Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary is a 285 km Protected area in Chittur taluk in Palakkad district of Kerala state, South India. Established in 1973, it is in the Sungam range of hills between the Anaimalai Hills and Nelliampathy Hills.The Western Ghats, Anamalai Sub-Cluster, including all of Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, is under consideration by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee for selection as a World Heritage Site.
The sanctuary is the home of 4 different tribes of indigenous peoples including the Kadar, Malasar, Muduvar and Mala Malasar settled in six colonies. Parambikkulam Wildlife Sanctuary was declared as part of the 390.88 square kilometres (150.9 sq mi) Parambiculam Tiger Reserve on February 19, 2010
Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary offers a serene and enchanting environment for nature enthusiasts, providing an opportunity to experience the beauty of the Western Ghats and encounter diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.
Here’s an overview of this sanctuary:
Location: Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary is nestled in the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich biodiversity. It shares borders with Tamil Nadu and is adjacent to the Anamalai Tiger Reserve in Tamil Nadu.
Area and Terrain: The sanctuary covers an area of about 285 square kilometers, making it one of the largest wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala. Its terrain is characterized by dense forests, hilly landscapes, rivers, and reservoirs.
Biodiversity: Parambikulam is renowned for its diverse flora and fauna. It is home to several endangered and endemic species, including the Indian bison (gaur), elephants, tigers, leopards, deer, langurs, macaques, and a wide variety of birds, reptiles, and butterflies.
Parambikulam Reservoir: One of the notable features of the sanctuary is the Parambikulam Reservoir, formed by the Parambikulam Dam on the Parambikulam River. The reservoir enhances the scenic beauty of the sanctuary and serves as a vital water source for wildlife.
Activities: Visitors to Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary can engage in various activities such as wildlife safaris, trekking, bird watching, boat rides, and camping. The sanctuary offers guided tours and nature walks, providing opportunities to explore its natural beauty and observe wildlife.
Accommodation: The sanctuary provides accommodation options ranging from treehouses, cottages, and dormitories to eco-friendly tented campsites. These accommodations offer a unique and immersive experience amidst nature.
Conservation: Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary is actively involved in wildlife conservation efforts, including habitat restoration, anti-poaching measures, and community-based conservation initiatives. It is managed by the Kerala Forest Department and collaborates with various conservation organizations and stakeholders to protect its biodiversity.
