Tourist Forest Area In Kerala

Kerala, often referred to as "God's Own Country," boasts a plethora of forested tourist destinations that offer breathtaking natural beauty and diverse wildlife. Here are some notable forest areas you might consider exploring.

1. Gavi Forest

Gavi Forest, located in the Pathanamthitta district of Kerala, is a pristine and serene forest area within the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Known for its untouched natural beauty and rich biodiversity, Gavi is a haven for nature enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and adventure seekers. Nestled in the Western Ghats at an altitude of about 3,000 feet above sea level, Gavi offers a tranquil escape into Kerala’s lush forests, where visitors can experience the true essence of wilderness.

The forest is famous for its rich flora and fauna, including various species of birds, animals, and plants. It is home to wildlife like elephants, tigers, leopards, wild boars, and gaur, as well as numerous species of birds, making it a paradise for wildlife photography and birdwatching. The area is also known for its dense, evergreen forests, rolling hills, and pristine lakes, including the picturesque Gavi Lake.

Gavi is a popular eco-tourism destination, with the Kerala Forest Development Corporation (KFDC) offering guided treks, jeep safaris, and boat rides through the forest. The trekking trails lead visitors through beautiful landscapes, offering glimpses of wildlife, and the opportunity to experience the peaceful sounds of nature. Visitors can also enjoy a boat ride on the Gavi Lake, which adds to the charm of this pristine area.

The Gavi region is renowned for its clean environment, with minimal human intervention, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Kerala's forests. The area is also known for its tea and coffee plantations, which add a unique touch to the landscape.

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, Gavi Forest offers an unforgettable adventure amidst nature’s bounty, making it a must-visit destination for eco-tourism, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

2. Silent Valley National Park

Silent Valley National Park, located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, is one of the most pristine and ecologically significant rainforests in India. Spanning an area of approximately 89 square kilometers, the park is known for its untouched beauty, rich biodiversity, and unique ecosystems. It is situated in the Palakkad district, and is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The park's name, "Silent Valley," is derived from the absence of the usual sounds of insects, particularly crickets, which are usually present in forests. This eerie quietness, coupled with the serene atmosphere, makes the valley a truly peaceful and captivating destination. The area is a haven for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers seeking to explore one of the last untouched rainforests in India.

Silent Valley National Park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including several endangered species. The park's dense tropical rainforest is rich in biodiversity, with over 1,000 species of flowering plants, more than 200 species of birds, and a variety of mammals such as tigers, elephants, leopards, wild boars, and the elusive Lion-tailed Macaque. The park also boasts a wide array of reptiles, amphibians, and insects, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and researchers.

One of the key attractions of the park is its natural beauty, with cascading streams, crystal-clear rivers, and stunning waterfalls such as the Sairandhri Waterfall. The park also offers numerous trekking trails, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the lush greenery and observe the abundant wildlife up close.

Silent Valley National Park is a protected area, and visitors are required to obtain permits from the Kerala Forest Development Corporation (KFDC) to enter. The park remains relatively untouched by human activity, providing an authentic wilderness experience. Due to its remote location, it is an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility and a deep connection with nature.

For those passionate about wildlife and nature conservation, Silent Valley National Park is a must-visit destination, offering a glimpse into one of the most biodiverse and unspoiled regions of India.

3. Periyar Tiger Reserve

Periyar Tiger Reserve, located in the Idukki district of Kerala, is one of India’s most renowned wildlife sanctuaries and a haven for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Nestled in the Western Ghats, the reserve spans approximately 925 square kilometers and is part of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, which also forms a crucial part of the Periyar Tiger Reserve. The sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity, serene beauty, and crucial role in conservation.

The reserve is famous for its population of tigers, and it is one of the best places in India to spot these magnificent animals in their natural habitat. Apart from tigers, the reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, wild boars, gaur, and a wide variety of birds, reptiles, and amphibians. The lush forests, grasslands, and numerous water sources, including the scenic Periyar Lake, create a perfect environment for wildlife.

Periyar Lake, formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam, adds a serene touch to the landscape, and boat safaris on the lake offer visitors the chance to spot elephants and other animals coming to the water's edge to drink. The reserve’s picturesque setting, with dense forests, rolling hills, and mist-covered landscapes, makes it a fantastic destination for wildlife photography and eco-tourism.

Apart from tiger sightings, the reserve is also known for its rich flora, including rare species of medicinal plants, trees, and shrubs. The Periyar Tiger Reserve plays a crucial role in wildlife conservation, and it is an important part of the larger Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area is also a critical corridor for the migration of elephants across the Western Ghats.

For those interested in adventure, the reserve offers trekking trails, nature walks, and wildlife safaris, allowing visitors to explore the wilderness up close. The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is a sanctuary for trekkers and nature lovers, offering guided walks through dense forests, where visitors can enjoy the sounds of nature and experience the area’s rich biodiversity.

Periyar Tiger Reserve is a must-visit for those passionate about wildlife conservation, offering a unique chance to witness the beauty of the wild in one of the most ecologically rich areas of India. Whether you’re seeking adventure, peace, or a chance to experience the majesty of tigers and elephants, this reserve provides a truly unforgettable experience.

4. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Wayanad district of Kerala, is one of the most popular and biodiverse wildlife reserves in the state. Spanning across 344 square kilometers, it is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and forms a crucial part of the Western Ghats' rich ecological network. The sanctuary is known for its dense forests, varied wildlife, and serene natural beauty, making it a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

The sanctuary is home to a diverse range of animals, including tigers, elephants, leopards, gaur (Indian bison), sambar deer, wild boars, and several species of monkeys. It is also a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 200 species of birds, including the Malabar grey hornbill, red-headed vulture, and woodpeckers. The sanctuary's varied habitats, from tropical evergreen forests to grasslands, provide a diverse environment for wildlife, making it an excellent location for both birdwatching and animal spotting.

The sanctuary is divided into two main parts: the Muthanga and Tholpetty ranges. Muthanga, located near the Kerala-Karnataka border, is known for its elephant population and is often the most visited area of the sanctuary. Tholpetty, in the northern part of the sanctuary, is equally famous for wildlife sightings, including tigers and leopards, and is surrounded by beautiful, dense forests and hills.

Visitors can enjoy various activities, including jeep safaris, nature walks, and trekking, allowing them to explore the rich wildlife and forest landscapes up close. The safaris, especially in the early mornings or late evenings, provide excellent opportunities to spot elephants, tigers, and other animals in their natural habitat.

The sanctuary is also known for its eco-tourism initiatives, with the Kerala Forest Development Corporation (KFDC) managing the area. These initiatives aim to promote conservation efforts while allowing visitors to experience the beauty and importance of the wildlife sanctuary.

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers, offering a unique chance to explore one of Kerala’s most biodiverse regions. Its rich flora, fauna, and breathtaking landscapes make it an unforgettable experience for anyone looking to connect with the natural world.

5. Parambikulam Tiger Reserve

Parambikulam Tiger Reserve, located on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, is a pristine and ecologically rich protected area nestled in the Western Ghats. Spanning across approximately 1,390 square kilometers, the reserve covers parts of both Kerala's Palakkad district and Tamil Nadu's Coimbatore district. It is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is one of the most significant wildlife conservation areas in southern India.

The reserve is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, ranging from tropical rainforests and moist deciduous forests to grasslands and wetlands. It is an important habitat for a wide variety of wildlife, including the Royal Bengal Tiger, Indian elephants, leopards, gaur, sambar deer, wild boars, and various species of primates like the bonnet macaque and langur. Parambikulam is also home to a rich variety of bird species, including hornbills, eagles, and woodpeckers, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts.

The Parambikulam Reservoir, which is part of the reserve, adds to the area's scenic beauty and is a key water source for the wildlife. The reservoir, along with the surrounding forests and hills, creates a breathtaking landscape that is perfect for eco-tourism activities like safaris, trekking, and boating. The sanctuary's unique combination of wilderness, water bodies, and rolling hills offers visitors the chance to experience nature at its most pristine.

Jeep safaris are the most popular way to explore the reserve, offering visitors the opportunity to witness the wildlife up close. Early morning or evening safaris increase the chances of spotting tigers, elephants, and other majestic creatures as they roam the forest. The area is also known for its lush greenery, with towering trees, flowering plants, and dense vegetation, contributing to the region's overall biodiversity.

In addition to its wildlife, Parambikulam Tiger Reserve plays a vital role in conservation, with significant efforts focused on protecting endangered species, preserving habitats, and maintaining the ecological balance of the Western Ghats. The reserve is managed jointly by the Kerala Forest Development Corporation (KFDC) and Tamil Nadu's Forest Department, working together to safeguard this vital ecological area.

For those seeking an adventure in nature or a peaceful escape into the wild, Parambikulam Tiger Reserve offers a truly immersive experience, where visitors can explore some of the most beautiful and untamed landscapes of southern India while contributing to wildlife conservation.

6. Agasthyakoodam Biosphere Reserve

Agasthyakoodam Biosphere Reserve, located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, is one of India’s most ecologically significant and biodiverse regions. Spanning across the Idukki and Pathanamthitta districts, the reserve covers a vast area of around 1,000 square kilometers and is a part of the Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve, which is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The reserve is named after Agasthyakoodam, the second-highest peak in the Western Ghats, which rises to an elevation of 1,868 meters above sea level.

Agasthyakoodam is known for its stunning natural beauty, with dense forests, rugged mountains, waterfalls, and rich biodiversity. It serves as a crucial habitat for a wide range of flora and fauna, including several endangered and endemic species. The reserve is particularly famous for its tropical rainforests, shola grasslands, and cloud forests, which together create a unique ecosystem that supports diverse wildlife. The area is also known for its numerous rivers and streams, adding to the natural splendor of the landscape.

The reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including Indian elephants, tigers, leopards, gaur (Indian bison), and sambar deer. It is also a haven for birdwatchers, with more than 200 species of birds, such as the Malabar grey hornbill, Nilgiri wood pigeon, and Sri Lanka frogmouth, among others. The rich plant life includes several rare and medicinal plants, many of which are used in traditional practices.

Agasthyakoodam is a significant site for conservation, as it helps protect a large number of endemic species and maintain the ecological integrity of the Western Ghats. The region is also a hotspot for scientific research, with many researchers studying the biodiversity and ecological processes of this unique area.

For adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers, the Agasthyakoodam trek is one of the main attractions. This challenging yet rewarding trek takes visitors through dense forests, steep terrains, and offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those seeking to explore the heart of the Western Ghats and experience its pristine beauty.

In addition to its ecological importance, the Agasthyakoodam Biosphere Reserve also plays a key role in preserving the cultural heritage of the region, as the area is home to several indigenous communities that have lived in harmony with nature for centuries.

Overall, Agasthyakoodam Biosphere Reserve is a must-visit for anyone seeking to explore the unspoiled wilderness of Kerala, offering unparalleled experiences in wildlife viewing, trekking, and a deep connection with nature.