Why make the drive
Lower traffic means animals are less disturbed and the forest feels less managed. Elephant, gaur, deer and a strong bird list are the staples here as at Muthanga.
It sits close to Thirunelli temple and the Brahmagiri foothills, so the drive north can carry a full day rather than a single stop.
Practicalities
Safaris run on the same model as Muthanga — Forest Department jeeps, fixed slots, tickets at the gate, limited vehicles. Private vehicles cannot enter.
It is roughly an hour and a half from Kalpetta, so an early morning slot means leaving in the dark.
Before You Go
- Quieter than Muthanga and generally better for sightings.
- The early slot means a pre-dawn start from Vythiri or Kalpetta.
- Combine with Thirunelli and Kuruva for a full northern day.
- Confirm it is open — both sanctuaries close for periods each year.