Thattekkad Birding and Bird Photography Tour is a carefully curated wildlife experience set in the lush forests of Kerala. Located within the biodiversity-rich Western Ghats, Thattekkad—popularly known as the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary—is widely appreciated for its remarkable bird diversity, forest habitats, and peaceful natural surroundings.
This guided birding experience is ideal for birdwatchers, bird photographers, and nature enthusiasts who wish to explore South India’s forest birdlife in an ethical and responsible manner.
Thattekkad has earned its reputation as one of South India’s most rewarding birding locations due to its unique ecological setting and high concentration of bird species.
Key features of the region include:
A recorded presence of over 300 bird species
Several birds endemic to Kerala and the Western Ghats
A mix of evergreen forest, riverine zones, and bamboo patches
Calm forest trails suitable for bird photography and observation
These natural advantages make Thattekkad an important destination for birding-focused travel in Kerala.
One of the major attractions of birding in Thattekkad is the possibility of observing rare and elusive forest birds, including nocturnal species.
Some notable birds recorded in the region include:
Sri Lankan Bay Owl
Sri Lankan Frogmouth
Malabar Trogon
Observing such species requires patience, careful timing, and guidance from experienced naturalists who understand bird behavior and forest ethics.
The Thattekkad Birding and Bird Photography Tour is conducted during the most favorable months of the year.
Tour season:
September 15 to April 30
During this period, visitors can experience:
Post-monsoon forest freshness
Increased bird activity and calls
Seasonal migratory birds during winter
Suitable natural light conditions for photography
This timeframe is generally considered ideal for birdwatching in the Western Ghats.
Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary follows regulated entry timings to ensure conservation and visitor safety.
Timings:
Morning: 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Evening: 3:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Early morning hours are particularly productive for bird activity, and guided walks are often planned accordingly.
A well-guided walk significantly enhances the birding experience. Professional guides and naturalists help visitors understand bird calls, habitats, and ethical observation practices.
Guided tours typically focus on:
Small group bird walks
Responsible bird photography
Education about forest ecology
Respectful wildlife viewing
Experienced guides with local forest knowledge add depth and learning to the experience.
For travelers seeking a broader birding experience, Thattekkad can be combined with nearby destinations such as:
Idukki forest regions
Periyar landscape zones
Munnar’s shola forests and grasslands
This combination allows visitors to explore varied habitats and a wider range of bird species across the Western Ghats.
Wild Adventures India organizes guided nature experiences with a focus on responsible tourism, bird conservation, and authentic wildlife encounters. Their birding tours are designed to respect natural habitats while offering meaningful learning experiences for participants.
🔗 Visit: https://wildadventuresindia.com/
Thattekkad offers a calm and enriching birding environment within one of India’s most important biodiversity regions. From forest endemics to rare nocturnal birds, the area provides rewarding experiences for bird lovers and photographers alike.
A thoughtfully guided birding tour allows visitors to connect with nature while supporting ethical wildlife tourism practices.
