The short answer
Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary: what visitors should know first
A full-day trip for nature lovers who can manage a forest walk. Go from November to May and aim for a morning start. Confirm entry fees, guide rules and any jeep arrangements with the forest department, as these change.
History and context
The story behind Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary
Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1984 and covers about 55 sq km in the south-east of Kannur district, on the western slope of the Western Ghats. Its forests are contiguous with Kodagu district in Karnataka.
In July 2025 it was renamed the Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary, and reports describe it as India's first protected sanctuary dedicated only to butterflies. The sanctuary has recorded over 266 butterfly species.
Useful facts
Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary facts at a glance
- Location
- Eastern Kannur district, near Iritty
- Experience type
- Forest walk and butterfly watching
- Area
- About 55 sq km
- Established
- 1984; renamed a butterfly sanctuary in July 2025
- Entrance
- Valayamchal
- Best time
- October to February for butterflies
Why it matters
Why Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary is worth your time
Aralam is the northernmost wildlife sanctuary in Kerala and covers about 55 square kilometres on the western slope of the Western Ghats. It was established in 1984 and renamed the Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary in July 2025. It is contiguous with forests in Kodagu, Karnataka.
The sanctuary is described as having over 266 butterfly species, including several endangered ones, and the renaming reflects that focus. For visitors, it offers something Kannur's coast cannot: real forest, a distinctive set of species, and a cooler, quieter landscape inland. It is best for travellers who enjoy nature and are willing to walk, and it makes a strong contrast to the town's forts, museums and beaches.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Butterfly diversity
More than 266 species have been recorded, including several endangered ones.
- 02
Forest walk and viewpoint
Reports describe a walk and a jeep ride to a watchtower.
- 03
A Western Ghats setting
The sanctuary lies on the western slope of the Ghats, linked to forests in Kodagu.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Plan this as a separate day, starting early. The entrance is at Valayamchal, and roads lead in from Iritty via Palappuzha, from Peravoor via Odenthode, from Keezhpally via Kakkuva and from Kanichar. Ask your driver which route suits you and allow generous travel time from Kannur.
Press reports describe a walk of about two kilometres through forest, followed by a jeep ride to a watchtower roughly eight kilometres further, with rental jeeps available at Valayamchal. A forest department guide is available and is worth using, since butterflies and other wildlife are easier to spot with a guide.
Butterflies gather in numbers at some times of year, including mud-puddling at dry stream beds, and the sanctuary has recorded more than 266 species. Wear closed shoes, neutral colours and insect repellent, carry water and food, and leave nothing behind. Check the forest department before you go, as access and fees can change.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Confirm entry fees, guide rules and timings with the forest department
- Start early; the full trip takes a day
- Wear closed shoes, neutral colours and insect repellent
- Carry water and food; services are limited
- Allow generous travel time from Kannur
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Eastern Kannur district, entrance at Valayamchal, near Iritty
- Time needed
- Full day including travel
- Best time
- October to February for butterflies; November to May for easier weather
- Walking level
- Demanding
- Senior comfort
- Reaching the main viewpoints involves a forest walk and, reportedly, a jeep ride on rough tracks. Older visitors should confirm what is possible beforehand and may prefer the lower, shorter sections.
- Tickets and access
- A September 2026 press report gave entry fees of Rs 140 for adults and Rs 40 for children, with a forest department guide available and safari hours of 8 am to 3 pm. Treat these as indicative and confirm with the forest department.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
Reaching the main viewpoints involves a forest walk and, reportedly, a jeep ride on rough tracks. Older visitors should confirm what is possible beforehand and may prefer the lower, shorter sections.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Where is Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary?
In the south-east of Kannur district in the Western Ghats, with its entrance at Valayamchal near Iritty.
When is the best time to visit?
October to February is described as the peak butterfly window, and November to May is generally easier for weather.
Is it suitable for older travellers?
Only partly. The main route involves a forest walk and a jeep ride, so check what is feasible with the forest department.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
