Tamil Nadu, known for its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes, is also home to an incredible variety of wildlife. The state boasts numerous sanctuaries that protect diverse flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers. Here’s a list of the top 10 wildlife sanctuaries in Tamil Nadu, along with nearby accommodations and dining options to make your visit even more enjoyable.
1. Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary- Nilgiri,Tamil Nadu.
Located at the tri-junction of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala, the Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Established in 1940, it spans 321 square kilometers and is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including tigers, elephants, and leopards.
- Entry Fee: Approximately INR 15 for adults and INR 10 for children
- Nearby Restaurants:
Masinagudi's Green Valley Restaurant &
Mudumalai Safari Restaurant
- Nearby Hotels:
The Serai Bandipur &
Jungle Hut Resort
- Best Time to Visit: October to May
2. Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve- Papanasam,Tamil Nadu.
This reserve, one of the largest protected areas in Tamil Nadu, covers approximately 895 square kilometers. It's renowned for its tiger population and diverse ecosystems ranging from dry deciduous to tropical wet evergreen forests.
- Entry Fee: INR 15 for adults and INR 10 for children
- Nearby Restaurants:
Hotel Gowri Shankar &
Green Leaf Restaurant
- Nearby Hotels:
KTDC Hotel Agasthya &
Greenwoods Resort
- Best Time to Visit: November to April
3. Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary- Chengalpattu,Tamil Nadu.
This is one of the oldest bird sanctuaries in India, attracting migratory birds such as pintail ducks, herons, and spoonbills.
- Entry Fee: INR 25 for adults and INR 5 for children
- Nearby Restaurants:
Hotel Saravana Bhavan &
Aryaas
- Nearby Hotels:
Regency Sameera Vellore &
MGM Velankanni Residency
- Best Time to Visit: November to March
- Timmings: The sanctuary operates daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
4. Sathyamangalam Wildlife Sanctuary- Erode,Tamil Nadu.
Famous for its tiger population, Sathyamangalam Wildlife Sanctuary is an extension of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and hosts elephants, leopards, and hyenas.
- Entry Fee: INR 50 for adults and INR 25 for children.
- Nearby Restaurants:
Sri Annapoorna Hotel &
Amirtham Restaurant
- Nearby Hotels:
Hotel Hills Paradise &
DVARA Resort
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
5. Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park- Tuticorin,Tamil Nadu.
A paradise for marine life lovers, this sanctuary has over 3600 species of flora and fauna, including sea turtles, dolphins, and coral reefs.
- Entry Fee: INR 10 for adults and INR 5 for children.
- Nearby Restaurants:
Shabari Restaurant &
Ahaan Restaurant
- Nearby Hotels:
Hyatt Place Rameswaram &
Daiwik Hotels
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Timmings: 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM & 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM
6. Point Calimere Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary-Nagapattinam,Tamil Nadu.
Situated along the Palk Strait, this 21.47 square kilometer sanctuary is famed for its congregation of waterbirds, especially greater flamingos during winter. It also shelters blackbuck antelope and diverse marine life.
- Entry Fee: Variable; please confirm with sanctuary authorities.
- Nearby Restaurants:
Chettinadu Briyani &
Krishna Bhavan
- Nearby Hotels:
Mantra Koodam Resort &
MGM Vailankanni Residency
- Best Time to Visit: November to January
7. Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary- Tirupattur, Tamil Nadu
This small but significant bird sanctuary in Sivaganga district is home to painted storks, openbill storks, and egrets.
- Entry Fee: INR 25 for adults and INR 5 for children.
- Nearby Restaurants:
Hotel Aryaas &
Murugan Idli Shop
- Nearby Hotels:
Idhaya Towers &
Bell Hotel
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
- The sanctuary is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
8. Srivilliputhur Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary- Srivilliputhur,Tamil Nadu.
This sanctuary is famous for the rare Grizzled Giant Squirrel and is also home to elephants, leopards, and various bird species.
- Entry Fee: INR 15 for adults and INR 10 for children.
- Nearby Restaurants:
Sree Aryaas &
Gowri Shankar Restaurant
- Nearby Hotels:
Poppy’s AAR Hotel &
Thangam Grand
- Best Time to Visit: September to March
9. Karikili Bird Sanctuary-Chengalpattu,Tamil Nadu.
Close to Vedanthangal, Karikili Bird Sanctuary is a quiet retreat for birdwatchers looking to see migratory birds in their natural habitat.
- Entry Fee: INR 10 for adults and INR 5 for children.
- Nearby Restaurants:
Vasanta Bhavan &
Junior Kuppanna
- Nearby Hotels:
Fortune Park Vellore &
MGM Eastwoods
- Best Time to Visit: November to February
10. Anamalai Tiger Reserve- Tiruppur,Tamil Nadu.
Also known as Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary, this reserve in the Western Ghats is home to tigers, panthers, and a variety of deer species.
- Entry Fee: INR 20
- Nearby Restaurants:
Hotel Annapoorna &
Hotel Aryaas
- Nearby Hotels:
The Banyan Tree Farm Stay &
Coco Lagoon Resort
- Best Time to Visit: September to April
- Timmings: The reserve is open daily from 7:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Tamil Nadu’s wildlife sanctuaries offer a perfect escape into nature for adventure seekers, photographers, and conservation enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for tigers, elephants, migratory birds, or marine life, these sanctuaries provide unforgettable experiences. Plan your visit with comfortable accommodations and delicious local cuisine to make your wildlife adventure even more delightful!
Plan your journey with Yatrika Tours .
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