Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary(CWS) is situated 18 km north of Marayoor on SH 17 in the Idukki District of Kerala in South India. It is adjacent to Eravikulam National Park to the south, Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary to the east. It is an integral part of the protected forests near Kerala. Tmail Nadu border in the Annamalai Hills. UNESCO is considering this Anamalai sub-cluster of western ghats including Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary to select as a World Heritage Site.
Location
18 km north of Marayoor in the Idukki District
Major Parks in the Sanctuary
Nandala Malai
2,372 m (7,782 ft.)
Kottakombu Malai
2,144 m (7,034 ft.)
Vellaikal Malai
1,863 m (6,112 ft.)
Viriyoottu Malai
1,845 m (6,053 ft.)
Anamudi Peak
2,695 m (8,842 ft.)
Nearest Railway Station
Neyyattinkara Railway Station, 20 km
Nearest Airport
Trivandrum International Airport, 40 km
Anamudi Peak is located 23 km near Eravikulam National Park. It is the highest peak in South India. Sanctuary is fed by the perpetual water resources namely Chinnar River and Pambar River. Chinnar river emerges near Kumarikal Malai and accompany along the north west edge of the Sanctuary for 18 km and known as Amaravati River in Tamil Nadu. The Pambar River originates in the Anaimudi Hills and few perennial streams from Sholas merges in Pambar river in the upper reaches. It is home to 34 species of mammals including panthers and spotted deer, 245 species of birds including yellow-throated Bulbuls, 52 species of reptiles including 29 species of snakes, Indian Star Tortoise and Mugger Crocodiles. The Chinnar and Pambar river are the home to 42 species of fishes including Garra nullaya minnows, River – Carp baril, Giant Danio and game fish Deccan Mahseer. There are 156 species of butterflies and 22 amphibians species live here. One can go for trekking here. Chinnar-Chullipetty and Chinnar-Koottar are generally used trek paths. Crocodile sightseeing in daytime is also provided. You can stay at Forest guesthouse provided by forest departments. Treetop machans are also arranged by forest department for tourist to stay at night.
