Home  

contact us  

advertise  

                                                 
The Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary (also commonly known as the Thattekad Sanctuary) is located in the Kothamangalam Taluk of Ernakulam district on the northern bank of the Periyar river. The sanctuary was notified in 1983 based on a recommendation made by Dr. Salim Ali many years previously. Ali described Thattekad in the 1930's as the richest bird habitat in peninsular India, comparable only with the eastern Himalayas. Since then much of the forest has been diverted to cultivation and teak and mahogany plantation but what survives gives a glimpse of the phenomenal bird diversity of the once widespread lowland forests of Kerala.

There is a three storied watch tower inside the Sanctuary with two beds, a toilet and a kitchen. No electricity here but there is are a few solar powered lamps. A forest department inspection bungalow called Hornbill is located near the sanctuary entrance. There is a dormitory just inside the sanctuary which is ideal for large groups. Accommodation is also available at the PWD rest house near the Bhoothathankett Dam and in lodges in Kothamangalam.

Getting There
Kothamangalam is well connected by privately operated buses to Ernakulam via Muvattupuzha or Perumpavur. There are frequent buses from Kothamangalam to Thattekad. Currently the bus needs to cross the Periyar river by ferry. Construction on a bridge across the river has started.

The nearest railway station :  Aluva at a distance of 50 km.

The nearest airport : Kochi International Airport is approximately 45 Kms away.

more destinations >>