The short answer
Kadavur Slender Loris Sanctuary: what visitors should know first
Only if you are prepared to arrange it. The sanctuary is a protected nocturnal-primate habitat, and safari timings, fees and permits are not published. Contact the Tamil Nadu Forest Department's Dindigul or Karur divisions before going; do not expect to see a loris.
History and context
The story behind Kadavur Slender Loris Sanctuary
Tamil Nadu notified the sanctuary on 12 October 2022 under Section 26A of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The area is reported as 11,806 hectares, across seven blocks in Karur and Dindigul. The species is listed as endangered by the IUCN according to news reports. Reports have also flagged illegal mining as a threat.
Useful facts
Kadavur Slender Loris Sanctuary facts at a glance
- Location
- Karur and Dindigul district border
- Experience type
- Protected wildlife sanctuary
- Known for
- Slender loris habitat
- Notified
- 12 October 2022
- Time or schedule
- Access is by arrangement; hours are not published
Why it matters
Why Kadavur Slender Loris Sanctuary is worth your time
The sanctuary was notified in October 2022 as the country's first protected area for slender lorises. It covers about 118 sq km, in seven forest blocks across Karur and Dindigul districts, and aims to protect the species and its habitat from threats such as mining and clearing.
Its presence shows that the district's interest extends beyond temples and forts. For visitors it is best seen as a reason to support careful, low-impact visits rather than a typical wildlife park.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
First of its kind
India's first sanctuary created for the slender loris.
- 02
Large area
About 11,806 hectares across seven blocks.
- 03
Restricted access
Visits are controlled, so contact the forest office first.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Treat this as a conservation site rather than a conventional wildlife destination. The slender loris is a small nocturnal tree-dweller and is very hard to see; the sanctuary is protected to secure its scrub and dry forest habitat. Start by contacting the Dindigul or Karur forest division to ask about current access, permission and local guides.
If permission is granted, plan a day trip with a driver and a forest guide, wearing long sleeves, closed shoes and carrying water. Do not enter areas without permission, and do not try to find or handle animals; night visits are normally not allowed to the public.
Expect scrub forest, rocky outcrops and farmland on the edge. Respect local rules on plastic and noise, and keep your expectations low for animal sightings: the visit is about the landscape and the idea of protecting an unusual animal.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Contact the forest office before going
- Hire a driver and guide
- Carry water and wear closed shoes
- Do not expect to see lorises
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Dindigul and Karur district border, roughly 50 km north-east of Dindigul
- Time needed
- A full day if arranged
- Best time
- Dry months, with prior permission
- Walking level
- Moderate
- Senior comfort
- There are no published visitor facilities, seating or services. Roads may be rough, and the lorises are nocturnal and rarely seen. It is not suited to people who need easy access.
- Tickets and access
- Entry is regulated by the Tamil Nadu Forest Department. Fees, safari timings and permit rules are not published; confirm with the forest office in Dindigul or Karur before travelling.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Kadavur Slender Loris Sanctuary
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
There are no published visitor facilities, seating or services. Roads may be rough, and the lorises are nocturnal and rarely seen. It is not suited to people who need easy access.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Is the Kadavur sanctuary open to tourists?
There are no published visitor facilities or fees; check with the Tamil Nadu Forest Department.
Will I see a slender loris?
Very unlikely; they are small, nocturnal and shy.
When was it notified?
On 12 October 2022.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.