Shenduruney Wildlife Sanctuary
Shenduruney Wildlife Sanctuary is a pristine protected area located in the foothills of the Western Ghats in Kollam. Established in 1984, it covers an area of approximately 172 square kilometers and is part of the Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve. The sanctuary gets its unique name from the endemic tree species called 'Chenkuruny' (Gluta travancorica), which is found abundantly here. The heart of the sanctuary is the artificial lake formed by the Thenmala Dam, which provides a stunning backdrop for wildlife sightings. It is home to a variety of animals including elephants, tigers, leopards, and the endangered lion-tailed macaque. The forest types range from tropical evergreen to semi-evergreen, making it a treasure house of plant diversity. For adventure seekers, the sanctuary offers trekking trails, jungle camping, and boat safaris. The area is also famous for the first eco-tourism project in India, Thenmala Eco-Tourism, which is situated in and around the sanctuary. Visitors can explore the deer rehabilitation center, the butterfly safari park, and the musical dancing fountain nearby. The sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 250 species of birds recorded. The ancient Mesolithic caves discovered here add an archaeological significance to the site, proving human habitation thousands of years ago. It is a perfect destination for those looking to immerse themselves in raw nature.
General information
-
Ideal Duration:
1 to 2 DaysPlace Type:
Wildlife Sanctuary / ForestSpecial Events:
World Environment Day: Massive reforestation drives and nature camps held in June.
Wildlife Week: Special educational programs and photography contests held in October. ...World Environment Day: Massive reforestation drives and nature camps held in June.
Wildlife Week: Special educational programs and photography contests held in October.Best Photo Spots:
Thenmala Dam View: The massive spillway with the backdrop of the hills.
Butterfly Park: Colorful macro shots of various butterfly species.
Rosemala Valley: Sunset shots overlooking the serpentine reservoir....Thenmala Dam View: The massive spillway with the backdrop of the hills.
Butterfly Park: Colorful macro shots of various butterfly species.
Rosemala Valley: Sunset shots overlooking the serpentine reservoir.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
-
Boat Safari: Cruise the reservoir to spot elephants and bisons on the banks.
Jungle Trekking: Guided walks through dense evergreen forests.
Bird Watching: Spot the Great Indian Hornbill and other rare species.
Butterfly Safari: Visit Asia's first open butterfly park nearby.
Camping: Overnight stays in forest tents for a thrilling experience.
Photography: Capture the mist-covered mountains and diverse wildlife.
Deer Rehabilitation Center: See various species of deer in a protected environment.
Treetop Walk: Experience the forest canopy from a height. ...
Information
-
Why Famous:
Endemic Flora: Famous for the 'Chenkuruny' tree which is not found anywhere else.
First Eco-Tourism Project: Home to India's pioneer sustainable tourism initiative at Thenmala.
Lion-Tailed Macaque: One of t...Endemic Flora: Famous for the 'Chenkuruny' tree which is not found anywhere else.
First Eco-Tourism Project: Home to India's pioneer sustainable tourism initiative at Thenmala.
Lion-Tailed Macaque: One of the few places to spot this highly endangered primate.
Mesolithic Remains: Archaeological sites within the forest date back to the Stone Age. -
Architecture:
Eco-Friendly Infrastructure and Dam Engineering: The sanctuary features the Thenmala Dam, an engineering marvel with a height of 85 meters and a length of 338 meters. The eco-tourism facilities utilize sustainable architecture with bamboo huts and stone-paved pathways that...Eco-Friendly Infrastructure and Dam Engineering: The sanctuary features the Thenmala Dam, an engineering marvel with a height of 85 meters and a length of 338 meters. The eco-tourism facilities utilize sustainable architecture with bamboo huts and stone-paved pathways that blend into the forest. The information centers are built with local materials, minimizing the carbon footprint. Lookout towers (Machans) are strategically placed for wildlife viewing. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Trivandrum International Airport is 80 kms away.
By Train: Punalur Railway Station is the nearest, 21 kms away.
By Road: Located on the Kollam-Shenkottai Road (NH 744).
... -
Near Tourist Places:
Thenmala Dam (1 km), Palaruvi Falls (15 km), Deer Park (2 km), Kumbhavurutty Falls (25 km), Aryankavu Temple (15 km), Kulathupuzha Temple (10 km), Jatayu Earth Center (35 km), Courtallam Falls (40 km), Rosemala (12 km), Punalur Suspension Bridge (22 km).
Tourism Tips
-
Health & Safety: Follow guide instructions strictly; avoid carrying plastic.
Packing: Wear camouflage or dull-colored clothing and sturdy trekking shoes.
Accommodation: Forest departments provide eco-lodge...
Reviews
Shenduruney Wildlife 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
Amritapuri
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Anandavalleeswaram Temple
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Ashtamudi Lake
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Asramam Adventure Park
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Azheekal Beach
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Infant Jesus Cathedral
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Jatayu Adventure Center
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Karunagappally
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Kollam Beach
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Kottukkal Cave Temple
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewherein Other Cities