Western Ghats Wildlife Tour

Grey Slender Loris spotted at night in the forests of Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Thattekkad, Kerala, India

OVERVIEW

Discover the Western Ghats on a wildlife tour, one of India’s richest biodiversity hotspots. Western Ghats is home to over 500 bird species and more than 100 mammal species across a remarkable range of habitats. This carefully designed journey brings together some of South India’s most rewarding birding and wildlife landscapes, from the lowland forests of Thattekkad to the high-elevation sholas and grasslands of Munnar, the dry forests of Chinnar, the rainforest fragments of Valparai and the diverse forests and grasslands of Mudumalai.

The route is especially rewarding for those interested in Western Ghats endemics, restricted-range species and threatened wildlife. Depending on season, habitat and conditions, highlights may include the Endangered Nilgiri Tahr, Lion-tailed Macaque, Nilgiri Langur, Grey Slender Loris, Brown Palm Civet, Asian Elephant, Dhole and Tiger. And Birding opportunities range from lowland specialties such as the Sri Lanka Frogmouth, Malabar Flame-back and Malabar Grey Hornbill to high-altitude specialists including the Nilgiri Pipit, Nilgiri Thrush, Palani Laughingthrush and White-bellied Blue Robin.

We explore these landscapes through early-morning birding walks, forest trails, habitat drives and wildlife safaris, with relaxed evening sessions when conditions are suitable. Considerable time is also dedicated to night walks and nocturnal wildlife, searching for owls, nightjars, frogmouths and other elusive species.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Unique Wildlife sightings Across Varied Habitats
  • Exceptional Birdwatching in Biodiversity Hotspots
  • Safari Adventures in Bandipur and Mudumalai Reserves.

ITINERARY

Day 1:
Salim Ali Bird sanctuary, Thattekkad
All Meals
Birding & Night Walk for Wildlife
Upon arrival at Cochin International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed and transferred to the bird-rich region of Thattekkad. Known for its moist deciduous and semi-evergreen forests, Thattekkad (Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary) hosts a diverse avifauna. Spend the day relaxing or start birdwatching in the evening, targeting species such as the Sri Lanka Frogmouth, White-bellied Treepie, Flame-throated Bulbul, Mottled Wood Owl, and nightjars. Keep an eye out for possible nocturnal sightings of the elusive Grey Slender Loris
Day 2:
Munnar
All Meals
Birding & night walk
In the morning, you’ll set forward on a walk in Thattekkad, with opportunities to observe endemic birds such as the Malabar Parakeet, Malabar Grey Hornbill, Malabar Barbet, Malabar Woodshrike, White-bellied Blue Flycatcher, Blue-eared Kingfisher, Malabar Trogon, and Malabar Flameback. After birding, we’ll journey to the picturesque, biodiverse tea town of Munnar, home to a variety of endemic species. Enjoy enroute birdwatching through plantations and moist deciduous forest patches. In the evening, take a walk in Munnar to spot species such as the Black-and-orange Flycatcher, Nilgiri Flycatcher, Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, and Palani Laughingthrush. As dusk approaches, sightings of mammals such as the Indian Giant Flying Squirrel, Brown Palm Civet, and Indian Crested Porcupine are possible in the shola forests.
Day 3:
Munnar
All Meals
Wildlife watching
Today, you’ll explore the high-altitude grasslands and montane forests of Munnar, which are teeming with wildlife. The highlight of the day is a visit to Eravikulam National Park, a protected area for the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. This park offers excellent chances to spot the Nilgiri Pipit and Painted Bushquail, along with bird species such as the Square-tailed Bulbul, Hill Swallow, Malabar Whistling-Thrush, and Nilgiri Flycatcher.In the afternoon, you’ll visit Pampadum Shola National Park, searching for the elusive Nilgiri Marten. As you explore the park, there’s potential for sightings of rare birds and mammals unique to this habitat.
Day 4:
Valparai
All Meals
Wildlife watching
You will head towards Valparai, making a stop enroute at Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. This unique dry deciduous forest offers sightings of species like the Grizzled Giant Squirrel and Tufted Grey Langur, along with a diverse range of birds such as the Spot-bellied Eagle Owl, Sirkeer Malkoha, White-bellied Drongo, Brown-headed Barbet, and Jungle Prinia. Upon arrival at Valparai, explore the tea estates and surrounding evergreen forests in search of the endangered Lion-tailed Macaque, along with Gaur, and Indian Elephants.
Day 5:
Ooty
All Meals
Wildlife watching
You will head towards Ooty, a charming hill station perched at 2,300 meters above sea level in the heart of the Nilgiri Hills. As you journey through winding mountain roads, the landscape transforms into a breathtaking blend of rolling tea estates, fragrant eucalyptus groves, and mist-clad valleys. Upon reaching Ooty, venture into its enchanting Shola Forest patches and high-altitude grassy meadows, home to some of the Western Ghats’ most prized birdlife. Keep your eyes peeled for the region’s fascinating Nilgiri endemics such as Nilgiri Flycatcher, Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, Nilgiri Laughingthrush (Black-chinned), Black-and-Orange Flycatcher, Nilgiri Blue Robin, the highland specialist Nilgiri Pipit, and, if you’re lucky, the rare and magnificent Nilgiri Thrush. With its cool mountain air, spectacular scenery, and unique wildlife encounters, Ooty promises an unforgettable day immersed in the natural wonders of the Western Ghats.
Day 6:
Mudumalai tiger Reserve, Masinagudy
All Meals
Wildlife watching
We leave Ooty and travel to the dry deciduous and moist broadleaf forests of Mudumalai Tiger Reserve. This area is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and offers some of the best wildlife experiences in South India. Evening safari in Mudumalai, with chances of observing Wild Dogs, Sloth Bears, Indian Gaur, and herds of Chital (Spotted Deer).
Day 7:
Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, Masinagudy
All Meals
Wildlife Watching
You will set forward for morning and evening safaris in Mudumalai Tigere, expected species include Dhole (Indian Wild Dog), Indian Chevrotain, Stripe-necked Mongoose, Sambar, Elephants, Gaur, Indian Giant Squirrel and Leopard.
Day 8:
Departure
All Meals
Wildlife watching
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Coimbatore International Airport for your departure, marking the end of your South India wildlife adventure.

Reviews

Tropic Trails put together a 10 day Kerala itinerary for us. It included a dedicated driver throughout, and a series of activities and excursions, all including guides. We also had…

What a wonderful adventure packed four days/three night stay safari in Mudumalai National Park that Anoop Jacob from Tropic Trails planned out at the last minute. His skillfulness, professionalism and…

I was picked up from my Kochi hotel by a personal driver and taken to close to the reserve where we met the guide, Praveen. I’m not an experienced bird…

Viaggio nel Kerala per Birdwatching e non solo: Thanks to the organization of Tropic Trails, our trip to Kerala was truly memorable, intense and exciting. the areas visited are: Thattekad,…

I really enjoyed my birdwatching journey through the Western Ghats. The 8-day trip was very well organized — Tropic Trail was very quick to respond and designed an itinerary that…

Extremely reliable operator: responsive, committed and highly flexible. Excellent knowledge of the area, skilled & talented staff, perfect organization.

…

FAQ

1. Does the itinerary include early-morning or evening safaris (for better wildlife / birding)?

Yes. Early morning and late-afternoon excursions form the core of the itinerary, aligning with peak activity times for both birds and mammals. Morning drives start around sunrise when animals are most active, and evening safaris capture species emerging before dusk. These sessions also provide the best natural light conditions for photography.

2. Is the region known for any endangered species?

Absolutely. South India’s Western Ghats are one of the world’s top biodiversity hotspots and home to several globally threatened species. Endangered species found here include the Lion-tailed Macaque, Nilgiri Tahr, alongside endemic birds like the White-bellied Treepie, Nilgiri Thrush, White-bellied Sholakili and Nilgiri Pipit. Reptiles & Amphibians: Malabar Pit Viper, several endemic bush frogs, and shield-tail snakes These species embody the exceptional biodiversity and conservation importance of South India’s forests.

3. Does the tour include opportunities to see species beyond birds & mammals (reptiles, amphibians, dragonflies, butterflies, fish)?

Yes. The South India Wildlife Tour provides a holistic nature experience beyond bird and mammal observation. You’ll encounter reptiles like vine snakes and pit vipers, amphibians such as endemic bush frogs, and a colorful array of butterflies and dragonflies in forest and wetland habitats. Local guides often highlight these smaller but equally fascinating species during walks and night excursions.

4. Can this tour be customized specifically for photography?

Yes. If you’re a wildlife or bird photographer, the tour can be adapted to focus on prime habitats like Thattekad Bird Sanctuary (Kerala), Valparai, and Mudumalai National Park, where you’ll have excellent chances to photograph species such as the Malabar Trogon, Great Hornbill, Nilgiri Flycatcher, and even herds of Asian Elephants.

5. Are there chances of seeing nocturnal species during the tour?

Yes. Night walks and dusk safaris are occasionally organized (where permitted) to search for owls, nightjars, and other nocturnal wildlife. Species like the Sri Lanka Frogmouth, Brown Fish Owl, and Indian Scops Owl are key nocturnal targets. During guided night walks, participants often use head torches to observe frogs, geckos, and other nocturnal creatures in their natural habitats.

7. Will the tour include safaris inside protected areas?

Yes. During the tour, we may go on safaris through government-managed protected areas, including Mudumalai, and Bandipur National Parks. These safaris follow fixed, regulated routes to minimize habitat disturbance and ensure visitor safety while offering outstanding opportunities to witness wildlife in its natural environment and capture memorable photographs.

8. Is this tour safe for solo women travellers?

We maintain the highest safety standards across every trip — from handpicked, reputable accommodations to trained local guides who prioritize your comfort and security. Our small-group style ensures personal attention, while all logistics are handled by our trusted in-house team. Many solo women have travelled with us across India’s wilderness, cycling routes, and cultural trails with great experiences and lasting friendships.

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GALLERY

Please note that the cost of our tour includes the activities and accommodations specified in the itinerary as per twin sharing basis(min 2 PAX). For single traveller price may vary. Any additional expenses, such as laundry services or beverages (including alcoholic drinks), are not covered and can be settled directly with the hotels or establishments where these services are provided.

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