Malabar Wildlife Sanctuary (Peruvannamuzhi)

About this place

Malabar Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected wildlife sanctuary located at Peruvannamuzhi in Kozhikode district, Kerala, and is one of the state's most important biodiversity conservation areas within the ecologically sensitive Western Ghats, a UNESCO-recognized global biodiversity hotspot. Established in 2009 as Kerala's 16th wildlife sanctuary, it covers an area of approximately 74 square kilometres and forms part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and the Wayanad Elephant Reserve, playing a crucial role in protecting the region's tropical evergreen, semi-evergreen, and moist deciduous forests. The sanctuary provides a safe habitat for a remarkable diversity of wildlife, including the Asian elephant, Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, gaur, sambar deer, barking deer, wild boar, Nilgiri langur, lion-tailed macaque, brown palm civet, and numerous reptiles, amphibians, butterflies, freshwater fish, and insects. It is equally renowned among birdwatchers for its rich avian diversity, with species such as the Malabar parakeet, Grey-headed bulbul, White-bellied blue flycatcher, Oriental darter, Great Hornbill, and several endemic birds of the Western Ghats frequently recorded here. Surrounded by the picturesque landscapes of Peruvannamuzhi Dam, reservoirs, rolling hills, streams, and dense forests, the sanctuary offers visitors an immersive nature experience through regulated eco-tourism activities including guided trekking, birdwatching, nature walks, wildlife photography, and environmental education programmes conducted under the supervision of the Kerala Forest Department. Beyond tourism, Malabar Wildlife Sanctuary plays a vital role in watershed conservation, climate regulation, habitat connectivity, and scientific research, ensuring the long-term survival of several threatened and endemic species while supporting ecological balance across northern Kerala. Its forests serve as an important wildlife corridor connecting protected landscapes within the Western Ghats, making it invaluable for conservation planning and biodiversity management. The sanctuary also promotes responsible eco-tourism by balancing visitor access with strict conservation measures, allowing travellers, researchers, students, and nature enthusiasts to appreciate Kerala's rich natural heritage without disturbing its fragile ecosystems. With its exceptional biodiversity, scenic beauty, ecological significance, and well-managed conservation initiatives, Malabar Wildlife Sanctuary stands as one of the finest wildlife destinations in Kerala, offering an unforgettable opportunity to explore the pristine forests and remarkable wildlife of the Western Ghats while fostering awareness about the importance of environmental conservation and sustainable tourism.

🚆 Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode (Calicut) Railway Station – approximately 60 km.

✈️ Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport (CCJ) – approximately 75 km.

🚌 Bus: Regular KSRTC and private buses operate from Kozhikode to Peruvannamuzhi, with local transport available to the sanctuary.

🏨 Stay: Hotels and resorts are available in Kozhikode, while limited forest guest house and eco-tourism accommodation may be available near Peruvannamuzhi with prior permission.

✅ Important Notes: Established in 2009 as Kerala's 16th Wildlife Sanctuary; covers approximately 74 sq. km; forms part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and Wayanad Elephant Reserve. Entry, trekking, and eco-tourism activities are regulated by the Kerala Forest Department.