Mathikettan Shola National Park

Mathikettan Shola National Park is a protected reserve located in Poopara village of Udumbanchola taluk in the Idukki district of Kerala state. It covers an area of 12.82 square kilometers and was initially established to encourage cardamom plantation. However, it was declared a national park in 2003 to protect the environment, ecology, flora, and wildlife of the area. Mathikettan Shola National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts who are looking for an offbeat experience in Kerala.

At a Glance

A Unique Shola Forest and Elephant Corridor

Shola forests are a unique type of tropical montane forest found in the Western Ghats of India. These forests consist of patches of evergreen trees and grasslands and are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including many endangered and endemic species.

The state government declared it a national park in 2008 due to the unique nature of the shola forest in Mathikettan and its importance as an elephant strip. The park is also surrounded by other national reserve forests such as Eravikulam National Park and Pampadam Shola National Park. An eco-sensitive zone varying from zero to one kilometer around the boundary of the park has been notified by the central government. These forest patches in the park are the only remaining parts of the original forests of the Cardamom Hill Reserve.

Things to Do at Mathikettan Shola National Park

The park is a popular destination for adventure seekers with trails that run through the forests providing amazing views of the region. Visitors can also enjoy birdwatching and wildlife spotting while exploring the park.

Trekking and Camping

Mathikettan national park offers a variety of trekking experiences and camping options. The trek at Mathikettan offers breathtaking panoramic views of various mountain ranges, including Kolukkumalai, Meesapulimala, and Chokramudi Peak, along with a glimpse of the Anayirankal Dam Reservoir.

The trekking requires a minimum of 4 persons and it costs around INR 400 per person for Indian nationals and INR 800 for foreign nationals; the fee includes the insurance charges. The friendly forest guards will accompany the trekkers and guide them through the trails that offer amazing vistas. To make bookings, visitors can check out the official website of the Kerala Forest and Wildlife Department.

As part of the Ecotourism program, the forest department provides log house accommodation inside the jungle. The log house, which can accommodate up to 3 people, is a cozy and rustic abode perfect for those looking for a unique and eco-friendly experience. INR 2000 is charged for 2 persons and INR1000 for an additional person. The check-in time is 3:00 PM, and the check-out time is 10:00 AM. There are also a few other camping programs available that visitors can opt for.

How to Reach Mathikettan Shola National Park

To reach Mathikettan Shola National Park, visitors can take different routes depending on their starting point. If starting from Munnar, one can take the Munnar – Kumily Highway and follow the signs to Poopara, which leads to the park. Another option is to take the Idukki route via Kothamangalam and then reach Poopara. The nearest airports to the park are Madurai Airport and Cochin International Airport, while the nearest railway station is Tiruvalla Railway Station.

Shola Park is open throughout the year, but the best time to visit is from October to March. While separate charges are there for the trekking and camping options, the entry fee is INR 40 per person. Book Your accommodation at Poopara and nearby areas, check out the best options by clicking on the “Book Now” button on this page.

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