuary is home to a rich variety of plant and animal species. Visitors can spot species like elephants, tigers, leopards, deer, wild boars, and various species of birds and butterflies. The sanctuary is also known for its rare and endemic plant species that add to its biodiversity.
Visitors to the Kalakkadu Wildlife Sanctuary can enjoy activities like nature walks, bird watching, trekking, and wildlife photography. The sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of nature up close.
The sanctuary also offers jeep safaris for visitors who want to explore the wildlife sanctuary in a guided tour. The charges for jeep safaris are reasonable and provide a thrilling experience for visitors.
There is a specific entry fee for visitors based on their age. Children below a certain age may have free entry, while adults and senior citizens may have to pay a nominal fee. The age criteria and entry fee are subject to change, so it is advisable to inquire at the sanctuary entrance before visiting.
The Kalakkadu Wildlife Sanctuary provides special facilities for senior citizens, including reserved seating areas, wheelchair accessibility, and other amenities to ensure a comfortable visit for elderly visitors.
The best time to visit the Kalakkadu Wildlife Sanctuary is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and conducive for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities.
There are several attractions near the Kalakkadu Wildlife Sanctuary that visitors can explore, including the Agasthiyar Falls, Papanasam Dam, and the Manimuthar Dam. These places offer scenic beauty and recreational activities for tourists.
The sanctuary provides ample parking space for vehicles near the entrance, ensuring convenience for visitors who arrive by their private vehicles.
Visitors to the Kalakkadu Wildlife Sanctuary are required to follow certain rules and regulations to ensure the safety of wildlife and maintain the ecological balance of the sanctuary. Some of the rules include not littering, not feeding the animals, and not disturbing the natural habitat in any way.
The Kalakkadu Wildlife Sanctuary is easily accessible by road from major cities like Tirunelveli, Tenkasi, and Thiruvananthapuram. Visitors can hire a private vehicle or take public transportation to reach the sanctuary. The nearest airport is located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, which is approximately 90 kilometers away.
For more information on visiting the Kalakkadu Wildlife Sanctuary, visitors can contact the sanctuary office or check the official website for updates on entry fees, timings, and other related information.