Peechi Vazhani Wildlife

The Peechi Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary, located about 20 km east of Thrissur district of Kerala and spread over an area of 125 sq km, was established in 1958. The second oldest sanctuary in Kerala, Peechi Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary is a part of the Palappilli Nelliyampathi forests and forms the northern boundary of the Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary. The altitude of the sanctuary ranges from 45 m to 923 m with the highest peak being Ponmudi at 923 m. Without a doubt, the sanctuary is a magnificent destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Flora and fauna life can be found in abundance in and around the sanctuary boundaries. The moist deciduous forests and semi evergreen forests are in dominance but are mainly confined to higher reaches; tropical evergreen forests also make up for the vegetation of this sanctuary. Numerous rare medicinal plants and herbs, teak, rosewood and many more trees can also be sighted here. As per statistics, 39 species of mammals, 176 of birds, 30 of reptiles, 17 of amphibians, and 40 of fish are said to be residing here. Carnivores like tiger, leopard and fox, and herbivores like barking deer, elk, deer, spotted deer, elephant and bison are some of the most popular faunal attractions that tourists are likely to come across.

The sanctuary receives an average of 3000 mm of annual rainfall with both northeast and southwest monsoons contributing to showers with much of it being received in the months of June through August. Even pre-monsoon showers in the month of April are a frequent phenomenon. The sanctuary is blessed with a pleasant weather during most of the year. Months from February to May are the hottest with temperatures rising as high as 38 ⁰C with November to January remaining cooler with temperatures ranging between 15 ⁰C and 20 ⁰C. However, humidity also forms an integral part of this sanctuary's climate.

Besides the exotic and incredible floral and faunal beauty, one can also enjoy boat rides at the lake in the sanctuary. Nature camps of 2-3 days duration for 30-40 persons are also organized for students of Government-recognized educational institutions and NGOs in environmental conservation. The nearest railway station is Thrissur railway junction, at a distance of 23 km, with the closest airport being Cochin International Airport, located at a distance of 98 km. Direct buses ply between Thrissur and Peechi, though other local transportation, like auto rickshaws and taxis, is also available. Accommodation can be availed at the rest house and information centre.