The state of Kerala is offers many opportunities for tourists, ranging from coastal holidays, backwaters, plantation visits and also wildlife. One great destination for wildlife enthusiasts is the Eravikulam National Park in the Idukki district near Munnar.
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| Eravikulam National Park |
The western ghat mountain ranges provide a wholesome environment to nurture wildlife, and this 97 square kilometre stretch is no different. Though comparatively smaller than many other national parks of the country, Eravikulam is special due to the largest population of the endangered Nilgiris Tahr.
History
The region is a game preservation area for the Kannadevan Hills Produce Company. The local tribals, Muduvan, helped the game watchers of the nearby plantations before the area was taken over by the Kerala government for preservation in the 1970s. The planter community and the Muduvans still continue their contribution towards protection of the park.
Flora and Fauna
The largest surviving population of the Nilgiris Tahr is found in the Eravikulam National Park, about 700 of them roam in the confines of the park. Wild dogs, leopards and tigers are also found here. Nilgiris marten, small clawed otter, ruddy mongoose, and dusky striped squirrel are also found along with occasional elephants in these grasslands. About 120 species of birds are also found here along with 100 odd varieties of butterflies.
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| Nilgiris Tahr |
How To Get There
The Eravikulam National Park if situated in the Kanan Devan Hills of the Southern Western Ghats in Idukki. The park can be accessed from Kochi and Coimbatore airports, which are located at about 148 Km and 175 Km respectively. Munnar is the nearest town (13km.) and is very well connected by roads from Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
The nearest railway station in Kerala is Aluva but few trains come here. There is only one central motorable road in the park, but the rest has to be traversed on foot.
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| Eravikulam National Park Trek |
Entry Fees
The park fee is Rs 200/- for foreign travellers but Rs 20/- for Indians. There are also additional charges for vehicles and children. Photography fees also have to be paid separately if the footage is for commercial use.
When to Go
The best time to visit the park is between January and March. The monsoons are difficult in the region and its best to avoid the months of June to August.
