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Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary
Introduction
Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary is a premier protected wildlife reserve located in Kerala, safeguarding rare bio-regions and indigenous forest species.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| State | Kerala |
| Districts | Forest Division of Kerala |
| Year of Notification | 1978 (Wildlife Protection Act) |
| Total Area | 380.50 sq km |
| Landscape | Tropical moist evergreen rainforest, semi-evergreen broadleaf forest, shola-grassland complex, and teak-bamboo hill slopes. |
| Major Rivers & Waterbodies | Periyar River, Pamba River, Bharathappuzha, Chaliyar River, Kabini River |
| Nearest Airport | Cochin International Airport (COK) / Calicut Airport (CCJ) / Trivandrum (TRV) – 35 to 85 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Ernakulam Junction (ERS) / Thiruvananthapuram (TVC) / Kozhikode (CLT) – 15 to 50 km |
| Best Time to Visit | October to April |
Location
The wildlife sanctuary lies in the Forest Division of Kerala region of Kerala. Well connected via state highways and district road networks in Kerala.
History
Notified as a Wildlife Sanctuary under the Indian Wildlife Protection Act to conserve native wildlife corridors, watersheds, and forest ecosystems in Kerala.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
Covering an exact area of 380.50 sq km, the sanctuary’s terrain features Tropical moist evergreen rainforest, semi-evergreen broadleaf forest, shola-grassland complex, and teak-bamboo hill slopes.
Flora
Dominant vegetation and floral species include: Rosewood (Dalbergia latifolia), Teak (Tectona grandis), Vateria indica, Dipterocarpus indicus, Hopea parviflora, Mesua ferrea (Nahar), Bamboo (Bambusa bambos), and native Orchids..
Fauna
The sanctuary harbors a diverse array of mammalian, reptilian, and avian wildlife:
- Primary Mammals: Indian Leopard, Gaur (Indian Bison), Lion-tailed Macaque, Nilgiri Langur, Malabar Giant Squirrel, Sloth Bear, Sambar Deer, Spotted Deer (Chital), Barking Deer, Wild Boar, Dhole (Wild Dog).
- Predators & Carnivores: Indian Leopard, Wild Dog (Dhole), Sloth Bear, Jungle Cat, Golden Jackal.
- Herbivores & Ungulates: Gaur (Indian Bison), Sambar Deer, Chital, Barking Deer.
- Reptiles & Amphibians: King Cobra, Malabar Pit Viper, Indian Python, Travancore Tortoise, Monitor Lizard.
Other Wild Animals & Avifauna
- Resident Woodland Birds: Great Indian Hornbill, Malabar Grey Hornbill, Ceylon Frogmouth, Malabar Whistling Thrush, Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, Emerald Dove.
- Raptors & Owls: Crested Serpent Eagle, Rufous-bellied Eagle, Black Baza, Changeable Hawk-Eagle.
- Migratory Species: Indian Pitta, Paradise Flycatcher, Grey Wagtail, Blue-bearded Bee-eater.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The lifeline of Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary is sustained by: Periyar River, Pamba River, Bharathappuzha, Chaliyar River, Kabini River.
Other Attractions
Major nearby tourist attractions and historic viewpoints include: Kerala Backwaters, Munnar Tea Gardens, Athirappilly Waterfalls, Ancient Temples.
Weather & Climate
Subtropical climate with pleasant winters (12°C to 26°C) and warm summers (24°C to 38°C).
How to Reach
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (COK) / Calicut Airport (CCJ) / Trivandrum (TRV) – 35 to 85 km
- Nearest Railway Station: Ernakulam Junction (ERS) / Thiruvananthapuram (TVC) / Kozhikode (CLT) – 15 to 50 km
- Road Connectivity: Well connected via state highways and district road networks in Kerala.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal season for visiting Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary is from October to April.
Accommodation
Forest Rest Houses and State Tourism eco-lodges near Forest Division of Kerala.. Advance booking through official portals is recommended.
Conservation Highlights
Key conservation zone protecting native wildlife corridors and forest watersheds in Kerala.
Visitor Tips
Obtain necessary entry permits from the local forest division office prior to visiting.
Did You Know?
- Official protected Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala notified under Indian wildlife conservation acts.
- Preserves key wildlife species including Indian Leopard and native avifauna.
- Covers an exact area of 380.50 sq km along the Periyar River watershed.
Last Updated: August 2026