Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary

About Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary

The Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary at Sirvilliputhur in southern Tamil Nadu,India,India was declared as a sanctuary in December 1989. It spreads over 480 sq.KM, This sanctuary is contiguous to Periyar Tiger Reserve on the South western side and the Megamalai Reserve Forest on the north western side and Its southern limit is contiguous with the Sivagiri Reserved Forst of Tirunelveli Forest Division.

The Srivilliputhur Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu,India is located in the Virudhunagar district, which is 45kms away from the Virudhunagar city. The Wildlife Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu,India is an important tourist destination. The Srivilliputhur Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife is a place where the tourist can enjoy nature in its various aspects.

Tamil Nadu,India,India renowned for its industrial ventures also boasts of a diverse natural heritage. Apart from the archetypal wildlife sanctuaries, parks and natural reserves the state also houses the Srivilliputhur Grizzled Squirrel Wild Life Sanctuary dedicated solely to the bushy squirrels.

Srivilliputhur Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary is the homeland for various wild animals and birds. The sanctuary is a dry deciduous forest. The forest becomes moist deciduous in the monsoon months.

There are varieties squirrels like Grizzled Giant Squirrel, flying squirrel, and many others. The sanctuary also has tree shrews, elephants, mouse deer, Nilgiri Tahar, barking deer and species of birds and lion tail macaque. In the winter months the tree-tops and pools remain populated with colorful migratory birds. Animals in their natural habitat please the visitors.

Srivilliputhur Grizzled Squirrel Wild Life Sanctuary is located in Virudhunagar District, a mere 45 km from Virudhunagar Town. The reserve is conveniently sited 15 km away from Srivilliputhur Railway station and 100 km away from Madurai airport. The forest officials also take care of all tourists’ requirements and provide them with comfortable and affordable accommodation either at the Forest Rest House at Mudungiar, Pudupatti, Mudaliaroothu or at the PWD Rest House at Srivilliputhur and also provides transportation.

This sanctuary is ideal for nature walks and bird watching in the morning when tourists can spot different kinds of birds in there homes. Herds of elephants can be also to be found in the nearby pools.

Climate/Weather

Summers:
The sun is at its glory and shines very brightly during the summers. During the summer months, i.e. from May to June, the temperature varies between 27 deg C and 40 deg C. Therefore, the climate is quite hot. May is the hottest month. Cottons are recommended during this time.

Winters:
In winters, which starts from December and lasts till February, the temperature ranges between 20 deg C and 30 deg C. The climate remains pleasant during this time, as the temperature rarely falls below 20 deg C.

Monsoon:
Though the rainfall is very frequent and uniform throughout the year, just like the flow of pilgrims and tourists, the city receives the major share of rainfall between the months of July and October. The average rainfall is 85 cm.

Interesting things to Visit

Flora:
The sanctuary has a wide range of habitats - from the higher elevation Upper Montane forests and grasslands, mid elevation Wet Evergreen, Semi Evergreen, Moist Deciduous, Open Deciduous, Closed Deciduous forests and grasslands with scrub jungles in the foot hills. The floral diversity is extremely rich owing to the different types of forest formations due to the altitudinal gradient and rainfall patterns. The sanctuary has one Medicinal Plant Conservation Area (MPCA) located at Thaniparai.

Fauna:
There is a wide range of herbivores, carnivores and omnivores in the Grizzled Squirrel Sanctuary. Resident and migrating elephants are common. The other important animals are Tiger, Leopard, Gaur, Nilgiri tahr, Spotted deer, Barking deer, Sambar, Wild-boar, Porcupine, Nilgiri langur, Lion-tailed macaque, Common langur, Slender lorris, Bonnet macaque, Sloth bear, Indian Giant Squirrel and Flying Squirrel. The sanctuary is inhabited by extremely rich and diverse fauna. Over 200 species of avifauna have been reported from this sanctuary that includes some rare birds such as the Red faced Malkoha, Nilgiri Flycatcher and Malayan Night Heron. The Great Pied Hornbill is well and widely distributed in the Sanctuary The main raptors are the Serpent Eagle, Hawks and Black Eagle.

The Sanctuary has 18 species of snakes, 15 species of lizards, over 10 species of amphibians and over 56 species of butterflies now. The Grizzled Squirrel (Ratufa macroura) –flagship species of this sanctuary is highly restricted to south India and Sri Lanka. Ratufa macroura dandolena is distinctive in having the dorsal surface and tail grey or brownish grey more or less grizzled with white. It breeds once a year, producing a single offspring. The distribution of the Grizzled Squirrels is restricted to seven isolated riparian dry deciduous forests in the Sanctuary.

Nearest Visiting places

Meenakshi Temple:
One of the major tourist attractions of Madurai is Meenakshi Temple. Located at the center of the town, the Meenakshi Temple is an architectural marvel of 16th century. It is considered to be one of the most sacred temples. Everyday thousands of tourists from all over the world visit this Temple.Constructed by Vishwanatha Nayak in the year 1560, the temple is built in typical gopuram style with towering spires. The Meenakshi Temple it has 12 towers which rises to the height of 45 to 50 meters. The Thousand Pillar Mandapam is the major tourist attraction of Madurai’s Meenakshi Temple.

Vishnu Temple:
Located at a distance from the Meenakshi Temple, another major tourist attraction of Madurai is the Vishnu Temple. The presiding deity of Vishnu Temple is called Azghar. It is believed that this is another form of Vishnu. He is believed to be Meenakshi’s brother. During Chitrai festival a grand procession is carried from this temple to the Meenakshi Temple.

Palamudhirsolai:
Tourists can also visit Palamudhirsolai which is considered to be the abode of Lord Subramanya. There is a natural spring near this temple.Indian Holiday.com gives you online information on Tourist Attractions in Madurai or other places in India. We offer travel packages to many popular and special tourist destinations in India. Take advantage of the best rates for tour packages to these travel destinations.

Aruppukkottai:
This place is situated 20 kms from Virudhunagar. It is an important weaving centre and grocery trade centre.

Thiruchuzhi:
The name of the place is so because it was saved from being sucked into the earth during the flood. It is situated 33 kms from Virudhunagar. A number of sacred pools can be seen scattered here. The great saint Ramana Maharishi was born here.

Sivakasi:
This town of cottage industries manufactures safety matches and fireworks. It is also well known for litho-printing and calendar manufacture. More than 80% of the total3932 match factories can be found here. About 120 litho printing presses are also located here. This place is situated 25 kms from Virudhunagar.

Srivilliputhur:
The Vadabhadra Sayi templeThis is the most important tourist attraction because of the ancient Andal temple. Andal, one of the twelve Vaishnavaite saints called Alwars was born here. They are called Alwars because they are immersed in Vishnu Bhakti and Alwar means one who is immersed.The 60 metre tower of this temple has been portrayed in the emblem of the Government of Tamil Nadu. The Vadabhadra Sayi temple here has beautiful sculptures. The carvings are very delicate is more dominant in the brushing of feminine images, Andal`s hair style. The head ornamentation is a speciality of South India. Here, the images of Rathi, Swan, Parasakthi, a lady playing the Veena, a warrior waving his sword are wonderful examples of ornamentations in stones.

Rajapalayam:
This place is situated adjacent to the temple town of Srivilliputhur. It is the coolest place in the district, which is located almost on the Western Ghats. The dogs of Rajapalayam are well known for their fierceness.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation

For accommodation near Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary, nearby towns offer budget lodges, guesthouses, and mid-range hotels. Book ahead during peak season (December-March).

Help Line/Phone Number

Police station:Virudhunagar, Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu,India

Bazaar Police Station:SH 184, Virudhunagar, Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu,India

Pandian Nagar Police Station:SH 184, Virudhunagar, Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu,India

JKNurshing Home:272, A, Thiruchuli Road, Aruppukottai, Tamil Nadu,India,IndiaPh:04563 222941

Visaka Poly Clinic:#1 Katarapalayam,, T.P.K Main Road,, Madurai, Tamil Nadu,India,IndiaPh:0452 2338275

Location info

• **Address:**Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary,Virudhunagar,Tamil Nadu,India

• **District:**Virudhunagar

• **Nearest City:**Madurai

• Best time to visit: December to February

History of Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary

Tamil Nadu, renowned for its industrial ventures also boasts of a diverse natural heritage. Apart from the archetypal wildlife sanctuaries, parks and natural reserves the state also houses the Srivilliputhur Grizzled Squirrel Wild Life Sanctuary dedicated solely to the bushy squirrels.

Things to do at Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary

Activity pattern:
As soon as day light appears in the morning the animal comes out of the nest., reaches the food trees and starts feeding. From 6 AM to 11 AM “Feeding” is its most dominant activity. In the evening, 3 to 4 PM is the major feeding time. The squirrels take rest between 11 AM and 3 PM at the stretch.

How to reach Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary

• **Nearest Railway Station:**Madurai is Connected by rail via Madras with all the main places in India.

**Nearest Airport:**Indian Airlines connect Madurai with Madras, Calicut and Bombay. Vayudoot Services also connect Madurai with Madras & Pondicherry. East West Airlines also connect Madurai with Bombay.

**Road Transport:**Madurai is connected by good motorable roads to Madras (472 kms), Trichy (142 kms), Rameshwarm (139 kms), Kanyakumari (232 kms), Tirunelveli (151 kms), Kodaikanal (120 kms), Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (136 kms), Palani (122 kms), Thanjavur (223 kms), Bangalore (446 kms), Bombay (1454 kms).

Nearest petrol pump

**Petrol Pump:**NH7, Pasumalai, Madurai, Tamil Nadu,India

Best time to visit Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary

October to March for optimal wildlife viewing. Post-monsoon vegetation makes sightings near water sources easier. Early morning and late afternoon provide the best safari experiences. Summer (April–May) can be good near remaining water bodies.

Timings & opening hours

Open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. Safari timings vary by season — typically morning (6–9 AM) and evening (3–5:30 PM). The sanctuary may close during monsoon for animal breeding. Check forest department schedules.

Entry fee & tickets

Entry fee: INR 25–50 for Indian adults, INR 200–500 for foreign nationals. Vehicle entry: INR 50–200. Safari charges: INR 300–1000 per person depending on sanctuary. Camera fee: INR 50–100.

Duration needed

3–6 hours for a half-day visit including one safari. Full-day visits with multiple safaris and a break are recommended for serious wildlife enthusiasts. Overnight stays at forest lodges enhance the experience.

Safety tips

Stay inside the vehicle during safaris. Do not exit the vehicle inside the sanctuary. Do not feed or disturb animals. Maintain silence for better wildlife sightings. Follow forest guide instructions. Carry insect repellent. Avoid wearing bright colours.

Things to carry

Binoculars, camera, water bottle, hat, sunscreen, light jacket, insect repellent, snacks. Wear earthy tones. Valid ID is required for entry registration.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest airport: nearest regional airport. Nearest railway station: at the nearest town. Bus services and taxis are available from nearby towns and cities.

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vi all provide coverage across Tamil Nadu. 4G is reliable in Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, and along major highways. Coverage may be weaker in remote sections of the Western Ghats, deep forest reserves, and certain rural interior areas. Free Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels and cafes in urban areas.

Food & restaurants nearby

Basic food options are available at forest rest houses, eco-lodges, and small local eateries near Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary. These typically serve South Indian vegetarian meals including rice, sambar, poriyal, and curd. Visitors are advised to carry packed food and sufficient water when visiting the sanctuary.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best time to visit Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary? October to March offers the best wildlife viewing. Early morning safaris (6–8 AM) are ideal for animal sightings.

Can I drive my own vehicle inside Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary? Private vehicles may be allowed in some sanctuaries with a guide. Many require using the forest department’s safari vehicles for core area visits.

Are there accommodation options near Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary? Forest department guesthouses, eco-lodges, and private resorts are available near most wildlife sanctuaries. Advance booking is essential.

Accessibility

Accessibility information is not currently available for this site. Contact the venue directly or check with your accommodation for the latest accessibility details.

Rules & restrictions

Standard visitor rules apply. Check locally for any specific restrictions at this site.

Best photography spots

The best photography spots are typically during the golden hours (early morning and late afternoon). Scout the location first to identify the best angles, and consider the direction of light at different times of day.

Visitor information

Please check locally for current visitor information.