Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most pristine and biodiverse protected forests in Thrissur district, Kerala. Located on the western slopes of the majestic Western Ghats near Echippara village, the sanctuary is spread across approximately 85 square kilometers of tropical evergreen, semi-evergreen, and moist deciduous forests. Established in 1984, Chimmony is renowned for its rich wildlife, scenic reservoir, trekking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and eco-tourism activities. It is an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts, wildlife photographers, adventure seekers, researchers, and families looking to experience Kerala's untouched wilderness.

Nestled around the picturesque Chimmony Dam and Reservoir, the sanctuary offers breathtaking views of dense forests, rolling hills, crystal-clear streams, and tranquil backwaters. The protected forest forms an important part of the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot and shares ecological connectivity with the neighboring Peechi Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary and Parambikulam Tiger Reserve. The sanctuary protects the watershed of the Kurumali and Mupliam rivers, making it ecologically significant for both wildlife conservation and water resources.

Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary is home to an impressive variety of wildlife, including Asian elephants, Indian gaurs, sambar deer, barking deer, wild boars, leopards, Malabar giant squirrels, Nilgiri langurs, bonnet macaques, civets, and numerous reptiles. The sanctuary is equally famous among birdwatchers, with over 200 recorded bird species including the Great Hornbill, Malabar Grey Hornbill, Malabar Pied Hornbill, crested serpent eagle, paradise flycatcher, kingfishers, and woodpeckers. More than 100 species of butterflies and hundreds of medicinal plants, orchids, and endemic trees further enrich the biodiversity of this protected forest.

One of the major attractions of Chimmony is its well-organized eco-tourism activities managed by the Kerala Forest Department. Visitors can participate in guided trekking through rainforest trails, bamboo rafting, jungle camping, birdwatching excursions, wildlife tracking, and nature interpretation programs. Popular trekking routes such as the Virakuthodu–Choorathala Trek allow visitors to explore the sanctuary's diverse ecosystems while accompanied by trained forest guides. Overnight jungle camps near the reservoir offer a unique opportunity to experience the sounds and beauty of the rainforest after sunset.

The sanctuary also attracts visitors because of the scenic Chimmony Dam, one of the largest dams in Thrissur district. The calm reservoir surrounded by forest-covered hills creates spectacular landscapes, particularly during the post-monsoon and winter months. Boating, photography, and leisurely nature walks around the reservoir are popular activities for families and tourists seeking a peaceful retreat.

Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary is conveniently located near several important tourist attractions including Chimmony Dam, Peechi Dam, Poomala Dam, Athirappilly Waterfalls, Vazhachal Waterfalls, and Charpa Waterfalls. Together, these attractions form one of Kerala's finest eco-tourism circuits.

The nearest city is Thrissur, located approximately 35 kilometers away. The nearest town is Varandarappilly, about 15 kilometers from the sanctuary entrance. The nearest railway station is Thrissur Railway Station, situated around 38 kilometers away, while the nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, approximately 63 kilometers from the sanctuary. The sanctuary is easily accessible by road from Thrissur, Kochi, and Chalakudy.

The best time to visit Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary is from October to March, when the weather is cool and comfortable for trekking, wildlife observation, birdwatching, and camping. The monsoon season transforms the sanctuary into a lush green paradise, although trekking activities may be limited depending on weather conditions.

Getting There

Nearest City: Thrissur – 35 km

Nearest Town: Varandarappilly – 15 km

Nearest Railway Station: Thrissur Railway Station – 38 km

Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport – 63 km