Wildlife, Nature & Eco Tourism

Wildlife & Nature

Kerala, nestled between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, is a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Blessed with lush green forests, rolling hills, tranquil backwaters, and rich biodiversity, the state is home to some of the most spectacular natural wonders in India.

 Rich Biodiversity and Forests

About 29% of Kerala’s land area is covered by forests. These forests are part of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the eight “hottest hotspots” of biodiversity in the world. Kerala’s forests are teeming with a wide variety of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species.

 Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks

Kerala has over 14 wildlife sanctuaries and 6 national parks, each offering unique ecosystems:

• Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (Thekkady): Famous for elephants, tigers, and boat safaris on Periyar Lake.
• Silent Valley National Park: A pristine rainforest, home to the endangered Lion-tailed macaque.
• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Known for elephants, leopards, and rich birdlife.
• Parambikulam Tiger Reserve: Straddling the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, it’s ideal for tiger sightings and eco-tourism.
• Eravikulam National Park (Munnar): Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and stunning Neelakurinji flowers that bloom once every 12 years.

 Bird Watching and Wetlands

Kerala is a haven for bird watchers. The Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, also known as the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, hosts hundreds of bird species. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, set along the Vembanad Lake, is known for migratory birds like herons, egrets, and Siberian cranes.

 Backwaters and Lakes

The famous Kerala backwaters, a network of lakes, canals, and rivers, are rich in aquatic life and surrounded by coconut groves and paddy fields. Alleppey, Kumarakom, and Kollam are popular destinations for houseboat cruises and eco-tourism.

 Scenic Hill Stations

Kerala’s hill stations like Munnar, Wayanad, Vagamon, and Ponmudi offer cool climates, tea plantations, waterfalls, and misty mountains. These regions are ideal for trekking, nature walks, and relaxation.

 Beaches and Coastal Beauty

With over 590 km of coastline, Kerala boasts serene beaches such as Kovalam, Varkala, Bekal, and Marari, each offering a mix of natural charm, Ayurvedic resorts, and local culture.

 Eco-tourism and Conservation

Kerala promotes eco-tourism through community involvement and sustainable practices. Many wildlife reserves and hill stations offer guided nature trails, tribal village visits, bamboo rafting, and camping.

In short, Kerala’s wildlife and nature offer an unforgettable experience—where you can witness majestic animals in the wild, relax by peaceful backwaters, explore misty hills, and immerse yourself in the state’s breathtaking natural beauty.