Chinnar Bush Walk and Elephant Trail
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Chinnar Bush Walk and Elephant Trail
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In the 1890’s, Colonel Valentine discovered this passage to cross the leeward hills to reach Coimbatore in Madras Presidency of British India. The road snakes through undulating hills covered in green blankets of tea plantations surrounded by forest. Found here is the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, which is a protected savannah-type forest with wildlife like Asiatic elephants, panther, wild gaur, monkeys, and deer roaming about. It also harbors 202 unique species of birds.
Getting there
The reporting point is at the Chinnar Forest office. The sanctuary is located 31.1mi north of Munnar. It is accessible by car, Jeep, or bus from Munnar and Coimbatore.
About
| When to do | November to March |
| Backcountry Campsites | No |
| Family friendly | No |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | Moderate |
| Route Type | Lollipop |
Chinnar Bush Walk and Elephant Trail
Elevation Graph
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Route Description for Chinnar Bush Walk and Elephant Trail
Start the Chinnar Bush Walk and Elephant Trail at the Chinnar Kerala Forest checkpoint. This trail runs between the west and east ranges of the sanctuary, guaranteeing good wildlife sighting.
Follow the path along undulating terrain and past flat scrub forests until you’re walking alongside the Athiode stream.
Just before you move away from the Athiode stream, your guide will point out a great photo spot looking out over the Manjampatti Valley.
Continue as the path begins to loop around and you begin the hike back along rocky outcrops of hillocks. Keep eyes out over the ridge for a good view of the Anamalais and Palani Hill track.
As you return towards the Pambar River, spot one of the 202 species of birds local to the area flying overhead, or keep your eyes peeled towards shady patches where elephants can often be seen resting.
Insider Hints
This area can have little shade so pack a water bottle, hat, and sunscreen.
You can’t self-guide yourself on the Chinnar Bush Walk and Elephant Trail hike in the Western Ghats, you must have a guide for this walk.
There is a soft trek trail also available with a guide.
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