Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
Explore a pristine wildlife sanctuary on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, offering diverse flora, fauna, and breathtaking natural landscapes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, active wildlife
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, active wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a pristine wildlife sanctuary on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, offering diverse flora, fauna, and breathtaking natural landscapes.
"It gives you that true forest experience is calm, wild, and unforgettable."
🚫 No Alcohol Allowed
Alcohol is strictly prohibited. Buy your drinks in Munnar town instead of carrying them through the sanctuary . :wine_glass:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trekking involves uneven terrain. Sturdy walking shoes are essential for a comfortable and safe experience. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Trekking Adventures
Various trails, including Vashyappara Peak
Embark on guided treks through lush forests, offering stunning views and a deep connection with nature.
Thoocanam Waterfalls
Accessible via trek
A hidden gem with powerful falls; the trek is challenging but rewarding with breathtaking scenery.
Wildlife Spotting
Throughout the sanctuary
Keep an eye out for deer, monkeys, peacocks, and diverse bird species. Elephants and leopards are rarer sightings.
Watchtower Views
Designated watchtowers
Gain panoramic vistas of the expansive forest and surrounding hills from elevated viewpoints.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respecting Wildlife and Local Laws
Embrace the Raw Nature Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚫 No Alcohol Allowed
Alcohol is strictly prohibited. Buy your drinks in Munnar town instead of carrying them through the sanctuary. :wine_glass:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trekking involves uneven terrain. Sturdy walking shoes are essential for a comfortable and safe experience. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during treks. The forest can be warm and humid. :droplet:
📸 Capture the Moments
Bring your camera for stunning landscapes and potential wildlife sightings. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚫 No Alcohol Allowed
Alcohol is strictly prohibited. Buy your drinks in Munnar town instead of carrying them through the sanctuary. :wine_glass:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trekking involves uneven terrain. Sturdy walking shoes are essential for a comfortable and safe experience. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during treks. The forest can be warm and humid. :droplet:
📸 Capture the Moments
Bring your camera for stunning landscapes and potential wildlife sightings. :camerawithflash:
📱 Book Log Houses Early
Unique stay options like log houses are popular. Book well in advance to secure your spot. :housewithgarden:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary's untouched natural beauty and refreshing escape from city life. The guided treks and scenic drives are highlights, offering a deep connection with nature. While facilities are basic and wildlife sightings aren't guaranteed, the serene atmosphere and unique stay options make it a memorable experience for nature lovers.
"My visit to Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary was an absolute delight! 🤩 Every moment of this adventure trip was thrilling, from spotting playful monkeys 🐒 to seeing majestic elephants in their natural habitat. 🐘 I had such a marvelous time! Really very wonderful Trip ☺️😁"
Naveenraj Ilangovan
"Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary stands out as a unique, unspoiled destination—definitely a must-do for serious nature lovers visiting Kerala. We opted for the guided wildlife trekking tour, The absolute highlight, however, was the trek up to the waterfall. The hike itself was beautiful, winding through dense, cool forest trails. When we finally arrived, the view was breathtaking."
Vaishak Das
"Excellent tourist destination. Chinnar is on Kochi-Dhanushkodi National Highway. It is adjacent to the Tamil Nadu border. Chinnar is extremely good as a birding spot. You can also get some wild animals like sambar deer, barking deer, elephants, spotted deer, Malabar giant squirrel and the rare species called grizzled squirrel. There is trekking facility throughout the day. You will get tickets from the ticket counter and a guide will accompany you throughout the trekking. You can opt for a two hour trekking or a three hour trekking. You can also opt for a short walk to the watch tower. There are different kinds of accommodation arranged by the Forest Department."
Dr P J George
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common route from Coimbatore to Munnar passes through Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. The drive itself is scenic, offering glimpses of hills and forests. Be aware that alcohol is prohibited in the sanctuary area. You can hire a taxi or take a bus towards Munnar and get down at the sanctuary entrance.
For exploring the sanctuary, you can opt for guided treks, jeep safaris, or walk with a guide. Jeep safaris are available and can take you to various spots, including near the waterfalls.
Yes, buses ply towards Munnar from nearby towns, and you can alight at the sanctuary. However, for exploring deeper within the sanctuary, private vehicles or organized safaris are more convenient.
From Munnar, you can hire a taxi or take a bus heading towards Udumalpet or Pollachi, which will pass through Chinnar. The journey offers beautiful views of the Western Ghats.
Yes, there are entry fees. The cost can vary, and slot-based pricing is mentioned, starting from around ₹200.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The sanctuary is generally open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Tickets can usually be purchased at the sanctuary's entrance. For specific activities like log house stays, advance booking is highly recommended through their official portal.
Yes, pricing can be slot-based and may differ for entry, treks, and safaris. Jeep safaris, for instance, can cost around ₹3,800 per vehicle for multiple spots.
While on-site booking is common, for popular times or specific safari packages, it's wise to inquire about advance booking options, especially during peak tourist seasons.
The entry fee typically covers access to the sanctuary premises. Specific activities like guided treks or jeep safaris may incur additional charges.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can spot various animals like deer, monkeys, peacocks, and numerous bird species. While elephants and leopards are rare, their presence adds to the thrill of the forest.
Yes, guided trekking is a popular activity. These treks are informative and offer a safe way to explore the forest and connect with nature.
Popular trails include the trek to Vashyappara Peak and the path leading to Thoocanam Waterfalls. The latter offers a challenging but rewarding experience.
While the waterfalls are beautiful, bathing is generally not permitted to preserve the natural environment. The icy water of Thoocanam waterfalls is a sight to behold.
Chinnar offers unique stay options like log houses, such as the Pampar log house, which provide an immersive forest experience. Advance booking is crucial.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food options within the sanctuary are limited. It's advisable to carry your own snacks and water, or plan to dine at eateries outside the sanctuary premises.
Eateries near Chinnar typically offer local South Indian cuisine. For a wider variety, you might need to travel to nearby towns like Marayoor or Munnar.
Yes, visitors are generally allowed to bring their own food and snacks. However, it's important to dispose of waste responsibly to keep the sanctuary clean.
Marayoor, a nearby town, is known for its jaggery and sandalwood. You might find local snacks and traditional meals in the small eateries around the region.
Inquiries about meal arrangements should be made directly with the accommodation provider when booking. Some facilities might offer basic meal services.
📸 📸 Photography
The watchtowers offer panoramic views, the waterfalls are picturesque, and the diverse flora and fauna provide ample opportunities for wildlife and nature photography.
Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife and avoid disturbing them. Use a zoom lens for close-ups. Never feed the animals. :camerawithflash:
Generally, photography is allowed, but it's always good to check for any specific restrictions in sensitive areas or regarding certain species. Drone photography might be prohibited.
A camera with a good zoom lens is recommended for wildlife. Wide-angle lenses are great for capturing the expansive landscapes and waterfalls.
Night safaris offer a different photographic experience. Be mindful of flash usage, as it can disturb nocturnal animals. Check with your guide about camera restrictions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to carry plenty of snacks and water, and ensure children are supervised at all times.🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Photographers
Birdwatchers will be delighted by the variety of avian species. The guided treks provide in-depth knowledge about the flora and fauna, enriching the experience. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for wildlife spotting and capturing the best light for photography. The unique landscapes and the raw, untouched beauty of Chinnar make it a dream destination for photographers seeking authentic nature shots.🚶♀️ Adventure Seekers
The rugged terrain and steep climbs offer a good physical challenge. For a different kind of thrill, consider the night safari if available, offering a glimpse into the nocturnal life of the sanctuary. The opportunity to stay in rustic log houses adds to the adventurous appeal, providing a truly immersive wilderness experience.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Flora and Fauna
The sanctuary is also a haven for birdwatchers, with numerous resident and migratory bird species gracing its skies and trees.While spotting larger mammals like elephants, tigers, or leopards is a matter of luck and depends on the season and time of visit, the thrill of being in their habitat is palpable. The sanctuary's conservation efforts focus on protecting these species and their natural environment. The presence of amphibians and reptiles adds another layer to the ecological richness of Chinnar. The guided treks are invaluable for learning about the intricate relationships between the flora and fauna from knowledgeable local guides.
Trekking and Adventure Opportunities
These treks are best undertaken with a local guide, who not only ensures safety but also provides insights into the forest's ecology and local lore.Beyond the specific peak treks, the sanctuary offers opportunities for peaceful walks through the jungle, ideal for birdwatching and soaking in the serene atmosphere.
For those seeking a more structured adventure, the sanctuary organizes jeep safaris that can cover multiple viewpoints and attractions, including the waterfalls, making it an accessible way to experience the wilderness for a wider range of visitors.Unique Stay Experiences
These stays are basic but provide an unparalleled connection to the wilderness, far from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Staying in these rustic accommodations is an adventure in itself, offering a chance to truly disconnect and appreciate the natural world.Booking these unique stays, especially the log houses, requires advance planning as they are highly sought after. Visitors are advised to check the official booking portal or contact the sanctuary authorities well in advance to secure their preferred dates.
While amenities are minimal, the experience of waking up to the sights and sounds of the jungle is a reward in itself, making it a memorable part of any visit to Chinnar.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit