05 Muthanga Wayanad
Muthanga wild life sanctuary is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere region. It is a rain forest reserve connected to two major sanctuaries, Bandhipur National Park in Karnataka and Mudumalai sanctuary in Tamil Nadu. It has been declared as project elephant site and one can spot herd of elephants roaming in the area. Wayanad wildlife sanctuary was formed in the year 1973 and was brought under the Project Elephant in the year 1991-92. The Muthanga is on the way from Mysore to Sultan Battery. Wild animals such as Indian Bison, elephant, deer and tiger are spotted here. It is the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala. It is bestowed with lush green forests and rich wildlife and houses some of the rare and endangered species of both flora and fauna. Elephant rides are arranged by the Forest Department, Kerala. Discovering and observing the wildlife while being atop an elephant is an enthralling and unforgettable experience. It is spread over 344 km² and is about 16 km east of Sultan Battery, the nearest large town. This sanctuary occupies an area of 345 km2. The Western Ghats, Nilgiri Sub-Cluster including all of the sanctuary, is under consideration by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee for selection as a World Heritage Site
Location : It is in Kerala-Karnatak border, about 16 km east of Sulthan Bathery.
How to reach : By road: The sanctuary is connected by the road with 17 km from Sulthan Bathery, Kalpetta (42 kms), Mananthvady (59kms) and Kozhikode (96 kms). Mysore is at 95 kms distance form here and Ooty 160 kms. The nearest airport is Karippur and Railway Station is Kozhikode.
Safari in Muthanga : Available with entry fees, Timing – 7 am to 10 am and 3 pm to 5.30 pm (best season November to May)
