Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary

Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected forest area in Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala, established in 1983 to preserve the catchment of the Karamana River and Peppara Dam. Spanning approximately 53 square kilometers within the Western Ghats, it features tropical evergreen and moist deciduous forests. The sanctuary serves as an important ecological corridor within the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve, supporting diverse wildlife including elephants, tigers, leopards, and numerous bird species.

Visitors can expect dense tropical forests, scenic views of the Peppara Dam reservoir, and opportunities for guided nature walks and trekking. The sanctuary offers glimpses of Western Ghats biodiversity with chances to spot wildlife such as elephants, deer, and various bird species. Trekking trails lead to viewpoints and waterfalls like Vazhvanthol Falls. The environment is serene with cool streams and rugged terrain, suitable for nature photography and birdwatching.

Established in December 1983 to protect the forest catchment area surrounding the Peppara Dam on the Karamana River, which was commissioned to augment drinking water supply to Thiruvananthapuram city and suburban areas.

The sanctuary lies in the traditional homelands of the indigenous Kani tribal community, who have inhabited these forests for centuries and possess deep traditional knowledge of medicinal plants and forest ecology. The Kani community participates in eco-tourism initiatives and forest management.