Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary

Introduction: The Pristine Wilderness of Shendurney

Spanning an area of 171 square kilometers in the Kollam district of southern Kerala, Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary is a magnificent, biodiversity-rich forest reserve situated within the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve. Established in 1984 around the reservoir of the Thenmala (Parappar) Dam, the sanctuary owes its unique name to the endemic giant tree Gluta travancorica, locally known as Chenkurunji (or Shendurney). This ancient forest ecosystem encompasses tropical evergreen, semi-evergreen, and moist deciduous forests, framing the crystal-clear waters of the Shendurney river basin.

As an integral part of Thenmala Eco-Tourism—India's first planned eco-tourism destination—Shendurney offers a seamless blend of adventurous jungle trekking, peaceful reservoir boating, and rich wildlife conservation. For international travelers, domestic eco-tourists, wildlife photographers, and nature lovers, Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary serves as an offbeat sanctuary where lush green mountain slopes meet tranquil aquatic habitats, providing an immersive experience into Kerala's undisturbed wilderness.

History and Heritage: From Mesolithic Cave Dwellings to Protected Sanctuary

Beyond its immense ecological importance, Shendurney holds profound archaeological and historical significance. Studies conducted by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in the late 20th century uncovered a prehistoric rock shelter at Mesolithic Rock Cave (Rock Shelter at Rosemala) within the sanctuary boundaries. Artifacts, bone tools, and cave drawings discovered here date back to the Mesolithic period (around 5210 to 3000 BC), revealing that ancient hunter-gatherers inhabited these riverine forests over 7,000 years ago.

In modern history, the sanctuary was formally constituted in 1984 to protect the catchment area of the Thenmala Dam across the Kallada River. The creation of the 26-square-kilometer reservoir transformed the landscape into a sprawling wetland-forest matrix. Today, Shendurney stands as a critical wildlife corridor connecting the Periyar Tiger Reserve and Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve, harboring endangered endemic species of the Western Ghats.

Key Ecological Highlights

• The Home of Chenkurunji: Celebrated for conserving Gluta travancorica (Chenkurunji), a rare tree species endemic to the Agasthyamala region known for its medicinal bark and striking red heartwood.
• Substantial Elephant Corridor: Serves as a vital sanctuary and watering hole for wild Asian elephant herds, gaurs, sambar deer, and lion-tailed macaques.
• Butterfly Paradise: Home to over 220 species of butterflies, including rare endemics like the Travancore Evening Brown and the Malabar Tree Nymph.

How to Reach Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary

The primary gateway to Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary is the town of Thenmala in Kollam district, well-connected by road and rail networks.

By Air

The nearest airport is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TRV), located approximately 75 km (2 to 2.5 hours drive) from Thenmala/Shendurney. Taxis, private rental cars, and pre-paid airport cabs can easily be hired to reach the sanctuary via the Trivandrum-Nedumangad-Thenmala route.

By Train

Nearby railway stations include:

• Thenmala Railway Station (TML): Located just 5 km from the eco-tourism center, situated along the scenic Kollam-Sengottai railway line.
• Punalur Railway Station (PUU): Located about 25 km away, offering frequent regional train connections.
• Kollam Junction (QLN): Located roughly 66 km away, a major railway hub connecting to all major Indian cities.

By Road

Shendurney is easily accessible via the Kollam-Thirumangalam National Highway (NH 744). Regular Kerala KSRTC buses operate from Kollam, Punalur, Thiruvananthapuram, and Kottarakkara directly to Thenmala Dam and the Shendurney Eco-Tourism Information Center.

Best Time to Visit

Choosing the right season ensures optimal weather for outdoor trekking, reservoir boating, and wildlife sightings.

Peak Season: Winter (November to March)

The post-monsoon and winter months are ideal for visiting Shendurney. Temperatures range comfortably between 18°C and 28°C with pleasant mountain breezes and low humidity. Wildlife frequently gathers around the reservoir banks, and forest trails are clear and accessible.

Monsoon Season (June to October)

The sanctuary receives heavy rainfall during both the South-West and North-East monsoons. The forest streams swell, waterfalls roar, and the forest turns incredibly vibrant and green. While rain enhances scenic beauty, trekking routes can become slippery and leech-infested.

Top Attractions in and Around Shendurney

1. Thenmala Dam Reservoir & Boat Safari

The glassy 26-square-kilometer reservoir created by the Thenmala Dam offers official Forest Department motorboat safaris. Cruising deep into the sanctuary core provides panoramic views of dense evergreen canopy rising directly from the water's edge.

2. Rosemala Valley

Tucked 15 km deep inside the sanctuary forests, Rosemala is a secluded valley hamlet shaped like a rose petal. Reached via an adventurous 4x4 jeep track through deep wilderness, the Rosemala viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the lake waters weaving around forest ridges.

3. Thenmala Eco-Tourism Zone

Located right outside the sanctuary gate, Thenmala features dedicated Culture, Adventure, and Leisure zones—complete with elevated canopy walkways, rope suspension bridges, butterfly parks, and sculpture gardens.

4. Palaruvi Waterfalls

Situated roughly 16 km from Thenmala near the Tamil Nadu border, Palaruvi (meaning 'Stream of Milk') is a magnificent 300-foot cascading waterfall surrounded by dense shola forests.

Things to Do at Shendurney

• Reservoir Boating Safaris: Glide silently past shoreline forests aboard official motorboats to spot wild elephants, deer, and darter birds.
• Deep Jungle Camping & Trekking: Participate in official multi-day eco-trekking programs like the 'Infantry Trek' or overnight stays at forest camps such as Kattilappara and Idimuzhangan.
• Birdwatching & Photography: Spot over 270 bird species, including the Great Indian Hornbill, Ceylon Frogmouth, Malabar Trogon, and Malabar Grey Hornbill.
• Explore the Deer Rehabilitation Center: Visit the nearby riverside deer park inside the Thenmala leisure zone to observe spotted deer and sambar deer up close.

Local Food and Culinary Delights

Dining around Shendurney features traditional, wholesome South Keralite dishes served at local canteens and eco-cafes.

Must-Try Specialties

• Kerala Rice Meals (Sadya): Steamed red rice served with fresh sambar, rasam, thoran (coconut vegetable fry), curd, and pickles.
• Kallu Appam with Chicken/Vegetable Curry: Soft rice pancakes paired with spicy coconut milk-based curry.
• Tapioca (Kappa) with Fish Curry: Mashed spiced cassava paired with fiery Malabar red fish curry.
• Forest Honey & Fresh Refreshments: Sample pure wild honey and fresh tender coconut water at the eco-tourism kiosks.

Where to Stay: Accommodation Options

Accommodations inside and around Shendurney are regulated to ensure minimal impact on the fragile ecosystem.

Official Forest Eco-Lodges & Camping ($40 – $120 USD / ₹3,000 – ₹9,500 INR per night)

• Kattilappara & Idimuzhangan Eco-Camps: Secluded forest eco-lodges managed by the Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary Information Center, offering inclusive meals and guided treks.
• Thenmala Heritage Eco-Resort (KTDC): A comfortable government-operated hotel located near the Thenmala Dam base with modern facilities.

Budget Homestays & Guesthouses ($15 – $35 USD / ₹1,200 – ₹2,800 INR per night)

• Charming homestays and budget lodges are scattered along the Thenmala-Punalur road, offering warm family hospitality and home-cooked Kerala meals.

Budget Travel Guide for Shendurney

• Take KSRTC Public Buses: Travel from Kollam or Trivandrum to Thenmala Dam for under ₹70 ($0.85 USD) each way using state buses.
• Composite Eco-Packages: Book official eco-tourism combination passes at the Thenmala facilitation center, bundling park admission, boat rides, and canopy walks at discounted bundle rates.
• Group Camping: Sharing official Forest Department camping packages with a group significantly reduces per-person accommodation and guide fees.

Sample 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival, Dam Boating, and Canopy Walk

• 10:00 AM: Arrive at Thenmala Eco-Tourism Center; check into your eco-lodge or KTDC hotel.
• 11:30 AM: Visit the Culture & Leisure Zones in Thenmala; walk across the elevated canopy bridge and visit the Deer Park.
• 01:00 PM: Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch thali at a local restaurant.
• 03:00 PM: Board the official Shendurney reservoir motorboat safari to spot shoreline wildlife and bird species.
• 06:00 PM: Attend the musical fountain and light show at Thenmala Eco-Park.
• 08:00 PM: Dinner and overnight stay at your eco-lodge surrounded by nocturnal forest sounds.

Day 2: Rosemala 4x4 Expedition & Palaruvi Waterfalls

• 07:00 AM: Embark on an early morning 4x4 Jeep excursion through the deep forest trail up to Rosemala Valley.
• 10:00 AM: Enjoy panoramic views over the lake ridges; enjoy packed breakfast in the hills.
• 12:30 PM: Drive to nearby Palaruvi Waterfalls for a refreshing bath in natural mountain stream waters.
• 03:00 PM: Return to Thenmala, complete checkout, and proceed toward Kollam or Trivandrum.

Essential Rules and Travel Guidelines

• Strict Zero-Plastic Policy: Shendurney is a protected forest zone. Single-use plastic bottles, bags, and food wrappers are strictly banned.
• No Loud Music or Honking: Maintain strict silence on boating trips and forest trails to prevent disturbing wildlife.
• Wear Earth Tones: Wear olive green, khaki, or brown clothing during treks to blend into the forest canopy.
• Leech Protection: Carry leech socks and salt or eucalyptus oil when trekking during post-monsoon months.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Where is Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary located?

It is located in the Kollam district of Kerala, South India, centered around the Thenmala Dam reservoir within the Western Ghats.

2. Why is the sanctuary named Shendurney?

It is named after 'Chenkurunji' (Gluta travancorica), a rare giant tree species endemic to the forest region of Agasthyamala.

3. What is the nearest airport to Shendurney?

Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TRV) is the nearest airport, located approximately 75 km (around 2 to 2.5 hours drive) away.

4. What are the main attractions inside Shendurney?

Key highlights include reservoir boat safaris, deep forest eco-camping, Rosemala 4x4 jeep trails, Thenmala Canopy Walk, and nearby Palaruvi Waterfalls.

5. Can I book overnight forest stays inside Shendurney?

Yes, official forest eco-camps and trekking packages can be booked through the Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary Information Center at Thenmala.

6. How far is Shendurney from Thenmala Dam?

The sanctuary envelops the Thenmala Dam reservoir, with the main entry gate and boating jetty situated directly beside the dam site.

7. What wildlife can I see during the boat safari?

Visitors frequently spot wild Asian elephants, gaurs, sambar deer, spotted deer, wild boars, Malabar giant squirrels, and diverse waterfowl.

8. Is Rosemala accessible by normal cars?

No, the 15-km rough terrain forest trail to Rosemala requires high-clearance 4x4 Jeeps or official Forest Department vehicles.

9. Are guide services required for trekking?

Yes, all trekking activities inside the core sanctuary must be accompanied by certified local forest guides.

10. Is Shendurney suitable for a day trip from Trivandrum or Kollam?

Yes, located about 75 km from Trivandrum and 66 km from Kollam, it makes an ideal full-day eco-tourism excursion.

Conclusion

Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary stands as a serene, eco-conscious sanctuary where ancient rainforests, calm reservoir waters, and rich wildlife converge. From peaceful lake boat cruises and canopy walks to adventurous 4x4 treks through Rosemala, Shendurney offers a soul-nourishing retreat into the heart of Kerala's Agasthyamala region. Respect the forest, observe eco-friendly guidelines, and discover the natural tranquility of Shendurney.