Wayanad Wildlife Trail

Wayanad has 26% of its areas under forest cover, the highest in any district of Kerala. There are two large wildlife sanctuaries: Muthanga and Tholpetty. These two wildlife reserves have an amazing variety of flora and fauna, including some endangered and rare species. They are part of the important strip that contains the remaining tracts of the much renowned and unique ecosystem of the Western Ghats. The wildlife sanctuaries of Wayanad are a huge attraction for every wildlife enthusiast.

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary - Muthanga

Muthanga is located 18 kms to the eastern side of Sultan Bathery in the Nilgiri Biosphere Region and covers a wide area. This rain forest reserve is connected to two other wildlife reserves: Bandipur National Park in Karnataka and Mudumalai Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu.

The greenery comprises mainly of moist deciduous forest. There are also small stretches of marshes, teak forests, tall grass and bamboo. Due to the presence of a variety of flora the region is home to some rare herbs and medicinal plants.

The area is covered with several watering holes and has a large population of elephants. As such Muthanga has been declared as a Project Elephant site. Among the other wild animals found here are Sambar, Leopards, Gaur, Cheetal, Hanuman Langur, Barking Deer and Slender Loris. Tigers are also found in Muthanga, although in very small numbers. The reserve is also known for various species of birds, butterflies and insects living there.

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary – Tholpetty

Tholpetty reserve is located adjacent to the northern ridge of the district that borders Coorg in Karnataka. Tholpetty and Muthanga have almost similar flora and fauna. The ideal time to visit both the wildlife reserves is from November to May.