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5 Lesser-Known Wildlife Sanctuaries In South India To Explore

5 Lesser-Known Wildlife Sanctuaries In South India To Explore

Looking for offbeat wildlife sanctuaries in South India? Explore our top 5 picks, including hidden havens in Telangana, Karnataka, and Kerala, for your next nature trip. Read on to know more.
Editorial
Updated:- 2025-10-04, 12:00 IST

While famous sanctuaries like Bandipur, Nagarhole, and Periyar are on every traveller's list, South India is also home to some lesser-known wildlife sanctuaries that offer a more serene experience. These hidden gems are often less crowded, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and observe wildlife in a peaceful setting. Here are 5 lesser-known wildlife sanctuaries in South India that are worth exploring.

5 Lesser-Known Wildlife Sanctuaries In South India To Explore

1. Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary, Telangana

Located in the northern part of Telangana, Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary is a part of the Kawal Tiger Reserve. While it's a tiger reserve, it is not as popular as the ones in Karnataka and Kerala, making it a great place to explore. 

2. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala

Chinnar is a unique sanctuary situated in the rain shadow region of the Western Ghats. This gives it a distinct ecosystem of dry deciduous forests, which is a rare sight in the otherwise lush green state of Kerala. 

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary: A Sanctuary of Biodiversity - Dreamland Munnar

3. Talakaveri Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka

Located in the Kodagu district of Karnataka, Talakaveri is more known as the origin of the Kaveri River, but it is also a beautiful and lesser-visited wildlife sanctuary. The sanctuary is a haven for a variety of mammals, including the Asiatic elephant, Bengal tiger, and striped-necked mongoose. 

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4. Kaundinya Wildlife Sanctuary, Andhra Pradesh

Kaundinya Wildlife Sanctuary in Andhra Pradesh is a unique sanctuary, as it is the only one in the state with a population of Asian elephants. After nearly 200 years, a herd of elephants migrated to this region, leading to the establishment of the sanctuary. 

Koundinya Wildlife Sanctuary In Andhra Pradesh - Nativeplanet

5. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka

While gaining some popularity, Bhadra is still a less-trafficked destination compared to its more famous neighbours. It is a picturesque sanctuary that is also a part of the Western Ghats UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Image credits: Freepik

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