Enchanting Kerala

KERALA TOURISM NEWSLETTER

Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary

An abode of serenity and scenic beauty would be the ideal words to describe the Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary. Established in the year 1984 this wildlife sanctuary is situated in the Mukundapuram taluk of Thrissur district and covers an area of 87 sq km on the western slopes of Nelliyampathy.

A fine blend of tropical evergreen, semi evergreen and moist deciduous forests, the sanctuary offers an elating experience for nature enthusiasts. The lush surroundings provide an ideal habitat for flowering plants, birds, butterflies and wildlife. The sanctuary has a dam, which was constructed across the Chimmini River at 75 m above the sea level. An artificial lake has been formed by this. Ghat Mountains encircle the Chimmini River offering a breathtaking spectacle.

Trekking and camping in the Chimmini sanctuary offer you an inimitable experience. The dense tropical forests of Chimmini is home to innumerable species of flora and fauna, which include Bonnet macaque, Nilgiri langur, Lion-tailed macaque, Slender loris, Tiger, Panther, Jungle cat, Small Indian civet, Common otter, Malabar squirrel, Indian porcupine, elephant, wild buffalo, Sambar, Barking deer, Mouse deer, Indian wild boar and more than 150 types of birds. For an ardent bird and butterfly watcher, a visit to Chimmini would be a memorable experience. One might even come across the Southern Birdwing, India's largest butterfly or the Blue Mormon, the second largest butterfly in the Western Ghats. The Atlas moth, the largest in the world is also spotted here.

A section of the Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary lies adjacent to the Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary and the other extends to the Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary. This sanctuary lies at an altitude between 40 m to 1110 m above sea level. Punda peak is said to be the highest in the region at 1116 m.

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Thrissur, about 30 km from Chimmini.
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 58 km from Chimmini.

Contact:
Wildlife Forest Office
Peechi
Thrissur District
Tel: +91-487-2699017