Kottiyoor Wildlife Sanctuary

About this place

Kottiyoor Wildlife Sanctuary is a government-protected wildlife sanctuary located in the eastern hilly regions of Kannur district in Kerala, India, and it represents an important ecological landscape within the biodiverse Western Ghats mountain range. The sanctuary was formally declared on 1 March 2011 under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, highlighting its significance in conserving the region’s rich wildlife habitats and forest ecosystems. Spread across dense tropical forests, rolling hills, river valleys, and diverse vegetation zones, Kottiyoor Wildlife Sanctuary forms part of a larger protected forest corridor that connects with other wildlife reserves in the Western Ghats. The sanctuary is known for its mix of evergreen, semi-evergreen, and moist deciduous forests, which provide an ideal habitat for a wide range of plant and animal species. Because of this rich biodiversity, the area supports numerous mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects that thrive in the undisturbed forest environment. Wildlife that may be found in the sanctuary includes elephants, deer, wild boar, and several species of monkeys, along with a variety of birds and butterflies typical of the Western Ghats ecosystem. The sanctuary also plays an important role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region by protecting forest cover, water sources, and natural wildlife corridors. Several streams and small rivers originate or pass through the sanctuary, contributing to the region’s natural water systems and supporting both wildlife and nearby communities. In addition to its ecological importance, the sanctuary’s landscape is characterized by scenic hills, forest trails, and dense greenery that create a beautiful natural environment. These features make Kottiyoor Wildlife Sanctuary an appealing destination for nature enthusiasts, wildlife observers, researchers, and eco-tourism visitors who wish to explore the natural beauty of Kerala’s forest landscapes. Visitors often come to experience the peaceful atmosphere, observe birds and wildlife, and learn about the biodiversity of the Western Ghats. The sanctuary is also located near the famous Kottiyoor Temple region, which attracts pilgrims annually, adding cultural significance to the surrounding forest landscape. Despite its natural beauty and ecological richness, access to certain parts of the sanctuary may be regulated to ensure wildlife protection and environmental conservation. Overall, Kottiyoor Wildlife Sanctuary stands as an important protected forest area in Kannur district, preserving the natural habitats, wildlife diversity, and scenic landscapes of the Western Ghats while promoting conservation awareness and sustainable eco-tourism in the region.

🚆 Railway: Thalassery Railway Station (~50 km)

✈️ Airport: Kannur International Airport (~55 km)

🚌 Bus: Kottiyoor Bus Stand / Kottiyoor town

🏨 Stay: Kottiyoor Valley Park & Resorts / KOTTIYOOR STAYS - ROOMS & FRESHUP / Farmers Nest Homestay

✅ Notes: Kottiyoor Wildlife Sanctuary covers 30.38 km² of protected forest and is important for conserving semi-evergreen forests, shola grasslands and wildlife including elephants, gaur, tigers and hornbills.