Bird Sanctuary
Set up in 1983 on land bordering the Periyar river. The sanctuary’s mix of evergreen and semi-evergreen forest supports well over 300 recorded. Bird species, drawing serious birders from across India and abroad. Particularly during the dry-season months when sightings are easiest. Bird Sanctuary sits at an elevation of 303 m. Is typically explored in about 1 day. The most favourable months to visit are December, January, February, and March. Conditions are best suited for sightseeing.
Bird Sanctuary at a Glance
Essential information about Bird Sanctuary.
Can be combined with
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Overview
Set up in 1983 on land bordering the Periyar river, the sanctuary’s mix of evergreen and semi-evergreen forest supports well over 300 recorded bird species, drawing serious birders from across India and abroad, particularly during the dry-season months when sightings are easiest. Bird Sanctuary sits at an elevation of 303 m and is typically explored in about 1 day. The most favourable months to visit are December, January, February, and March, when conditions are best suited for sightseeing. Nearby points of interest include Thattekad Bird Sanctuary Main Trail, Nelliampathi Viewpoint, and Thattekad Nature Camp. Other notable highlights include malabar pied hornbills nesting in ancient trees, early morning boat ride on Vembanad Lake backwaters, and spotting migratory warblers from the watchtower. It falls within Thattekad, Ernakulam district, and Kerala.
Highlights
- Malabar pied hornbills nesting in ancient trees
- Early morning boat ride on Vembanad Lake backwaters
- Spotting migratory warblers from the watchtower
- Guided walk along the bamboo nature trail
- Cormorants drying wings on dead snags
- Sunset heronry view from the riverbank
Places That Define Bird Sanctuary
Discover the iconic attractions that make this destination unforgettable
Thattekad Bird Sanctuary Main Trail
A 2.5 km nature trail through dense evergreen forest, offering prime sightings of rare birds like the Malabar grey hornbill and the Sri Lanka frogmouth. It is the core area of the sanctuary, ideal for early morning birdwatching.
Thattekad Nature Camp (Watchtower)
A raised wooden watchtower near the sanctuary's bamboo groves, overlooking a small watering hole. It is a prime location for photographing hornbills, woodpeckers, and occasionally elephants during dry months.
Bhoothathankettu Dam and Reservoir
An ancient stone dam built across the Periyar River, surrounded by lush hills and forest. It is a scenic picnic spot near the sanctuary, where visitors can spot water birds like cormorants and herons along the calm reservoir.
Getting There
Things To Do
Butterfly and Dragonfly Spotting in the Buffer Zone
Walk the open grassland and scrub edges just outside the core sanctuary area, which are rich in flowering plants attracting dozens of butterfly species (like the blue mormon) and colourful dragonflies. This is a gentle, self-guided stroll with plenty of benches to rest.
2 hours
Sunset Viewing at the Bhoothathankettu Dam Viewpoint
Take a short drive (about 15 minutes) to the nearby Bhoothathankettu dam, where the Periyar River flows through rocky gorges. From the elevated platform, you can watch flocks of egrets and herons returning to roost as the sun sets over the hills.
1 hour
Guided Birdwatching Walk along the Nature Trails
Walk the well-marked forest paths with a local naturalist to spot resident and migratory species like the Malabar grey hornbill, Indian pitta, and white-bellied woodpecker. The early morning light offers the best visibility and bird calls.
3 hours
Tribal Heritage Interaction at the Nearby Kuttampuzha Village
Visit the small tribal settlement near the sanctuary’s entrance, where local elders share stories about traditional forest use and bird lore. You can also see their handicrafts and buy small woven items, supporting the community directly.
1.5 hours
Canoe Ride on the Thattekad Lake
Drift silently on a traditional wooden canoe along the lake’s calm edges, where you can see water birds such as cormorants, darters, and kingfishers perched on overhanging branches. This is a peaceful, low-effort way to observe wetland birdlife.
1.5 hours
Visit the Interpretation Centre
Explore the small museum and display boards that explain the sanctuary’s ecology, bird migration patterns, and the history of Dr. Salim Ali’s pioneering surveys here. It’s a quick, shaded stop to understand what you’re seeing before or after your walks.
45 minutes
Top Attractions
Thattekad Bird Sanctuary Main Trail
A 2.5 km nature trail through dense evergreen forest, offering prime sightings of rare birds like the Malabar grey hornbill and the Sri Lanka frogmouth. It is the core area of the sanctuary, ideal for early morning birdwatching.
Thattekad Nature Camp (Watchtower)
A raised wooden watchtower near the sanctuary's bamboo groves, overlooking a small watering hole. It is a prime location for photographing hornbills, woodpeckers, and occasionally elephants during dry months.
Bhoothathankettu Dam and Reservoir
An ancient stone dam built across the Periyar River, surrounded by lush hills and forest. It is a scenic picnic spot near the sanctuary, where visitors can spot water birds like cormorants and herons along the calm reservoir.
Travel Tips
Visit early morning (6–8 AM) for best sighting and cooler weather
Birds are most active at dawn, and the morning mist keeps temperatures pleasant for older travellers. Arriving right at opening time also means fewer crowds and quieter boat rides, making the experience more relaxing.
Carry binoculars and a light camera, not heavy gear
Bring a pair of lightweight binoculars for each small group, and leave tripods or large lenses behind—they are cumbersome in a moving boat. A simple camera with a zoom lens is enough for memorable shots without straining your back or arms.
Pre-arrange a wheelchair-friendly boat and rest stops
If any member of your group has mobility issues, call the sanctuary office ahead to reserve a boat with easy boarding and ask about accessible viewing platforms. Also, plan a short break at the mainland restaurant or shaded benches, so nobody gets fatigued during the 1.5-hour tour.
Book a guided boat tour for easy bird spotting
The sanctuary is best explored by canoe or motorboat, and booking a guided tour in advance ensures you get a comfortable seat and a knowledgeable naturalist. This avoids long waits and lets seniors enjoy the birds without rushing or standing for long periods.
Wear non-slip shoes and carry a light rain jacket
The walkways and boat decks can be damp or slippery, so sturdy, non-slip footwear is essential for safety. A foldable rain jacket or poncho is useful because Kerala’s weather can change suddenly, especially near the water.
Good to Know Nearby
Practical essentials close to Bird Sanctuary — handy for senior and group travellers.
ATMs
- Federal Bank ATM3.1 km
Frequently Asked Questions
The ideal period is from November to February, when the winter migratory birds from Siberia and Europe arrive in large numbers. The weather is also pleasant and dry, making it comfortable for walking and birdwatching. Avoid the heavy monsoon months from June to September, as many trails become slippery and waterlogged.
The sanctuary offers both a motorable road and short walking trails, so you can choose your level of effort. For seniors, the boat safari through the lake is the easiest way to see birds without much walking. If you do walk, stick to the main paved paths and hire a local guide who can pace the group slowly.
Yes, there is a nominal entry fee for Indian citizens and a higher fee for foreign nationals, plus separate charges for still cameras and video cameras. The boat safari is an additional cost per person, and it is best to book it in advance during peak season. Carry cash, as card payments may not be accepted at all ticket counters.
Yes, the sanctuary is very group-friendly, with trained guides available for group bookings and clear signboards along the routes. There are clean restrooms near the entrance and a small canteen serving simple South Indian snacks and tea, but it is wise to carry your own water bottles and light packed food. Avoid feeding the birds or making loud noises, as the sanctuary rules are strictly enforced.
Wear light, breathable cotton clothes in earthy colours like khaki or olive, and avoid bright colours that can disturb birds. Comfortable non-slip walking shoes are essential, along with a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Binoculars are a must for clear viewing, and a light rain jacket is useful even in dry season as the area is near water.
Suggested Itineraries
2 Days in Bird Sanctuary
Day 1
Begin your journey with a relaxed arrival into the sanctuary area, settling in and taking a gentle orientation walk along the riverbanks. The afternoon is perfect for spotting resident waterbirds and understanding the sanctuary’s layout, with an early evening session to catch the birds returning to roost.
- Take a slow, guided nature walk along the main trail that follows the river, looking for kingfishers, egrets, and cormorants.
- Visit the watchtower near the entrance for a panoramic view of the wetlands and a chance to see flocks of migratory ducks (if season permits).
- Enjoy a quiet boat ride (shared, non-motorised) on the lake to observe herons and darters at close range during the golden hour.
Day 2
Dedicate this day to deeper exploration, covering the sanctuary’s interior forests and higher canopy areas. Morning is best for songbirds and raptors, while the afternoon focuses on the unique flora and the sanctuary’s famous Myristica swamp ecosystem. End with a sunset viewpoint for a final memorable sighting.
- Early morning trek (easy pace) on the Canopy Walk, a suspended bridge walk through the treetops, where you can spot Malabar hornbills, drongos, and sunbirds.
- Visit the Myristica Swamp area, a rare habitat, to look for the elusive Malabar grey hornbill and listen for the calls of the great Indian hornbill.
- Post-lunch, explore the Butterfly Garden and the medicinal plant section, then take a final short walk to the southern watchtower to watch the evening flight of parakeets and storks.
Plan Your Own Trip
Tell us what you're looking for and how many days you have — we'll instantly put together a personalised itinerary for Bird Sanctuary.
Tour Packages for Bird Sanctuary
Thattekad
Kerala
2 place(s) covered within Thattekad
Planning a trip to Bird Sanctuary?
Talk to our travel experts for a customised group tour package.