Where the Western Ghats Whisper
WAYANAD SAFARI GUIDE
Your complete guide to discovering the natural wonders and wildlife experiences of Wayanad.
Into the Wilds of Wayanad
Explore the forests of Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, home to elephants, tigers, gaurs, deer and rich birdlife. With safari experiences in Muthanga and Tholpetty, Wayanad offers an immersive glimpse into the wildlife and landscapes of the Western Ghats.
Staying at Sterling Wayanad? Our Safari Desk can help you navigate the practicalities of your wildlife experience, from understanding the safari options to coordinating available transfers and sharing the latest information.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Cooler weather and lush landscapes
The post-monsoon and winter months bring cooler temperatures and vibrant greenery, making this a comfortable period to explore the sanctuary. Birdwatching can also be particularly rewarding during these months.
Warmer weather and wildlife near water
As temperatures rise and the forest becomes drier, animals may be easier to spot around water sources. If wildlife sightings are your priority, the warmer months can be rewarding, although temperatures can be high.
Monsoon in the Western Ghats
The monsoon transforms Wayanad into a lush, rain-soaked landscape. However, heavy rainfall can affect safari operations and wildlife visibility. Check the latest operating schedule before planning a safari during this period.
Wayanad's forests change character with the seasons, offering a different safari experience throughout the year.
Where To book
Your safari
Safari experiences at Muthanga and Tholpetty are operated under the Kerala Forest Department and are subject to availability and prevailing regulations. Both Muthanga and Tholpetty are currently listed on the Kerala Forest Department's ecotourism platform.
Check the Official Forest Department Booking System
Safari and ecotourism programmes can be booked through the official Kerala Forest Department's ecotourism platform, subject to availability.
Book 45-120 days in advance
Visit MP onlineGet Assistance from Sterling
Not sure whether Muthanga or Tholpetty works better for your itinerary? Our Safari Desk can help you understand the available safari options and coordinate the arrangements available through the resort.
+91 79697 92028
Call safari DeskCheck Availability at the Safari Centre
Safari vehicles are operated from the respective forest entry points and are subject to availability, operating schedules and Forest Department regulations. We recommend checking availability before setting out, particularly during busy travel periods.
Muthanga Range
Tholpetty Range
Pro Tip: Please note: Safari permits, vehicle availability, timings and entry conditions are controlled by the Forest Department and cannot be guaranteed by Sterling.
Distance & Travel Time
Sterling Wayanad is strategically located for easy access to Wayanad's lush forests, wildlife sanctuaries, and scenic attractions.
Sterling Wayanad
Your starting point
Muthanga Range
Main Entry Point
Wayanad Safari Timings
Safari timings vary by location and may change according to Forest Department regulations and operating conditions.
Jeep Safari Experience
Morning Safari
The Kerala Tourism ecotourism programme currently lists jeep safari sessions in the morning and afternoon:
Timings, safari availability and operating schedules can change. Please verify the latest timings with the Forest Department before your visit.
SAFARI TIMINGS
Safari timings are provided for reference and may be revised by forest authorities. Please verify the latest schedule before your visit.
Jeep Safari Experience
Evening Safari
Timings, safari availability and operating schedules can change. Please verify the latest timings with the Forest Department before your visit.
Curated Safari Transport
Resort Vehicle
Charges applicable as per route & vehicle type
Private Taxi
Rates vary based on distance, season & availability
Safari Gypsy
Safari charges applicable as per prevailing rates
What to wear
Dress smart for the wild - Comfort meets camouflage
Cotton Shirt
T-Shirts
Wild Brimmed Hat or Cap
UV Protection Sun Glass
Comfortable closed toe shoes
LightScarf for Dustprotection
- Lightweight, breathable clothing
- Comfortable full-length trousers
- A hat or cap
- Sunglasses
- Comfortable closed shoes
- A light scarf for sun and dust protection
- Heavy, thick or non-breathable fabrics
- Tight or restrictive clothing
- Bright or neon-coloured outfits
- Flip-flops, high heels or slippery footwear
Winter Jacket
Scarf
Winter Gloves
Wool Beanie
Trousers
Shoes
- Layered clothing
- A warm jacket or fleece for early mornings
- Comfortable trousers
- Closed shoes
- A cap or scarf for cooler mornings
- Thin clothing without warm layers
- Shorts or sleeveless outfits without adequate layering
- Open-toed footwear
- Strong perfumes
Safari
Do's & Don'ts
Essential guidelines for a safe and respectful wild life experice
DO'S
- Maintain complete silence during the safari
- Follow your guide's instructions at all times
- Carry sufficient drinking water
- Keep your binoculars and camera ready
- Stay seated inside the vehicle
- Respect wildlife and maintain safe distance
DON'TS
- Use flash photography near animals
- Litter or throw food in the forest
- Stand up or lean out of the vehicle
- Play music or make loud noises
- Feed or provoke any animals
- Smoke inside the park premises
Essential Information
Everything you need to know before your safari adventure
Documents Required
-
Valid government-issued photo ID(Aadhaar, Passport, Driving License) -
Printed or digital copyOf safari booking confirmation -
Payment receiptsFor entry fees -
Foreign nationals:Valid passport with visa
Age Restrictions
-
Children below 5 years:Free entry (not recommended for very young children) -
Children 5–12 years:Discounted rates applicable -
No upper age limitbut ensure physical fitness for the safari duration -
Infantsmust be accompanied and held by adults at all times
Health & Safety Guidelines
-
Carry personal medicationsIf you have any health conditions -
Apply sunscreen and insect repellentBefore the safari -
Stay hydratedCarry at least 1–2 liters of water -
Inform your guideAbout any allergies or medical conditions -
Basic first aidAvailable at park gates; nearest hospital in Mandla (60 km)
What to Carry
Essentials
Binoculars
Camera with zoom lens
Sunglasses and hat
Water bottle
Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Optional
Wildlife field guide book
Notebook and pen
Light snacks (no plastic)
Power bank for devices
Motion sickness medication
Cancellation & Rescheduling Policy
30+ days before:
Full refund minus processing fee
15–30 days before:
50% refund
Less than 15 days:
No refund
Rescheduling subject to availability;
₹200 modification fee applies
Safari cancelled due to weather:
Full refund or reschedule at no cost
Got questions? We've got answers
Frequently Asked Questions
October to March offers cooler weather and lush landscapes, while April to June can offer better wildlife visibility as animals gather around water sources. Safari operations and conditions can vary during the monsoon.
The main wildlife safari experiences are in Muthanga and Tholpetty, the two sections of Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.
Muthanga is one of the two sections of Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. The other is Tholpetty. Together, they form the sanctuary's two discontinuous pockets.
Muthanga lies in southern Wayanad, around 18 km from Sulthan Bathery, while Tholpetty lies in northern Wayanad, around 20 km east of Mananthavady. Both offer wildlife safari experiences but are located in different parts of the district.
Neither can be called universally better. Your choice should depend primarily on where you are staying and your itinerary. Muthanga is more convenient for the Sulthan Bathery side of Wayanad, while Tholpetty works better for northern Wayanad.
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is home to elephants, tigers, leopards, gaurs, deer, monkeys and several bird species. Elephant sightings are particularly associated with the sanctuary, while sightings of big cats are possible but never guaranteed.
No. Tigers inhabit the sanctuary, but wildlife sightings depend on animal movement, season, weather and chance. A safari should be approached as an opportunity to experience the forest rather than a guaranteed tiger sighting.
The Kerala Tourism ecotourism programme currently lists Muthanga jeep safari sessions from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Timings are subject to change.
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