About Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary
Prime Day & Hours: Weekends, early morning
Suggested Duration: 3 - 4 hours
Tickets: Available online and offline
Nearest Railway Station: Punalur Railway Station, about 21 km away
Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport, about 74 km away.
Nearest Bus Stop: Punalur Bus Stand, about 20 km away
Located in Kerala’s Kollam district, the Shendurney wildlife sanctuary is one of the most beautiful and pristine wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala. It is a part of the Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve, and is a major biodiversity hotspot, established in 1984, and spanning over 170 sq. km. The sanctuary gets its name from the endemic tree, which is locally called “Shendurney”. This is the only wildlife sanctuary where lion-tailed macaques, great indian hornbills, and Indian Giant Squirrels live in a protected area, making it a must-include in your Kerala tour package.
The Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary has trekking trails like 'Idimuzhanganpara' and 'Kanikavu', providing beautiful glimpses of the land and forests along with animal sightings. These trails go through the river, hidden caves, and some places also display archeological remains. The Thenmala reservoir also adds to the charm of this sanctuary with boat rides and many adventure options.
The Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary is ideal for ecotourism and biodiversity studies, and also perfect for travellers who crave solitude and peace. This sanctuary is the best place for anyone to witness rich wildlife in silence and in its undisturbed form.
Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary Highlights
• Witness rich wildlife biodiversity in Kollam at Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary, with lush green forests and natural beauty.
• Trek through the Idimuzhanganpara trail that makes its way through the dense forests, hilltop viewpoints, and hidden caves.
• Spot the rare macaque in their natural habitat, which is only found in the Western Ghats.
• Boat or cruise on the beautiful Thenmala reservoir, which is surrounded by dense forest, with a chance to spot elephants near the banks.
• Explore this biodiversity-rich zone with over 100 species of birds, 30 mammals, and numerous butterflies.
How To Reach Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary
By car/taxi: The Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary is 62.2 km from Kollam city centre, you can reach there in around 1 hour and 49 minutes via NH 744. Visitors can also take taxis from the city centre to the Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary.
Best Time To Visit Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary
Peak Season (November to February)
- Weather Insights: Pleasant, dry weather (18°C–28°C) with clear skies.
- Things to Do: Ideal for trekking, camping, wildlife spotting, and photography.
Moderate Season (March to May)
- Weather Insights: Hot and slightly humid with temperatures crossing 32°C.
- Things to Do: Early morning treks and shaded forest walks are best. Fewer tourists, better solitude.
Low Season (June to September)
- Weather Insights: Heavy monsoon rains can cause trail closures and landslides, with temperatures around 25°C-30°C.
- Things to Do: Limited activities; not ideal for treks, but great for misty rainforest photography.
Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary Other Essential Information
Know Before You Go
- Get permission online or offline from the eco-tourism centre, as most of the zones require prior permission to visit.
- Make sure you wear full clothes, comfortable shoes, and use a mosquito repellent to protect yourself from mosquitoes and insects.
- Don't carry plastic as this is a plastic-free zone with a clean and beautiful environment.
- Carry binoculars if you do not want to miss any bird sightings and animal sightings.
- Plan your visits during the weekdays and visit in the morning hours to have an experience.
Trek Through the Scenic Trails
You can trek through the scenic trails that pass through rivers, hidden caves, and medicinal plants. While trekking, you will be hearing soothing sounds of the river flowing, birds chirping, and animals. You can take solo treks with permissions or guided treks, where the guide will take you on a route where you will not miss any wildlife sightings.
Go Boating in the Thenmala Reservoir
Get a chance to experience the raw waterways in the sanctuary while on a boat ride across the reservoir. Your boat will be sailing through jungle-covered areas, high-rising trees, offering uninterrupted views of the forest. There are chances you will spot a number of animals while your visit, including rare ones like macaque and great indian hornbills by the side of the river.
Watch Hornbills in the Early Morning
You can visit the forest just after sunrise, which is considered the best time to spot wildlife as it is most active during the morning. The Great Indian Hornbills are most spotted during the morning time by the side of a reservoir or river. Morning in this sanctuary also brings calls of birds and their echoing to create a wonderful wildlife moment.
Camp at Ottakkal Watchtower
You can book an overnight stay and, forest camping experience at the Ottakkal Watchtower located inside the sanctuary. It is surrounded by dense trees and offers an opportunity to stargaze. Staying by the wild gives and thrilling and adventurous experience, creating lifetime memories.
Tourism Board Alliances
Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary FAQs
Is Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary safe for solo travelers or beginners?
Yes, it’s safe if you go with authorised guides or group eco-tours. Trails are monitored by the Forest Department. However, solo exploration without guides is not allowed. Stick to marked routes, wear appropriate gear, and follow instructions for a safe and enriching jungle experience.
Do I need permission or a guide to enter Shendurney?
Yes, guided entry is mandatory for most trails and camping zones inside the sanctuary. You can get permits at the Thenmala eco-tourism office or online. Forest guides not only ensure safety but also help you spot birds, animals, and rare plants you might otherwise miss.
What are the top animals I can see here?
Shendurney is home to lion-tailed macaques, Nilgiri langurs, Indian giant squirrels, elephants, and Great Indian Hornbills. You might also spot barking deer, sambar, and even leopards if lucky. Reptiles, amphibians, and butterflies are also abundant, making it a hotspot for biodiversity lovers.
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