Kerala's Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary has been luring tourists from around the world during the holiday season, with its serene forests and incredible flora and fauna. The scintillating beauty of the wilderness is what makes Parambikulam stand out from other tiger reserves in the country. The presence of deer, wild elephant, Indian gor and the southern red muntjac in the pristine forests stretching from the Anamalai Tiger Reserve to the Parambikulam Tiger Reserve is a major highlight that beckons visitors.

Parambikulam Tiger Reserve, which protects over 30 tigers, is recognised for its effective conservation methods. The Kannimara teak tree, which is over 450 years old, is the most remarkable attraction here. The grand old teak tree, with an impressive height of 39.98 metres and a girth of 7.02 metres, is one of the world’s oldest and largest living teak trees. The iconic Kannimara teak tree has won the Indian government's prestigious Mahavriksha Puraskar in 1994 – 95.

The dam viewpoint between Anappady and Parambikulam offers the enchanting view of the Thoonakadavu reservoir amid the evergreen forests. The valley viewpoint, from which you can enjoy the splendid wilderness and soothing greenery, is one of the most popular spots. Parambikulam, Thoonakadavu and Peruvaripallam that are located within the same panchayat, could be visited in the same trip.

The sight of tribal people rowing the pondy (traditional bamboo rafts) for fishing in the dam looks straight out of a painting. Meanwhile, visitors are taken for the jungle safari in the forest department’s vehicles. Besides, the forest department has arranged special accommodation packages for families. These affordable packages should be booked in advance. Tribal people from the kadar, malayar, malamaleshwar and muthuvan communities have been trained as guides to accompany the visitors.

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Having the company of these highly trained guides, who possess traditional knowledge of the forest, assures safety as well as a fabulous trekking experience for visitors. Tourists are allowed to enter Parambikulam from 7.30 am to 3 pm. Although the Parambikulam Tiger Reserve is located in Kerala, it can only be accessed through Tamil Nadu. From Palakkad, you need to travel to Ambrampalayam Sungam via Puthunagaram – Meenakshipuram to reach Sethumada.

Cross the Tamil Nadu check post at Sethumada to visit the Anamalai Tiger Reserve, Top Slip hill station and Parambikulam Tiger Reserve. Those who come from the Thrissur side should take the Vadakkancherry – Nenmara – Kollengode – Govindapuram route to reach Sungam and then Sethumada.

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