Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary headquartered in Peechi, Thrissur District of Kerala, India. The sanctuary was established in 1958 consisting of Palappilli- Nelliyampathi forests including the area of Chimmony Wildlife sanctuary and is the second oldest sanctuary in Kerala. It is the ultimate destination for anyone enamoured with the intrinsic beauty of nature. Sprawling over a 125 sq. km complex, it lies about 20 km east of Thrissur.
The Peechi-Vazhani Sanctuary is blessed with many a picnic spot along with a plethora of boating options. The highest point here is the 923 m high Ponmudi which offers an excellent view of the underlying valley. There are more than 50 different kinds of orchids, exotic medicinal plants, teak and rosewood here. One can see over 25 species of mammals including the leopard, tiger, Sambar, deer, Spotted Deer, Indian Bison and Asian Elephant. More than 100 species of birds and several species of snakes and lizards are also found here.
The forest types comprise, Moist Deciduous Forest, Evergreen forests and Semi -Evergreen forests. A large variety of medicinal plants and over 1000 species of angiosperms have been recorded of which 50 are orchids. The species are found in the Moist Deciduous Forest; Pongamia glabra, Terminalia paniculata, Anthocephalus cadamba, Adina cordifolia, Tectona grandis, Mesua ferrea, Vitex altissima, Bombax ceiba, Spondia pinnata, Emidesmus indicus, Solanum torvum, Solanum xanthocarpum, Aristolochia tagala,Tylophora asthamatica, Melothria madraspatana, Centella asiatica, Bacopa monnieri, Justicia simplex etc. The dominant Evergreen forests species found are; Palaquium ellipticum, Cullenia exorillata, Mesua ferrea, Canarium strictum with Canes and reeds. In the Semi-evergreen forests, tree species like Artocarpus hirsutus, Toona ciliata, Hopea parviflora, Lagerstroemia microcarpa, Mangifera indica and Vitex altissima are commonly seen. The ideal time to visit this sanctuary is between October and March.
PEECHI DAM
Peechi dam is constructed across Manali River, is about 23 kms from Thrissur. It caters for drinking water needs of Thrissur town and supplies consistent flow to the large paddy belts out side of town. Peechi dam has endeavored to enhance its tourism profile and the results are boating facilities and a dam garden. Better to get it right, Peechi dam is not a major attraction as Malampuzha, nevertheless a good location to touch by while visiting the sanctuary.
VAZHANI DAM
Vazhani dam, on the northern end of the wildlife sanctuary, also caters to irrigation and drinking water needs. The mud dam built across Wadakancherry River is surrounded by gardens. Vazhani dam is about 21 kms north of Thrissur town.
So, if you want to take a break from the chaos of urban living and trek through forests, enjoying bird song and the quiet ripple of streams, head to Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary. You will return refreshed and rejuvenated!!
