Chinnar wildlife sanctuary is located in the Western Ghats region of Kerala. Known for its lush green thorny vegetation, it is one of the most protected areas in the Western Ghats. Chinnar wildlife sanctuary is spread over 90 sq km and bears high value in terms of ecological, geomorphologic and floral significance.
The significant variation in altitude and rainfall has largely contributed to the character and richness of this place. Characterized by deciduous forests, riparian forest, dry thorny forest, shoals and hillocks, grasslands and cliffs - the Chinnar wildlife sanctuary easily becomes a heaven for wildlife lovers.
Flora
The interspersed vegetation serves as microhabitats for varied forms of life from plains, hillocks, rocks and cliffs. The variety of flora includes Acacia Arabica, acacia leuco folia, santalum album and many more precious habitats. The forest department have played great role in cultivating herbal plantations, which naturally derives from environment.
Fauna
Chinnar wildlife sanctuary is well-known for its reptilian fauna and is quite famous for species like Albizia lathamii, Grizzled Giant Squirrel, White Bison of Manjampatti along with 225 birds’ species and many more rare reptiles, birds and mammals. Many people are unaware that Chinnar Wildlife sanctuary possesses second largest population for Grizzled Giant Squirrels in the world.
Thoovanam waterfall is situated in the deep interiors of this sanctuary and provides a spectacular view for all tourists. The Pambar River and the Chinnar River combines to form a great visual treat. You can go to watch tower and enjoy the panoramic view of the entire wildlife at close quarters, without the fear of getting hurt!
Cochin is the nearest airport to Chinnar wildlife sanctuary and Ernakulam is the nearest railway station. There are bus and cab services available to this place from every large and big town in the state. Best time to visit Chinnar is between October to February.
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