How To Reach Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
The Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, affectionately known as Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, is a haven for avian enthusiasts and holds the distinction of being Kerala's inaugural bird sanctuary. Established in 1983, it owes its existence to the pioneering efforts of Dr. Salim Ali, the celebrated 'Birdman of Ind ia', who, in the 1930s, identified this 25 square kilometre stretch of lush lowland forest as an unparalleled bird habitat. Situated strategically on the northern bank of the Periyar River, the sanctuary is characterized by a unique blend of tropical evergreen, semi-evergreen, and moist deciduous forests, interspersed with teak, rosewood, and mahogany plantations. This varied vegetation creates a perfect ecosystem supporting an extraordinary diversity of birdlife—over 320 species have been recorded. Birdwatchers flock here, particularly between October and March, to witness endemic species like the Ceylon Frogmouth, Malabar Grey Hornbill, Wynaad Laughingthrush, and the vivid Malabar Trogon, alongside various migratory visitors. The tranquil setting, coupled with the symphony of birdsong, offers a profoundly immersive nature experience, attracting researchers, photographers, and tourists seeking solitude amidst rich biodiversity. The sanctuary also plays host to a small population of mammals like the Asian Elephant, Leopard, Sloth Bear, and Sambar Deer, enhancing the overall wilderness appeal.
How to Reach
By Air:
Nearest Airport: The nearest major airport is Cochin International Airport (COK), located in Nedumbassery, which is approximately 60-70 KMS away from Thattekad.
Connectivity: COK is a major hub, well-connected to all major cities across India (Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Kolkata) and international destinations in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. Flights are frequent and offer diverse options.
Airport to Sanctuary: Upon arrival at Cochin International Airport, you can easily hire a pre-paid taxi or a private cab (which will take about 1. 5 to 2 hours). Alternatively, one can take a public or private bus from the airport to the town of Kothamangalam (about 13 KMS from the sanctuary) and then a local bus or auto-rickshaw to Thattekad.
By Train:
Nearest Railway Station: The nearest major railway station is Aluva Railway Station (AWY), approximately 48-50 KMS from Thattekad. Ernakulam Junction (ERS), a slightly larger station, is about 60 KMS away.
Connectivity: Both Aluva and Ernakulam are well-connected by express and passenger trains to all major Indian cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and other key cities in Kerala.
Station to Sanctuary: From Aluva or Ernakulam railway stations, you can hire a taxi directly to Thattekad. For budget travellers, frequent public or private bus services are available from both stations to Kothamangalam, from where local transport (bus/auto) can be taken.
By Road:
Major Road Access: Thattekad is well-connected by road, primarily via the town of Kothamangalam. The distance from Kothamangalam to the sanctuary is only about 12-13 KMS.
From Kochi/Ernakulam: The drive from Kochi city is approximately 60 KMS and takes about 1. 5 to 2 hours. One can take a taxi or use the frequent state-run (KSRTC) or private bus services. Buses generally operate from Ernakulam via Muvattupuzha or Perumbavoor to Kothamangalam.
Scenic Drive: The final stretch of the journey, especially the ride from Kothamangalam along the Pooyamkutty road towards Thattekad, is scenic, passing through rubber and spice plantations and lush greenery.
By Local Transport:
Kothamangalam Hub: The nearest major local transport hub is Kothamangalam bus stand. Frequent private bus services connect Kothamangalam directly to the Thattekad area (near the sanctuary entrance).
Auto-Rickshaws and Taxis: Auto-rickshaws and local taxis are readily available in Kothamangalam for the final 12-13 KMS leg of the journey to the sanctuary. Negotiating the fare before the journey is advisable.
Internal Transport: Within the sanctuary area, the primary modes of transport are walking (on the designated trails) and cycling (rentals available near the area). Boating is also available on the Periyar River for a different perspective.
Nearest Airport: The nearest major airport is Cochin International Airport (COK), located in Nedumbassery, which is approximately 60-70 KMS away from Thattekad.
Connectivity: COK is a major hub, well-connected to all major cities across India (Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Kolkata) and international destinations in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. Flights are frequent and offer diverse options.
Airport to Sanctuary: Upon arrival at Cochin International Airport, you can easily hire a pre-paid taxi or a private cab (which will take about 1. 5 to 2 hours). Alternatively, one can take a public or private bus from the airport to the town of Kothamangalam (about 13 KMS from the sanctuary) and then a local bus or auto-rickshaw to Thattekad.
By Train:
Nearest Railway Station: The nearest major railway station is Aluva Railway Station (AWY), approximately 48-50 KMS from Thattekad. Ernakulam Junction (ERS), a slightly larger station, is about 60 KMS away.
Connectivity: Both Aluva and Ernakulam are well-connected by express and passenger trains to all major Indian cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and other key cities in Kerala.
Station to Sanctuary: From Aluva or Ernakulam railway stations, you can hire a taxi directly to Thattekad. For budget travellers, frequent public or private bus services are available from both stations to Kothamangalam, from where local transport (bus/auto) can be taken.
By Road:
Major Road Access: Thattekad is well-connected by road, primarily via the town of Kothamangalam. The distance from Kothamangalam to the sanctuary is only about 12-13 KMS.
From Kochi/Ernakulam: The drive from Kochi city is approximately 60 KMS and takes about 1. 5 to 2 hours. One can take a taxi or use the frequent state-run (KSRTC) or private bus services. Buses generally operate from Ernakulam via Muvattupuzha or Perumbavoor to Kothamangalam.
Scenic Drive: The final stretch of the journey, especially the ride from Kothamangalam along the Pooyamkutty road towards Thattekad, is scenic, passing through rubber and spice plantations and lush greenery.
By Local Transport:
Kothamangalam Hub: The nearest major local transport hub is Kothamangalam bus stand. Frequent private bus services connect Kothamangalam directly to the Thattekad area (near the sanctuary entrance).
Auto-Rickshaws and Taxis: Auto-rickshaws and local taxis are readily available in Kothamangalam for the final 12-13 KMS leg of the journey to the sanctuary. Negotiating the fare before the journey is advisable.
Internal Transport: Within the sanctuary area, the primary modes of transport are walking (on the designated trails) and cycling (rentals available near the area). Boating is also available on the Periyar River for a different perspective.
Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary Tourism:-
Information about New and Updated Locations(891+) of Kerala Has Been Added :-
Card subtitle
Note:-
Information provided here in good Faith and for reference only.
All information and pictures will be updated soon, please keep visiting.
Near Places
Bhoothathankettu Barrage
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Injathotty Hanging Bridge
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere