India’s First Butterfly Sanctuary in Kerala

On June 18, 2025, the Kerala State Wildlife Board officially renamed the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary as the Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary, making it the first butterfly sanctuary in India.

This bold initiative follows over two decades of butterfly surveys, environmental advocacy, and support from forest officials and researchers.

It now stands as the renowned Kerala butterfly sanctuary, dedicated solely to butterfly conservation.

About Kerala Butterfly Sanctuary

The Kerala butterfly sanctuary is not merely a renaming—it signifies a focused conservation mission. It provides a protected forest zone exclusively for butterflies, helping species in Kerala flourish in an undisturbed environment.

What Makes the Kerala Butterfly Sanctuary Special?

• Over 266 butterfly species inhabit this sanctuary, representing 80% of Kerala’s total butterfly population.

• Rare sightings include the Common Albatross, Danaine butterflies, and endemic species.

• Endangered butterflies are protected here in significant numbers.

• Butterfly migration is most active between December and February, making this the best time to visit the Kerala butterfly sanctuary.

These features make Aralam the most significant Kerala butterfly reserve and a prominent butterfly research center in India.

Role in Research and Education

The Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary is a hub for scientific studies. In collaboration with the Malabar Natural History Society, annual butterfly surveys have been carried out for over 20 years. The butterfly migration study held during January and February draws numerous researchers and eco-tourists.

Eco-tourism and Public Engagement

A key aim of the Kerala Butterfly Sanctuary is to boost eco-tourism in Kerala. This not only spreads awareness about butterfly conservation but also helps generate sustainable income for local communities.

• When to visit the Kerala butterfly sanctuary?
  The ideal time is December to February, aligning with the butterfly migration season.

• What is special about Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary?
  It’s the only sanctuary in India solely for butterflies, providing educational, ecological, and economic value.

Conservation Significance

The Kerala Butterfly Sanctuary plays a vital role in protecting pollinators in India, which are essential for plant reproduction and the food chain. By offering a safe habitat, the sanctuary strengthens India’s biodiversity conservation efforts.

This initiative also aligns with global conservation goals and highlights Kerala’s leadership in wildlife protection and sustainable forest management.

Future Outlook

Now officially a Kerala butterfly sanctuary, the Aralam Forest is expected to receive enhanced support for conservation policy, research funding, and eco-tourism development. This is a boost for both scientific discovery and youth education on biodiversity.

Summary for SSC Aspirants

Final Thoughts

The Kerala Butterfly Sanctuary in Aralam Forest marks a historic leap in India’s biodiversity conservation efforts. 

As India’s first dedicated butterfly sanctuary, it not only protects over 266 species of butterflies but also promotes ecological research, sustainable eco-tourism, and public awareness about the importance of pollinators. 

This initiative strengthens Kerala’s role as a leader in wildlife protection and sets an inspiring example for other states.

 For SSC aspirants, this topic is a key highlight under current affairs, especially in the environment and ecology sections. Understanding such conservation efforts is essential for both exams and informed citizenship.