Why
Thattekad
The Thattekad Sanctuary, also known as Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is located
in the Kothamangalam Taluk of Ernakulam district on the northern bank of the
Periyar river. Close to Munnar along the lower reaches of the Western Ghats,
the sanctuary attracts nature lovers especially bird watchers in droves.
Thattekad was developed by the untiring efforts of India's birdman Dr Salim
Ali.
The sanctuary was notified in 1983 based on a recommendation made by Dr.
Salim Ali many years previously. Ali described Thattekad in the 1930's as
the richest bird habitat in peninsular India, comparable only with the
eastern Himalayas. Since then much of the forest has been diverted to
cultivation and teak and mahogany plantation but what survives gives a
glimpse of the phenomenal bird diversity of the once widespread lowland
forests of Kerala.
Key Factors
State : Kerala, in the southern part of India.
Climate : The sanctuary has a composed climate. It enjoys a tropical
climate varies between 10 degree centigrade - 26 degree centigrade. Rainfall
2500 mm annually.
Area : 25.16 sq. km
Travel Tips : Consult the Doctor before you leave for the trip. Get
enough information about the place you are going to visit. Also carry all
the required documents to visit wildlife Kerala in India
Best Time to Visit : September to March.
Nearest Town : Kothamangalam (13 km).
Get There
International Airport : At
Chennai &
Bangalore.
Airport : Nearest airport is at Kochi, 71 kms. The new airport at
Nedumbassery is probably closer.
Rail: Aluva is the nearest railway station, 48 kms
Road : The sanctuary is 13 km north-east of Kothamangalam along the
Pooyamkutti road. Regular buses available.
Stay
There
There is one three storied watch tower inside the sanctuary with two beds,
a toilet and a kitchen. No electricity here but there are few solar powered
lamps. A forest department inspection bungalow called Hornbill is located
near the sanctuary entrance. There is a dormitory just inside the sanctuary
which is ideal for large groups. Accommodation is also available at the PWD
rest house near the Bhoothathankett Dam and in lodges in Kothamangalam.
Venture Into The Thattekad
Tropical evergreen forests, tropical semi-evergreen forests and tropical
deciduous forests make up this sanctuary. The whole ambience is made
heavenly by the melodious high pitch notes of various beautiful birds. As
you proceed further, you will find them in varied natural moods. Take time
to feel the composed ambience. It is so much soothing and relaxing that you
will love to come here again & again. The rare surroundings amidst the
musical notes are the true place to relax.
The Avifauna
Around 210 species of birds have been identified here so far. Birds like -
Indian Roller, Cuckoo, Common snipe, Crow pheasant, Jungle Nightjar, Kite,
Grey Drongo, Malabar Trogon, Woodpecker, Large pied wagtail, Baya sparrow,
Grey jungle fowl, Indian hill myna, Robin, Jungle babbler and darter are
found here.
Crimson-throated Barbet, Bee-eater, Sun bird, Shrike, Fairy blue bird,
Grey-headed fishing eagle, Blackwinged kite, Night heron, Grey heron, Common
Grey Hornbill and Malabar Hornbill are some of the rarer birds found.
Apart from this the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary also houses Mammals like -
Elephant, Leopard, Sloth Bear, Porcupine
Additional Punch
Nearest attractions are - Alleppey, Cradomom Hills, Backwater Boat Cruises.
You can also go to - Periyar Tiger Reserve, Madurai, Cochin or Kochi (71
km), Kottayam, Ernakulam, Munnar. All these place are unique and bewitching.
Something you should not miss in Kerala are Backwaters and Beaches. Also
taste the exclusive South India cuisine here.
Extend the Trip
Though entire Kerala will keep you preoccupied through out your trip, if
you desire to go to other part of South India, just move towards Tamil Nadu
and Karnataka, both the state has numerous attractions.
Few Difficulties
You might not face any problem here. Thattekad is easily accessible and you
can easily wander around the park. But, you may face problems in
communicating with the common people, as only the educated one are able to
speak English here.
Few Suggestions
Don't get into any unknown or illegal activity. Do not disturb the local
culture and local atmosphere. Try to be well informed about the routes and
the place you are going to visit. Contact us when and where needed, while on
a wildlife India Tour.
If you want more information on Wildlife India Tour then get back to us,
whenever needed. Let us know your requirements, so that we can make your
trip to India Wildlife completely exceptional and exciting.
