Thattekkad side, which is widely known for its rich forest habitat along the Periyar River, is one of the most famous birding landscapes of Kerala located in Ernakulam. The area has been repeatedly acknowledged as one of the most intensive bird habitats in peninsular India, and it is a place where you can find not only the forest- based birds but also the water birds from the same trip. Most of the walks take you through the gentle forest of the shaded and calm stretches that look even warm days. Early starters will definitely have a better time since that is when the birds are most active both vocally and in their movements.
Click Here to view the list of accredited adventure activity providers offering Bird Watching experiences in Ernakulam.
Bird watchers should start their sessions just after sunrise to see the birds most active.
Perhaps the best way to recognize the birds is by their sounds and one can accomplish this with the help of an expert guide.
People should wear dull, colored clothes and good walking shoes; seaside socks are good during the rainy seasons.
Half, day to full, day birdwatching trips
Easy to moderate (forest paths and gentle trails)
October to March (avoid the monsoon peak because some areas will be hard to access)
Short bird trail access: INR 50–INR 100 per person Guided bird walk (around 3 hours): ~INR 500 per person Half-day guided birding (group-based): ~INR 600 per person (minimum total often ~INR 1,800 for 2–3 people) Eco-camp with trekking, boating, and birding (1 night / 2 days): ~INR 7,500 for two people + ~INR 1,500 per additional person.
By Bus: Bus route from Kochi to Kothamangalam (nearest major town, about 12-13 km from the birding zone), then local transport onwards.
