Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary. Image courtesy – keralatourism.org
Peechi – Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in Thrissur district, Kerala state. This wildlife sanctuary is the second oldest sanctuary in the state of Kerala, which was established in 1958.
Palappilli and Nelliyampathi forests are part of Peechi – Vazhani Wildlife. It is spread over an area of 125 square kilometres.
Peechi and Vazhani Dams are part of the sanctuary. The area is blessed with the beauty of nature. Boating is a major activity in the wildlife sanctuary.
This wildlife sanctuary is rich in flora and fauna. It is home to 25 species of mammals. 100 plus species of birds are also seen here. Teak and rosewood trees along with 50 species of orchids are seen in this wildlife sanctuary. Exotic medicinal plants are also there in this wildlife park.
Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary on the Western slopes of the Nelliyampathi Hills was carved out of this wildlife sanctuary in 1984.
How Do I Go to Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary?
Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary is situated 20 kilometres east of Thrissur town. It is accessible from Kochi-Salem National Highway 544 (old number NH 47).
Thrissur railway station is the nearest railway station to the wildlife sanctuary. Cochin International Airport at Nedumbrassery is the nearest airport to the wildlife sanctuary, at around 100 kilometres distance.
Can I Stay Inside Peechi Wildlife Sanctuary?
It is allowed to stay inside this wildlife sanctuary. Government Rest House run by the state Forest department is there inside the sanctuary. It can be booked by contacting The Wildlife Warden of Peechi Wildlife Division. The phone number of the office of the wildlife warden is +91-487-269-9017.
Alternatively, you may contact The Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) at Thiruvananthapuram. Fax number is +91-471-232-2217.
Note: Currently, this area and the state of Kerala as a whole, are going through a massive flood (as of August 10th, 2019). Please avoid unnecessary travel to the state of Kerala, till the floodwaters recede and roads are back to normal.