Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is a unique thorny scrub forest with xerophyte species.

Chinnar is the habitat of the endangered Giant Grizzled Squirrel of India. Located in the rainshadow area of the Western Ghats, unlike other sanctuaries, Chinnar has only 48 rainy days in a year.

Dry deciduous forests, high sholas and wet grasslands are also found here. As one travels from Karimuthi to Chinnar Elephants, Spotted Deer, Sambhar, Hanuman monkey and even Peacocks can be seen on either sides of the road.

Declared as a wildlife sanctuary in 1984, it is spread over an area of 90,422 sq. kms. The undulated terrain with rocky patches adds to the scenic splendour of the sanctuary.

Wild Population of Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
The main attractions of Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary are Elephants, Gaurs, Panthers, Spotted Deer, Sambhars, Grizzled Giant Squirrels, Hanuman Langurs, Peacocks, Star Tortoises and Travancore evening browns.

Viewing The Wild - Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
Recently erected watch towers rise high above the vegetation and permit a fascinating view of the game.

Best Time To Visit
One can visit the sanctuary almost throughout the year except during the months of October and November. Visiting time: 0700 -1800 hrs.

How to Get There
Air : Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport, about 150 kms from Munnar.

Rail : Nearest railway station is at Ernakulam.