Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary

About Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary

Spread over 958 sq kms, this sanctuary can be reached though Top slip in Anamalai Hills on the Western Ghats. An ecological Paradise, this sanctuary encompasses a National Park with an area of 108 sq kms. About 800 species out of 2000 South Indian Flora are distributed here. This sanctuary nurtures Arboreal animals like lion tailed macaque, bonnet macaque, Common Languor, Nilgiris langur, Malabar Giant squirrel and Grizzled Giant Squirrel. The ground animals listed are: Tiger, Panther, Elephant, Gaur, Pangolin, Sambar, Spotted Deer, Barking Deer, Mouse Deer, Wild boar, Dhole, Sloth Bear, Porcupine, Nilgiris Tahr, Civet Cat and Taddy Cat. The Avifauna includes Racket Tailed Drongo, Black Headed Oriole, Paradise Fly-catcher, Whistling Thrush, Emerald Dove, Green pigeon, Tickell’s Flower Pecker, Rufus Wood Pecker, Rose Ringed Parakeet, Black Eagle, Great Indian, Malabar pied Hornbill, Fiery Blue Bird and green billed malkhoha etc.

Anamalai wildlife sanctuary is one of the most attractive preserves of nature in Tamil Nadu. It is also called the India Gandhi national Park and located in the Western Ghats near Pollachi, about 90 km from Coimbatore. The wildlife sanctuary is spread over an area of about 958-sq-kms. The Anamalai wildlife sanctuary is an ecological heaven and includes a National Park.

Tamil Nadu boasts of a diverse natural heritage whose variety and splendor cannot be expounded by mere words. The state’s prized possession, the Indira Gandhi Wildlife sanctuary and National Park bears testimony to Tamil Nadu’s rich collection of flora and fauna. Tamil Nadu spans across an area of 1,30,058 sq km, out of which 17.6% is covered by dense forests. The natural vegetation of the pleasant and cool Western Ghats comprise of a lush mixture of moist deciduous, wet evergreen forests, sholas and grasslands. The state is also known to be the source of several medicinal herbs, cinchona, rubber and the exquisite kurinji flower.

This sanctuary nurtures Arboreal animals like lion tailed macaque, bonnet macaque, Common Langur, Nilgiris Langur, Malabar Giant squirrel and Grizzled giant Squirrel. The ground animals listed are: Tiger, Panther, Elephant, Gaur, Pangolin, Sambar, Spotted Deer, Barking Deer, Mouse Deer, Wild Boar, Dhole, Sloth Bear, Porcupine, Nilgiris Tahr, Civet Cat and Toddy Cat. The Avifauna includes Racket Tailed Drongo, Black Headed Oriole, Paradise Flycatcher, Whistling Thrust, Emerald Dove, Green Pigeon, Tickell’s Flower Pecker, Rufus Wood Pecker, Rose Ringed Parakeet, Black Eagle, Great Indian Malabar pied Horn Bill, Fiary Blue Bird and green Billed Malkhoha

The sanctuary is a picture of ecological bliss. Arboreal animals like lion tailed macaque, bonnet macaque, common languor, Nilgiris langur, Malabar giant squirrel and grizzled giant squirrel reside in bliss with the terrestrial beasts like tiger, panther, elephant, gaur, pangolin, sambar, spotted deer, barking deer, mouse deer, wild boar, dhole, sloth bear, porcupine, Nilgiris tahr, civet cat and taddy cat. The reserve is also a warm and inviting home to variegated species of birds like the racket tailed drongo, black headed oriole, paradise fly-catcher, whistling thrush, emerald dove, green pigeon, tickell’s flower pecker, Rufus wood pecker, rose ringed parakeet, black eagle, great Indian Malabar pied hornbill, fiery blue bird and green billed malkhoha.

Climate/Weather

**Summer:**Max34.7° C,Min 22.1° C,

**Winter:**Max 32.2° C,Min 19.2°C

Interesting things to Visit

Picnic Spots:
Anamalai (Indira Gandhi) Wildlife Sanctuary Black Thunder Amusement Park Topslip V O C Park Religious Places Perur Temple Muruthamalai Temple Thirumoorthy Temple

Fauna:
The Anamalai wildlife sanctuary has various kinds of fauna like Panther, Elephant, Gaur, Sloth Bear, Tiger, Deer, Wild Bear, Porcupine, Wild Dog, Flying Squirrel, Jackal, Civet Cat, Pangolin and birds like Rocket-tailed Drongo, Red Tree Pie, Whiskered Bulbul, Spotted Dove, Black Headed Oriole, Pigeon etc. There is a reservoir (the Amaravati reservoir) in the Anamalai, having a large number of crocodiles.

Anamali:
There are many places of natural and scenic beauty in the Annamalai wildlife sanctuary. Some of them are Grass hills, Karianshola, Anaikunthi Shola, groves, waterfalls, teak forests, reservoirs and dams. There are arrangements of exploring the sanctuary on elephant back or by van.

V.O.C Park:
Named after the freedom fighter V.O.Chidambaram, the VOC Park is the most appropriate place to go with children. The Coimbatore Corporation maintains the park. The Park houses a mini Zoo, models of prehistoric dinosaurs, Children’ Train, Swing, Slider, Seesaw and other play equipment and is more like an amusement park for the children. The park has a stretch of grass patch conveniently mowed to sit on.

Nearest Visiting places

Perur Temple:
Built by Karikala Cholan, this temple is situated 7 Kms west of Coimbatore near river Noyyal. It is dedicated to Lord Siva. The presiding deity of the temple is known as Patteeswarar and His Consort, Pachai Nayaki. The exquisite sculptures in the hall , Kanagasabi, attract one and all. It is also known as Mel Chidambaram. The significance of Perur temple in earlier days is unfolded in the poetic creations of Arunagiri Nather and Kachiappa Munivar.

Muruthamalai Temple:
Dedicated to Lord Murugan, the presiding deity is known as Dandayuthapani. This temple located on a hillock is 12 Kms from Coimbatore Railway Station and Bus Stand. It is one of the most visited temples in the region, the reason being that the presiding deity “Dandayuthapani” is believed to have performed several miracles here.

Thirumoorthy Temple:
Thirumoorthy Temple is situated at the foot of Thirumoorthy Hills adjoining the Thirumoorthy Dam. This is about 20 km from Udumalpet on the Highway from Palani to Coimbatore. A perennial stream flows by the side of the Sri Amalingeswarar temple and nearby there is a waterfall. The Crocodile Farm at Amaravati Dam is just 25 km from here. This place is being developed as a District Excursion Centre. Regular buses are available from Udumalpet.

Khadi Gandhi Gallery:
Inaugurated on 15th of July 1970, the gallery displays pictures of Gandhi right from his birth to his death. Separate cubicles are arranged for each phase in Gandhi’ life, which depicts all major events that occurred in his life. There are interesting collections of rare photographs titled ‘Journey through Harijan Life’, ‘Family’, ‘Friends’, ‘Independence Struggle’, ‘Jail Life’ and “Peace Talks’. Gandhi Jayanti is celebrated with grandeur in this gallery and the collector visits the gallery during ‘Gandhi Jayanti’ and participates in the function followed by bhajans.

Forest College Museum:
The Forest College is one of the oldest of its kind in the country. The Forest College is situated 3.5 km north of the railway station of Coimbatore. The college museum is worth a visit. The museum preserves the fossils of plants and animals. The museum also has dead specimen of plants and animals of rare variety. The museum also has a special advisory counter offering service to promote businesses related to plant husbandry.

Government Museum:
The government initiated the museum in 1989. The museum is situated in VOC Park Road, which bears the remnants of various tribes of the place. The museum is compartmentalized into 5 sections. The museum bears fossil remains and age-old tools. The megalithic burial materials, treasure trove materials, ancient coins and decorative artifacts are few among the rare items that are displayed. There is a separate section for old rocks, minerals and wood fossils and tribal medicinal plants.

Siruvani Waterfalls:
The Siruvani Waterfalls And Dam And Sengupathi WaterfallsThe Siruvani waterfalls and the dam are located at a distance of 37 km west of Coimbatore. The waters of Siruvani are very sweet in taste and so it is known for its taste throughout the country. The panoramic view of the dam and the falls is enchanting with beauty. Sengupathi waterfalls are situated at a distance of 35 km from Coimbatore on the Coimbatore - Siruvani main road. It is a famous picnic spot for the citizens of Coimbatore.

Monkey Falls:
65 km from Coimbatore and 27 km from Pollachi on Coimbatore-Pollachi-Valparai Highways are the Monkey Falls, a famous picnic spot.

Vaideki Water Falls:
Located 30 km from Coimbatore via. Narasipuram village are the Vaideki Falls. It is a fine picnic spot for trekkers.

Agriculturul University:
About 5 Kms from the Coimbatore Railway Station, this is the sixteenth Farm University in independent India. Though it came into existance on June 1, 1971 its ancestry is much older than that of the earliest started Agricultural University in the country. The nucleous was an Agricultural Demonstration Farm started in 1868 in Saidapet, Madras, which was later shifted to Coimbatore in 1907 and became one of the internationally reputed Agricultural Colleges that has been converted into the present Tamil Nadu Agricultural University.

Forest College:
One of the oldest institutions of its kind in India, the Forest College is situated 3.5 Kms north of the Railway Station. The College Museum is worth a visit.

Kallar Horticulture Farm:
Kallar Horticulture Farm is part of the State Horticultural Farm under the Department Of Horticulture. Irrespective of the place being run by the Horticulture department for the conservation of Vegetation, the place is open to tourist with minimal charges. Facilities are provided to sit and enjoy the serene panoramic view. The Horticulture Farm also has a sales counter for seasonal fruits, vegetables, pickles, jams, masalas, etc.

Parambikulam-Aliyar Multipurpose Project:
Parambikulam-Aliyar Multipurpose Project consists of a series of dams interconnected by tunnels and canals for harnessing waters of the Parambikulam, Aliyar, Nirar, Sholiyar, Thunakadavu, Thekkadi and Palar rivers, lying at various elevations, for irrigation and power generation. The scheme is an outstanding example of engineering skill. It is located in the Anamalai range.

Thiruppur:
An important textile centre in Coimbatore district, it is also famous for hosiery products. Thiruppur is also closely associated with ’ Thiruppur Kumaran ’ one of the valiant freedom fighters. It is 50 km from Coimbatore.

Nearest Petrol Pump

**HP Petrol Pump And Gas Station:**Karumbu Kadai,Coimbatore, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu,India

**Indian Oil Petrol Station:**Pulian Thoppu,Coimbatore, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu,India

**IBP Petrol Bunk:**Avaram Palayam Road,Coimbatore, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu,India

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation

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

Help Line/Phone Number

Thudiyalur Police Station:Coimbatore, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu,India,Ph:0422 2642990

Police Station Vadavalli:Coimbatore, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu,India,Ph:0422 2423100

B4 Police Station:Gopala Puram,Coimbatore, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu,India

KG Hospital:Coimbatore, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu,India,Ph:0422 2212121

Ganga Hospital:313, Mettupalayam Road,Alagesan Rd No. 2, Saibaba Koil, Coimbatore, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu,india,Ph:0422 2485000

Location info

• **Address:**Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary, Coimbatore,Tamil Nadu,India

• **District:**Coimbatore

• **Nearest City:**Coimbatore

• Best time to visit: November to February

History of Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary

Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park (IGWLS&NP) is a protected area named after Prime Minister Indira Gandhi who visited the park on October 7, 1961. It is often called Topslip, a village in the northeast corner of the park which is the main visitor center. This name is derived from the local 19th century practice of sliding Teak timber logs down from the hills

How to reach Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary

• **Nearest Railway Station:**From Pollachi, there are trains to Coimbatore and Dindigul.

• **Nearest Airport:**The nearest airport is at Coimbatore (Peelamedu airport, 10 km from Coimbatore city).

**Road Transport:**There are regular bus services from Coimbatore and Palani to Pollachi, which is the nearest town. There are two buses a day from Pollachi to the Anamalai park. Taxis from Pollachi are also available for hire.

Best time to visit Indira Gandhi 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 Indira Gandhi 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.

Things to do at Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary

Go on guided safaris through the sanctuary’s forest trails. Watch for elephants, deer, gaur, leopards, and numerous bird species. Visit the sanctuary’s interpretation centre and nature trails for educational insights about the ecosystem.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best time to visit Indira Gandhi 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 Indira Gandhi 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 Indira Gandhi 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.

Quick facts

• Type: Tourist Attraction
• State: Tamilnadu
• Category: Wildlife Sanctuary

Visitor information

Please check locally for current visitor information.