Eravikulam National Park
Eravikulam National Park is situated in Munnar in the Idukki district of Kerala. It sits beautifully at the Kannan Devan Hills of the southern Western Ghats. Eravikulam National Park is the first national park in Kerala. Encompassing pristine Shola forests and expansive rolling grasslands, the park spans an area of 97 square kilometres.
Established in 1978 with the aim of conserving the habitat of Nilgiri Thar, an endangered species of wild mountain goat, Eravikulam has evolved into a crucial ecological and recreational destination. And it now houses the largest surviving population of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. The park is also renowned for being the habitat of Neelakurinji, which blooms only once every 12 years. Additionally, it is home to wide variety of animals including the Nilgiri Marten, Ruddy Mongoose, Small Clawed Otter, Dusky Striped Squirrel, and more.
The Eravikulam National Park is divided into three distinct zones: the core area, the buffer area, and the tourism area. Access to the core and buffer areas is strictly restricted, whereas tourists are permitted to visit the designated tourism area of the park.
The tourism zone of Eravikulam National Park, known as Rajamala, encapsulates the essence of the park's wonders. It's the habitat of the Nilgiri Tahr, surrounded by diverse vegetation and wildlife, forming a unique ecosystem. A trip to Eravikulam National Park essentially means exploring Rajamala. This section remains closed from February to March annually due to the calving season for the Nilgiri Tahr.
The park is also home to the Anamudi Peak, the tallest peak in South India, standing at an impressive height of 2695 meters. While entry to the summit is restricted, visitors can admire its grandeur from afar, offering a breathtaking sight from Rajamala.
Entry Time:
7 AM to 4 PM
Closed on – Generally from February to 1st week of April every year
Visiting Hours:
2 to 3 Hrs
Entrance Fee:
For Indians: ₹ 200
For Foreigners: ₹ 500
Reservation Fee: ₹ 50 (Reservation counter 9 am – 3 pm at Information Centre, Munnar)
For Still Camera: ₹ 50
For Video Camera: ₹ 350
Best Time to Visit:
September to February
Famous For:
Eravikulam National Park is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and being the habitat of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.
How to reach Eravikulam National Park:
By Air : Coimbatore International Airport is the nearest airport, 117 Km away from Eravikulam National Park. From the airport, you can avail of public transport or get a cab/ taxi to reach the national park..
By Train :Palakkad Junction Railway Station is the nearest railway station, 45 Km away from Eravikulam National Park. From the railway station, you can avail of public transport or get a cab/ taxi to reach the national park.
By Road :Eravikulam National Park is easily accessible by road. You can choose private transportation, take a bus, or hire a cab to reach the national park.
FAQ
1. Where is Eravikulam National Park situated?
Eravikulam National Park is situated in Munnar in the Idukki district of Kerala.
2. What are the specialities of Eravikulam National Park?
Eravikulam National Park holds the distinction of being Kerala’s first national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It shelters the rare and endangered Nilgiri Tahr, inhabits South India's tallest peak - Anamudi Peak, and is home to the Atlas moth, one of the largest moth species. Additionally, a recent discovery unveiled a new species of frog within its bounds.
3. What are the popular activities to do at Eravikulam National Park?
Popular activities to do at Eravikulam National Park include guided treks, nature walks, wildlife watching, and photography. Additionally, visitors can enjoy the breathtaking views of tea plantations and rolling hills draped in shola forests.
4. What are the major attractions of Eravikulam National Park?
The major attractions of Eravikulam National Park are its large population of endangered Nilgiri Tahr, a species of wild goats, and the rare Neelakurinji flowers, which bloom only once every 12 years.