If you like to trek, Pakshipathalam is among the best trekking spots in the entire country. Located in the Wayanad District at a height of 1700 m, Pakshipathalam has a thick evergreen forest that provides a home to some of the rarest avifauna and is one of the most visited national parks in the state. It is also a go-to place for Ornithologists. If you are looking for a challenging yet enriching trek do visit Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary which is near our resort in Wayanad, Grassroots Wayanad.
A local tribal guide can help you explore the area and lead you through the trek in the forest area. The caves at the northern end offer a great view of the biodiversity of the region. The unmatched level of bird species is found in the Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary. Walk along with a flock of birds chirping and guarding the sky, multiple herbs, shrubs, and trees. Spend a wonderful day in the lap of nature. Multiple herbs and trees possessing medicinal properties, and orchid plantation along your way help you increase your flora knowledge. It is just two hours away from our resort in Wayanad, Grassroots Wayanad.
Within the boundaries of the sanctuary, there is a temple and watchtower to help you navigate your way. It is advisable to carry equipment for bird watching and get a tourist guide for overnight camping. You can occasionally see herds of gaurs passing through the place and Giant Malabar Squirrels greeting you. Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary is also known for the intriguing presence of `Edible Nest Swift Light’. It is believed that the nest is made of solidified saliva and is used to make bird’s nest soup.
Virgin forests, streams, and steep hills together make this a visual retreat and a refreshing trek. 3 hours of trekking is one of the best ways to traverse through the rustic landscapes of the sanctuary. A popular legend says Garuda, ‘the king of birds’ looks after his subjects here. There are many natural boulders in the area which have become the home to the birds staying here. You can find cuckoo, babbler, peacock, owl, woodpecker, and jungle fowl are the common species. Exotic species can be spotted here as well.
Places around Pakshipathalam:
Pookot Lake: A natural freshwater lake amid evergreen forests and wooded slopes is a lovely tourist destination. Located 3km south of Vythiri town, this idyllic lake is at a distance of 13 km from Kalpetta.
Kuruvadweep: Kuruvadwep is a beautiful island, in an area of 950 acres on the banks of the Kabani River, 17 km from Mananthavady.
Chembra Peak: Located 14 km west of Kalpetta, at a height of 2100m above sea level, it is the highest peak in Wayanad.
There is no accommodation near the sanctuary. You have to return after a day trip. Plan a day trip to the sanctuary while staying at our resort in Wayanad, Grassroot. Enjoy your day at the sanctuary, watch birds and animals and get to know the flora of the region, trek through the jungle, have a picnic by the stream, and get back to our resort by the end of the day.
