Muthanga jeep safari for elephants
The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary covers about 344 km² of moist and dry deciduous forest, bamboo and swamp, and forms part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Its Muthanga range, about 15 km from Sulthan Bathery, borders Bandipur in Karnataka and Mudumalai in Tamil Nadu, and elephants move freely across the boundaries. Safaris are run by the forest department in open or covered jeeps with a guide.
Drives last about 90 minutes along forest tracks. Elephants are seen on most drives, often in family groups feeding on bamboo. Gaur, spotted deer, sambar, wild boar, langurs and peacocks are common, and tigers and leopards are present, though sightings are not frequent. Birdlife is rich, with hornbills, eagles and woodpeckers.
Jeeps and slots are limited and are sold at the entrance or in advance, depending on the current system, which changes. The sanctuary is sometimes closed in the dry season, typically spring, to reduce fire risk, and in other periods for management reasons. Check current status before you travel. We plan safaris on more than one morning where possible.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
Can you see elephants in Muthanga?
Usually yes. Muthanga is part of one of the largest connected elephant habitats in Asia, shared with Bandipur, Nagarhole and Mudumalai, and elephants are seen on most safaris, especially from October to February and in the late afternoon. Gaur and deer are also common.
When is Muthanga wildlife sanctuary closed?
The sanctuary has often closed for part of the dry season, roughly February or March to May, to reduce fire risk and disturbance, and can close at other times. Dates vary by year and are announced by the forest department. Check current status before you travel.
How do we book a Muthanga safari?
Safaris are run by the Kerala Forest Department with limited jeeps per slot, usually early morning and mid-afternoon. Booking has moved between counter sales and online systems, so check current status before you travel. We secure places in advance and arrive early on the day.
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