Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary, Thrissur district, Kerala - Travel Guide & Activities
Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary is a lush tropical rainforest in Thrissur district, Kerala, situated on the western slopes of the Nelliyampathy Hills in the Western Ghats. Known for its Biodiversity, dam views and trekking trails, and a pristine rainforest environment. Activities include trekking, birdwatching, and bamboo rafting, with the best time to visit being from September to January.
September to January for ideal wildlife and birding.
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About Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary
Established in 1984, it is a protected area and a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, India. The area was historically home to the tribal Kallichitra settlement, which was relocated when the Chimmony reservoir was filled after the construction of the Chimmony Dam.
Adventure: Engage in guided trekking, cycling, and bamboo rafting on the placid reservoir.
Nature Immersion: The diverse forests and serene environment, filled with the sounds of birds and flowing water, offer an ideal setting for quiet reflection and connecting with nature.
Wildlife and Birdwatching: It is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 160 species, and offers chances to spot a variety of mammals and a stunning array of butterflies.
Attractions of Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary
Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary
This protected area in the Western Ghats is a haven for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
It features a diverse range of tropical evergreen and moist deciduous forests, home to various endemic and endangered species.
Entry fees are around ₹20 for Indian adults and ₹200 for foreigners. Vehicle entry charges apply.
Chimmony Dam
This scenic dam is built across the Chimmony River and offers water-based activities like coracle (traditional round boat) rides and bamboo rafting on the reservoir, which offer opportunities for birdwatching and spotting riverside wildlife and picturesque views of the surrounding lush, forested hills. Entry fee: (around ₹40 per person), and boat rides cost approximately ₹400 for a trip carrying up to four people.
Trekking Trails & Choorathala Waterfalls
The sanctuary offers various guided trekking and experiences the dense forest environment firsthand, reaching viewpoints like Punda Peak (the highest in the sanctuary), and visiting the beautiful, hidden Choorathala Waterfalls via a dedicated trek.
Entry fees: Trekking programs have varying costs: a 3-hour short trek is about ₹250,
a half-day trek is ₹400, and a full-day trek is ₹800. These fees typically include a guide.
Thumboormuzhi Butterfly Garden
Located a short distance from the sanctuary, this garden and hanging bridge over the Chalakudy River provide a dedicated area for observing the region's vibrant butterfly population, including nearly 200 species of birds and over 100 species of butterflies (such as India's largest, the Southern Birdwing), along with mammals like elephants, sambar, and Indian bison with beautiful views of the river and forests. The park fee is around ₹50 per person.
From July to January, when the reservoir is full and the surroundings are lush green.
September to March: Weather is cool and pleasant, for wildlife spotting and outdoor activities.
November to April: better for trekking, the rainy season offers a lusher green experience.
The post-monsoon period is best for butterfly enthusiasts as the population is more active.
Best Time to Visit Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary
From September to March during the post monsoon and winter seasons, when the weather is pleasant. For a one-day visit, an early start is recommended, with a full itinerary including a guided trek, bamboo rafting, and wildlife spotting, while overnight stays are possible with prior permission and can include longer treks and camping.
Best time to visit
September to March: This period offers pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities like trekking and spotting wildlife.
November to December: This is considered particularly good for birdwatching.
Suggested time-wise itineraries
Day Trip Itinerary: Morning (6:00 AM - 7:00 AM): Arrive at the sanctuary and begin your day with a guided trek. Arrive by 2 PM at the latest to buy tickets for trekking.
Mid-morning (8:00 AM - 11:00 AM): Embark on a guided 5 km trek from Virakuthodu to Choorathala, which takes about 3 hours and offers excellent chances for birdwatching and spotting butterflies.
Late morning/Afternoon (11:30 AM - 2:00 PM): Participate in other activities like bamboo rafting or boating on the reservoir.
Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Enjoy a final activity, such as another shorter walk, before departing. The sanctuary closes at 6 PM.
Overnight Stay Itinerary: Day 1 (Morning): Arrive early and check in for an overnight package. This might include activities like trekking and boating.
(Afternoon/Evening): Go for a longer guided trek to experience the deeper parts of the sanctuary. Enjoy the unique experience of camping.
Day 2 (Morning): Wake up early for some final birdwatching or a sunrise trek before packing up and heading out. Overnight stays are only possible with prior permission and are available in basic accommodation at the Inspection Bungalow.
Activities at Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary
Adventure and exploration
Explore the lush tropical rainforests with various trails, including hiking and walking.
Look for animals like sambar deer, gaur, sloth bears, and Malabar squirrels.
The sanctuary is rich in bird species, making it a great destination for birding enthusiasts.
Kuttavanchi/Coracle Safari: Take a unique safari in a traditional coracle boat.
Cycling: The sanctuary has designated cycling lanes for visitors.
Nature and relaxation
Visit the beautiful Chimmini Dam, which is located within the sanctuary.
Capture the scenic beauty and diverse wildlife through photography.
Participate in guided activities like jungle crafts and animal tracking.
Other nearby attractions
Peechi Dam, Athirappilly and Vazhachal Waterfalls, Kauthuka Park
Adventure and Nature Activities
Trekking and hiking: Explore the lush tropical rainforests and hiking trails in the sanctuary.
Bamboo rafting and coracle rides: Take a peaceful ride on a traditional bamboo raft or a coracle boat on the reservoir.
Wildlife spotting: Look for diverse wildlife such as sambar deer, gaur, sloth bears, and Malabar squirrels, though sightings can vary.
Birdwatching and photography: The sanctuary is rich in bird species, making it a great spot for birding and photography.
Cycling: Recently introduced cycling lanes offer a scenic way to explore the area.
Camping: The sanctuary is a good destination for camping.
Chimmini Dam: Visit the dam, which is a key feature of the area and a popular spot for visitors.
Scenic beauty: Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and the beautiful vistas of the tropical rainforest and reservoir.
How to Reach Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary
- By Road: From the national highway, Take the Palapilly road from the Ernakulam-Thrissur national highway.
From Thrissur, the sanctuary is approximately 36 km away. - From Kochi: It is approximately a two-hour drive from Kochi.
- By Air: The closest airport is Cochin International Airport, located approximately 60 km from the sanctuary. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a private vehicle to reach the sanctuary.
By Train: While no specific nearest railway station is mentioned, you can take a train to a major city like Kochi or Thrissur and then arrange for road transport to the sanctuary.