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 are 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.
- 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.
Day 1: Arrival in Kochi and proceed to Thattekad
Assemble at Kochi Airport at 1000 hrs. Departure to Thattekad (Approx 1.5 hrs drive). Post-lunch nature trail & birding around Thattekad Bird Sanctuary. Dinner and overnight at a beautiful homestay near Thatteka
(Meals included: Lunch and Dinner)
Day 2: Full-day Birding and Athirapally waterfalls visit
Morning and evening birding sessions in and around Thattekad Bird Sanctuary. All meals and overnight stay at a beautiful, clean homestay near Thattekad Bird Sanctuary.
(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
Day 3: Morning and Evening Jeep Safaris
Departure to Valparai after breakfast. Stop by the Athirapally waterfalls viewpoint. Arrive at Valparai for lunch. Evening Jeep Safari at Valparai. Dinner and overnight at a heritage tea-bungalow in Valparai.
(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
Day 4:Morning and Evening Jeep Safaris at Valparai
Explore the surrounding areas of Valparai on morning and evening jeep safaris. All meals and overnight stay at a heritage Tea-Bungalow in Valparai.
(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
Day 5:Morning and Evening Jeep Safaris at Valparai
Morning safari in Valparai. Transfer to Coimbatore airport after breakfast.
(Meals included: Breakfast)
What is included in the tour
- Airport transfers from Kochi Airport to Thattekad and from Valparai to Coimbatore using dedicated AC vehicle.
- Accommodation on twin sharing basis.
- Surface transport using an AC vehicle.
- Excursions as per the itinerary.
- All meals (Breakfast, lunch and dinner)
- Four Jeep Safaris in Valparai
- Entry fees as applicable (for Indian Nationals).
- Services of an expert naturalist from Team Foliage.
What is NOT included in the tour
- Any meals/services not mentioned in the inclusions
- Transport from and back to Leh as per the itinerary in Tempo Traveller / Toyota Innova / Mahindra Scorpio (extra charges)
- Porter/mule charges to carry your personal bag ( Rs. 1800)
- Any charges for video cameras, still cameras, etc.
- Alcohol, soft drinks, beverages, etc.
- Personal expenses like tips, telephone calls, laundry, etc.
- Any costs arising out of unforeseen circumstances like landslides, road blocks, bad weather, etc.
- Insurance
