Thattekad Bird Sanctuary - Birding Guide

Thattekad Bird Sanctuar Birding Guide

Nestled along the banks of the Periyar River in Kerala’s lush Western Ghats, Thattekad Bird Sanctuary is one of South India’s most celebrated birding destinations. Often called the “Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary,” Thattekad is a paradise of tropical evergreen forests, bamboo thickets, riverine habitats, and rich endemic birdlife.

The sanctuary is especially famous for its Western Ghats endemics and is one of the finest places in India to photograph rainforest birds in dense jungle settings.

Best Time To Visit

November to March

Pleasant weather
Best bird activity
Excellent photography conditions

April to May

Hot but productive for sightings
Good vocal activity

June to September

Heavy monsoon
Forest becomes extremely lush
Birding possible but difficult during rains

Target Species

Malabar Trogon
Sri Lanka Frogmouth
Malabar Grey Hornbill
White-bellied Treepie
Indian Pitta
Ceylon Frogmouth
Heart-spotted Woodpecker
Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher
Crimson-backed Sunbird
Nilgiri Wood Pigeon

How To Reach

By Air

Nearest airport:

Cochin International Airport
Approximately 65 km away.

By Train

Nearest railway stations:

Aluva Railway Station
Ernakulam Junction

By Road

Easily accessible from Kochi
Good roads through scenic Kerala countryside
Approx. 2–3 hours drive from Kochi

Where To Stay

Recommended stay options:

Jungle Bird (Highly Recommended)
Riverside homestays
Eco-resorts
Forest guesthouses

Best areas:

Thattekad village
Near Bhoothathankettu
Periyar river side properties

Staying close to the forest entrance allows access to early morning bird activity.

Things To Carry

Birding & Photography Gear

Binoculars
Telephoto lens
Rain protection for equipment
Extra batteries and memory cards

Clothing

Light breathable clothing
Quick-dry trekking wear
Waterproof jacket during monsoon
Leech socks in rainy season

Essentials

Mosquito repellent
Torch/headlamp
Reusable water bottle
Basic medicines
Power bank

Photography Tips

Early morning forest trails are extremely productive
Overcast rainforest light favors soft photography
Bird calls are crucial for locating species
Patience is key in dense rainforest habitats

Why Thattekad Is Special

One of the best Western Ghats birding hotspots
Rich rainforest ecosystem
Excellent endemic bird diversity
Ideal for tropical forest bird photography
Accessible yet biologically rich

Nearby Places To Explore

Bhoothathankettu Dam
Kochi
Periyar Tiger Reserve
Munnar

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