Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
General Overview: The Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is a unique protected area located in the rain shadow region of the Western Ghats. Unlike the lush evergreen forests typical of Kerala, Chinnar features dry deciduous forests, thorny scrub, and extensive grasslands. This distinct ecosystem makes it a haven for rare species like the Grizzled Giant Squirrel and the Star Tortoise. The sanctuary is situated along the Munnar-Udumalpet road, making it easily accessible for travelers heading toward Tamil Nadu. It is bordered by the Eravikulam National Park to the south and the Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary to the north. The Pambar River flows through the sanctuary, creating the spectacular Thoovanam Waterfalls, which is a major trekking destination. The dry climate and varied topography support a wide range of flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and over 200 species of birds. The sanctuary is also home to several tribal settlements, predominantly the Muthuvas and Pulayas, who live in harmony with the wild. Visitors can experience guided trekking, night stays in treehouses, and wildlife safaris. The watchtowers within the sanctuary provide excellent vantage points for spotting animals and enjoying the rugged landscape. Chinnar is celebrated for its biodiversity and its role as a rehabilitation center for the Indian Star Tortoise. It offers a raw and authentic wilderness experience that is quite different from the misty tea gardens of nearby Munnar.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
4 to 6 HoursPlace Type:
Wildlife / NatureEntry Fees:
Indian Tourists: Entry is 10 rupees for adults and 5 rupees for children.
Foreigners: The fee is 100 rupees.
Trekking & Safari: Guided trekking to Thoovanam falls and jeep safaris have separate charges rangi...Indian Tourists: Entry is 10 rupees for adults and 5 rupees for children.
Foreigners: The fee is 100 rupees.
Trekking & Safari: Guided trekking to Thoovanam falls and jeep safaris have separate charges ranging from 200 to 500 rupees per person.Timing:
Regular Timings: The sanctuary is open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning at 7:00 AM is best for wildlife sightings, while 4:00 PM is ideal for bird watching and the sunset view from the tower. ...Regular Timings: The sanctuary is open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning at 7:00 AM is best for wildlife sightings, while 4:00 PM is ideal for bird watching and the sunset view from the tower.Special Events:
Tribal Festivals: The local Muthuva tribes celebrate seasonal festivals with traditional dances and music, which can sometimes be observed by tourists with permission.
Wildlife Week: Celebrated in the first week of October, the sanctuary hos...Tribal Festivals: The local Muthuva tribes celebrate seasonal festivals with traditional dances and music, which can sometimes be observed by tourists with permission.
Wildlife Week: Celebrated in the first week of October, the sanctuary hosts various awareness programs, photo exhibitions, and educational walks for visitors.Best Photo Spots:
Thoovanam Falls Viewpoint: The best spot to capture the white cascading water against the green forest backdrop.
The Watchtower: Offers a 360-degree panoramic shot of the entire sanctuary and the peaks of Tamil Nadu in the distance.
...Thoovanam Falls Viewpoint: The best spot to capture the white cascading water against the green forest backdrop.
The Watchtower: Offers a 360-degree panoramic shot of the entire sanctuary and the peaks of Tamil Nadu in the distance.
Pambar River Bed: Ideal for close-up shots of the unique rock formations and the dry thorny vegetation characteristic of the region.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Wildlife Safari: Join a forest department jeep safari to spot elephants, deer, and the famous Grizzled Giant Squirrel. The safaris are best done in the early morning or late afternoon when animal activity is at its peak.
Trekking to Thoovanam Falls: This is a moderate trek of about 3 kilometers through the forest. The trail offers a chance to see various birds and butterflies before reaching the majestic falls on the Pambar River.
River Trekking: For those who love water, the sanctuary offers guided treks along the riverbanks, providing a unique perspective of the riparian ecosystem.
Night Camping: Stay in the forest department’s log houses or treehouses for a night. Listening to the sounds of the wild under a starry sky is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. <...
Information
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Why Famous:
Rare Species: Chinnar is world-famous for the Grizzled Giant Squirrel, an endangered species rarely seen elsewhere.
Archaeological Value: It is home to ancient megalithic burials and "Muniyaras" (dolmens) that date back thousands of years, a...Rare Species: Chinnar is world-famous for the Grizzled Giant Squirrel, an endangered species rarely seen elsewhere.
Archaeological Value: It is home to ancient megalithic burials and "Muniyaras" (dolmens) that date back thousands of years, attracting history buffs and researchers. -
Architecture:
Natural & Man-made Structures: The sanctuary features traditional tribal architecture in its "Muniyaras" (dolmens) and watchtowers.
Eco-Friendly Design: Most tourist facilities, including the interpretation center and forest lodges, are buil...Natural & Man-made Structures: The sanctuary features traditional tribal architecture in its "Muniyaras" (dolmens) and watchtowers.
Eco-Friendly Design: Most tourist facilities, including the interpretation center and forest lodges, are built using sustainable materials like bamboo and stone to blend with the dry deciduous environment of the Chinnar region. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Cochin International Airport is about 150 KM away, while Coimbatore Airport is about 110 KM from the sanctuary.
By Train: Aluva is the nearest major station in Kerala (160 KM), while Udumalpet in Tamil Nadu is much closer (30 KM). -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Thoovanam Falls (3 KM), 2. Eravikulam National Park (45 KM), 3. Munnar Tea Museum (60 KM), 4. Anamudi Peak (50 KM), 5. Lakkam Waterfalls (35 KM), 6. Marayoor Sandalwood Forest (15 KM), 7. Muniyara Dolmens (18 KM), 8. Top Station (90 KM), 9. Mattupetty Dam (70 KM), 10. Echo Point (75 KM)
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Stay on the designated trails and always follow your forest guide. Carry an insect repellent to protect against leeches and ticks.
Packing: Wear earthy-toned clothing to blend in and carry a reusable water bottle.
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