The Parambikulam wildlife sanctuary is located in the south-western stateof Kerala in India. It is situated in the Chiitur Taluk of the Palakkad district and stretches over an area of 285 square kilometres. This sanctuary was established in the year 1973 and includes the Sungam range of hills that lie between the Anaimalai and Nellaiampathy hills. This particular sanctuary has been put under the 391 square kilometres Parambiculam Tiger reserve since the 19th of February 2010. The sanctuary along with the Western Ghats and the Anaamali sub cluster has been considered by the UNESCO to be a world heritage side.
Flora and Fauna
The sanctuary is made up of mostly evergreen tropical trees and deciduous trees. However the forests are also rich in high value trees such as teak, sandalwood and rosewood. One of the main attractions in terms of flora here is the Kannimara Teak which is the oldest teak tree. This tree is roughly 450 years old, has a diameter of 6.8 metres and has a height of 49.5 metres approx making it a grand sight to see. This tree has also won the Mahavriksha Puraskar which is given by the Indian government.
The sanctuary is well known for its varied diversity in mammals, amphibians, birds, reptiles, fish, insects and even butterflies. Over 39 species of mammals have been recorded which include Lion tailed macaques, Nilgiri Tahr, elephants, Bengal tigers, sloth bears, gaur, wild boar, sambar, bonnet macaques, flying squirrels, Indian leopards etc. In terms of reptiles 61 species have been recorded which include the king cobra, Kerala shield tail, Cochin cane turtle, Travancore tortoise, Indian rock python, Malabar pit viper etc. The sanctuary has recorded over 268 species of birds of which the most prominent ones are Grey headed fish eagle, Broad billed roller, Great pied hornbill, kingfishers, little cormorant, black eagle, darter etc. There are 124 species of butterflies, 23 species of amphibians and 47 species of fish which have made this sanctuary their habitat.
Activities
Bird watching- since the park is home to over 268 species of birds making it a paradise for bird watchers. One can walk through the forest trails peering on tree tops with binoculars so as to spot these beautiful birds. Some varieties that one can fine here are Great Indian hornbill, black woodpecker, peninsular bay owl, lesser adjutant stork, gray headed Fish eagle and darter etc. Trekking- this is a rejuvenating and exhilarating activity to indulge in however it is only allowed with prior permission. One also needs to be accompanied by an experienced forest guide. Safari- the tourists are taken on safari on bamboo rafts which is a great way to explore the forests and watch wild animals in their natural habitat.
Accommodation and Fooding
One can stay at the tree house in the reserve forest area in Thooonakkadavu which is the headquarters of the sanctuary. They have to book it in advance. One can also stay at the government rest houses at Thoonakkadavu, Thellikkal and Elathode. For fooding you can eat at the government rest houses or you can even take your own packed lunch.
Getting In
The nearest railway station is that of Pollachi which is about 65 kms away while the nearest airport is that of Coimbatore, 40 kms from Pollachi
Best time of Visit
The best time to visit would be the months of December to May when the weather is much cooler and dry
