On the northern edge of Malappuram, where the Kadalundi river empties into the Arabian Sea, lies a scatter of small islands and mudflats that make up the Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary. It is one of north Kerala’s finest birdwatching spots — an estuary that comes alive in winter, when migratory birds arrive to feed on the tidal flats. It sits on the Malappuram–Kozhikode boundary, about 19 km from Kozhikode city.
What you’ll see
More than a hundred resident bird species have been recorded here, joined each season by around sixty migratory ones. Expect terns and gulls, herons, sandpipers and whimbrels probing the mud, cormorants over the water and brahminy kites overhead. The estuary is also rich in fish, mussels and crabs — which is exactly what brings the birds. A low hill by the sanctuary gives a fine overview of the islands and the river mouth.
When to go
The migratory birds are there in the cooler months, so the winter season — roughly November through March — is the time to come. Aim for low tide, when the mudflats are exposed and the waders come out to feed, and go early or late in the day for the best light and activity.
- Come in winter (about November–March) for the migratory birds, and time your visit around low tide.
- Bring binoculars — much of the birdlife is out on the flats and islands, at a distance.
- It’s roughly 19 km from Kozhikode; the nearest points are Kadalundi and Vallikunnu.
- Tread lightly and keep your distance — this is a feeding ground for the birds, not a park to walk through.
Frequently asked questions
What is Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary known for?
It’s an estuary of small islands where the Kadalundi river meets the Arabian Sea in Malappuram, known for migratory birds in winter — terns, gulls, herons, sandpipers, whimbrels and brahminy kites among more than a hundred recorded species.
What is the best time to visit Kadalundi?
The winter months, roughly November to March, when migratory birds are present. Aim for low tide and the early morning or late afternoon for the best viewing.
Where is Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary?
On the Malappuram–Kozhikode boundary where the Kadalundi river reaches the sea, about 19 km from Kozhikode city; the nearest points are Kadalundi and Vallikunnu.