Located in the Wayanad district of Kerala, the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Spread across an area of 344 square kilometers, the sanctuary is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.
The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Western Ghats and is bordered by the states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. The sanctuary is characterized by dense forests, rolling hills, and picturesque water bodies, making it a truly scenic destination.
The sanctuary is open to visitors from 7 AM to 10 AM and from 3 PM to 5 PM on all days of the week, except for holidays. It is advisable to plan your visit during these timings to make the most of your trip.
The entry fee for adults is INR 150, while children below the age of 12 are charged INR 50. Foreign tourists are required to pay a higher entry fee of INR 300 per person.
The sanctuary is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, leopards, deer, bears, and numerous bird species. The lush greenery of the sanctuary provides a perfect habitat for these animals to thrive.
Visitors to the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary can indulge in a range of activities such as trekking, bird watching, and nature walks. The sanctuary also offers guided tours and jeep safaris to explore the wildlife in its natural habitat.
The charges for a jeep safari in the sanctuary vary based on the duration and route chosen. On average, a 2-hour safari may cost around INR 1000 per person. It is recommended to book your safari in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.
The entry fee for males and females above the age of 12 is INR 150, while children below the age of 12 are charged INR 50. Senior citizens above the age of 60 are entitled to a discounted entry fee of INR 75.
The sanctuary provides special facilities for senior citizens, including wheelchair access and designated rest areas. Senior citizens can also avail of discounts on entry fees and safari charges, making it a more accessible and enjoyable experience for them.
The best time to visit the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is during the winter months of October to February when the weather is pleasant and the wildlife is more active. The monsoon season from June to September also offers a unique experience with lush greenery and an abundance of flora.
Some of the popular tourist attractions near the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary include the Edakkal Caves, Soochipara Waterfalls, and Pookode Lake. These places offer a glimpse into the rich cultural and natural heritage of Wayanad.
The sanctuary provides ample parking space for both two-wheelers and four-wheelers near the entrance gate. Visitors can safely park their vehicles and proceed to explore the sanctuary on foot or by availing of the safari services.
Visitors are required to follow certain rules and regulations while inside the sanctuary to ensure the safety of both themselves and the wildlife. Littering, feeding animals, and making loud noises are strictly prohibited. It is also advisable to maintain a safe distance from wild animals and follow the instructions of the forest authorities.
The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is easily accessible by road from the nearby towns of Kalpetta and Sulthan Bathery. The nearest railway station is in Kozhikode, located around 110 kilometers away. The sanctuary is well connected by a network of roads, and private taxis and buses are readily available for transportation. It is recommended to plan your visit in advance and check for any updates regarding timings and entry fees before you embark on your journey.