Is Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary safe for solo travelers or beginners?

Yes, it’s safe if you go with authorised guides or group eco-tours. Trails are monitored by the Forest Department. However, solo exploration without guides is not allowed. Stick to marked routes, wear appropriate gear, and follow instructions for a safe and enriching jungle experience.

Do I need permission or a guide to enter Shendurney?

Yes, guided entry is mandatory for most trails and camping zones inside the sanctuary. You can get permits at the Thenmala eco-tourism office or online. Forest guides not only ensure safety but also help you spot birds, animals, and rare plants you might otherwise miss.

What are the top animals I can see here?

Shendurney is home to lion-tailed macaques, Nilgiri langurs, Indian giant squirrels, elephants, and Great Indian Hornbills. You might also spot barking deer, sambar, and even leopards if lucky. Reptiles, amphibians, and butterflies are also abundant, making it a hotspot for biodiversity lovers.

Kollam

Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary

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About Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary

Prime Day & Hours: Weekends, early morning

Suggested Duration: 3 - 4 hours

Tickets: Available online and offline

Nearest Railway Station: Punalur Railway Station, about 21 km away

Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport, about 74 km away.

Nearest Bus Stop: Punalur Bus Stand, about 20 km away

Located in Kerala’s Kollam district, the Shendurney wildlife sanctuary is one of the most beautiful and pristine wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala. It is a part of the Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve, and is a major biodiversity hotspot, established in 1984, and spanning over 170 sq. km. The sanctuary gets its name from the endemic tree, which is locally called “Shendurney”. This is the only wildlife sanctuary where lion-tailed macaques, great indian hornbills, and Indian Giant Squirrels live in a protected area, making it a must-include in your Kerala tour package.

The Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary has trekking trails like 'Idimuzhanganpara' and 'Kanikavu', providing beautiful glimpses of the land and forests along with animal sightings. These trails go through the river, hidden caves, and some places also display archeological remains. The Thenmala reservoir also adds to the charm of this sanctuary with boat rides and many adventure options.

The Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary is ideal for ecotourism and biodiversity studies, and also perfect for travellers who crave solitude and peace. This sanctuary is the best place for anyone to witness rich wildlife in silence and in its undisturbed form.

Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary Highlights

• Witness rich wildlife biodiversity in Kollam at Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary, with lush green forests and natural beauty.
• Trek through the Idimuzhanganpara trail that makes its way through the dense forests, hilltop viewpoints, and hidden caves.
• Spot the rare macaque in their natural habitat, which is only found in the Western Ghats.
• Boat or cruise on the beautiful Thenmala reservoir, which is surrounded by dense forest, with a chance to spot elephants near the banks.
• Explore this biodiversity-rich zone with over 100 species of birds, 30 mammals, and numerous butterflies.

Recognised by the world's travel authorities