Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Discover Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary: a serene escape with a majestic dam, lush greenery, boat rides, and diverse wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary: a serene escape with a majestic dam, lush greenery, boat rides, and diverse wildlife.
"A beautiful destination for nature and wildlife lovers, perfect for a day trip."
📸 Capture the Views
The dam top offers stunning photo ops, especially with open gates. Bring your camera!
🚤 Don't Miss the Boat Ride
A boat safari is highly recommended for wildlife spotting and scenic beauty.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Neyyar Dam Views
Top of the dam
Spectacular panoramic views, especially when dam gates are open. A photographer's paradise!
Boat Safari
Neyyar Reservoir
Glide through serene waters, spotting wildlife and enjoying lush green surroundings.
Deer Park
Within the sanctuary
Observe herds of deer in their natural habitat, a delightful sight for all ages.
Crocodile Park
Near the dam
See various species of crocodiles up close in their enclosures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Navigating Neyyar: Tickets and Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Views
The dam top offers stunning photo ops, especially with open gates. Bring your camera!
🚤 Don't Miss the Boat Ride
A boat safari is highly recommended for wildlife spotting and scenic beauty.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring.
💧 Rainy Day Preparedness
If visiting during monsoon, carry an umbrella or raincoat for unexpected showers.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Views
The dam top offers stunning photo ops, especially with open gates. Bring your camera!
🚤 Don't Miss the Boat Ride
A boat safari is highly recommended for wildlife spotting and scenic beauty.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring.
💧 Rainy Day Preparedness
If visiting during monsoon, carry an umbrella or raincoat for unexpected showers.
👨👩👧 Family Fun Zone
A children's park near the dam is great for families.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary is praised for its natural beauty, scenic dam views, and enjoyable boat rides. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to see deer and crocodiles, making it a good half-day trip. However, some feel the tourism potential is underutilized and maintenance could be improved in certain areas.
"I visited Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary with a friend and had a wonderful time. On the way, we stopped near the reservoir – while entry is restricted in some areas, there are a few safe spots where people were enjoying a refreshing bath.
We then headed up to the top of the dam, which has a small entry fee and parking charge. Totally worth it – the view from the top was absolutely spectacular, especially with the dam gates open, creating a stunning visual of the water gushing down. It’s a perfect location for photography lovers.
Nearby, there’s a children’s park which looked well-maintained and great for families. We noticed a boat safari is also available, though we didn’t opt for it this time. There are also a crocodile park and a deer park close by, making it a complete nature experience.
Highly recommended for a half-day trip or a peaceful nature escape!"
Sajin Shereef
"Neyyar wildlife sanctuary has boating service along with elephant visits, deer visits, crocodile visits. Ticket fare is 100rs per adult.
It's a very good view through the boat. The park has 2 elephants of one male and one female, lot of deers and you can see monkeys too. There will be guide who guides you and also convey all the information regarding park and animals. In the area where crocodiles are placed, has a python too. Each crocodiles are kept in separate cage.
When you move forward you can go to the neyyar dam. A watch tower, dam, children's park, aquarium, swimming pool are provided. As all those near by, it will be a good spot."
Confiya S Raj
"Once you visit, you’ll realize it’s truly worth the trip. The journey takes you through lush, green landscapes with dense forests flanking both sides of the road. As you arrive, the dam greets you with two distinct views.
On the lower side, you’ll find the shutters, a beautifully designed bridge, a children’s park, and other recreational spots. The upper side, in contrast, offers a serene atmosphere—remarkably calm even with over a hundred visitors present at the time.
Nearby, there’s a Forest Department office, a cafeteria, and a crocodile park—though the latter could certainly benefit from better maintenance. One of the most exciting features is the variety of boat trips available within the dam, including a longer safari-style excursion.
Overall, the experience is enjoyable and memorable. However, it’s hard to ignore the missed potential. The tourism department appears to be underperforming, especially given the vast opportunities available to develop the area into a major attraction.
Right now, it feels like a beautiful title waiting for the poem to be written. A sincere request to the government: show the commitment and vision needed to transform this naturally gifted location into a world-class destination for travelers from around the globe."
Nimesh Nambiar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary is located about 30 km from Thiruvananthapuram city. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus from Trivandrum to reach the sanctuary. The journey itself offers scenic views of lush green landscapes.
Yes, there is parking available at Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary. There might be a small parking fee.
The primary mode of transport within the sanctuary for sightseeing is by boat. Walking is also an option for exploring specific areas like the deer park.
Yes, the Neyyar Dam itself is a major attraction. You can also find a children's park, an aquarium, and a crocodile park in close proximity to the dam.
Absolutely! Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary is a perfect destination for a half-day or full-day trip from Trivandrum, offering a refreshing escape into nature.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee for Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary is typically around ₹10 per head. There are additional charges for parking and boat rides.
While specific timings can vary, the sanctuary is generally open from morning to evening. For families, it's recommended to visit between 9 AM to 12 PM and 4 PM to 6 PM. Couples might prefer the 12 PM to 4 PM slot.
The cost for boat rides can vary depending on the duration and type of safari. A general ticket fare for boat services is around ₹100 per adult.
Generally, you can purchase tickets upon arrival at the sanctuary. Advance booking is usually not required unless you are part of a large organized group.
Entry might be restricted in some sensitive ecological zones within the sanctuary. However, popular areas like the dam top, deer park, and crocodile park are accessible.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
You can spot various animals including deer, elephants, monkeys, and crocodiles. The sanctuary is also home to diverse bird species.
Yes, there is a deer park within the sanctuary where you can see many deer. While some reviews mention a lion safari, it's primarily known for its deer and crocodile parks.
Key activities include boating on the reservoir, visiting the deer park and crocodile park, and enjoying the scenic views from the dam. Trekking and camping are also offered as eco-tourism activities. +1
Absolutely! The lush greenery, the dam with its open gates, and the wildlife provide excellent opportunities for photography.
Early mornings and late afternoons are generally the best times for wildlife sightings as animals are more active during these cooler parts of the day.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are food options available. You can find a cafeteria within the premises, and some nearby homestays and restaurants also offer dining.
Bringing your own food and snacks is generally allowed, which can be a good option for budget travelers or families. Remember to dispose of waste responsibly.
You can find local Kerala cuisine, including seafood specialties, at restaurants and homestays near Neyyar.
Reviews suggest the cafeteria offers basic food options. For a more diverse culinary experience, exploring nearby eateries might be preferable.
Most local eateries in Kerala offer vegetarian dishes. It's advisable to inquire about vegetarian options when ordering.
📸 📸 Photography
The top of the Neyyar Dam, especially when the gates are open, offers breathtaking views. The reservoir during a boat ride and the natural landscapes are also great for photos.
Yes, you can take photos of the wildlife, but always maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing the animals. Using a zoom lens is recommended for clear shots.
Generally, photography is allowed in most public areas. However, it's always good to check for any specific signage or guidelines regarding photography in sensitive zones.
A camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing wildlife from a distance. Wide-angle lenses are great for landscape shots of the dam and reservoir.
Drone usage is typically restricted in wildlife sanctuaries and protected areas to avoid disturbing the animals and for safety reasons. It's best to confirm with local authorities before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the boat ride for a relaxing family activity with scenic views. While the crocodile park is interesting, ensure your children are supervised. For a more structured family visit, aim for the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and potentially see more active animals.
💑 Couples
Enjoy a leisurely boat ride hand-in-hand, or find a quiet spot to admire the views from the dam. The natural beauty and tranquility of the sanctuary make it an ideal place for a relaxed and intimate experience.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring your telephoto lens to capture the wildlife, such as deer and crocodiles, from a safe distance. The early morning and late afternoon light can create magical moments for both wildlife and landscape photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Neyyar Dam Experience
On the lower side of the dam, you'll find recreational areas including a beautifully designed bridge, a children's park, and other spots for relaxation. The upper side provides a serene atmosphere, even when there are a good number of visitors. The dam's location at the foot of the Western Ghats adds to its scenic beauty, making it a peaceful escape.
While the dam itself is a highlight, some reviews mention that certain areas could benefit from better maintenance. However, the overall experience of visiting the dam, especially during the monsoon when the shutters are open, is highly recommended.
Wildlife and Eco-Tourism
Eco-tourism activities are a significant draw, with boat rides on the Neyyar Reservoir being a must-do. These safaris offer a unique perspective of the sanctuary's lush greenery and a chance to spot wildlife from the water. Some tours may even take you close to the lion safari park, though the primary focus is on deer and crocodiles.
Beyond boat rides, the sanctuary also offers opportunities for trekking and camping, allowing visitors to immerse themselves more deeply in the natural environment. Guides are often available to provide information about the park and its inhabitants, enhancing the educational aspect of the visit.
Visitor Experience and Potential
However, some reviews highlight a sense of missed potential, suggesting that the tourism department could do more to develop the area into a world-class attraction. While the natural beauty is undeniable, improvements in maintenance and infrastructure could significantly enhance the visitor experience.
Despite these observations, the sanctuary remains a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking a connection with nature. The combination of wildlife, scenic dam views, and recreational activities makes it a worthwhile visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit