Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary
Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary is located at a distance of 40 kms from
Thodupuzha. This sanctuary extends over the Thodupuzha and Udumpanchola
taluks of Idukki district spreading over 77sq. kms, at 450 - 748m above
sea level.
The
Idukki reservoir formed by three dams-Cheruthoni, Idukki and
Kulamavu-extends to 33 sq. km.
A picturesque lake, a majestic arch dam across two hills and roaming
herds of elephants and gaur are sights that lure you to this enchanting
canopy of tropical semi-evergreen and deciduous forests. The fauna also
includes Langur, Leopard and Wild Boar.
How To Get There
By Air
Kochi is the nearest airport.
General Information
Location
40 Kms From Thodupuzha, Kerala
Area
77 sq. kms
Altitude
450-758m Above Sea Level
Main Attraction
Elephants
Flora and Fauna of the Sanctuary
The Floral Cosmos
You will spot about 1800 flowering plants including 171 grass species and
143 species of orchids in this sanctuary. Uh! A large number. Also find the
only south Indian conifer Podocarpus Wallichianus which grows here. The main
plantation here includes tea, cardamom, cloves, vanilla, ginger, turmeric,
nutmeg, cumin, garlic, star anise.
The Animal Cosmos
If you want locate tigers roaming in their natural surroundings come to the
sanctuary. Besides you will also see 35 species of mammals including wild
elephants, gaurs, langur, sambar deer and wild boars that can be sighted
from the boats, the Nilgiri tahr in the higher rocky areas, the endangered
lion tailed macaque which is restricted to the evergreen interiors, bonnet
macque, Malabar giant squirrel, flying squirrel, jungle cat and sloth bear.
The Bird Cosmos
The sanctuary is a Bird Watcher's Paradise. You will get to see as many as
265 species of birds including migrants the hombill, stork, woodpecker,
kingfisher, raptor, darter, cormorant, grackle, cluster, woodpeckers, black
bulbuls, jungle fowls, laughing thrushes, mynas, kingfishers and pea fowls.
The Reptile Cosmos
Not only animals and birds but reptiles also enjoy their stay at the
sanctuary and so you will see King Cobra, viper, krait and a number of non
poisonous snakes, bi-colored frogs and crocodiles.
The Amphibian Cosmos
If you are interested in fishing and angling then come to the sanctuary and
visit the lakes where you will trace many species of fish comprising of
masher, the endangered Indian game fish and otter, the only mammal of the
lake.
Trekking Trails
If you are the one who pines for trekking and other adventurous sports then
you will surely enjoy a trekking expedition on Mangaladevi hills, Mullakudy,
Thannikudy, Vellimala. The real excitement lies in undertaking journeying to
the breathtaking trekking trails.
