Located on the slopes of Western Ghats of Indian Peninsula, Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most renowned wildlife attractions in Kannur, Kerala. It is sprawling over 55 square kilometers near Iritty town which is 55 kilometers away from Kannur. Central State Farm located at Aralam is adjacent to it. The altitude of Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary in Kannur is 50 meters to 1145 meters. Katti Betta is the highest peak located on the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary Zone.
The annual rainfall at the sanctuary is around 3000 mm and the best time to travel to Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is October to June. The south west monsoons last from June to September in this area.
Main Flora and Fauna of Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary. A wide range of flora and fauna are found in this park.
The main flora and fauna of Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary are:
Flora in Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary :
The main forest types are coastal tropical evergreen and west coastal semi evergreen forests. Teak and eucalyptus plantations of 490 hectors are cultivated in the forest area of the park. The species of evergreen areas are vellapine (Vateria indica), Mesua ferrea, Mechilus macrantha, Calophyllum elatum, Cullenia rosayroona, Magnifera indica, Toona cillata, Myristica Species, Euphorbia Longana, Strobilanthes, etc. The trees predominant in the semi evergreen areas are Cinnamomum Zeylanicum, Hopea parviflora, Largestroemia lanceolata, Xyliaxylocarpa, Mallotus, Philippinensis, etc.
Fauna in Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary :
Aralam Sanctuary is a home to various animals and birds that attract the wildlife enthusiasts. The main faunas are various species of deer, boar, elephant, Leopard, jungle cat and various types of squirrels.
Other Attractions of Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary :
Wildlife Tour to Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary also includes sightseeing tour of the Central State Farm which is adjoining to the sanctuary. It was established by the Government of India in 1971 to product the crossbred coconut seeds. The entire area of the farm covers 3060 hectares. The tourist can see other nearby attractions of Aralam while being in Aralam including sightseeing tour to Thalassery Fort, St. Angelo's Fort, Pazhassi Dam and several others.
Access :
Air : Karipur airport is the nearest airport to the sanctuary. It is located 71 kilometers away from the sanctuary.
Rail : The nearest railway station is Thalassery at a distance of 35 kilometers from the sanctuary.
Roads : Kannur is the nearest town to reach this park as well it can be reached from other cities of Kerala.