14 Days - Kerala Wildlife Tour

Welcome to India! On arrival in Cochin, set off on a scenic 7.5-hour drive to Wayanad, a region known for its breathtaking natural beauty and diverse landscapes. Situated at altitudes ranging from 750 metres to 2,100 metres, Wayanad is a patchwork of lush rice paddies, rolling savannah grasslands, and sprawling spice, tea, and coffee plantations, all set against a backdrop of jungle-covered mountains. The region is home to some of the most spectacular scenery in South India, with misty valleys, cascading waterfalls, and dense forests teeming with wildlife. As you journey through winding roads, you’ll pass vibrant local villages, where traditional ways of life continue amidst the rich greenery. On arrival, settle into your accommodation and take in the peaceful surroundings, ready to explore this stunning part of Kerala.

Set off early for a half-day trek through the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, a protected area within the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. Known for its thriving population of Asiatic elephants, the sanctuary is also home to an array of other wildlife, including spotted deer, wild boar, Indian bison (gaur), sloth bears, and a small but significant population of elusive tigers. As you walk through the dense forests, listen to the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves, keeping an eye out for wildlife moving through the undergrowth. The sanctuary’s rich biodiversity also includes numerous bird species, vibrant butterflies, and towering trees that form a lush canopy overhead.

In the afternoon, visit a breathtaking three-tiered waterfall nestled deep within the rainforest. The cascading water tumbles over rocky cliffs into a refreshing pool below, surrounded by dense foliage and mist rising from the falls. Take in the serene beauty of the setting, enjoy the cool spray from the waterfall, or take a short walk along the nearby trails to soak in the tranquillity of the rainforest. After a day of exploration, return to your accommodation and unwind amidst Wayanad’s stunning natural surroundings.

Set off early for a trek to the spectacular Chembra Peak, one of Wayanad’s highest and most iconic summits. Rising to 2,100 metres, the challenging ascent is well worth the effort, with breathtaking sunrise views stretching across the mist-shrouded valleys and rolling hills of Wayanad. Along the way, walk through tea plantations, dense forests, and grassy slopes, encountering the region’s rich flora and fauna. A highlight of the trek is the famous heart-shaped lake, a serene spot nestled within the hills, believed to be perennial and considered sacred by locals.

After reaching the summit and taking in the panoramic views, continue on a moderate four-hour trek through the surrounding wilderness, keeping an eye out for native wildlife. The area is home to a variety of species, including Malabar giant squirrels, langurs, and an array of birdlife, from colourful parakeets to soaring eagles. The peaceful trails wind through forests and meadows, offering an immersive experience in Wayanad’s diverse natural landscapes.

In the afternoon, begin the four-hour drive to the banks of the River Nila, a lifeline of Kerala’s cultural and ecological heritage. Arrive at your accommodation, a riverside hotel or farmhouse, where you can unwind amidst the tranquil setting. Spend the evening enjoying the calming sounds of the river, taking a stroll along its banks, or simply relaxing in the peaceful rural surroundings.

After breakfast, set off on a three-hour drive to Silent Valley, one of the most remote and least-visited wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala. Tucked high in the watershed of the Western Ghats, this 90-square-kilometre expanse of untouched rainforest is among the most pristine in India. Saved from dam construction in the 1980s after a major conservation effort, Silent Valley remains a sanctuary for rare and endangered species, its dense canopy sheltering a delicate ecosystem that has remained largely undisturbed for centuries.

On arrival, immerse yourself in the wilderness as you venture into the heart of the rainforest. The park is home to an astonishing variety of flora and fauna, including towering tropical trees, rare orchids, and medicinal plants. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot lion-tailed macaques, Nilgiri langurs, Malabar giant squirrels, and an incredible diversity of birdlife, from great hornbills to the elusive black eagle. The forest is also known for its thriving amphibian and insect populations, with streams and waterfalls weaving through the thick greenery.

As the day draws to a close, settle into a jungle camp for the night, surrounded by the sounds of the forest. Enjoy the peaceful seclusion of this untouched landscape, perhaps taking a short evening walk to soak in the cool mountain air.

A new adventure awaits today as you set off on a thrilling Jeep safari to Sairandhri Forest Camp, deep within the Silent Valley National Park. The journey takes you through dense rainforest, winding trails, and rugged terrain, offering glimpses of the park’s rich biodiversity along the way. On arrival at Sairandhri, climb the observation tower, which provides a sweeping panoramic view over the vast expanse of untouched wilderness, where layers of emerald-green canopy stretch as far as the eye can see.

Silent Valley is home to one of the largest viable breeding populations of the elusive lion-tailed macaque, a highly endangered arboreal monkey that spends most of its life high in the treetops. With luck, you may spot a troop swinging gracefully from branch to branch, their distinctive silver-white manes standing out against the dense foliage. The park is also a haven for birdwatchers, with species such as the Malabar trogon, great hornbill, and black eagle soaring above the treetops. Colourful butterflies flit through the undergrowth, while vibrant orchids bloom in the humid air, adding to the forest’s enchanting beauty.

Later, set off on a rainforest trek to the Kunthipuzha River, which flows through the heart of Silent Valley, its crystal-clear waters providing a lifeline for the park’s flora and fauna. Walk along trails shaded by towering trees, listening to the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves, with the occasional sighting of a Malabar giant squirrel or Nilgiri langur. As the day winds down, return to the jungle camp for another night surrounded by the peaceful sounds of the rainforest, offering a truly immersive experience in one of India’s most pristine natural landscapes.

After breakfast, set off on a scenic four-hour drive to Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary, a lesser-known gem tucked away on the western slopes of the Nelliyampathi Hills. Established in 1984, this 100-square-kilometre protected area is a stunning blend of tropical evergreen, semi-evergreen, and moist deciduous forests, offering a rich and diverse habitat for a wide range of flora and fauna. As you arrive, the dense greenery and rolling hills create a sense of seclusion, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

One of the highlights of your visit is the opportunity to bamboo-raft across the serene Chimmony reservoir, a peaceful experience that allows you to glide through calm waters surrounded by thick forest. Keep an eye out for birds, as the sanctuary is home to a variety of species, including Malabar pied hornbills, crested serpent eagles, and kingfishers darting over the water. If you’re lucky, you might even spot elephants or gaur emerging from the dense foliage for a drink along the shore.

Later, embark on a guided trek through the wilderness, following trails that wind through towering trees and lush undergrowth. The forest is teeming with wildlife, from playful langurs swinging through the canopy to elusive leopards that prowl the deeper jungle. The air is filled with the calls of birds and the distant rustling of unseen creatures, adding to the sense of adventure.

As the sun begins to set, settle into a rainforest camp for the night, immersing yourself in the untouched beauty of Chimmony.

Travel two and a half hours to Thattekkad, a world-renowned bird sanctuary and one of the finest birdwatching destinations in India. Covering 25 square kilometres, this rich and diverse habitat is a haven for bird enthusiasts and butterfly watchers alike. Thattekkad, also known as the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, was named after India’s most celebrated ornithologist, who once described it as the richest bird habitat in peninsular India. The sanctuary is home to an astonishing 275 species of birds, many of which are endemic to the Western Ghats, making it a must-visit for wildlife lovers.

As you explore the dense lowland forests, keep your binoculars ready for sightings of rare and vibrant bird species. The crimson-throated barbet, Malabar grey hornbill, white-bellied treepie, and Sri Lanka frogmouth are just some of the unique birds that can be spotted among the towering trees. The sanctuary also provides habitat for raptors such as the crested serpent eagle and the black baza, as well as an array of water birds along its rivers and wetlands. The sheer variety of bird calls echoing through the forest creates an immersive experience for any visitor.

Beyond birdwatching, Thattekkad is also a paradise for butterfly enthusiasts, with countless species fluttering through the forest, adding bursts of colour to the lush greenery. The sanctuary’s rich biodiversity extends to its mammal and reptile populations, with sightings of Malabar giant squirrels, jungle cats, and even the occasional elephant wandering through its quieter corners.

As the day winds down, settle into a forest camp for an overnight stay, surrounded by the sounds of the jungle. The peaceful environment, combined with the opportunity to witness some of India’s rarest birds in their natural habitat, makes this an unforgettable experience for nature lovers.

Travel two and a half hours through a landscape of rolling tea and coffee plantations, dense cardamom forests, and mist-covered hills to reach Munnar, one of India’s most beloved hill stations. Nestled at an altitude of around 1,600 metres in the Western Ghats, Munnar is a retreat into cool mountain air, lush greenery, and breathtaking scenery. The journey itself is a visual delight, with winding roads passing through spice-scented forests and neatly manicured tea gardens that stretch endlessly across the hillsides.

Munnar is renowned for its vast tea estates, originally established by the British in the late 19th century, and remains one of India’s key tea-producing regions. The sight of endless green terraces, dotted with tea pickers carefully plucking fresh leaves, creates a postcard-perfect setting. Along the way, you may spot small roadside stalls selling freshly brewed local tea, a perfect way to sample the region’s famous flavours.

On arrival, take in the refreshing mountain air and settle into your accommodation, ready to explore the charms of this picturesque hill station.

Drive two and a half hours along winding mountain roads to Chinnar, a unique dry deciduous forest region known for its rugged landscapes and rich biodiversity. On arrival, set off on a trek to the Vysapara Hills, a scenic area within the 91-square-kilometre wildlife sanctuary. The terrain here is strikingly different from the lush greenery of Kerala’s rainforests, featuring thorny scrubland, open grasslands, and rocky hills that provide excellent vantage points over the surrounding wilderness.

Chinnar is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including spotted deer, elephants, leopards, and even the elusive tiger. The sanctuary is particularly special as it harbours Kerala’s only population of the endangered grizzled giant squirrel, a rare species found in just a few pockets of South India. Birdwatchers will also find this an excellent location, with over 225 species recorded, including yellow-throated bulbuls, Malabar parakeets, and crested serpent eagles.

As the day winds down, settle into a rustic jungle hut for an overnight stay, surrounded by the sounds of nature. With no modern distractions, the experience offers a chance to fully embrace the wilderness, listening to the distant calls of nocturnal creatures and the rustling of leaves in the cool mountain breeze.

Set off on a trek along the Pambar River trail, where the gentle sound of flowing water and the calls of birds create a peaceful atmosphere. Winding through scenic, undulating terrain, the trail takes you across rocky patches and dry deciduous forest, offering an excellent opportunity to observe the region’s diverse wildlife. As you walk, keep an eye out for langurs swinging through the trees, Malabar giant squirrels darting between branches, and herds of spotted deer moving quietly through the undergrowth. Birdwatchers will be rewarded with sightings of endemic species such as the Malabar grey hornbill, the white-bellied woodpecker, and various colourful kingfishers along the riverbanks.

The Pambar River, a lifeline for local flora and fauna, adds to the beauty of the landscape with its small cascades and tranquil pools. The trail itself offers a mix of easy and slightly challenging sections, making it an engaging yet accessible hike for nature lovers. The contrast between the dry forest and the lush riverbanks provides a unique ecological setting, where different species thrive in harmony.

In the evening, experience an unforgettable stay in a treehouse, carefully crafted by the local community using sustainably sourced materials from the surrounding region. Perched high among the trees, the treehouse offers a truly immersive experience in nature, with panoramic views over the forest and a chance to fall asleep to the soothing sounds of the wilderness.

Travel six hours to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, one of India’s largest and most diverse wildlife reserves, covering an expansive 777 square kilometres. Nestled in the Western Ghats, Periyar is a thriving ecosystem known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes, ranging from dense forests and grasslands to tranquil lakes and rolling hills. The sanctuary is home to an impressive variety of wildlife, with 63 recorded species of mammals, including elephants, gaur, leopards, and the elusive Bengal tiger. Bird enthusiasts will find plenty to admire, with a remarkable checklist of 323 species, including great hornbills, Malabar trogons, and pied kingfishers.

In the evening, embark on a thrilling ‘night patrol’ through the forest, an experience that offers a completely different perspective of the wilderness. With a trained guide and forest guard, walk through the reserve under the cover of darkness, listening to the mysterious sounds of nocturnal creatures stirring in the undergrowth. The stillness of the night is occasionally interrupted by the calls of owls, the distant roar of a predator, or the rustling of an unseen animal moving through the trees.

After this unforgettable adventure, retire to your jungle lodge for the night, surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature. With the cool forest air and the distant echoes of the wild, it’s a truly immersive way to experience Periyar’s extraordinary natural beauty.

Take the opportunity to embark on a nature trek and bamboo rafting experience, offering a unique chance to explore Periyar’s diverse landscapes up close. As you navigate through the wilderness, keep an eye out for grazing animals such as sambar deer and Indian bison, while herds of elephants are often spotted near the water’s edge. Though tiger sightings are rare, the possibility of encountering one adds to the thrill of the journey.

Periyar is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with hundreds of recorded species filling the skies and tree canopies. The sanctuary is home to all Western Ghats endemic birds except the Nilgiri laughing thrush, making it a prime destination for bird enthusiasts. Watch for the Malabar grey hornbill, the white-bellied treepie, and the striking black-and-orange flycatcher among the dense foliage.

After a day of adventure, return to your jungle lodge for another night immersed in nature. The peaceful surroundings, combined with the distant calls of the forest, provide a perfect setting to relax and reflect on the day's wildlife encounters.

After breakfast, set off on a two-hour drive to the Vallakkadavu campsite, a secluded wilderness retreat nestled within the Periyar Tiger Reserve. This remote and pristine location provides an excellent base for observing wildlife in its natural habitat, away from the more frequented areas of the park. The campsite is surrounded by a mix of evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, creating a diverse ecosystem that supports a wide variety of flora and fauna.

On arrival, take a short trek through the forest, following trails that wind beneath towering trees and past thick undergrowth. The Periyar Tiger Reserve is home to a rich array of wildlife, and with a bit of luck, you may spot grazing sambar deer, wild boar, or even a herd of elephants moving through the trees. The dense vegetation also provides shelter for smaller creatures, including Malabar giant squirrels, Nilgiri langurs, and an impressive variety of reptiles and amphibians.

Birdwatchers will find the area particularly rewarding, with a chance to spot endemic species such as the Malabar trogon, white-bellied blue flycatcher, and the great hornbill. The sounds of chirping birds, rustling leaves, and distant animal calls create a truly immersive rainforest experience.

As evening falls, settle into your tent for an overnight stay. The remote setting, combined with the crisp mountain air and star-lit sky, makes for an unforgettable night in the heart of the Periyar wilderness.

Take an early morning trek for your final fix of wildlife viewing. Drive approximately 4 hours to Cochin airport for flight to onward destination.