Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary For An Unhurried Holiday

Tucked inside the Western Ghat hills of Kerala, Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary (Idukki WLS) may not be part of the flamboyant wildlife reserves of the country but that does not mean it is any less rich in flora and fauna. True, there is no tiger here leopards make a rare appearance if you are lucky, you may catch sight of elephants, wild dog, sambar, among the large animals, or show stoppers such as the Niligiri Langur. However, if you are keen to go on jungle walks, learn about rare endemic and medicinal plants, eager to photograph amphibians, reptiles, insects, etc., then a visit to Idukki WLS is a must.

The reservoir created from the water of the three dams - Cheruthoni, Idukki and Kulamavu - surrounds the WLS from three sides. Apart from boating in the reservoir, you may also undertake wildlife safaris, forest walks and trekking, bird watching, camping, etc.

Things to see and do

There are several day long activities which can be undertaken in the WLS albeit with permission and accompanied by a forest guide. The Salim Ali bird trail is a popular safari route.

There are many birding trails to explore on foot, including the Black Baza Trail and the Malabar Trogan Trail. These are short walks and are best undertaken early in the day or late afternoon.

If you are not keen to explore on foot or accompanied by kids, boating in the Periyar River is a good option.

Trekking enthusiasts may opt for the roughly three hour long &lsquoWindy Walk&rsquo to Vagavanam. The &lsquoBorder Trail&rsquo hike is for more seasoned trekkers. The route follows the border of Thattekad and Munnar range.

Timing Most of the day long activities take place between 7.30am and 5.30pm the Windy Walk trek usually takes place between 8am and 3.30pm. Advance booking required for all activities. Number of people allowed on the various activities vary. The forest department keeps the number of visitors at a minimum to ensure that the footfall does not hamper the ecological balance.

Getting there Kochi international airport, about 200km away is the nearest airport. You may travel by train to Kottayam and then onwards by road to the sanctuary. There are several resorts and lodges in the vicinity.