Located across the fringes of the mighty Western Ghats close to the Idukki district in the state of Kerala is Eravikulum National Park. This park is sprawled in an area of 97 square kilometers. Forest and Wildlife Department of Kerala administers this park. The main area of the park is perched atop a hill plateau and its altitude is 2000 m. Grasslands at an high altitude that is interspersed in between with shoals forms the terrain of this place. Anamudi that is highest peak in South India with 2695 m height is located here. The park is also interspersed with several perennials gently meandering by. These perennials join together to form Periyar River’s tributary. Other rivers that join them are Cauvery River flowing to the east and Chalakudiyar River flowing on the west. This region also resides the famous Lakkom Water Falls.

History

The popular Eravikulam National Park is located at a distance of about 17 kms from Munnar, the famous hill station in Kerala. This national park is not only known for the unique species of flora and fauna residing here but also its scenic and picturesque attractions. This park was basically established to protect the endangered species, Nilgiri Tahr. It is a rare mountain goat. The backdrop of highest peak in South India, Anamudi Peak adds charm to this place. Enchanting beauty and rolling verdant grasslands interspersed with shoals make the visit to this place truly memorable. It is no doubt a paradise for avid photographers. The whole area has a blue hue due to the presence of flowers Neelkurinji. This flowers blossoms only once in 12 years.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

This area in the state of Kerala experiences South-west monsoons, though a little rainfall is registered here throughout the year. Basically, the months of June, July and August are the months when the monsoon season is at its peak. During the months of April and May, it is quite hot and very difficult to explore the area. During September, October, November and December, the rainfall is light and weather is pleasant, hence this is the perfect time to visit this National Park.

How to Reach

By Air

The nearest airport to reach this national park is Cochin that is located at a distance of 135 kilometers from here. To reach this national park, visitors can hire private coaches and taxis from Cochin.

By Rail

The nearest railway station to reach this National Park is Munnar which is about 13 kilometers from the destination.

By Road

From different parts of the state there are many private coaches and taxi cabs available on hire to reach Eravikulam National Park.

Wildlife

Flora

The Eravikulam National Park houses some unique species of fauna as there are three main vegetations seen in this park. These are grasslands, forests and shrubs. The area that is located on the plateau is situated at a height of 2000 m. It is densely covered with grasslands. There are hollows in the area where forests in small patches can be seen. On the cliffs, there are shrubs. The famous Eupatorium glandulosum is found here, an antibacterial plant.

Fauna

26 mammal species have been reported in this wild life sanctuary that includes spotted deer, Elephants, Panthers, Sambar, Common Langur, Gaur, Bonnet Mcaque, Deer, tigers, Golden Jackal, Nilgiri Marten, Dhole, Ruddy Mongoose, Indian Porcupine, small clawed otter, Indian Munjtac, and Nilgiri Tahr, an endangered species. Grizzled Giant Squirrels can also be spotted here.

Avifauna

A diverse range of birds, about 132 species can be seen in this national park. Some of the famous ones are Nilgiti Pipit, White Bellied Shortwing, Black and Orange Fly Catcher, Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, Kerala Laughing Thrush and many more. Butterflies can also be seen here in varies species. About 19 amphibian species have also been observed in the national park. A unique species of frog has also been discovered here.

Activities to Do

Nature Camps

Students come here in large groups as a part of nature camps conducted by the Sanctuary. Every year, such camps are conducted. The students are asked to wear clothes in subdued colours so as not to attract the attention of wild animals. A group of 35 students are taken for this tour. For a non-student group to enjoy a nature camp, permission from Chief Conservator, Forests need to be sought.

Administration of Eravikulam National Sanctuary

Located across the fringes of the mighty Western Ghats close to the Idukki district in the state of Kerala is Eravikulum National Park. This park is sprawled in an area of 97 square kilometers. Forest and Wildlife Department in Kerala administers this park.

Accommodation

Tall Trees Resort

This is a famous resort located close to the National Sanctuary in Munnar. Excellent facilities and services and an informal environment is the high point of this resort.
Contact Information

General Information

Fees

• Adult Rs.15/-
• Foreigners Rs.150/-
• Children (Below 12 years) -Rs.7/-
• Guide Rs.150/-
• Video / Movie Rs.150/-
• Ordinary Camera Rs.25/-
• Vehicle (Light) Rs.75/-
• Vehicle (Others) Rs.20/-
• Vehicle (Heavy) Rs.150/-

Visiting Timings

Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is open from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Nearby Attractions

Anamudi Peak

Located within the area of Eravikulam National Park, Anamudi Peak is the highest peak in the southern part of India. Its height is about 2700 meters. For trekking in this area, permission from Forest and Wildlife departments needs to be taken.

Photo Gallery