Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary

  • 4.1

    Location: Kerala 670674, India

    Estimated Visiting Time:  2-3 hours.

    Website not available

    Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is the northernmost wildlife sanctuary of Kerala, southwest India. It is located on the western slope of the Western Ghats. It was established in 1984, with its headquarters near Iritty. Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary lies under the Kannur District. Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary, which is spread across 55 square kilometers, is part of the Western Ghats and is blessed with the astounding nature it can offer. It is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna and has some of the most enchanting spots in the region. A number of animal species, including herds of elephants, spotted deer, Nilgiri Langur, Hanuman Langur, and the Malabar Giant Squirrel, can be found here. This sanctuary is blessed with several streams and rivers, including River Aralam, Cheenkannipuzha, Manikkadavu Thodu, Kuru Kathodu, and Meenumuttithodu. The tallest peak in the Kannur area, Katti Betta, is another attraction for nature-loving visitors. Aralam is also a source of pride for many trekking trails. The famous central state farm, an initiative of the Government of India, is located in the Aralam village. The farm is among the country’s chief production centers of hybrid coconut tree seeds. It is a must-visit place for nature lovers.

    Attraction

    Aralam Wildlife SanctuaryAralam Wildlife Sanctuary provides tourists the opportunity to enjoy various activities such as trekking, camping, bird watching, and photography. The highest peak of Katti Betta, the watchtower covered with tropical and semi-evergreen forests, and the Aralam River are significant attractions within the sanctuary. Tourists often engage in guided treks to explore the rich biodiversity, which includes species like elephants, tigers, leopards, and various types of deer. Bird watchers are particularly drawn to Aralam for its avian diversity, which includes rare birds like the Malabar grey hornbill, great pied hornbill, and the Ceylon frogmouth. The forest authority organizes bird-watching tours led by expert guides to enhance the birding experience. The bryophyte flora of the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is amazing, and it consists of more than 110 taxa (89 mosses, 27 liverworts), which attracts tourists.

    History

    The Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is the only wildlife sanctuary in the Kannur district.  The sanctuary was constituted in 1984 as per GO (P) 300/84/AD dated 15 October 1984. It was shaped by carving out areas from the Odanthode Mallavaram of Thalassery special division, which was an erstwhile private forest that was subsequently taken over by the government. History says that this was the area where Pazhassi Raja went into banishment during the war with the British, but not much of it is known today. In 1971 CE, the Government of India built a farm in the Wildlife Sanctuary, which is one of a kind in India and blessed with rich flora and fauna.

    Inside/Outside Views

    Aralam Wildlife SanctuaryMeenmutty is quite a big fall deep inside the forest. On the way, you can see a watchtower, which would give you a panoramic view of the sanctuary. Inside the forest, you can explore some wildlife creatures, including elephants, spotted deer, Nilgiri Langur, Hanuman Langur, and some bird species. This forest has a rich flora. Through trekking, you can explore its biodiversity. This sanctuary would be the best place for those who love greenery. Outside the forest, the road towards itself is very green with the lush paddy fields. In conclusion, it is a must-visit place.

    Opening Hours

    •  Saturday – 8AM – 3PM
    • Sunday – 8 AM – 3 PM
    • Monday – 8 AM – 3 PM
    • Tuesday – 8 AM – 3 PM
    • Wednesday – 8 AM – 3 PM
    • Thursday – 8 AM – 3 PM
    • Friday – 8 AM – 3 PM

    Entry & Others Fees

    •  Per head entry fee – 15 Rs
    • Guide fee – 300 Rs
    • For a vehicle fee – 75 Rs
    • Camera fee – 25 Rs

    How to Reach

    By train: The nearest railway station is Thalassery station. From this station, Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is about 45 kilometers away.

    By Bus: The Iritty bus stand is the nearest bus stand to Aralam Sanctuary.

    By air: The nearest airport to the sanctuary is Kannur International Airport, which is 37 kilometers away.

    Tips for Travellers

    • Any time would be a good time to visit Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary, but the months of November to May would be a suitable month to visit Aralam. 
    • Don’t harm the wildlife creatures and the flora. 
    • Try to keep a water bottle in your bag to remain hydrated. 
    • While going on safari, you can also carry some snacks with you.
    • Try to carry some extra cash in case you need it.
    • Behave gently and politely with the locals.

    FAQ

    Que-01:  Which district is Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary in? 

    Ans:  Aralam is in the Kannur district of Kerala. 

    Que-02: Which animals are famous in Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary? 

    Ans: Elephants, spotted deer, Nilgiri Langur, Hanuman Langur, and the Malabar Giant Squirrel are famous animals.

     Que-03: Which is the northernmost wildlife sanctuary in Kerala? 

    Ans: Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is the only wildlife sanctuary in the Kerala district. 

     Que-04: What is the best time to visit Aralam Sanctuary? 

    Ans: Between November and May would be the best time to visit Aralam. 

    Que-05: Are there any guided tours available in Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary? 

    Ans: Yes. Guided tours are available at the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary. 

    We wish you all the best for your journey. Happy Travel!!!

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