Birdwatchers Are Heading to Thattekad in Kerala for Its Rare Hornbills

Birdwatchers Are Heading to Thattekad in Kerala for Its Rare Hornbills (Image: Canva)

Tucked along the banks of the Periyar River, Kerala’s Thattekad Bird Sanctuary has become a dream destination for bird lovers. Known as the “richest bird habitat in peninsular India,” this evergreen forest is attracting birdwatchers from across the world, especially those eager to spot the rare hornbills.

Spread over just 25 square kilometres, Thattekad might be small, but it boasts a big reputation. The sanctuary was once described by ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali as the “richest bird habitat he ever surveyed.” Today, it is home to over 300 species of birds, including Malabar grey hornbills, Malabar pied hornbills, and the endangered great hornbill—Kerala’s state bird. Watching these massive, vibrant birds swoop through the dense canopy is an unforgettable sight for enthusiasts.

The sanctuary’s landscape is a mix of tropical evergreen and deciduous forests, interlaced with streams and wetlands that draw countless winged visitors. Apart from hornbills, birdwatchers can spot species like Sri Lanka frogmouths, Ceylon bay owls, and the Indian pitta. Winter months see a surge in migratory birds, making Thattekad a year-round paradise for avian explorers.

What makes Thattekad even more appealing is the accessibility of birding trails. Guided tours led by local naturalists take you deep into the forest, where spotting elusive species becomes more likely. Dawn walks are particularly rewarding as the forest comes alive with calls and flashes of colour. The Bhoothathankettu Dam nearby also attracts flocks of water birds, offering another rewarding stop for visitors.

For travellers, Thattekad offers not just birds but also a chance to immerse in Kerala’s natural charm. Eco-friendly homestays and lodges near the sanctuary provide warm hospitality, often with birdwatching decks right at your doorstep. Evenings spent by the Periyar, listening to the sounds of the jungle, create the perfect escape for nature lovers.

Thattekad may not have the fame of Periyar or Kumarakom, but for birdwatchers, it is a hidden gem where hornbills rule the skies. With every step on its forest trails, you discover why this sanctuary is fast becoming a must-visit for anyone chasing Kerala’s wild beauty.