
Top Wildlife Safaris & National Parks in Quilon, Kerala, India
1. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
A haven for birdwatchers with over 50 species of resident birds and migratory waterfowl. Boat rides offer close-up views.
- Rich Avian Biodiversity: Provides opportunity to spot a variety of bird species, including egrets, herons, and migratory Siberian cranes.
- Boat Rides: Unique way to explore the sanctuary and get up-close views of the birds.
- Serene Location: Set amidst picturesque backwaters, it offers a tranquil and beautiful setting.
2. Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary
Lush evergreen forests home to a variety of wildlife including elephants, tigers, and gaurs. Offers jungle treks and jeep safaris.
- Diverse Wildlife: Provides chance to spot several species like Nilgiri Langur, Malabar Giant Squirrel, and various bird species.
- Jungle Treks & Jeep Safaris: Explore the sanctuary through guided treks or jeep safaris for a chance to see wildlife up-close.
- Eco-Friendly Initiatives: Conscious efforts to preserve the environment and promote sustainable tourism practices.
3. Kolukumalai Tea Estate & Eravikulam National Park
Experience a tea plantation tour and explore the surrounding national park known for its Nilgiri Tahr population.
- Tea Plantation Tour: Walk through lush green hills dotted with tea plants, learn about the cultivation process.
- Eravikulam National Park: Chance to see rare Nilgiri Tahr and other endemic species in their natural habitat.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of the Western Ghats and rolling tea plantations.
4. Varkala Beach & Varkala Aquarium
Combine beach relaxation with a visit to an aquarium showcasing marine life of the Arabian Sea.
- Relaxing Beach Experience: Enjoy a peaceful retreat on Varkala's pristine beaches.
- Varkala Aquarium: Discover diverse marine life through interactive exhibits and educational programs.
- Natural Mineral Water Springs: Unique feature where natural mineral water springs meet the sea.
5. Shenkottah Wildlife Sanctuary
Rare and endangered species like Lion-tailed Macaque, Nilgiri Tahr, and Elephant can be spotted.
- Endangered Species Sightings: Opportunity to see rare and endangered species that are hard to spot elsewhere.
- Guided Tours: Informative guided tours with knowledgeable guides who share insights about the wildlife and ecosystem.
- Remote Location: Less crowded than other national parks, offering a more secluded wildlife experience.
6. Kottackal Urban Haat & Kottappuram Wildlife Sanctuary
Experience local culture at a bustling market and explore the nearby wildlife sanctuary.
- Local Market Experience: Immerse in local culture by exploring the vibrant Kottackal Urban Haat.
- Kottappuram Wildlife Sanctuary: Chance to spot elephants, bison, sambar deer, and various bird species.
- Eco-Tourism Centre: Eco-tourism center offers educational programs, guided tours, and conservation efforts.
7. Kolumblattu Koyickal Bird Sanctuary
A small but significant bird sanctuary home to a variety of migratory and resident birds.
- Rich Avian Biodiversity: Provides opportunity to spot a variety of bird species, including egrets, herons, and migratory waterfowl.
- Quiet Location: Less crowded compared to other popular sanctuaries, offering a peaceful experience.
- Boat Rides: Unique way to explore the sanctuary and get up-close views of the birds.
8. Ponmudi Hill Station & Wildlife Sanctuary
Lush hill station with a wildlife sanctuary offering trekking opportunities and diverse wildlife sightings.
- Trekking Opportunities: Offers guided treks through lush green forests and scenic trails.
- Diverse Wildlife: Chance to spot several species like elephants, sambar deer, and Nilgiri Tahr.
- Scenic Beauty: Boasts breathtaking views of the Western Ghats and surrounding hills.
9. Pamban Bridge & Dhanushkodi Wildlife Sanctuary
Experience a unique sea bridge and explore the nearby wildlife sanctuary known for its endangered species.
- Sea Bridge Experience: Walk on the world's second-oldest operational sea bridge, connecting Rameswaram Island and mainland India.
- Dhanushkodi Wildlife Sanctuary: Chance to see endangered species like Sloth Bear, Fox, Jackal, and Painted Storks.
- Historical Significance: Offers glimpses into the history of ancient civilizations and maritime trade routes.
10. Thirparappu Waterfall & Wildlife Sanctuary
Enjoy a scenic waterfall visit and explore the nearby wildlife sanctuary.
- Scenic Waterfall Experience: Visit the beautiful Thirparappu Waterfall cascading down from a height of 50 feet.
- Wildlife Sanctuary: Chance to spot elephants, bison, sambar deer, and various bird species.
- Eco-Friendly Initiatives: Conscious efforts to preserve the environment and promote sustainable tourism practices.
11. Kumarakom Backwaters & Mangrove Forest
Traditional houseboats offer a peaceful journey through the backwaters and mangrove forests.
- Peaceful Houseboat Journey: Experience life on traditional houseboats while cruising through the tranquil backwaters.
- Mangrove Forests: Explore mangrove forests that serve as a habitat for various species of birds and fish.
- Local Culture & Cuisine: Enjoy authentic Kerala cuisine and learn about local culture during your journey.
12. Chavakkad Beach & Marine Aquarium
Combine a beach visit with an educational trip to a marine aquarium.
- Relaxing Beach Experience: Enjoy a peaceful retreat on Chavakkad's beautiful beaches.
- Marine Aquarium: Learn about marine life through interactive exhibits and educational programs.
- Historical Significance: Chavakkad is known for its ancient temple, a significant pilgrimage site.
13. Kuruvikulum Forest Park
A protected forest area offering jungle treks and opportunities to spot local wildlife.
- Jungle Treks: Guided treks through the dense forest offer chances to spot local wildlife.
- Butterfly Research Centre: Learn about various species of butterflies and their life cycles at the research center.
- Eco-Friendly Initiatives: Conscious efforts to preserve the forest and promote sustainable tourism practices.
14. Valliyoorkavu Bhagavathy Temple & Velliyar River
Visit a sacred temple and take a serene boat ride on the Velliyar River.
- Sacred Temple Experience: Pay homage at the Valliyoorkavu Bhagavathy Temple, dedicated to the goddess Bhadrakali.
- Boat Ride on Velliyar River: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride along the serene Velliyar River.
- Historical Significance: The temple and surrounding area hold historical significance and offer insights into ancient cultures.
15. Kovalam Beach & Kovalam Aquarium
Combine a visit to a beautiful beach with an educational trip to an aquarium.
- Relaxing Beach Experience: Enjoy a peaceful retreat on Kovalam's picturesque beaches.
- Kovalam Aquarium: Learn about marine life through interactive exhibits and educational programs.
- Historical Significance: Kovalam was a fishing village with ancient trading connections, offering insights into the region's past.