Thattekkad

Thattekkad

Thattekkad is made up of dense tropical evergreen and deciduous forest and grassland patches, housing a population of over 500 species of exotic birds. This globally acclaimed bird sanctuary owes much of its fame to Dr. Salim Ali, the internationally renowned ornithologist. It is the exotic microcosm of India's bird population that brought Dr. Salim Ali to this place. His efforts were instrumental in the formation of this sanctuary to a large extent. Spread across 25 sq. km. the sanctuary lies between the tributaries of the River Periyar like a peninsula. Rare birds like the crimson-throated barbet, beeeater, sunbird, shrike, black winged Kite, night heron, falcon, grey jungle fowl, white-breasted water hen, hornbill, ceylon frogmouth, rose-billed Roller and blue-winged parakeet live here. Some of the rare species of birds are Malabar grey hornbill, crested serpent eagle, crimson throated barber, peninsular bay owl, rose billed roller, fairy bluebird, great Indian hornbill, and many more to captivate the visitors. Thattekkad also has extensive plantations of teak, rosewood, mahogany, etc. The dense forest is also the home to nearly 28 varieties of animals and nine varieties of reptiles.

Sightseeing in Thattekkad

Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary
Salim Ali Bird sanctuary commonly known as Thattekkad bird sanctuary in the village of Kuttambuzha in Kothamangalam Taluk on the northern banks of the Periyar river is at a distance of 58kms from Kochi. Established in 1983, the sanctuary is Kerala's first officially recognised bird sanctuary. Sprawling over an area of 25sq.km, the lush green sanctuary at an altitude of 35-523m above sea level is home to 500 species of exotic birds including the rarest species like Crimson-Throated Barbet, Bee-eater, Sunbird, Shrike, Pariah Kite etc. It also has extensive plantations of teak, rosewood, mahogany etc. There is a demonstration plot for medicinal plants, Bird research centre, Interpretation center and a refuge for deers towards the entrance of the sanctuary. One can go through the sancturary and can also enjoy the boating through Periyar.

Edamalayar
Edamalayar is a place near to Boothathankettu , both these places hold a major reservoirs of kerala, which is surrounded by immense wild life and. You can see and experience virgin forest land on the banks of Edamalayar rivers. Boating through the river will be a special experience when you visit this place. Edamalayar is a heaven people interested in Birding and trekking activities. You can find different species of birds in the forest of edamalayar .Trips to these places will give you a pleasant a mind refreshing experience in your life.

Bhoothathankettu
Set amidst lush greens and Kerala's swiftly flowing Periyar River, Bhoothathankettu is a popular tourist spot. Boothathankettu is situated 63 kms away from Kochi. Despite the fact that there is no rail route connecting Bhoothathankettu with other major or small towns and cities of Kerala, it is visited by people in large numbers. The nearest town of Kothamangalam is at least 10 km from here. A myth connected with the origin of this place says that this natural fortification of forests and hills was built by Bhoothams (spirit/ghosts) overnight. Hence the name Bhoothathankettu (fort of the spirits). Later, this natural topography helped in building a dam here.

Kodanadu
Kodanadu lies on the southern banks of Periyar amongst the scenic beauty of the high ranges. It was once the largest elephant taming centers of South India. This is a forest elephant care centre. Here you can see baby elephants rescued from the forests being cared for. There is an elephant training center and a mini zoo here. Kodanadu is 15 km from Perumbavoor which is on the Kochi-Munnar route (via Aluva).

Things to do in Thattekkad

Bird Watching
Thattekkad salim Ali Bird Sanctuar, situated on the Periyar river bank is one of the best bird sanctuaries in India . Some of the rare species of birds are Malabar grey hornbill, crested serpent eagle, crimson throated barber, peninsular bay owl, rose billed roller, fairy bluebird, great Indian hornbill, and many more to captivate the visitors. It is a favourite stopping point of migratory birds and you can spot some which you have never seen.

Boating
Boating facility available at Thettakkad. The boating takes you to the vicinity of Bird sanctuary and is the best option to spot the birds.

Visit Thommankuthu Waterfalls
If you are a nature lover or an adventure seeker, Thommankuthu is just the right place in Kerala. 20 km away from Thodupuzha, this site draws the attention of several tourists. The exhilarating beauty of Thommankuthu waterfalls captures the heart and soul of every traveler. Thommankuthu waterfall is a beautiful seven-step waterfall offering salubrious weather. Amidst verdure foliage, this shimmering waterfall is a perfect place to spend time in the lap of nature. Thommankuthu waterfall tours will allow tourist to savor the wild beauty of forest and stream.

How to reach Thattekkad

Nearest bus stations: Kothamangalam, about 13 km away.
Nearest railway station: Aluva, about 48 km away.
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 44 km away

Location
Latitude: 10.104627, Longitude: 76.702845