Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary

Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected Western Ghats landscape in Chalakudy Taluk of Thrissur district. Established in 1984, the sanctuary contains tropical evergreen, semi-evergreen and moist deciduous forest and is associated with a wide range of mammals, birds, butterflies, reptiles and amphibians. Kerala Tourism notes species such as elephants, sambar, gaur, Malabar giant squirrels and sloth bears, along with important endemic birdlife.

The sanctuary is closely linked with the Chimmini reservoir, which gives the forested hills a distinctive lake-and-mountain setting. Nature programmes in the area include guided trekking and other controlled ecotourism experiences, with birdwatching especially rewarding along quieter forest trails. Chimmini also adjoins or connects ecologically with other protected landscapes of the region, including Peechi-Vazhani and forests toward Parambikulam.

For visitors, the appeal lies less in conventional sightseeing and more in experiencing a functioning forest ecosystem. Entry, trekking and boating activities can depend on Forest Department rules, weather and seasonal conditions, so current arrangements should be confirmed before the journey.