The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of wildlife species. It spans a vast area and has a thriving animal life. Chinnar is well-guarded and holds a treasure of flora too, nearly a thousand species of flowering plants, as well as dry deciduous forests and grasslands. From birds and butterflies to mammals and moths, one can witness nature in all its beauty and glory here. Chinnar Sanctuary also has the largest number of reptiles within the state, including the rare mugger crocodile. It is also home to the grizzled giant squirrel; numbering less than 200, it is one of the most endangered species in the world. The other animals that can be found include spotted deer, sambar deer, Hanuman langur and peacock.

Another attraction for tourists within the sanctuary is the Thoovanam Waterfalls. For a panoramic view of the entire area, including a sight of the falls, climb to the top of the watchtower here; vast expanses of green forests extending to the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu and far away mountains will all be on offer for you. The sanctuary is also a trekker’s paradise, and lies about 60 km from Munnar.