Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary Wayanad
Explore the lush Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve on a thrilling jeep safari, seeking glimpses of elephants and diverse wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Dry season, best for sightings
Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary Wayanad
Best Time
Dry season, best for sightings
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the lush Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve on a thrilling jeep safari, seeking glimpses of elephants and diverse wildlife.
"A good ride through the forest, offering great time with nature and fresh air."
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Avoid queues by booking safari tickets a day in advance via the Kerala Ecotourism website. :admission_tickets:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking around the sanctuary. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jeep Safari Adventure
Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary
Embark on an exhilarating jeep safari through lush forests, seeking glimpses of elephants, deer, and diverse birdlife.
Elephant Encounters
Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary
Witness majestic elephants in their natural habitat, a truly awe-inspiring sight for nature lovers.
+2
Niligiri Biosphere Reserve
Adjacent to Tholpetty
Explore the rich biodiversity of this protected area, home to tigers, leopards, and various other species.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Safari Tickets in Advance
Best Time for Wildlife Sightings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Avoid queues by booking safari tickets a day in advance via the Kerala Ecotourism website. :admission_tickets:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking around the sanctuary. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
📱 Download Offline Maps
Network coverage can be spotty. Download offline maps of the area for navigation. :iphone:
🐘 Be Patient for Sightings
Wildlife sightings are a matter of luck. Enjoy the forest's ambiance even if animals are elusive.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Avoid queues by booking safari tickets a day in advance via the Kerala Ecotourism website. :admission_tickets:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking around the sanctuary. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
📱 Download Offline Maps
Network coverage can be spotty. Download offline maps of the area for navigation. :iphone:
🐘 Be Patient for Sightings
Wildlife sightings are a matter of luck. Enjoy the forest's ambiance even if animals are elusive.
💰 Consider Group Size
Jeep safaris are often priced per vehicle (around ₹5000-₹5500). It's more economical for larger groups.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary to be a pleasant experience, offering a good connection with nature and the possibility of seeing wildlife like elephants and deer. However, some note that animal sightings can be inconsistent, especially during the rainy season, and the safari vehicles can be cramped. The cost of jeep safaris is also a point of consideration for smaller groups. +1
"Better to buy tickets online a day before through keralaecotourism website. There are two slots, one morning 6 and evening at 3.
Animal sighting is purely based on your luck but signs of animals can be found there, even tiger marks."
Athif Ahmed
"A good ride through the forest. But couldn't find a great verity of animals. It depends. You really get a great time with the nature and fresh air. Could spot the footprints of tiger. There is a change in the timings.
The safari starts from 6 am to 10 am in the morning and 3 pm to 6 pm in the evening. 60 trips per day. 30 in the morning and 30 trips afternoon.
So if you are planning to go on weekends and holidays be sure you reach at the earliest. And.
The best time to go for is from November to jan. The climate also too good. Maximum number of people that can travel in a jeep is 7. It starts from 3-4. Costs 2100rs.
One guide will accompany you to describe things and helps you to spot the animals."
Jain Johnson
"We haven't seen anything except deer inside the forest. Despite travelling 1.5 hrs through the forest with 4500 INR loss, nothing could be seen. And road was completely offroad (I mean not good for old members)"
Rashid Ibrahim
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The nearest airport is Kannur (CNN), about 80 km away. From Kannur, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Tholpetty. The sanctuary is also accessible by road from major Wayanad towns like Sulthan Bathery.
Hiring a taxi or using local buses are common options. Many visitors opt for private vehicles or taxis for flexibility, especially if exploring multiple sites in Wayanad.
While buses connect to nearby towns, reaching the sanctuary entrance directly via public transport might require transfers. Taxis offer a more convenient route.
The roads leading to and within the sanctuary can be off-road and uneven, especially during the rainy season. This might be challenging for older travelers or those seeking a smooth ride.
Private vehicles are generally not allowed for safaris. You'll need to book a safari jeep provided by the sanctuary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A jeep safari typically costs around ₹5000-₹5500 per vehicle, accommodating up to 7 people. It's advisable to confirm current pricing on the Kerala Ecotourism website. +1
Safaris usually run from 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM in the morning and 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM in the afternoon. There are about 30 trips per slot.
Yes, especially for weekends and holidays. Booking online through the Kerala Ecotourism website a day before is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.
The primary safari option is a jeep safari. Some resorts near the sanctuary might offer guided nature walks or other activities.
For foreign travelers, one passport is required for identification purposes.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You might spot elephants, deer, sambar, monkeys, and various bird species. Sightings of tigers, leopards, and bears are rare but possible.
Yes, a guide accompanies each safari jeep to provide information and assist in spotting animals.
The safari usually lasts for about 1.5 to 2 hours, covering a significant portion of the forest.
The terrain is a mix of dense forest and open grasslands. The safari tracks can be rough and off-road.
Children can enjoy the safari, but the rough roads might be uncomfortable for very young ones. Wildlife sightings can be exciting for them.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food options within the sanctuary itself are limited. It's advisable to carry snacks and water, or dine at restaurants in nearby towns before or after your safari.
You'll find local eateries and restaurants in towns like Sulthan Bathery and Mananthavady, offering Kerala cuisine. Some resorts also have dining facilities.
Bringing your own food and drinks is generally permitted, but it's crucial to dispose of waste responsibly to protect the environment.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, but drone usage might be restricted. Always check local regulations.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best natural light for photography. Patience is key for capturing wildlife.
A telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing wildlife from a distance. A wide-angle lens can be useful for landscape shots.
The safari routes themselves offer opportunities. Keep an eye out for clearings and water bodies where animals might congregate.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the safari itself is engaging, be aware that the roads can be bumpy, which might be uncomfortable for very young children. Many resorts in the Wayanad region are family-friendly and offer amenities like swimming pools and play areas.
💰 Budget Travelers
Utilizing local buses for transportation to the Wayanad region can also help save costs, though reaching the sanctuary entrance might require a short taxi ride.
Packing your own snacks and water will also help manage expenses, as food options within the sanctuary are scarce. 🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Photographers
+1 Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best natural light for photography, and a telephoto lens is highly recommended for wildlife shots. Beyond the safari, the sanctuary offers a chance to witness the raw beauty of the Western Ghats. Keep an eye out for unique flora and fauna, and be prepared for an adventure on the rugged safari tracks.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Tholpetty Safaris
When you book, you'll typically rent the entire jeep, which can accommodate up to seven people. The cost is around ₹5000-₹5500 per jeep.
Pro Tip: While Tholpetty offers a great experience, some travelers suggest that the safari vehicles and overall viewing experience might be more comfortable and potentially yield better sightings on the Karnataka side, specifically at Nagarhole National Park, which is a short drive away.
Wildlife Spotting at Tholpetty
You might also encounter peacocks and a variety of birds. More elusive animals like tigers, leopards, and bears inhabit the reserve, but spotting them requires significant luck and patience.
Signs of these larger predators, such as tiger pugmarks, have been observed, offering a thrilling hint of their presence. Community Insight: Many visitors report seeing deer and occasional elephants, but some express disappointment with limited sightings, especially during the rainy season.
Accommodation Near Tholpetty
These accommodations often provide convenient access to the sanctuary and can arrange safari bookings or guided tours.
When choosing your stay, consider proximity to the sanctuary entrance and the type of experience you're seeking – whether it's luxury, budget-friendly, or an immersive nature experience. Traveler Tip: Some visitors have noted that resorts offering private pool villas provide a luxurious and secluded experience, perfect for couples or families looking for a tranquil retreat after a day of exploring the wildlife sanctuary.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit