Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary established in the year 1984, is one of the smallest wildlife sanctuaries in all Kerala. Spanning over an area of 55 square kilometres, Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is located on the western slopes of the glorious Western Ghats. It is the northernmost wildlife sanctuary in Kerala and the only of its kind in the Kannur district. It is a lovely combination of forests and mountains stretching to meet the Coorg forests of Karnataka state. The hilly terrains of the Aralam wildlife sanctuary range from 50 meters to 1145 meters above sea level. Katta Betta is the highest peak point of the sanctuary.
The thick forestation and grassy meadows attract numerous bird varieties and grass-eating animals to the slopes. A day spent in Aralam is indeed a day spent in the paradise of nature. The huge trees rising like a tower, are thickly growing in three varieties. There are evergreen, non-evergreen and moist deciduous trees that comprise the dense forestation of the sanctuary. The most endangered to the most normal wildlife species are preserved within the area which includes 23 species of mammals, 188 species of birds, 22 species of reptiles etc.
Wildlife enthusiasts are sure to go nuts around the sanctuary as they can spot a wide variety of animals including the big cats – leopards and tigers leaping through the woods. Sloth Bear, Mouse Deer, Elephant, Wild Boar, squirrels etc. are commonly seen around, with the best of the birds such as the Grey Hornbill, Blue Winged Parakeet, Ceylon Frogmouth, Wood pigeon and Great Pied Hornbills. Malabar Giant Squirrel or the Flying Squirrel is one of the rare attractions of the sanctuary, seen flying from one branch of the tree to another like a ninja squirrel.
The whole sanctuary is water fed by the refreshing waters of the Cheenkannippuzha river. All the wildlife creatures inhibited within the sanctuary, quench their thirst in the brims of the river with a population of 39 species of fishes. A great safari around the woods will help you get the best of the views embedded in the crust of the sanctuary. One can get the most astonishing views from the two watchtowers, Ambalapara Watchtower and the Meenmutty Watchtower. A trek to the watchtowers and a night stay would increase the probability of sighting the essence of the wildlife in the sanctuary especially the wild cats. The risk of the trek and the night stay is minimal as you are escorted by at least 5 watch guides for a group of 6 tourists.
The Meenmutty watchtower also presents the vision of the majestic and dreamy Meenmutty waterfalls cascading down the rocky terrains creating a misty cloud above the waterfalls. It is important to note that Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary conducts a lot of nature camps for students. At least 60 nature camps are being conducted every year with a span of 2 to 3 days and almost 40 students participating in every session. The nature camps are being held to educate children about the importance of nature conservation and how our life is eternally intertwined with the environment we live in.
October to June is the ideal time to visit the sanctuary as the climate and temperature are mild and comfortable for the tourists without any possible risks of rainfalls. A trip to Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is definitely the trip of a lifetime as it gives the most refreshing memory in the wilderness of nature that would never fade away.
Explore Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary: Kerala’s Hidden Gem
Established in 1984, Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Kerala’s smallest yet most enchanting wildlife reserves. Covering 55 square kilometers on the western slopes of the Western Ghats, it is the northernmost sanctuary in Kerala and the only one in Kannur district. The sanctuary’s hilly terrain, ranging from 50 to 1,145 meters above sea level, features the majestic Katta Betta as its highest peak.
Rich Flora and Fauna
Aralam’s dense forests and grassy meadows are home to a diverse array of wildlife. The sanctuary boasts 23 species of mammals, 188 species of birds, and 22 species of reptiles. Among its inhabitants, visitors may spot elusive big cats like leopards and tigers, as well as sloth bears, mouse deer, elephants, and wild boars. Birdwatchers will delight in seeing species such as the Grey Hornbill, Blue-Winged Parakeet, and Great Pied Hornbill. The rare Malabar Giant Squirrel, known for its spectacular gliding, adds to the sanctuary’s allure.
Natural Beauty
The sanctuary is nourished by the Cheenkannippuzha River, which supports a rich aquatic life, including 39 fish species. The two watchtowers, Ambalapara and Meenmutty, offer stunning views of the landscape. The Meenmutty Watchtower provides a glimpse of the beautiful Meenmutty Waterfalls, cascading down rocky slopes and shrouded in mist. A trek to the watchtowers, especially with an overnight stay, enhances the chances of encountering wildlife, including the elusive wild cats. Safety is ensured with at least five guides accompanying groups of six tourists.
Nature Camps for Students
Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary also conducts nature camps aimed at educating students about conservation and environmental stewardship. These camps are offered in half-day, two-day, and three-day formats, with a minimum group size of 40 participants. Activities include educational classes, film screenings, and trekking, all designed to foster a deeper connection with nature.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is from October to June, when the weather is mild and comfortable, making for an enjoyable experience free from heavy rainfall.
A visit to Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary promises an unforgettable adventure, offering a unique blend of wildlife sightings, natural beauty, and educational experiences.
