Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Kerala's most unique protected forests, located in the Idukki district along the Kerala and Tamil Nadu border. Situated on the Munnar to Marayoor route, the sanctuary forms part of the Western Ghats UNESCO World Heritage Site and is renowned for its dry deciduous forests, thorny scrublands, sandalwood trees, riverine forests, and exceptional biodiversity. Unlike the lush evergreen forests found elsewhere in Kerala, Chinnar lies in a rain shadow region, creating a distinctive landscape that supports rare wildlife and plant species.
The sanctuary is best known as one of India's few habitats of the endangered Grizzled Giant Squirrel. Visitors may also encounter elephants, leopards, gaurs, spotted deer, sambar deer, langurs, crocodiles, star tortoises, butterflies, reptiles, and more than 225 bird species. Chinnar is popular among wildlife enthusiasts, trekkers, photographers, birdwatchers, and eco-tourists looking for offbeat Kerala experiences. The destination also offers guided trekking, river walks, tribal village visits, sandalwood forests, and camping programs, making it an excellent addition to Munnar and Kerala wildlife tour packages.