Kodanad Elephant Training Centre
Sub Place Details: Kodanad, once famous for its massive Elephant Kraal, has now shifted its primary operations to the Abhayaranyam Eco-tourism project at Kaprikkad. It is one of the largest elephant training and rescue centers in Kerala. Situated on the banks of the Periyar River, it serves as a reh abilitation center for orphaned or injured elephants rescued from the wild. The sanctuary is part of a larger mini-zoo and deer park, spread over 123 hectares of lush forest land. Visitors can watch the elephants being bathed by their Mahouts in the river, which is a delightful sight, especially for children. The center follows humane training methods and focuses on the well-being of the animals. Apart from elephants, the park is home to several species of deer, including Sambar and Spotted Deer, which roam in large fenced enclosures. The environment is rustic and natural, offering a perfect escape from the urban noise of Kochi. It is a popular spot for school excursions and family picnics. The Abhayaranyam project aims to educate the public about wildlife conservation and the importance of protecting the elephant, which is the state animal of Kerala. Walking along the shaded pathways of the park, one can experience the typical flora and fauna of the Western Ghats foothills. The sight of baby elephants playing and interacting with their keepers is the main highlight of the visit. It is an ethically managed facility under the Kerala Forest Department, ensuring a safe environment for both the animals and the tourists.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
3 to 4 HoursPlace Type:
Wildlife & NatureEntry Fees:
Sub Place Entry Fees:
Adult Ticket: A nominal entry fee of Rs.20 to Rs.30 is charged for adults.
Camera Fee: Extra charges apply for Professional Cameras and video recording devices (around Rs.100). ...Sub Place Entry Fees:
Adult Ticket: A nominal entry fee of Rs.20 to Rs.30 is charged for adults.
Camera Fee: Extra charges apply for Professional Cameras and video recording devices (around Rs.100).Timing:
Sub Place Timings:
Regular Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
(Note: It is usually Closed on Mondays).
Ideal Visit Time: Arrive by 8:30 AM to catch the elephant bathing and feeding...Sub Place Timings:
Regular Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
(Note: It is usually Closed on Mondays).
Ideal Visit Time: Arrive by 8:30 AM to catch the elephant bathing and feeding sessions before it gets hot.Special Events:
Sub Place Special Event:
World Elephant Day: Celebrated on August 12 with special treats for the elephants and awareness programs for visitors.
Forest Week: During the first week of October, the center hosts ...Sub Place Special Event:
World Elephant Day: Celebrated on August 12 with special treats for the elephants and awareness programs for visitors.
Forest Week: During the first week of October, the center hosts educational tours and wildlife photo exhibitions.Best Photo Spots:
Sub Place Best Photo Spots:
Bathing Ghats: The Riverside during the bathing session (8:30 AM) is the best for action photography.
Deer Enclosure: The green meadows filled with Spotted Deer provide a postcard-...Sub Place Best Photo Spots:
Bathing Ghats: The Riverside during the bathing session (8:30 AM) is the best for action photography.
Deer Enclosure: The green meadows filled with Spotted Deer provide a postcard-perfect nature shot.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Sub Place Things to Do:
Watch Elephant Bathing: Arrive early to see the Gentle Giants being scrubbed and cleaned in the river waters.
Feed the Elephants: Under supervision, you can participate in Feeding the elephants with bananas or palm leaves.
Explore the Mini Zoo: Walk through the park to see different varieties of Deer and local birds in their enclosures.
Nature Walk: Take a long walk through the Canopied Trails to enjoy the fresh forest air and greenery.
Photography: Capture candid shots of Baby Elephants and the interaction between the mahouts and the animals.
Riverside Picnic: Spend some time by the Periyar banks, which is a great spot for relaxing and eat...
Information
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Why Famous:
Why Famous Sub Place:
Elephant Care: Famous as the primary Rescue Center for elephants in Central Kerala.
Bathing Rituals: Renowned for the daily Elephant Bathing sessions in the Periyar River which tourists ...Why Famous Sub Place:
Elephant Care: Famous as the primary Rescue Center for elephants in Central Kerala.
Bathing Rituals: Renowned for the daily Elephant Bathing sessions in the Periyar River which tourists can watch.
Eco-Tourism: Famous for the Abhayaranyam project which integrates wildlife protection with sustainable tourism. -
Architecture:
Sub Place Architecture:
Naturalistic Design: The enclosures are designed to mimic the Natural Habitat of the animals with minimal concrete.
Elephant Kraal: A traditional wooden structure (Aanakkoodu) used for...Sub Place Architecture:
Naturalistic Design: The enclosures are designed to mimic the Natural Habitat of the animals with minimal concrete.
Elephant Kraal: A traditional wooden structure (Aanakkoodu) used for training, showcasing ancient Kerala timber craft.
Park Dimensions: The park area covers 123 hectares, featuring long walking trails and riverside viewpoints. -
How To Reach:
Sub Place How to Reach:
By Air: Cochin International Airport is the nearest, located 18 KM away from the sanctuary.
By Train: Aluva is the nearest major railway station, approximately 25 KM from Kodanad.
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Near Tourist Places:
Malayattoor Church (2 KM across river), Kalady (12 KM), Athirappilly Falls (40 KM), Thattekad (25 KM), Bhoothathankettu (20 KM), Aluva (25 KM), Iringole Kavu (15 KM), Periyar River (0 KM), Perumbavoor (15 KM), Midhunam Park (10 KM)
Tourism Tips
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Sub Place Tourism Tips:
Footwear: Wear Walking Shoes or sneakers as you will need to walk quite a bit inside the park.
Plastic-Free Zone: This is an Eco-sensitive Area; do not carry plastic bags or litter in...
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