Overview

The Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary, the first bird sanctuary in Kerala ,is located on the banks of Periyar river, about 12 km from Kothamangalam in Kerala. Thattekad bird sanctuary is also known as Dr. Salim Ali bird sanctuary, named after Dr Salim Ali, the best known ornithologist in India. The sanctuary, which spreads across an area of 25 sq kms at the foot of western Ghats , was notified in 1983 based on a previous recommendation by Dr. Salim Ali. He once described Thattekad as the richest bird habitat in peninsular India. Valparai is a Hill station located approximately 3500 feet above sea level amongst the Anamalai mountain ranges of the Western Ghats. Grassy hills, forest, mountains, reservoirs and exotic flora and fauna- Anamalai hills is a paradise for nature lovers, travellers and trekkers. The Anamalai Hills are one of the best places to see the magnificent Great Hornbill and the critically endangered Lion-tailed Macaque.

3 Nights 4 Days 19 Dec and 23 Dec

Highlights

Explore the best birding destinations of India!
Witness the rich biodiverse regions of the Western Ghats.
Chance to see rare and endangered species viz. Lion-tailed Macaque, Great Hornbill, Sri Lanka Frogmouth and many more!
Breathtaking landscapes of the Anamalai Hills.
Stay in a Heritage Tea Bungalow in Valparai.
Small group to ensure an enhanced safari experience
Group led by Rahul Rao.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kochi and proceed to Thattekad
Assemble at Kochi Airport at 0900 hrs. Departure to Thattekad (Approx 1.5 hrs drive). Post-lunch nature trail around Thattekad Bird Sanctuary. Dinner and overnight at a beautiful homestay near Thattekad.
(Meals included: Lunch and Dinner.)

Day 2: Full-day Birding and Athirapally waterfalls visit
Morning bird-watching session around Thattekad. Departure to Valparai after breakfast. En route visit the Athirapally waterfalls. Evening safari around Valparai. Dinner and overnight at a heritage tea bungalow in Valparai.
(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.)

Day 3: Morning and Evening Jeep Safaris
Explore the various areas around Valparai with morning and evening jeep safaris. All meals and overnight stay at a heritage tea bungalow in Valparai.
(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.)

Day 4:Morning Safari and proceed to Coimbatore Airport
Morning safari in Valparai. Post breakfast, transfer to Coimbatore airport.
(Meals included: Breakfast)

Inclusions/Exclusions

What is included in the tour

Airport transfers from Kochi Airport to Thattekad and from Valparai to Coimbatore using dedicated AC vehicles.
Accommodation on triple sharing basis.
Surface transport using AC vehicle.
Excursions as per the itinerary.
All meals (Breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Jeep Safaris in Valparai
Entry fees as applicable (for Indian Nationals).
Services of an expert naturalist from Team Foliage.