Established in 1983, and covering a total area of 55 sq. kms, the Aralam wildlife sanctuary is located on the Western Slopes of the Western Ghats This is the Northern most wildlife sanctuary in Kerala. The Head quarters of the sanctuary is located at Iritty, a small town located about 55 kms from Kannur City.

The sanctuary adjoins the Central state farm at Aralam. The elevation of this area varies between 50m and 1145m. The highest peak in this region is Katti Betta, which is 1145m high.

The normal range of temperature is between 21 degree centigrade and 40 degree centigrade in the foothills and between 8 degree centigrade and 5 degree centigrade at the higher reaches. The sanctuary receives and annual rainfall of 3000mm.

The predominant forest type in this area is Tropical Ever-Green and the Tropical Semi Ever-Green.