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Wayanad Elephant Reserve
Wayanad Elephant Reserve is one of Kerala’s four notified Elephant Reserves under Project Elephant and forms an integral part of the internationally renowned Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. It protects one of the largest free-ranging Asian elephant populations in the world through its seamless connectivity with Bandipur Tiger Reserve and Nagarhole Tiger Reserve in Karnataka and Mudumalai Tiger Reserve in Tamil Nadu. Together, these protected landscapes constitute the largest contiguous elephant habitat in southern India. citeturn0search14turn0search2
Location
The reserve extends across Wayanad, Kannur and Kozhikode districts of northern Kerala within the Western Ghats. It occupies the northern portion of Kerala’s elephant landscape and shares interstate boundaries with Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. citeturn0search14
Brief History
Wayanad Elephant Reserve was notified on 2 April 2002 by the Government of Kerala under Project Elephant (G.O.(P) No. 19/2002/F&WLD). The reserve was established to conserve elephant habitats and maintain ecological connectivity across the Nilgiri landscape. citeturn0search14turn0search2
Description
- State: Kerala
- Notification Date: 2 April 2002
- Total Area: 1,200 sq km
- Biogeographic Zone: Western Ghats
- Region: Northern Kerala
Protected Areas & Forest Divisions
- Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
- South Wayanad Forest Division
- North Wayanad Forest Division
- Kannur Forest Division
- Kozhikode Forest Division
Landscape & Forest Types
The reserve comprises tropical evergreen forests, semi-evergreen forests, moist deciduous forests, dry deciduous forests, wet bamboo brakes, montane shola forests and grasslands. These habitats support one of the highest elephant densities in the Western Ghats while also serving as vital wildlife corridors linking three southern states. citeturn0search14
Flora
Important tree species include Teak, Rosewood, Terminalia, Cullenia, Mesua, Bamboo, Canes, Wild Jack, Lagerstroemia and numerous medicinal plants. Evergreen valleys and bamboo brakes provide important forage for elephants throughout the year.
Fauna
- Asian Elephant
- Bengal Tiger
- Leopard
- Dhole (Wild Dog)
- Gaur
- Sloth Bear
- Sambar
- Spotted Deer
- Barking Deer
- Mouse Deer
- Nilgiri Langur
- Malabar Giant Squirrel
- Great Hornbill
- More than 300 bird species
Elephant Conservation
Wayanad Elephant Reserve is one of India’s most critical elephant landscapes because it connects elephant populations across Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. These natural corridors enable seasonal movement and genetic exchange, making the Nilgiri landscape one of the strongestholds of the Asian Elephant. citeturn0search14turn0search2
Weather
- Summer: 20–35°C
- Winter: 12–25°C
- Average Annual Rainfall: 2,000–3,000 mm
Best Time to Visit
October to May offers pleasant weather and excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing.
How to Reach
- Nearest Airports: Kannur International Airport and Calicut International Airport
- Nearest Railway Stations: Kozhikode, Mysuru and Nilambur Road
- By Road: Easily accessible via Sulthan Bathery, Kalpetta, Mananthavady and Mysuru.
Where to Stay
- Kerala Forest Department Forest Rest Houses (subject to advance booking)
- Government-operated eco-tourism facilities managed by the Forest Department near Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Nearby Attractions
- Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
- Muthanga Range
- Tholpetty Range
- Edakkal Caves
- Kuruva Island
- Bandipur Tiger Reserve
- Mudumalai Tiger Reserve
Did You Know?
Wayanad Elephant Reserve forms part of the world’s largest connected population of wild Asian elephants. Together with Bandipur, Nagarhole and Mudumalai, it supports one of the most significant elephant conservation landscapes on Earth. citeturn0search2turn0search14
Image Placeholders
[Featured Image]
[Map showing Wayanad Elephant Reserve in India]
Last Updated: August 2026