Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary & Chimmini Dam Full Travel Information

Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary, situated in the Western Ghats of Kerala near Thrissur, is one of the most scenic and lesser-explored destinations for nature lovers. Rich in biodiversity, the sanctuary is home to dense forests, rivers, trekking trails, and the serene Chimmini Dam. Whether you’re seeking adventure, wildlife sightings, or a peaceful picnic by the dam, this sanctuary delivers an unforgettable experience.

🎟️ Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary Entry Fees & Timings

Located in the Thrissur district of Kerala, Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary is part of the Western Ghats and is known for its rich flora and fauna. From river trekking to butterfly watching, it offers a perfect mix of adventure and calm. The sanctuary surrounds the picturesque Chimmini Dam, which is a prime spot for photography and family outings.

• Entry Fee: ₹30 per adult, ₹15 per child

• River Trekking: ₹250–₹400 per person

• Jeep Safari: ₹1,500–₹2,000 (group rates)

• Timings: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM

• Best Time to Visit: October to March (for pleasant weather and clear trails)

🚶 Things to Do in Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary

🌿 1. Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary Trekking

The sanctuary offers guided forest trekking routes through thick tropical forests, rivulets, and bamboo groves. The treks are moderately difficult and vary between 3 km (easy) to 10 km (moderate).

✅ Permissions Required
Yes. You must register at the Forest Department Office at the entrance. Trekking is not allowed without a certified local guide.

🎟️ Entry Fees & Charges

• Entry Ticket: ₹30 per adult, ₹15 per child

• Trekking Permit + Guide Fee: ₹200–₹300 per person

• Group rates (5+): Sometimes available at a discount

🕰️ Best Time for Trekking
Morning hours between 6:30 AM – 10:00 AM are ideal to avoid heat and catch animal movements.

⚠️ Precautions

• Wear good trekking shoes or sports shoes

• Avoid perfumes or bright colors (they repel wildlife)

• Carry enough water, a basic first-aid kit, and insect repellent

• Trekkers must stay with the group, venturing off-trail is risky and prohibited

🌟 Hidden Tip
Ask your guide to take you via “Thundering Rock Path”, a lesser-known trail near the Kurumali river edge, quiet and photogenic.

🌊 2. River Trekking in Chimmini

Chimmini offers a thrilling river trekking experience, where you walk along or across shallow, rocky streams under the forest canopy. It’s exciting, slippery, and refreshing, ideal for those looking for a short adrenaline rush.

✅ Permissions Required
Yes. Organized only via the forest department or licensed eco-tourism guides. Spontaneous/self-led river trekking is not allowed.

🎟️ Entry Fees & Charges

• River Trekking Permit: ₹250 to ₹400 per person

• Includes local guide, safety briefing, and basic gear support (if available)

🕰️ Best Time for River Trekking
October to February (post-monsoon season) when water flow is safe and weather is pleasant

⚠️ Precautions

• Strictly wear grip sandals or anti-slip water shoes

• Avoid monsoon season, flash floods and slippery rocks

• Children under 10 and elders are not advised

• Bring a change of clothes and towel, you WILL get wet!

🌟 Hidden Tip:
Ask your guide about the “Butterfly Bend”, a river curve near a flowering patch where dozens of butterflies often gather around 8–9 AM.

🦜 3. Wildlife Spotting & Birdwatching

Chimmini is part of the rich Western Ghats biosphere and is home to:

• Elephants

• Gaur (Indian bison)

• Malabar giant squirrels

• Hornbills, drongos, peacocks, and kingfishers

• Rare butterflies and dragonflies

✅ Permissions Required
Included with general entry; Jeep safari or observation tower access requires extra permission from the Forest Office.

🎟️ Entry Fees

• General Entry: ₹30 per adult

• Observation Tower (optional): ₹50 per person

• Jeep Safari (if available): ₹1,500–₹2,000 per vehicle (6-person capacity)

🕰️ Best Time for Wildlife Watching
Early morning (6:00 AM – 8:30 AM) and evening (4:30 PM – 6:00 PM) are best for sightings

⚠️ Precautions

• Stay silent, move slowly

• Wear earth-toned clothing (green/brown)

• Never feed or approach animals

• Always stick to your trail or observation zone

🌟 Hidden Tip
There’s a birding patch near the northern bank of Chimmini Dam, behind the main trail, it’s quiet, shaded, and great for spotting hornbills.

✅ Final Suggestion
These activities must be booked or inquired about at the Forest Department Office near the Chimmini Dam gate or Pariyaram entrance. If you’re going on weekends or holidays, it’s strongly advised to call a day prior for slot availability.

🐘 Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary Animals to Spot

• Elephants

• Indian Gaur (Bison)

• Leopards (rarely seen)

• Malabar Giant Squirrels

• Hornbills, Kingfishers, Jungle Mynas

• Crocodiles and freshwater fish in the reservoir

Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary Tourist Places Map

🏞️ Chimmini Dam

Adjacent to the Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary lies the Chimmini Dam, built across the serene Kurumali River. Surrounded by lush greenery, hills, and the soothing sound of flowing water, this spot is ideal for a peaceful day trip with family, couples, or solo travelers seeking calm.

The dam area is well-maintained and features a small park with benches, shaded walkways, and open spaces, perfect for relaxing and soaking in the view.

⏰ Chimmini Dam Opening Time

• Open Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (All Days)

• Closed On: Rarely closed, only during major holidays or heavy rain alerts (monsoon season)

• Distance from Thrissur: 32 km (approx. 1 hour by car)

✅ Hidden Tip: Visit between 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM to enjoy the golden-hour photography, cool breeze, and fewer crowds.

🧗‍♂️ Adventure Activities  at Chimmini Dam

While Chimmini Dam is mostly a peaceful retreat, it does offer some light adventure and family-friendly activities, especially during the eco-tourism season (Oct–Mar):

🌲 1. Nature Walks & Birdwatching

There’s a designated walking path alongside the dam and near the forest edge, perfect for:

• Family nature walks

• Kids spotting butterflies, insects, and birds

• Quiet photo sessions with scenic backdrops

✅ Tip for families: Carry binoculars, hornbills, peacocks, and kingfishers are often seen early morning.

🛶 2. Kayaking or Bamboo Rafting (Seasonal)

Sometimes organized by the Forest Department (check in advance):

• Kayaking (2-person) or bamboo rafting

• Held during peak seasons near backwater zones

• Basic safety gear is provided

🎟️ Approx. Cost: ₹300–₹500 per person
📆 Availability: October to February (subject to rainfall and water level)

✅ Tip: Ask about this at the Chimmini Eco-Tourism Office near the entry gate, it’s not heavily advertised.

🧺 3. Picnic Area & Chimmini Dam Park

A small dam-side park has:

• Lawn space for kids to run and play

• Stone benches and tree shade

• Basic restroom facilities

Perfect for families to carry packed lunch and enjoy a low-cost picnic outing in a safe environment.

🍱 Important: No canteens or food stalls, bring your own snacks, water, and picnic mats

🔭 4. Watch Tower or Sunset Point (Limited Access)

Ask local staff about the small forest watchtower near the dam zone. It’s not always open, but when accessible:

• Offers a panoramic view of the river valley

• Safe for kids with adult supervision

🎟️ Entry: Sometimes included in dam fee or ₹20–₹50 donation

⚠️ What’s Not Available at Chimmini Dam

🚫 No full-fledged boating or motorboats

🚫 No designated playground or adventure park

🚫 No food court or café, nearest food options are in Amballoor (8–10 km)

✅ Final Tip: If you’re coming with children or seniors, Chimmini Dam is best visited as a half-day outing in combination with a short trek or butterfly walk in the sanctuary. It’s safe, clean, and relatively quiet, just remember to bring your essentials.

🔍 Hidden Places Near Chimmini Dam

There are several offbeat and less-crowded hidden places nearby Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary and Chimmini Dam which offers even more nature, trekking, and panoramic views. Perfect for day extensions or detours, these hidden gems are ideal for photographers, families, and anyone seeking uncrowded nature spots.

🌊 1. Poomala Reservoir

Distance from Chimmini: ~15 km (30 minutes by road)
Location: Poomala village, near Thrissur

What to Expect
A serene, glassy reservoir surrounded by hills and plantations. Unlike Chimmini, it’s rarely crowded and has a charming mini-dam structure. The lake reflects surrounding greenery, making it a favorite among photographers and nature lovers.

Activities

• Lakeside walking

• Fishing (with local permission)

• Photography & sunset watching

• Light boating (when available via tourism dept.)

Entry Fee: Free
Best Time to Visit: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM

✅ Hidden Tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon for misty lake views, ideal for Instagram-worthy photos.

🌄 2. Vilangankunnu Viewpoint

Distance from Chimmini: ~20 km (approx. 45 minutes)
Location: Vilangankunnu Hills, Thrissur outskirts

What to Expect
This is a hilltop garden viewpoint, giving you sweeping views of Thrissur city and nearby landscapes. There’s a park area ideal for children and basic seating areas for families.

Activities

• Panoramic photography

• Family picnic (carry food)

• Evening relaxation spot

• Sunset viewing

Entry Fee: ₹10 per person
Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

✅ Hidden Tip: Bring binoculars, on clear days, you can see as far as the Peechi dam range and green farmlands.

🐘 3. Peechi-Vazhani Sanctuary

Distance from Chimmini: ~30–35 km (approx. 45 min drive)
Location: Peechi, Thrissur district

What to Expect
This lesser-known sanctuary has a reservoir, thick forests, and birdwatching areas. It’s more developed for eco-tourism than Chimmini, with structured entry points and guided services.

Activities

• Wildlife viewing

• Boat rides on Peechi Dam (seasonal)

• Short forest walks and nature education

• Botanical garden visit

Entry Fee

• Adults: ₹30

• Boating (if open): ₹250 per person

• Parking: ₹20

Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

✅ Hidden Tip: The Vazhani side of the sanctuary is quieter and better for spotting birds. Ask your guide for butterfly spots!

🌳 4. Kariyani Forest Trail

Distance from Chimmini: 10–12 km (ask locals for exact route)
Location: Between Pariyaram and Varantharapilly forest routes

What to Expect
This is a completely offbeat trail known mainly to locals and trekkers from nature clubs. The trail runs through a thick secondary forest and leads to a quiet stream and meadow. There are no signboards, it’s for those seeking raw nature.

Activities

• Jungle trekking (guide required)

• Birding & butterfly photography

• Quiet forest picnic

• Streamside meditation

Entry Fee: None (if guided, local charges may apply ~₹200–₹300)
Timing: Only during daylight (6:00 AM – 4:00 PM)

Precautions

• Go only with a local guide or forest watcher

• No mobile signal or amenities

• Bring water, light snacks, insect spray

✅ Hidden Tip: Ask for the “Karadi Puzha stretch”, a shaded stream area within the trail where elephants occasionally visit early in the morning.

🛶 Coracle Ride at Chimmini Dam

Chimmini Dam offers a peaceful coracle ride experience during the eco-tourism season, typically between October and February. A coracle is a traditional round bamboo boat that silently floats on the reservoir, providing a calm, scenic view of the surrounding forest hills.

📍 Ride Details

• Location: Designated launch point near the Chimmini Forest Guest House

• Duration: 15 to 30 minutes

• Timings: 7:00 AM – 9:30 AM and 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM

• Cost: ₹100–₹200 per person | Group ride: ₹500–₹600

• Booking: On-the-spot through the Chimmini Forest Office

✅ Inclusions

• Life jackets (mandatory and provided)

• Local guide or rower included with the boat

⚠️ Guidelines

• Children below 5 years not allowed

• Operated only in safe weather and water levels

• Follow all safety instructions during the ride

🌿 Tip

Opt for the morning slot for misty views and better chances of spotting birds like hornbills and kingfishers near the forest edge.

💦 Waterfalls Near Chimmini Dam

Planning to extend your visit beyond the dam? Here are some offbeat waterfalls near Chimmini Dam that are ideal for short half-day trips or nature treks. Each of these spots offers something different, from rugged forest trails to quiet natural pools, all within 30 km from Chimmini.

🌿 1. Choorathala Waterfall

• Distance from Chimmini Dam: 2–3 km

• Travel Time: 10–15 minutes walk from the dam trail

• Location: Within Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary

Adventure Level: 🌟🌟🌟 (moderate walk through uneven forest trail)

Facilities

✅ Entry covered under sanctuary ticket

❌ No food stalls, carry your own water/snacks

❌ No restrooms nearby

🚫 No dedicated parking, leave vehicles at sanctuary parking area

Hidden Tip: Go early morning (7:30–8:30 AM) for a peaceful, misty experience and to avoid the afternoon heat.

🌳 2. Kadappara Waterfalls

• Distance from Chimmini Dam: ~15 km

• Travel Time: ~30–35 minutes by vehicle via forest-border roads

• Location: Kadappara region, off Mundur, Pananchery road

Adventure Level: 🌟🌟🌟🌟 (short but rough, not suitable for kids or elderly)

Facilities

❌ No food or tea stalls nearby, pack essentials

❌ No toilets, nearest facilities are 6–7 km away

❌ No marked parking area, safe to park at road edge (space for 1–2 cars)

✅ Entry is free

Hidden Tip: Ask locals near Mundur or Pananchery for the trailhead; it’s not on Google Maps.

🌄 3. Ilanjippara Waterfall

• Distance from Chimmini Dam: ~22 km

• Travel Time: 45–50 minutes by car

• Location: Marottichal village, Thrissur District

Adventure Level: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 (4 km forest trek with stream crossings)

Facilities

❌ No food stalls on the trail; tea shops in Marottichal town

❌ No toilets near the falls, basic restrooms in village

✅ Street-side parking available at Marottichal waterfall base point

✅ Entry is free (local guide optional but recommended)

Hidden Tip: Start your trek early and wear proper shoes, leeches are common during monsoon.

🧭Waterfalls Near Chimmini Dam Quick Comparison Table

✅ How to Plan 1 Day Trip from Chimmini Dam

You can easily combine 2–3 of these places in a single day trip from Chimmini:

• Morning: Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary

• Afternoon: Poomala Reservoir for a lakeside break

• Evening: Vilangankunnu for sunset views

• Adventure Buffs: Kariyani Forest Trail (early morning start required)

These hidden places add depth to your Chimmini trip, offering variety without the tourist crowd.

🧭 Other Tourist Places Near Chimmini Dam

• Athirappilly Waterfalls – 48 km

• Peechi Dam – 30 km

• Thrissur Zoo & Museum – 35 km

• Guruvayur Temple – 55 km

• Vazhachal Forest Reserve – 50 km

📆 Best Time to Visit Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary

• October to March – Cool, dry season perfect for wildlife, river trekking, and forest walks

• June to September – Lush greenery but heavy rains may restrict movement

• April to May – Warm but still good for early morning safaris and dam visits

❓ Most Asked Questions About Chimmini

🕐 What are the timings of Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary and Dam?

✅ The sanctuary and dam are open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day. Entry may be restricted during heavy rains or local forest alerts.

📍 Where exactly is Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary located?

✅ Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Pariyaram region of Thrissur district, Kerala. The sanctuary is part of the Western Ghats and lies close to Chimmini Dam.

🎟️ Is advance booking required for trekking or entry?

✅ Not always, but for guided trekking, river trekking, or jeep safaris, it’s highly recommended to book in advance through the Forest Office at Chimmini Dam or Kerala eco-tourism portals.

🧒 Is Chimmini suitable for a family trip with children?

✅  Yes, Chimmini is family-friendly, especially around the dam park and short nature trails. However, river trekking is not suitable for young children or elderly persons due to slippery rocks.

📶 Is there mobile network coverage in Chimmini?

✅Network is very limited. Only BSNL works in certain spots. Jio and Airtel have weak or no signal. It’s best to inform family and carry a power bank and offline maps.

🚗 How is the road condition to Chimmini?

✅The last stretch after Pariyaram check post is narrow and patchy, with winding hill roads. Small cars can make it, but SUVs or jeeps are recommended, especially during monsoon.

🐾 What animals can be spotted in Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary?

✅Common sightings include:

• • Elephants

  • Indian Gaur (Bison)

  • Malabar Giant Squirrels

  • Hornbills

  • Jungle Mynas

  • Peacocks

  • Crocodiles (in water bodies, rare)

🚿 Are there restrooms or changing rooms inside?

✅Yes, there are basic restroom facilities near the dam area and entry point. There are no dedicated changing rooms, so bring towels and dress accordingly if doing river trekking.

🛶 Is boating available in Chimmini Dam?

✅Boating is not officially available year-round. Occasionally, bamboo rafting or kayaking is arranged during peak eco-tourism months (October to February) via the forest office.

🥾 Can solo travelers visit Chimmini?

✅Yes, solo travel is safe. But for trekking or forest entry, you must go with a guide or approved eco-tourism staff. Walking alone inside the sanctuary without permission is not allowed.

🍴 Are there food stalls or restaurants nearby?

✅No food is available inside the sanctuary. You’ll find:

• • Tea shops and snack stalls at Pariyaram and Amballoor

  • Full-service restaurants in Thrissur city (30 km)

Tip: Pack your own food and drinking water for a day trip.

🧭 What’s the best time to visit Chimmini?

• • October to March – Best for trekking, animal spotting, and cool weather

  • April to May – Hot, but less crowded

  • June to September – Monsoon brings lush greenery but makes trekking risky

📸 Are cameras allowed inside the sanctuary?

✅Yes, photography is allowed for personal use. For DSLRs or professional equipment, a small camera fee (~₹50–₹100) may apply. Drone usage is not permitted without special permission.

⛺ Can I stay overnight inside Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary?

✅Yes, but only in Forest Rest Houses (subject to availability). They are basic in nature, and must be booked through the Forest Department. Private hotels and resorts are available in Thrissur.

🛍️ Can I buy souvenirs near Chimmini?

✅There are no formal souvenir stalls, but locals sometimes sell honey, pepper, cardamom, and handmade bamboo crafts near Amballoor and Chinnamannur on the way back.

📜 Are permits required to enter Chimmini?

✅For basic dam and sanctuary entry, no permits are needed. However, for river trekking, overnight stay, or jeep safari, permits/registrations are mandatory at the gate or forest office.

🧗 Is Chimmini good for trekking beginners?

✅Yes. There are easy to moderate-level treks available. Just ensure you’re accompanied by an official guide and wear proper shoes.

🧾 Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary Reviews

🌟 The Good – Why Travelers Love Chimmini

“Serene escape from the city”
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“We visited Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary on a weekend and it felt like a peaceful escape. The forest is dense, quiet, and perfect for nature lovers. The boat ride and river trekking experience were unforgettable!”

“Ideal for family outings”
⭐⭐⭐⭐
“We took our kids to Chimmini Dam park and sanctuary. It was a relaxed day with scenic beauty, wildlife sightings, and a calm damside picnic. Safe and enjoyable.”

“Hidden gem for photography and trekking”
⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Chimmini is underrated. The forest trails, bird sightings, and early morning mist across the dam offer brilliant photography moments. Plus, it’s not very crowded!”

⚠️ The Not-So-Good – Things to Be Aware Of

“Very limited facilities inside”
⭐⭐⭐
“There are no food stalls or cafes near the sanctuary. You must carry snacks and water. It’s a bit inconvenient for long visits.”

“Mobile signal almost dead”
⭐⭐
“Jio and Airtel don’t work beyond the base area. No Wi-Fi either. Be prepared for a digital detox!”

“Road needs improvement”
⭐⭐⭐
“The last stretch of the road to Chimmini is narrow and patchy. It’s manageable, but not great for sedans or scooters during rainy season.”

⭐ Overall Experience at Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary

Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Kerala’s most beautiful yet underrated eco-tourism destinations. Whether you want to spot wild animals, go on a forest trek, enjoy river trekking in Chimmini, or just relax by the dam, this place delivers peace, nature, and a bit of thrill.

So if you’re searching for things to do in Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary, or simply wondering whether Chimmini Dam is open today, this guide gives you the full picture.

👉 Time to pack your bags and explore one of the best hidden forest escapes in Thrissur, Chimmini awaits! 🌿