Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary Travel Guide

A comprehensive guide to Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary, including places to visit, hiking/biking routes, best things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary

Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary, located in Central Kerala, India, is a must-visit destination for travelers who love nature, wildlife, and outdoor adventures. The sanctuary covers an area of 1.31 square kilometers and is home to over 200 peafowls, making it one of the largest peafowl habitats in South Asia. The sanctuary also has several other species of birds, including herons, kingfishers, and egrets.

List of Places to Visit in Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Thrissur Archaeological Museum: Located just 28 kilometers from Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary, this museum is a treasure trove of ancient artifacts and exhibits, including ancient swords, pottery, and stone sculptures.

  • Vadakkumnathan Temple: One of the oldest and largest temples in Kerala, Vadakkumnathan Temple is located in the heart of Thrissur city and is known for its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Natural Attractions of Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary, located just 50 kilometers from Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary, is one of the most popular wildlife reserves in Kerala. Visitors can see several species of flora and fauna, including tigers, elephants, and wild dogs. The sanctuary is also popular for trekking and camping.

  • Athirapally Waterfalls: Known as the Niagara Falls of India, Athirapally Waterfalls is located just 65 kilometers from Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary. The waterfall is surrounded by dense forests and is an ideal spot for nature lovers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary

  • Peafowl Trail: This trail takes visitors through the heart of the sanctuary and offers a chance to see several species of birds, including the majestic peafowl.

  • Bamboo Grove Trail: This trail is ideal for hiking and offers stunning views of the surrounding bamboo groves and forests.

Best Things to Do in Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary: Activities and Tours

  • Bird Watching: The sanctuary is home to over 200 peafowls and several other species of birds, making it an ideal destination for bird watching.

  • Nature Walks: Visitors can take guided nature walks through the sanctuary and learn about the various species of flora and fauna that call it home.

Week-Long Itinerary for Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Chulanur and check in to your hotel
2 Take a guided nature walk through the sanctuary
3 Visit the Vadakkumnathan Temple in Thrissur
4 Hike the Peafowl Trail
5 Spend the day at Athirapally Waterfalls
6 Take a cultural tour of Thrissur
7 Depart from Chulanur

Food and Drink Scene of Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary

Must-Try Dishes

  • Puttu and Kadala Curry: A traditional breakfast dish made with steamed rice flour and a spicy curry made with chickpeas.

  • Meen Curry: A spicy fish curry made with fresh fish and coconut milk.

Local Beverages

  • Toddy: A refreshing alcoholic beverage made from the sap of coconut palms.

  • Sulaimani: A hot tea made with lemon and other spices.

Where to Stay in Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Chulanur Heritage Home: A boutique guesthouse located just 2 kilometers from the sanctuary, offering comfortable rooms and personalized service.

  • Rainforest Athirapally: A luxury resort located just 60 kilometers from the sanctuary, offering stunning views of the Athirapally Waterfalls.

What to Buy in Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade Crafts: Handmade crafts made by local artisans, including pottery, t-shirts, and paintings.

Local Culture and Customs of Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary

  • Respect for Wildlife: Visitors are urged to maintain a safe distance from the wildlife and not to feed them.

Best Time to Visit Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary

The best time to visit Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary is between the months of October and March, when the weather is pleasant and dry.

Do’s and Don’ts of Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary

Do:

  • Take a guided nature walk through the sanctuary.

  • Respect the wildlife and maintain a safe distance.

Don’t:

  • Feed the wildlife.

  • Litter in the sanctuary.

Safety and Health

Safety in Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary

The sanctuary is generally safe for visitors. However, it is advisable to avoid exploring the sanctuary after dark and to be cautious around wild animals.

Health in Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary

Visitors are advised to be up to date on their routine vaccinations and to take precautions against mosquito bites.

Getting to Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary

  • Cochin International Airport: Located 70 kilometers from Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary, the airport has several domestic and international flights.

  • Calicut International Airport: Located 120 kilometers from Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary, the airport has several domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary

  • Thrissur Bus Station: Located just 28 kilometers from Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary, the bus station has several buses to and from major cities in Kerala.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary or take a taxi from nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary

Visitors can explore the sanctuary on foot or by bicycle.

Where to Go Next from Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Guruvayoor Temple: Located just 50 kilometers from Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary, Guruvayoor Temple is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Kerala.

  • Malampuzha Dam: Located just 110 kilometers from Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary, the dam is a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary is a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. With its stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, it is an ideal destination for travelers looking to explore the beauty of South India.

Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary Rocky patches of Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary Rocky patches of Chulanur Peafowl Sanctuary