Visitor Information
Eco-tourism is promoted and organized jointly by the Forest Department and the Eco Development Committees (EDCs) of the local tribal communities, the objective is to empower latter and involve them in the conservation of the forest ecosystem.
Trek paths most commonly used are the Chinnar – Chullipetty and Chinnar – Koottar. Trekking to the Dolmens, the megalithic burial sites of tribal communities in Alampatti, can be arranged. Daytime sighting of crocodiles and boars is possible while hiking along the riverside. The trail will also take you to the enchanting Thoovanam falls and to the watchtower in Jellimalai.
The lofty Chinnar Watch Tower has a panoramic view of the entire sanctuary, and beyond to the jungles of Tamil Nadu to the east and the majestic hills of the Western Ghats in all directions. The watch tower is accessible to the public with the permission of the forest department. The watchtower is a 20-minute walk from the Chinnar check post. A fee of Rs. 15 per person is collected at the tower. A Forest guard and tourist guide accompanies visitors. The guide charges Rs. 100 a day.
Accommodations are available in three suites at the Forest guesthouse for Rs. 400 per room without food. Treetop machans, arranged by the Forest Department, cost Rs. 1,000 for an overnight stay for two. Camping overnight in tribal huts at Vasyappara gives opportunities to sight elephants, peacocks, langur, deer and the giant squirrel. Camping at the Vasyappara huts cost Rs. 2,000 (including dinner, night stay and breakfast). The Forest Department also arranges accommodation at log houses in Churlipatti. Dormitory facilities are also available at Chinnar. However visitiors must be warned that there are no means of buying anything to eat or drink at chinnar except the odd pack of milk biscuits and a few bottles of water.
Contact: The Wildlife Warden, Munnar division, Munnar-685612. Ph: 04865-231587; Email: emppmunnar@sify.com or: The Wildlife Warden, Idukki Wildlife Division, Idukki, Vellapara, Painavu P.O, Kerala-686 603, phone: 0486-232271 or: The Assistant Wildlife Warden, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Marayoor P.O. via, Munnar, Idukki District, Kerala.
Read more about this topic: Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
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