5-Day Thattekad and Munnar Birding Expedition
A five-day Western Ghats birding route linking the lowland evergreen forests of Thattekad with the high-elevation shola and grassland habitats around Munnar.
About this tour
Compare two contrasting Western Ghats birding landscapes on a five-day journey from Thattekad to Munnar. The first part of the route explores humid lowland forest and edge habitat around Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, including a night outing for frogmouths. The second moves uphill to the cooler shola forest and grasslands around Munnar.
The itinerary allows time for local birding on arrival, a full day in the Thattekad forests, a final lowland session before the drive to Munnar, and a complete day among high-elevation habitats. The last morning is reserved for another search for mountain specialties before breakfast and departure.
Malabar Trogon and Indian Pitta are included among the lowland targets. At higher elevation the search turns to Nilgiri Pipit, Kerala Laughingthrush, White-bellied Blue Robin and Black-and-orange Flycatcher. Final access, accommodation, meals, transfers and current price are confirmed after inquiry.
Planning a wider trip? Read our birdwatching guide to India.
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival and Thattekad edge habitat
Arrive in Thattekad, check in and begin with afternoon birding around forest-edge habitat.
Day 2
Thattekad forest and night birds
Search deeper forest trails in the morning, then take a specialist evening outing for frogmouths and other nocturnal birds.
Day 3
Lowland birding and transfer to Munnar
Make a final Thattekad birding walk, travel to Munnar and use the afternoon for a first introduction to shola habitat.
Day 4
Munnar high-elevation birding
Spend a full day visiting high-elevation birding areas around Munnar, with the exact route chosen for current access and target activity.
Day 5
Mountain targets and departure
Search for additional highland specialties in the early morning, then return for breakfast and departure.
Locations & map
- Thattekad and Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary - Kerala India (Humid lowland evergreen forest and edge habitats.)
- Munnar highlands - Kerala India (Cooler high-elevation shola forest and grassland habitats.)
Availability & pricing
Availability: Available on request · Season: Available on request. Thattekad Birding identifies October to March as the main birding season.
Price: Price on request
Included
- Four nights of accommodation - Exact properties and room arrangements are confirmed after inquiry.
- Birding guidance in Thattekad and Munnar - Local guiding across the five-day route.
Not included
- Personal binoculars and camera equipment - The operator asks guests to bring their own optical and photography equipment.
Policies & FAQ
Cancellation Policy
Insurance & Safety
What should I wear?
Closed-toe walking shoes and long trousers are required. Dull-colored, breathable clothing is recommended, and leech socks are useful after the monsoon.
What birding practices are followed?
Thattekad Birding states that it does not use playback to attract birds and does not permit flash photography for nocturnal species.
What happens in severe weather?
Outings normally operate in rain. If severe weather forces the operator to cancel, the published policy offers a reschedule or full refund.
Send inquiry
Ask about this tour before booking. Your preferred date is optional and availability will be confirmed after your inquiry.