Thattekad- area attracted with the highest number of birds in India.
Thattekad – Kerala’s Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Nestled in the lush green heart of Kerala, Thattekad is a serene destination located in the Kothamangalam taluk of Ernakulam district, about 60 kilometers from Kochi. Resting between two branches of Kerala’s longest river, the Periyar, this area is elevated between 35 to 523 meters above sea level and spans around 25 square kilometers. It is best known for its famous bird sanctuary, which draws nature lovers and ornithologists from across the globe.
The Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
Thattekad's major attraction is the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, established in 1983 by the Government of Kerala. The sanctuary is named after Dr. Salim Ali, India’s legendary ornithologist, who surveyed the area in the 1930s and described it as one of the richest bird habitats in peninsular India. His recommendation led to the preservation of this unique forested ecosystem.
The sanctuary is perched on the Njiyapilli Hill and features a vibrant mix of evergreen and deciduous forest, marshes, and grasslands. It supports an astonishing 280+ species of birds, making it a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Birds and Wildlife
Among the many birds found here are the crimson-throated barbet, black-winged kite, night heron, grey heron, sunbirds, bee-eaters, cuckoos, woodpeckers, and the jungle nightjar. The rare Sri Lanka frogmouth and Malabar grey hornbill also call Thattekad home. Alongside birds, the surrounding forests shelter elephants, sloth bears, leopards, and various other mammals.
Visiting the Sanctuary
Visitors must be accompanied by licensed guides, who are knowledgeable about the terrain and bird species. Guides typically charge around INR 1000 per day and assist in securing entry permits. The sanctuary also offers unique accommodation options:
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Watchtower stay: A basic two-bed facility with a kitchen and restroom, perfect for immersive experiences.
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Dormitory and Forest Department guesthouse: Ideal for larger groups and families.
How to Reach Thattekad
Thattekad is accessible by multiple modes of transport:
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By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (Nedumbassery).
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By Train: The closest railway station is Aluva, from where taxis or buses can be hired.
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By Road: Regular buses connect Ernakulam to Kothamangalam, and from there, local buses or taxis reach Thattekad.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to explore Thattekad is between September and March, when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are frequent. The area experiences:
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Winter (Sep–Jan): Cool and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C.
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Summer (Feb–May): Warmer, between 24°C and 32°C, but still suitable for early morning birding.
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Monsoon (Jun–Aug): Heavy rainfall transforms the region into a lush green paradise, though trekking may be limited.
Nearby Attractions
Thattekad’s strategic location makes it a great base for exploring other scenic destinations such as:
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Alleppey Backwaters
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Cardamom Hills
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Periyar Tiger Reserve
A Sanctuary for the Soul
Thattekad is more than just a birdwatching site—it is a quiet retreat where nature reigns supreme. Whether you're an ornithologist, a trekker, or a curious traveler, Thattekad promises an unforgettable experience in the wild heart of Kerala.
