Thattekad Bird Sanctuary

How come Kerala gets it right every time when it comes to being an attractive tourism destination? You are now on a virtual tour of one of the most popular National Parks of Kerala. The location of these dense tropical evergreen and deciduous forests is in the Kotrhamangalam Taluk of Ernakulam district. There are about 500 bird species in this bird sanctuary which was notified in the year 1983 after a recommendation to the effect was made by Dr Salim Ali. The sanctuary covers an area of about 25 sq km which can only be termed as a paradise for the nature lovers.

Best Time to Visit
The months of September to March are best suited for the tourists to visit the bird sanctuary.

Climate
The climate of the place can be described as tropical where the temperature varies between 10 Celsius to 26 Celsius. The average annual rainfall recorded here is about 2500 mm.
Sightseeing
Kothamangalam
Located in the Ernakulam district of Kerala, this is a small town known for many things such as the educational institutions, spice trade and for being the gateway to the high ranges.

Alwaye
It is a town throbbing with industrial activity which is only 23 km away from Ernakulam. The place is famous for the ancient Shiva town as well as for the Periyar river.

Activities
You are expecting it yet the only recommended activity at the place is definitely bird watching. While doing so sky is the limit as you do not know when you are going to see a rare species of a bird.

How to Reach?
By Air
The nearest airport is Kochi which is at the distance of 60 km.

By Rail
The nearest railhead is Aluva (Alwaye) which is about 48 km away.

By Road
The Thattekad bird sanctuary is connected with the major towns by regular buses therefore accessibility is not a problem at all. Buses ply frequently between Kothamangalam and Thattekad.
Accommodation
There is a forest department inspection bungalow also there which is known as “Hornbill”. There is a dormitory as well which can be used by the large groups visiting the place. There are lodges in Kothamangalam and then there is a rest house of PWD near Bhoothathankett dam. So, as you can see, there are numerous options to stay at if you are an avid bird watcher, though booking the place inn advance will be a good idea. The three storied watch tower within the sanctuary itself where there are two beds with a toilet and a kitchen is a good place to stay at. You'll find some solar powered lamps here and there is no electricity here.