The Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Wayanad district of Kerala, is part of the Niligiri Biosphere Reserve and one of the richest biodiversity zones in Southern India. Spanning 345 sq. km, the sanctuary shares borders with Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, making it a vital corridor for elephants and other wildlife.
Famed for its dense forests, Asian elephants, and rich flora and fauna, Muthanga is a favorite among wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and eco-travelers.
Location & Accessibility
- State: Kerala
- Nearest City: Sulthan Bathery (16 km)
- Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport (120 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode (110 km)
- By Road: Accessible via NH 766 (Kozhikode–Mysore highway)
Wildlife at Muthanga
The sanctuary is home to a wide range of species within its moist deciduous and semi-evergreen forests.
Major Animals:
- Indian Elephant (largest population in Kerala)
- Tigers & Leopards
- Gaur (Indian Bison)
- Sloth Bears
- Deer (Sambar, Spotted, Barking)
- Wild Dogs (Dholes)
Bird Species:
- Malabar Hornbill
- Peacocks
- Parakeets
- Woodpeckers
- Eagles
Timings & Safari Details
- Visiting Hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Safari Options: Jeep Safari (₹300–₹1000 approx. per person)
- Best Season: November – May
Best Time to Visit
- Winter (Nov – Feb): Pleasant weather, best for safaris.
- Summer (Mar – May): High chances of spotting elephants near waterholes.
- Monsoon (Jun – Sep): Lush greenery, but safaris may be limited due to rain.
Things to Do
- Jeep Safari – Explore deep forest trails and spot elephants.
- Birdwatching – Spot endemic species of the Western Ghats.
- Photography – Capture landscapes, wildlife, and tribal life.
- Eco-Tourism Activities – Learn about forest conservation with guides.
Nearby Attractions
- Edakkal Caves (25 km) – Ancient rock engravings.
- Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary – Tholpetty Range (60 km)
- Soochipara Waterfalls (45 km) – Famous trekking spot.
- Banasura Sagar Dam (65 km) – Scenic reservoir and adventure hub.
Quick Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Wayanad, Kerala |
| Area | 345 sq. km |
| Famous For | Elephants, tigers, rich biodiversity |
| Best Season | November – May |
FAQs about Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary
Q1: What is Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary famous for?
A1: It is famous for its Asian elephant population and being part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
Q2: What is the safari timing in Muthanga?
A2: Jeep safaris operate from 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
Q3: Which animals can be spotted in Muthanga Sanctuary?
A3: Elephants, tigers, leopards, gaur, deer, wild dogs, and sloth bears.
Q4: How far is Muthanga from Sulthan Bathery?
A4: It is around 16 km from Sulthan Bathery, easily accessible by road.
Q5: Is advance booking required for safari?
A5: Yes, safari bookings are usually done at the forest check-post on a first-come basis.
π People Also Ask (PAA)
Which is the best time to visit Muthanga Sanctuary?
The best time is from November to May.
Is Muthanga part of Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary?
Yes, Muthanga is one of the ranges of Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.
Can we see tigers in Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary?
Yes, tigers live here, but sightings are rare compared to elephants.
Are private vehicles allowed inside Muthanga Sanctuary?
No, only authorized forest jeeps are allowed for safaris.
What is the entry fee for Muthanga Sanctuary?
The entry fee is around ₹50 – ₹200 per person, depending on safari type.
Conclusion
The Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary is a biodiversity hotspot in Kerala, perfect for those seeking wildlife safaris, birdwatching, and eco-tourism. With its dense forests, rich wildlife, and scenic beauty, it is an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers visiting Wayanad.
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