Located about 60 km from Cochin, (in the Kothamangalam taluk of Ernakulam district) nestled along the northern bank of the Periyar River, Thattekad receives both a variety of migrate birds and avid birders from different parts of the world. This renowned Salim Ali bird Sanctuary is a haven for bird watching. Spread around with an area of 25 sq km, this sanctuary has the presence of more than 200 varieties of birds which includes large falcon, grey jungle fowl, white breasted water hen, hornbill etc.
Another attraction is the Bhoothathankettu; a scenic dam site with boating facilities is situated in a vast virgin forest. A myth connected with the origin of this place says that this natural fortification of forests and hills was built by Bhoothams (spirit/ghosts) overnight, hence the name Bhoothathankettu (fort of the spirits). The best season to visit Thattekad is between mid August and February.
A resort, Hornbill camp, located on the river bank and can co-ordinate various activities.
One can also get involved in activities like kayaking, trekking-hiking through the sanctuary with a guide, biking through villages and plantations – rubber, plantain, cocoa and more.
To reach this sanctuary one can take a pleasant bus-ride from Kothamangalam early in the morning and reach Periyar. The water body is surrounded by low, thickly wooded hills, which makes it look really beautiful. The vegetation in this area consists of tropical evergreen, semi-evergreen, moist deciduous forests and plantations of teak, rosewood, mahogany and more. Further, more than 28 varieties of wild animals and nine varieties of reptiles have occupied this area as their natural habitat.
Birds at Thattekad
Map of Thattekad
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