Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the Thrissur district of Kerala, India. Established in 1984, it is one of the biodiversity-rich areas of the Western Ghats and is known for its scenic beauty, diverse flora and fauna, and array of trekking opportunities.
The sanctuary is situated in the Mukundapuram taluk of Thrissur district, about 30 km from Thrissur city, in the state of Kerala, South India.
The best time to visit the sanctuary is from November to April when the weather is pleasant and conducive for wildlife spotting and outdoor activities. The monsoon season, from June to October, is to be avoided due to heavy rainfall which can lead to restricted access and activities.
Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a variety of species including Asian elephants, leopards, Indian bison (Gaur), Sambar deer, spotted deer, wild boar, and many small mammals. It is also a haven for bird watchers with numerous species of birds like the grey-headed fishing eagle, Asian fairy bluebird, and Malabar grey hornbill.
Yes, tourists can engage in activities such as bird watching, trekking, bamboo rafting, and jungle safaris under the guidance of Forest Department officials. There are trekking routes of varying difficulty that offer visitors the chance to explore the natural beauty of the sanctuary.
Yes, visitors need to obtain permission from the Forest Department to enter Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary. This is necessary to ensure the protection of wildlife and the environment and to manage the number of tourists within the sanctuary.
While there are limited facilities within the sanctuary itself, there are several accommodation options ranging from budget to luxury around the sanctuary. Additionally, the Forest Department runs eco-tourism cottages for visitors who wish to stay closer to nature.
Visitors are usually required to pay a nominal entry fee for visiting Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary. The fee structure can be confirmed with the Kerala Forest Department as it is subject to change.
The sanctuary can be reached by road from Thrissur city. The nearest airport is the Cochin International Airport, about 55 km from Thrissur, while the nearest railway station is in Thrissur itself. From Thrissur, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to the sanctuary.
Visitors should adhere to the sanctuary rules, such as not littering, avoiding loud noises, not feeding or disturbing the wildlife, and following the instructions of the Forest Department officials. It is also essential to stay within permitted areas and maintain a safe and respectful distance from wild animals.
