Vallanadu Blackbuck Sanctuary

Vallanadu Blackbuck Sanctuary is a protected wildlife sanctuary located at Vallanadu hillock in Thoothukudi district, Tamil Nadu, about 16 km from Tirunelveli. Established in 1987 to conserve the endangered blackbuck, it is the southernmost habitat of the species in India. Spread over about 16.41 sq km of scrub forest and grassland, the sanctuary also supports spotted deer, jackals, hares and numerous bird species, offering wildlife viewing in a dry deciduous landscape.

Visitors can expect a dry scrub forest and grassland landscape on a low hillock with open plains and thorny vegetation. The main attraction is sighting blackbuck herds grazing in the open, along with spotted deer, jackal, hare and birds such as peafowl and partridges. Visits are typically by guided vehicle safari or with forest department permission along designated tracks, with a watch tower for observation. There are no large built structures inside, and the experience is focused on nature viewing and photography.

Declared as Vallanadu Wildlife Sanctuary in 1987 by the Government of Tamil Nadu under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, specifically to conserve the endangered blackbuck (Antilocapra cervicapra). It was created to protect the southernmost viable population of blackbuck in India, which had declined due to habitat loss and hunting.