Christmas Eve lunch, served on banana leaves at 1750m
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Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary Wayanad

4.3
·122 reviews·Thirunelly, India

A remote bird sanctuary in Wayanad's Brahmagiri hills, offering challenging treks and ancient caves.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Post-monsoon (Oct-Mar)

Clear skies, lush greenery

CrowdMedium
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Christmas Eve lunch, served on banana leaves at 1750m

Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary Wayanad

Best Time

Post-monsoon (Oct-Mar)

Clear skies, lush greenery

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A remote bird sanctuary in Wayanad's Brahmagiri hills, offering challenging treks and ancient caves.

4.3
(122 reviews)

"A nature lover's paradise with stunning birdlife and ancient caves, offering a challenging yet rewarding trek."

Vertical photo
TIP

Pack for Leeches! :bug:

Carry tobacco powder mixed with oil to apply on legs to deter leeches. Essential for monsoon treks.

Verify Opening Status ⚠️

There are reports of permanent closure. Always check current accessibility before your trip.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.3 · 122 reviews

Type

Park

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Bird Sanctuary

The Bird Sanctuary

Brahmagiri Hills

A haven for diverse bird species, offering a symphony of natural sounds amidst lush greenery.

Ancient Meditation Caves

Ancient Meditation Caves

Near Thirunelli

Explore mysterious rock-cut caves, once used by sages for meditation, adding a spiritual dimension.

Challenging Forest Trek

Challenging Forest Trek

Dense forests of Brahmagiri

Embark on a moderately challenging trek through evergreen forests, offering stunning natural vistas.

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Planning Your Visit

Trek Preparedness is Key

Pakshipathalam requires a trek through dense forests. Pack ample water, snacks, and wear sturdy shoes. Be prepared for leeches, especially during monsoon. Consider carrying a first-aid kit.

Check Current Accessibility

There are reports of Pakshipathalam being permanently closed or facing access issues. It's crucial to verify current status and opening times before planning your visit.

Best Times

When
Post-monsoon (Oct-Mar)
Why
Clear skies, lush greenery
Crowd
Medium
When
Early mornings
Why
Best for bird sightings
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Pakhi🥺🥺💔#aishwaryasharma #neilbhatt #ghumhaikisikeypyaarmeiin #janjicintainspekturvirat #starplus #colorstv #bollywood #fypシ゚viral #copyright
@tellyty12
1.4K likes • 51K views

Pack for Leeches! :bug:

Carry tobacco powder mixed with oil to apply on legs to deter leeches. Essential for monsoon treks. Reddit

Verify Opening Status ⚠️

There are reports of permanent closure. Always check current accessibility before your trip. Reddit

Oh the place you’ll go!🦋🌸 . . . . . . #wildlife #wildvideos #brahmagiri #wayanad #pakshipathalam #idukki #solo #solotravel #keralaforest #keralapolice #travel #traveldiaries
_ajeesh_madhav
582 likes • 5.2K views
In the bosom of the bird underworld❤️ . . . . . . . . #wayanad #pakshipathalam #trekking #forest #police
manuu_m_s
335 likes • 0 views

Trekker's Essentials 🎒

Bring plenty of water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. Sturdy trekking shoes are a must. Reddit

Respect Nature :evergreen_tree:

Leave no trace behind. Preserve the pristine beauty of this bird paradise. Reddit

പക്ഷി പാതാളം ട്രെക്കിംഗ്.. എന്നെന്നും ഓർമ്മയിൽ സൂക്ഷിക്കാൻ ഒരു യാത്ര, തിരുനെല്ലി താമസിച്ച് 1995-2016 കാലഘട്ടത്തിൽ പലപ്പോളായി നവോദയയിൽ നിന്ന് പാസ്സ് ആയി എന്നാൽ ഒരേ മനസ്സായി 26 കിലോമീറ്റർ ട്രെക്കിംഗ്.. കേരളത്തിൽ തുടങ്ങി കർണാടകയിൽ പോയി തിരിച്ച് എത്തി. കടുവയുടെ പഗ് മാർക്ക് തെല്ലൊരു ഭയം തന്നെങ്കിലും അതൊന്നും വകവെക്കാതെ യാത്ര തുടർന്നു. അട്ടയുടെ ആക്രമണം കുറച്ച് കൂടുതൽ ആയി പോയി. A must try trekking exper...
inst.aswin
326 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Pack for Leeches! :bug:

Carry tobacco powder mixed with oil to apply on legs to deter leeches. Essential for monsoon treks. Reddit

Verify Opening Status ⚠️

There are reports of permanent closure. Always check current accessibility before your trip. Reddit

Trekker's Essentials 🎒

Bring plenty of water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. Sturdy trekking shoes are a must. Reddit

Respect Nature :evergreen_tree:

Leave no trace behind. Preserve the pristine beauty of this bird paradise. Reddit

Capture the Wildlife 📷

Great opportunities for bird watching and nature photography. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.3
(122 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Pakshipathalam is lauded as a nature lover's paradise with stunning birdlife and ancient caves, offering a challenging yet rewarding trek. However, recent reports suggest it may be permanently closed, making verification of its status essential before planning a visit.

"Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary is a nature loverês and bird watcherês paradise. They have a stunning population of birds thriving in the natural habitat preserved within the sanctuary. The sanctuary is a favourite amongst campers as well. Some rare species of birds and plants are also found here. Other than the well preserved natural terrain of the sanctuary, there are also some rock cut caves that one can explore."

Robin

"Pakshipathalam in Wayanad district of Kerala, is located 7 km northeast of Thirunelli , which is about 32 km from Mananthavady, and about 66 km from Kalpetta. It is situated at an altitude of 1740m above sea level. Pakshipathalam - the very name of the place refers to the richness of birdlife here. Here virgin forests, rivulets and steep hills together offer challenging avenues for trekking. A cave which rishis (saints) are believed to have used for meditation in ancient times, has become a major attraction for tourists"

Cyril Thomas

"Pakshipathalam, located in the Brahmagiri hills of the Western Ghats, offers an unparalleled experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure lovers. This remote sanctuary, accessible only by a trek through dense forests, is a haven for bird watchers, trekkers, and those seeking solace away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The journey to Pakshipathalam is as mesmerizing as the destination itself, with the trek offering glimpses of rare flora and fauna, alongside the chance to witness a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.

The name 'Pakshipathalam' translates to 'the abode of birds,' and true to its name, it is a sanctuary where the melody of birdsong fills the air, amidst the lush greenery and rugged terrain of the Western Ghats. The trek to Pakshipathalam is moderately challenging, making it an exciting adventure for trekking enthusiasts. Along the way, the path unveils the rich biodiversity of the region, including several endemic species, providing an excellent opportunity for photography and nature studies.

Upon reaching Pakshipathalam, visitors are greeted with stunning views of the forest canopy and the surrounding mountains. The area is dotted with large boulders, caves, and deep crevices, adding to the mystique of the place. These natural formations are believed to have been used by sages for meditation in ancient times, adding a spiritual dimension to the natural beauty.

While Pakshipathalam is a remarkable destination for those who appreciate the wilderness, it is important to be well-prepared for the trek. Adequate water, food supplies, and proper trekking gear are essential, as the facilities in this remote location are minimal. Visitors are also advised to be mindful of the environment and to leave no trace to preserve the pristine nature of Pakshipathalam.

In conclusion, Pakshipathalam is not just a destination but an experience that combines adventure, spirituality, and the tranquility of nature. It is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the unspoiled beauty of the Western Ghats and to immerse themselves in the tranquility of this bird paradise."

Navi Kp

What People Like

Rich birdlife
Ancient meditation caves
Challenging trek

What People Dislike

Reports of permanent closure
Leeches during monsoon

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Pakshipathalam is located 7 km northeast of Thirunelli, about 32 km from Mananthavady and 66 km from Kalpetta in Wayanad district. The final approach involves a trek starting near the Forest Inspection Bungalow in Thirunelli. Reddit

You can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Thirunelli. From Thirunelli, the trek begins. Reddit

No, Pakshipathalam is only accessible by trekking through dense forests. Instagram

The trek is described as a day-long activity, covering approximately 26 kilometers round trip. Instagram

Local buses connect Mananthavady and Kalpetta to Thirunelli, but services might be infrequent. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Information regarding specific entry tickets is not widely available, but forest entry permits might be required. It's best to inquire locally. Reddit

There are reports of the sanctuary being permanently closed. It is crucial to verify current operational status before visiting. Reddit

While specific fees aren't always mentioned, be prepared for potential forest department charges or guide fees. Reddit

Given the dense forest and challenging terrain, hiring a local guide is highly recommended for safety and navigation. Reddit

Due to its remote nature and potential for closure, it's advisable to check for any specific visiting restrictions or advisories. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The sanctuary is renowned for its rich birdlife. You might also spot elephant herds in the grasslands during the trek. Reddit

The primary attractions are the diverse bird species, the ancient rock-cut caves used by sages, and the challenging trekking trails through the Brahmagiri hills. Reddit

The caves are natural formations and can be rocky. Exercise caution and use a flashlight when exploring. Reddit

The trek involves walking through thick forests, grasslands, and water channels, with steep hills. Reddit

While some reviews mention it as a favorite for campers, it's essential to check for official camping permissions and facilities. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire trek offers scenic views of the forest canopy and surrounding mountains. Birdwatching moments and the cave entrances are also great photo opportunities. Instagram

With patience and a good zoom lens, you can capture various bird species. Early mornings are best for bird activity. Instagram

A camera with a good zoom lens for wildlife and birds, and a wide-angle lens for landscapes would be ideal. Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed, but always be respectful of the natural environment and avoid disturbing wildlife. Instagram

Drone usage is often restricted in protected forest areas. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone. Instagram

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