Eravikulam National Park

If you’re a nature lover or wildlife enthusiast planning a trip to Munnar, Kerala, Eravikulam National Park is a destination you shouldn’t miss. This wildlife sanctuary, located 7000 feet above sea level in the Western Ghats, is home to a diverse array of rare and endangered species, including the Nilgiri tahr, a unique mountain goat that’s native to this region. But that’s not all – the park’s stunning landscapes, featuring rolling grasslands, shola forests, waterfalls, and streams, are sure to take your breath away.

At a Glance

The park was established in 1978 to protect the Nilgiri tahr population, which had suffered a significant decline due to hunting and habitat loss. Today, it covers an area of 97 square kilometers, divided into three zones: the core zone, the buffer zone, and the tourism zone. The core zone is strictly reserved for conservation and research, while the buffer zone is used for limited ecotourism activities. The tourism zone, on the other hand, is open to the public and offers a range of attractions and facilities for visitors.

Biodiversity at Eravikulam National Park

One of the main attractions of the park is the Rajamalai area, where visitors can observe the Nilgiri tahr grazing on the grasslands. To get there, you can take a bus from the park entrance, which will also bring you to the visitor center, souvenir shop, and cafeteria. The park also offers guided treks to other areas of interest, such as Anamudi Peak, the highest point in South India at 2,695 meters above sea level. From here, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys, making it a must-see destination for mountaineering enthusiasts.

The Neelakurinji Flower

Another unique feature of the park is the Neelakurinji flower (Strobilanthes Kunthiana), which blooms once every 12 years, transforming the hills into a spectacular blue carpet. The last bloom occurred in 2022, attracting visitors from all over the world. The next one is expected in 2034, so mark your calendars! Recently, the Ministry of Environment included Neelakurinji in the list of protected plants in India. The Kurinjimala Sanctuary, located about 48 kilometers northeast of Munnar, is also home to the endangered Neelakurinji plant that covers an area of 32 square kilometers and protects the core habitat of the Neelakurinji plant.

Ecological Richness of the Park’s Flora and Fauna

Apart from these attractions, the park is also home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including over 130 species of birds, 19 species of mammals, 101 species of butterflies, and 26 species of amphibians. Some of the notable species found here include the lion-tailed macaque, leopard, elephant, gaur, sambar deer, Nilgiri langur, Nilgiri marten, and Nilgiri wood pigeon. In addition, the park boasts several endemic and threatened plants, such as the Neelakurinji, Kurinji shrub, Nilgiri rhododendron, and Nilgiri orchid.

Plan Your Visit to Eravikulam National Park

If you’re planning to visit, keep in mind that the best time to go is from September to November and from February to April, when the weather is pleasant and wildlife spotting opportunities are high. The park remains closed during February and March every year due to the calving season of Nilgiri Tahr. Also, closed during the monsoon season (June to August) due to heavy rains and landslides. Lastly, be aware that there is an entry fee of INR 125 for Indian nationals and INR 420 for foreign nationals, and that the park limits the number of visitors per day to avoid overcrowding and disturbance to wildlife.

Eravikulam National Park is located 7.5 kilometers away from Munnar and can be reached easily by road. The nearest railway station to Munnar is located 120 km away in Aluva. From there, visitors can hire a taxi or other means of transportation to reach the park. Additionally, government and private buses are available for travel to Munnar, and it’s more convenient to hire a cab from there. The closest airport to Munnar is Cochin International Airport located 114 kilometers away.

Eravikulam National Park is a fantastic destination for anyone interested in experiencing the beauty and diversity of the Western Ghats. It’s a place where humans and nature coexist in harmony, and where the local community and authorities work tirelessly to protect and conserve this precious heritage.

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