#55 Parambikulam

Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary is part of the Anamalai Hills sub-cluster in the Western Ghats, which is under consideration for selection as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located between Nelliampathy and Anamalai ranges near the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, the sanctuary is spread across 277 sq km. Elevation of the wildlife sanctuary ranges from 984 ft to 4593 ft. Started in 1973, the sanctuary was classified as a tiger reserve in 2009.

If you are looking for adventure, then the tree-house inside the reserve forest area in Thoonakkadavu is the best option to stay. State forest department rest houses at Thoonakkadavu, Thellikkal and Elathode offer comfortable lodging. "Tented Niches" built in the sanctuary are also good. It is part of responsible tourism efforts and is managed by a joint venture of Kerala Forest Department, Tourism Department and the seven Eco Development Committees performing under Parambikkulam Forest Development Agency. The eco-friendly cottages are twin bedded Swiss tents with modern attached baths.  The Thellikkal inspection bungalow deep inside the forest requires an eight km trek.