Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary

Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Thrissur district’s major protected natural areas, extending across the catchments of the Peechi and Vazhani dams. Established in 1958, Kerala Tourism describes the sanctuary as a 125-square-kilometre reserve within the Palappilli-Nelliampathy forest system and notes its position along the northern boundary of Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary. The landscape includes forested valleys, reservoir edges and hill terrain, with Ponmudi identified as the highest point at about 923 metres and a notable viewpoint over the surrounding valleys.

The sanctuary supports a rich mix of flora, including numerous orchids and medicinal plants, along with mammals such as elephants, gaur, deer and other forest wildlife, plus abundant birdlife. Visitors come for forest scenery, birdwatching, controlled trekking and nature experiences associated with the Peechi side of the reserve. Because it is a wildlife sanctuary rather than an open recreation park, entry and activities are subject to Forest Department rules.

Combining a sanctuary visit with Peechi Dam offers a practical introduction to this important Thrissur ecotourism landscape.