Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is an ecologically sensitive area that spreads across an area of about 2.74 hectares and is located in the heart of Kochi. It consists of 18-acres of Mangroves which are packed with a densely populated species of trees and plants. It is known for the mangrove vegetation and a home to a variety of migratory bird species.

Being a posh wetland comprising of rare species, the Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is nicknamed as the "green lung of Kochi". As the region is filled with trees and plants, the sanctuary remains cool and soothing all the time.

This place is surrounded by thick mangrove vegetation, nearly 18 acres and has a shallow lake which is connected to the backwaters of Kochi through a canal. Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is a natural habitat for various kinds of resident and migratory birds.

The watch tower that overlooks the sanctuary is a beautiful attraction here that offers a panoramic view of the sanctuary. You can attend the free nature camp at this sanctuary which is conducted by the Kerala Forest and Wildlife Department that gives you a chance to explore nature at its fullest.

There is a shallow tidal lake in the middle of the sanctuary which is surrounded by thick mangrove vegetation and it connects the backwaters of Kochi through a canal. Mangalavanam was declared as a protected area in the year 2004 for being home to the breeding birds and unique mangrove vegetation.

Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is a heaven for nature lovers and bird watchers. From a survey, conducted in 2006, it is found that this sanctuary contains 194 birds belonging to 32 different species. It is a posh wetland that comprises unique mangrove vegetation and breeding bird. Many mangrove associate species like Rhizophora mucronata, Acanthus ilicifolius, Avicennia officinalis, and Acrostichum aureum exists in this sanctuary.

According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Acanthus ilicifolius is considered as an endangered species and Rhizophora mucronata as the vulnerable species. This sanctuary contains six species of mammals like the Eurasian otter, painted bat, three-striped palm squirrel/dusky palm squirrel, Indian flying-fox house rat/black rat, and Bandicota. Limnonectes limnocharis and Duttaphrynus melanostictus are the mammal species found here.

Various species of fishes like Orange chromide, Anabas testudineus, Etroplus suratensis, striped panchax, Malabar swamp eel, Sarotherodon mossambica and Blackline rasboraare are also found in this sanctuary. Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is a splendid place to relax and enjoy the greenery and nature's beauty.

Best Time To Visit :

January to March is regarded as the best time to visit Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary.

Opening & Closing Time - 9 AM to 6 PM.

Entrance Fee - No entrance fee.

Nearest Tourist places :

Bolgatty Island : It is at a distance of 5.3 Km. Bolgatty island is a small picturesque island which is a favourite tourist haunt in Kochi. The main attraction of this island is the Bolgatty Palace which was built by a Dutch trader in 1744. This Palace is under the control of Kerala Tourism Development Corporation and they have converted it into a heritage hotel.

Mattancherry Palace : It is at a distance of 12.9 Km. This palace is popularly known as the Dutch Palace, which was built by the Portuguese in 1557. And they gifted it to the King Veera Kerala Verma. This palace exhibits a brilliant collection of murals that retells Ramayana and Mahabharata and many royal artefacts.

Ernakulathappan Temple : It is at a distance of 3 Km. Ernakulathappan temple is one of the rare Shiva temples where the deity Lord Shiva is facing the Arabian sea towards the west.

Subash Park : It is a public park that faces the Arabian sea, which is the favourite picnic spot of the locals as well as the tourists. It is at a distance of 2.4 Km.

Marine Drive : It is only at a distance of 1 Km from the Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary. It is built facing the Kochi Harbour and the backwaters. The Rainbow Bridge and the International Boat Jetty Complex are the attraction of this place.

How to reach

 By Air - Cochin International Airport is the nearest airports to Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary which is situated at a distance of 33.9 Km.

 By Rail - Ernakulam Railway Station is the nearest railway stations to Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary which is situated at a distance of 3.8 Km.

 By Road - Ernakulam KSRTC Bus Stand is the nearest bus station to Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary which is situated at a distance of 3 Km.

FAQs:

Why Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is called the "Green Lung of Kochi"?

Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is referred to as the "Green Lung of Kochi" because its dense mangrove vegetation and lush greenery help reduce pollution and provide fresh air, contributing to the environmental health of the bustling city of Kochi.

What makes Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary special?

The sanctuary is special due to its unique mangrove vegetation, which spans approximately 18 acres, and its shallow tidal lake connected to the Kochi backwaters. It serves as a vital habitat for various species of birds, mammals, fish, and other wildlife, making it an important ecological site in Kochi.

What bird species can be found in Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary?

Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is home to 194 birds belonging to 32 different species, as per a 2006 survey. Migratory and resident birds such as egrets, herons, and Brahminy kites are commonly seen here, making it a prime destination for birdwatchers.

Is there an entry fee for Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary?

There is no entry fee for Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary. It is a public sanctuary, and the Kerala Forest and Wildlife Department conducts free nature camps, allowing visitors to explore the area and learn more about its ecological significance.

What activities can visitors enjoy at Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary?

Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, nature photography, and panoramic views from the sanctuary's watchtower. The Kerala Forest and Wildlife Department also organizes free nature camps, providing educational experiences about the sanctuary’s flora and fauna.

Why Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary was declared a protected area?

Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary was declared a protected area in 2004 due to its ecological importance as a breeding ground for birds and as a home to endangered and vulnerable mangrove species like Acanthus ilicifolius and Rhizophora mucronata.

How does Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary contribute to Kochi’s ecosystem?

Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary plays a crucial role in Kochi’s ecosystem by acting as a natural habitat for birds and marine life. Its mangrove forests provide breeding grounds for fish, crabs, and other aquatic species, while also supporting diverse bird and wildlife populations.