Established in 1958, Peechi- Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary is about 20 kms
east of Thrissur, in the catchment area of the Peechi and Vazhani dams
with headquarters at Peechi. The sanctuary consists of Palappilli- Nelliyampathi
forests and forms the northern boundary of the Chimminy wildlife sanctuary.
The second oldest sanctuary in Kerala, it is about 20kms.
The sanctuary is also an ideal place for boating and
trekking. Ponmudi peak that has a height of 923 meters is near Peechi
sanctuary. One can enjoy the breath taking view of the sanctuary from
the top of this peak.
Flora
Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary consists the forest areas of
Nelliampathy and Palappilly reserves. The terrain is undulating and elevation
ranges between 45 m to 900 m. The forest types comprise, Moist Deciduous
Forest, Evergreen forests and Semi -Evergreen forests. A large variety
of medicinal plants and over 1000 species of angiosperms have been recorded
of which 50 are orchids.
The species are found in the Moist Deciduous Forest ;
Pongamia glabra, Terminalia paniculata, Anthocephalus cadamba, Adina cordifolia,
Tectona grandis, Mesua ferrea, Vitex altissima, Bombax ceiba, Spondia
pinnata, Emidesmus indicus, Solanum torvum, Solanum xanthocarpum, Aristolochia
tagala,Tylophora asthamatica, Melothria madraspatana, Centella asiatica,
Bacopa monnieri, Justicia simplex etc. The dominant Evergreen forests
species found are; Palaquium ellipticum, Cullenia exorillata, Mesua ferrea,
Canarium strictum with Canes and reeds. In the Semi-evergreen forests,
tree species like Artocarpus hirsutus, Toona ciliata, Hopea parviflora,
Lagerstroemia microcarpa, Mangifera indica and Vitex altissima are commonly
seen.
Fauna
The sanctuary is home to over 170 species of birds, 30 species of reptiles,17
species of amphibians, 40 species of fishes and 39 species of mammals
including Carnivorous animals like Leopard, Tiger, Fox etc and Herbivorous
animals like Elks, Deers, Barking deers, Gaur and the Elephant etc.
Nature Camps
Facilities
Kerala Forest and Wildlife Department are conducting Trekking
and Nature camps in the sanctuary for School/College students, NGO’s
etc. The two-three day package will provide free vegetarian food and accommodation.
No. of participants : Between 30 & 40 persons. For these prior written
permission from the department is needed. For more information contact
- 0487- 2699017.
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Wildlife 
