Pakshipathalam in Wayanad district of Kerala, is located 7 km northeast of Thirunelli , which is about 32 km from Mananthavady, and about 66 km from Kalpetta. It is situated at an altitude of 1740m above sea level.
Wayanad, the northern hill district of Kerala, is covered with dense, moist deciduous forests. Elephants, tigers, leopards, jungle cats, civets, bison, peacocks, various other bird species can be seen here. In the sylvan solitude of this land, perched at a 1740 m above sea level is Pakshipathalam, a picturesque sleepy little place.
Pakshipathalam - the very name of the place refers to the richness of birdlife here. Here virgin forests, rivulets and steep hills together offer challenging avenues for trekking. A cave which rishis (saints) are believed to have used for meditation in ancient times, has become a major attraction for tourists.
Close by is Kuruvadweep, an island (dweep) well known for its rare ecology. Located 17 km from Mananthavady, Kuruvadweep is a 950 acre stretch of evergreen forests on the banks of the Kabani river, and home to rare species of birds, orchids and herbs.
Wayanad is one stop address for every trekker. One such spot in Wayanad that has captured the mindset of every tracker, ornithologists and nature lovers is the Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary. Here virgin forests, streams and steep hills together offer challenging avenues for trekking. 3 hours trekking is probably the best way to traverse through the rustic landscapes of the bird sanctuary. Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary is best known for the presence of `Edible Nest Swift light.' It is believed that the nest is made of solidified saliva and is used to make bird's nest soup.
Inside the bird sanctuary, tourists can see a flock of birds chirping and guarding the sky, multiple herbs and trees that possess medicinal properties, and orchid plantation. Within the boundary of the bird sanctuary, there is a temple and watchtower to help tourists navigate their way. It will be advisable to carry equipment for bird watching expedition, and hire a tourist guide for an over-night camping.
