Nestled in the lush greenery of Kerala, Abhayaranyam Kaprikkadu Ecotourism is a perfect retreat for nature and wildlife lovers. Previously known as the Kodanad Elephant Training Centre, this place has now transformed into a wildlife conservation and rehabilitation center, offering visitors a chance to witness rescued elephants, a mini zoo, and a scenic view of the Periyar River. If you're looking for a peaceful getaway filled with nature and wildlife, this place should be on your list!
How to Reach Abhayaranyam Kaprikkadu
Abhayaranyam is located in Kaprikkadu, near Perumbavoor, Kerala, and is easily accessible by road. It is around 10 km from MC Road and well-connected to major cities like Kochi.
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (~34 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Aluva Railway Station (~35 km)
- Best Time to Visit: Morning hours (8:30 AM – 11:00 AM) for a better chance to see elephants in action.
Entry Fee & Facilities
- Entry Fee: ₹50 per adult
- Car Parking: ₹50
- Facilities: Tree houses, huts, a children’s park, a cafeteria, and an eco-shop
Exploring Abhayaranyam Kaprikkadu
1. Butterfly Garden – A Colorful Start
Our journey began with a walk through the Butterfly Garden. While I didn’t spot too many butterflies during my visit, the landscaped garden and peaceful surroundings made it a refreshing start. If you love butterflies, be sure to check out my Butterfly Park visit in Bannerghatta—I’ll add the link in the description!
2. Mini Zoo – Meeting Spotted & Sambar Deer
Next, we reached the Mini Zoo, where three main species can be seen—Spotted Deer, Sambar Deer, and Elephants. The deer park is a well-maintained enclosure, and watching these graceful animals roam freely in their natural habitat was a delightful experience.
3. Elephant Camp – Meeting the Gentle Giants
The highlight of our visit was the Elephant Camp, home to several rescued elephants with fascinating stories. Here are some of the elephants we met:
- Hariprasad (50 years old): Rescued in 2012 from Poonkunnam railway station, known for his calm nature.
- Parvathi (19 years old): Rescued as a calf after getting stuck in barbed wire during a flood.
- Anjana (20 years old): Fell into a well when she was 1.5 years old and was brought here for rehabilitation.
- Aasha (22 years old): Also rescued from a well near Kalady when she was just 2 years old.
- Abhimanyu (51 years old): Shifted to this camp in 2023 due to a court order.
- Sunitha (54 years old): Transferred from Muthanga in 1991 while pregnant; later gave birth to Sunny, a male elephant.
- Peelandi Chandru (47 years old): Captured from Mannarkkad forest in 2017; he has a strong-willed personality and responds well to the name Chandru.
One of the most exciting parts of the visit was seeing the Periyar River, where the elephants are sometimes brought for bathing and relaxation.
More Attractions at Abhayaranyam
Apart from wildlife, the ecotourism center also has tree houses, huts, and picnic spots, making it a great place for families to unwind. There’s also a cafeteria for snacks and an eco-shop where you can buy souvenirs and eco-friendly products.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Abhayaranyam Kaprikkadu Ecotourism was a refreshing experience, offering a mix of wildlife, nature, and conservation stories. If you’re in Kerala and looking for a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, this place is definitely worth a visit!
