Eravikulam National Park: A Fascinating Destination to Explore Nature’s Wonders

Eravikulam National Park

Eravikulam National Park is one of the most enchanting national parks located in the Western Ghats of India. This park is situated in the Idukki district of Kerala and spans an area of 97 square kilometers. The park renowned for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. Eravikulam National Park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including some rare and endangered species. The park is an ideal destination for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers.

• Eravikulam National Park is home to over 100 species of animals, including the Nilgiri Tahr, which is endemic to the Western Ghats.
• The park has a significant population of birds, including the endemics like the Nilgiri Wood Pigeon and the White-bellied Shortwing.
• The park is home to the highest peak in South India, the Anamudi Peak, which stands at an elevation of 2,695 meters.
• The park is home to the rare Neelakurinji flower, which blooms once every 12 years.
• The park is located at an altitude ranging from 1,600 meters to 2,695 meters.

Location and History of Eravikulam National Park

Geographical Location

Eravikulam National Park is located in the Idukki district of the Indian state of Kerala. It is situated in the Western Ghats, which is one of the eight “hottest hotspots” of biological diversity in the world. The park spread over an area of 97 square kilometers and is at an
altitude ranging from 1,600 meters to 2,695 meters. The park is located near the border of Tamil Nadu and is easily accessible from both Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

Situated in the high range region of the Western Ghats and known for its unique ecological and geographical features. The park is home to several rivers and streams, including the Periyar, the Chalakudy, and the Cauvery, which originate from the mountains of the Western Ghats. The park’s terrain marked by rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and grassy meadows. The park’s landscape dominated by shola forests, which unique to the Western Ghats.

Eravikulam National Park’s geographical location has a significant influence on its climate. The park experiences a moderate climatethroughout the year, with average temperatures ranging from 4°C to 20°C. Receives an average annual rainfall of 3500 mm, which influenced by the southwest monsoon. The park experiences two distinct seasons – the monsoon season from June to September and the winter season from October to January. The park’s climate and geography provide a suitable habitat for a wide variety of flora and fauna.

Eravikulam National Park’s location in the Western Ghats makes it a unique and fascinating destination. Its geographical features, including rolling hills, grassy meadows, and shola forests, along with its moderate climate and ample rainfall, make it an ideal habitat for a diverse range of flora and fauna. The park’s location near the border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu makes it easily accessible for visitors from both states.

Historical Significance

Eravikulam National Park has a rich historical significance that dates back to the colonial era. During the British rule in India, the park’s grassy meadows and shola forests were used as hunting grounds for the colonial elites. The park’s meadows known for their abundance of Nilgiri Tahrs, which hunted for sport and food.

In the early 20th century, a British hunter and conservationist named E.P. Gee recognized the ecological importance of the park’s shola forests and campaigned for their protection. His efforts led to the establishment of the Eravikulam Game Sanctuary in 1950, which later became Eravikulam National Park in 1978.

Since its establishment, the park has undergone several transformations, including the relocation of several local communities that were living within the park’s boundaries. The relocation done to protect the park’s flora and fauna and to maintain the park’s ecological balance.

Today, Eravikulam National Park is an important landmark in Kerala’s conservation efforts. The park’s rich biodiversity, including several endemic species like the Nilgiri Tahr and the Neelakurinji flower, makes it a critical area for conservation. The park also provides several employment opportunities for the local communities through tourism, eco-restoration, and forest management activities.

Eravikulam National Park’s historical significance highlights the importance of conservation efforts. The park’s transformation from a hunting ground to a protected area for flora and fauna is a testament to the conservation efforts of individuals like E.P. Gee. Today, the park’s ecological significance makes it an important destination for nature lovers,
wildlife enthusiasts, and those interested in the history of conservation efforts in India.

Flora and Fauna of Eravikulam National Park

Flora

Eravikulam National Park is a unique and diverse ecosystem that is home to several rare and endemic species of flora. The park’s location in the Western Ghats and its elevation range of 1,600 meters to 2,695 meters, has led to the development of a rich variety of vegetation.

The park’s vegetation can be broadly classified into two categories – grasslands and shola forests. The grasslands occupy about a third of the park’s area and are home to several species of grasses, herbs, and shrubs. The grasslands dominated by the Nilgiri Tahr, which grazes on the grasses.

The shola forests of Eravikulam National Park are a unique feature of the Western Ghats. Shola forests are montane evergreen forests that are unique to the Western Ghats. These forests characterized by their short-statured trees, dense undergrowth, and moss-covered rocks. The shola forests of the park are home to several species of trees, including Rhododendron arboreum, Vernonia cinerea, and Cinnamomum malabatrum. The shola forests are also home to several species of orchids and ferns.

One of the most unique features of the park’s flora is the Neelakurinji flower. The Neelakurinji is a shrub that blooms only once in twelve years. The flowers blooming cycle has become a tourist attraction and draws several visitors to the park during its blooming season.

In conclusion, Eravikulam National Park’s flora is a unique and diverse ecosystem that is home to several rare and endemic species. The park’s grasslands and shola forests are a testament to the Western Ghats’ ecological importance. The park’s unique features, such as the Neelakurinji flower, make it an important destination for nature enthusiasts and
photographers.

Fauna

Eravikulam National Park is a wildlife enthusiast’s dream destination. The park is home to several species of animals, including some rare and endemic ones. The park’s location in the Western Ghats and its diverse vegetation make it an ideal habitat for a wide range of animals.

The most iconic animal of Eravikulam National Park is the Nilgiri Tahr. These mountain goats endemic to the Western Ghats and found only in a few locations in South India. The park is home to the largest population of Nilgiri Tahr in the world, making it a critical area for their conservation.

Apart from the Nilgiri Tahr, the park is also home to several other mammal species. The park is home to species like Indian Muntjac, Sambar Deer, Wild Boar, Indian Porcupine, and Dhole. The park’s shola forests are also home to several species of primates, including the Nilgiri Langur and the Bonnet Macaque.

The park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise. The park’s diverse vegetation and elevation range have led to the development of several microhabitats, which have become ideal habitats for several bird species. The park is home to several species of birds, including the Black-and-orange Flycatcher, Nilgiri Pipit, and the Nilgiri Wood Pigeon.

Eravikulam National Park’s fauna is a unique and diverse ecosystem that is home to several species of rare and endemic animals. The park’s location and diverse vegetation have made it an ideal habitat for several species of mammals and birds. A visit to the park is an opportunity to witness the beauty and diversity of South India’s wildlife.

Major Attractions of Eravikulam National Park

Rajamalai

Rajamalai is a picturesque hill station located within the Eravikulam National Park. The hill station is known for its scenic beauty and its proximity to the park’s unique flora and fauna. A visit to Rajamalai is a must for those visiting the Eravikulam National Park.

The hill station is located at an elevation of 2,695 meters, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and hills. The hill station surrounded by shola forests, and a trek through the forests is a popular activity for visitors. The trek through the shola forests is an opportunity to witness the unique vegetation and the park’s rare and endemic
animals.

One of the highlights of a visit to Rajamalai is the Neelakurinji bloom. The Neelakurinji is a shrub that blooms only once in twelve years, and the next blooming season is expected in 2030. The hill station’s location makes it an ideal destination for witnessing the bloom, and several visitors flock to the hill station during the blooming season.

Apart from the Neelakurinji bloom, Rajamalai is also home to several tea and spice plantations. The plantations are a testament to the region’s agrarian economy and offer visitors an opportunity to witness the cultivation of tea and spices.

In conclusion, Rajamalai is a picturesque hill station located within the Eravikulam National Park. The hill station offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and hills and is a popular destination for witnessing the Neelakurinji bloom. A visit to Rajamalai is an opportunity to witness the unique flora and fauna of the Eravikulam National Park and to experience the region’s agrarian economy.

Neelakurinji

The Eravikulam National Park is famous for the Neelakurinji, a rare shrub that blooms once in twelve years. The plant’s unique blooming cycle has made it a popular attraction for tourists and nature enthusiasts. The next blooming season is expected in 2030, and visitors from all over the world are expected to flock to the park during the season.

The Neelakurinji is a shrub that grows in the shola forests of the Western Ghats. The plant’s scientific name is Strobilanthes kunthiana, and it blooms in shades of blue, purple, and lavender. The plant’s blooming cycle is linked to the monsoons, and it blooms only once in twelve years. The blooming season is an important event for the region’s agrarian economy and is celebrated by the local communities.

Apart from its unique blooming cycle, the Neelakurinji is also important for the region’s biodiversity. The plant’s habitat, the shola forests, is a critical ecosystem for several rare and endemic species of flora and fauna. The blooming of the Neelakurinji is an opportunity for visitors to witness the unique vegetation and wildlife of the region.

In conclusion, the Neelakurinji is a rare and beautiful shrub that blooms only once in twelve years. The plant’s blooming cycle has made it a popular attraction for tourists and nature enthusiasts. The plant’s habitat, the shola forests, is a critical ecosystem for several rare and endemic species of flora and fauna. A visit to the Eravikulam National Park
during the Neelakurinji blooming season is an opportunity to witness the region’s unique biodiversity and to experience the local culture.

Anamudi Peak

The Eravikulam National Park is home to the Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India, with an elevation of 2,695 meters (8,842 feet). The peak is an important attraction for tourists and trekkers and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The Anamudi Peak is also an important site for research and conservation.

The Anamudi Peak is located in the southern part of the Western Ghats, and its slopes are covered with evergreen forests and grasslands. The peak is an important habitat for several endemic species of flora and fauna, including the Nilgiri tahr, the grizzled giant squirrel, and the Nilgiri wood pigeon. The peak and its surroundings are also home to several rare and threatened species of plants and animals.

The Anamudi Peak is a popular destination for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts. The trek to the peak is challenging, and it requires a high level of physical fitness and experience. The trek takes visitors through dense forests, grasslands, and rocky terrain. The peak offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the tea estates and the plains below.

The Anamudi Peak is also an important site for research and conservation. The peak and its surrounding forests are critical ecosystems for several endemic species of flora and fauna. The park authorities and several conservation organizations are working to protect the park’s biodiversity and to ensure the sustainable development of the region.

In conclusion, the Anamudi Peak is an important attraction in the Eravikulam National Park. The peak is the highest peak in South India and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The peak and its surroundings are also critical ecosystems for several endemic species of flora and fauna. A trek to the peak is a challenging but rewarding experience and is an opportunity to witness the unique biodiversity of the region.

Best Time to Visit Eravikulam National Park

Seasonal Variations

The Eravikulam National Park, located in the southern Indian state of Kerala, experiences seasonal variations that affect the best time to visit the park. The park is located in the Western Ghats, a mountain range that runs parallel to the west coast of India, and the weather is influenced by the monsoon winds that blow over the region.

The best time to visit the Eravikulam National Park is from September to November and from April to June, which is the period when the weather is most favorable. During this time, the park is lush green and at its most picturesque, and visitors can witness the stunning beauty of the park’s flora and fauna.

During the winter months of December to February, the weather is cold and misty, and the park experiences heavy rainfall. This weather condition can sometimes make it difficult to access the park and can also affect the visibility of the flora and fauna.

The monsoon season from July to September brings heavy rainfall and high humidity to the park. Landslides and flooding are common during this time, and the park is usually closed for visitors due to safety concerns.

The best time to visit the Eravikulam National Park is during the months of September to November and from April to June, which is when the weather is mild, and the park is at its most picturesque. Visitors should avoid visiting during the monsoon season and the winter months when the park experiences heavy rainfall and misty conditions.

Monsoon Season

The monsoon season in the Eravikulam National Park, which lasts from July to September, can be a challenging time to visit due to the heavy rainfall and high humidity that the park experiences during this period. The park usually remains closed during this time, as the monsoon season brings a high risk of landslides and flooding, making it unsafe for visitors.

The monsoon season can also impact the visibility of the park’s flora and fauna, as the heavy rainfall and misty conditions can make it difficult to spot animals and appreciate the park’s natural beauty. However, for those who are willing to brave the weather conditions, the monsoon season can be an opportunity to witness the park’s lush greenery in full bloom, with the vibrant green hues of the forest and the misty clouds providing a unique atmosphere.

Visitors should be aware that during the monsoon season, some of the park’s popular activities, such as trekking and hiking, are not allowed due to safety concerns. However, the park’s scenic beauty can still be enjoyed from the designated viewpoints and safari tours that operate during this season.

In conclusion, while the monsoon season can be a challenging time to visit the Eravikulam National Park, it also provides a unique opportunity to witness the park’s lush greenery and experience a different atmosphere. Visitors should be aware of the safety concerns and restrictions during this season and plan their trip accordingly.

Winter Season

The winter season in Eravikulam National Park lasts from November to January and offers an ideal time to visit for those looking to explore the park’s flora and fauna without being hindered by the summer heat or monsoon rains. During the winter season, the park’s temperature ranges from a comfortable 10°C to 25°C, making it a pleasant time to explore the park’s trails and trekking routes.

One of the major attractions of the winter season is the blooming of the Neelakurinji flowers, which only blooms once every 12 years. The park’s hills and valleys transform into a beautiful shade of purple as the Neelakurinji flowers bloom, making it a popular time to visit for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

The winter season also provides an ideal time for wildlife sightings, as the animals venture out in search of food and water. Visitors can spot animals such as Nilgiri Tahr, Indian bison, and Sambar deer grazing in the park’s grasslands and forests.

It is important to note that the winter season is also a peak tourist season, and the park can get crowded during this time. Visitors should plan their trip in advance and book ccommodations and activities well ahead of time to avoid any inconvenience.

The winter season provides an ideal time to visit Eravikulam National Park, with pleasant weather conditions and unique attractions such as the blooming of the Neelakurinji flowers. Visitors should plan their trip in advance to avoid any inconvenience and make the most of
their experience.

How to Reach Eravikulam National Park

Eravikulam National Park is located in the Idukki district of Kerala and is easily accessible by road, rail, and air. Here’s how to reachEravikulam National Park:

By Road:

Eravikulam National Park is well connected by road to major cities in Kerala such as Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, and Kottayam. The park is located approximately 15 km from Munnar and can be reached by hiring a taxi or taking a bus. State-run buses also operate from major cities to Munnar.

By Rail:

The nearest railway station to Eravikulam National Park is Aluva Railway Station, which is approximately 120 km away. Another nearby railway station is the Ernakulam Junction, which is approximately 130 km away. From the railway station, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Munnar and then take a local taxi or bus to reach the park.

By Air:

The nearest airport to Eravikulam National Park is Cochin International Airport, which is approximately 110 km away. From the airport, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Munnar and then take a local taxi or bus to reach the park.

Once visitors reach the park, they can explore it on foot or take a guided tour. It is important to note that private vehicles are not allowed inside the park, and visitors are required to park their vehicles in the designated parking area and take a park vehicle to explore the park.

In conclusion, Eravikulam National Park is easily accessible by road, rail, and air, and visitors can choose the mode of transport that suits them best. Once visitors reach the park, they can explore it on foot or take a guided tour, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.

Accommodation Facilities in Eravikulam National Park

Forest Rest House

Eravikulam National Park is a popular tourist destination in Kerala, and there are several accommodation options available for visitors who wish to stay near the park. One of the most popular accommodation facilities is the Forest Rest House.

The Forest Rest House is located inside the park and offers visitors a unique opportunity to stay amidst the wilderness of the national park. The rest house is equipped with basic amenities such as comfortable beds, clean linen, and attached bathrooms. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic beauty of the park from the rest house, as it is situated amidst lush greenery and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

The Forest Rest House is a perfect option for those who wish to explore the park at their own pace and have a more immersive experience of the park’s flora and fauna. It is recommended that visitors make prior bookings for the Forest Rest House, as it is often fully booked, especially during the peak season.

Apart from the Forest Rest House, there are several other accommodation options available in the nearby town of Munnar, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts. Visitors can choose an option that suits their budget and preferences.

The Forest Rest House is a unique and popular accommodation option in Eravikulam National Park. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the park and have an immersive experience of the wilderness while staying at the Forest Rest House. However, visitors should make prior bookings to ensure availability.

Luxury Resorts

Eravikulam National Park in Kerala is a popular tourist destination, and there are several accommodation options available for visitors who wish to stay near the park. For those who want to enjoy the lush beauty of the park in a more luxurious setting, there are several high-end resorts in the vicinity.

The luxury resorts near the park offer top-notch amenities and services to guests, such as fine dining, swimming pools, spas, and recreational activities. Some resorts even offer guided nature walks and birdwatching tours in the park. The resorts are designed to provide guests with a comfortable and relaxing stay amidst the serene and picturesque natural
surroundings.

Some of the most popular luxury resorts near the park include the Windermere Estate, the Tea County Munnar, and the Club Mahindra Munnar. These resorts offer a wide range of accommodation options, including villas, cottages, and suites, to suit the preferences and budgets of guests.

However, it is worth noting that the luxury resorts tend to be more expensive than other accommodation options in the area. Visitors who want to stay at these resorts are advised to make reservations in advance to ensure availability, especially during the peak tourist season.

The luxury resorts near Eravikulam National Park offer visitors a comfortable and luxurious stay amidst the natural beauty of the park. While they may be more expensive than other accommodation options, they provide guests with an unforgettable experience of the park and the surrounding area.

Also checkout: Udumalpet to Munnar bus timings

Do’s and Don’ts at Eravikulam National Park

Eravikulam National Park is a protected area that is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. While visiting the park, it is important to follow certain rules and regulations to ensure the conservation of the ecosystem and the safety of visitors.

Do’s:

• Carry a valid entry ticket or permit to enter the park.
• Wear appropriate clothing and footwear for the terrain and weather conditions.
• Stay on designated trails and paths while exploring the park.
• Keep the park clean and avoid littering or disturbing the natural environment.
• Respect the wildlife and maintain a safe distance from animals to avoid disturbing them.
• Listen to and follow the instructions of the park rangers and guides.
• Bring a camera and capture the beautiful scenery and wildlife in the park.

Don’ts:

• Do not feed the animals or disturb their natural habitats.
• Do not carry plastic bags or other non-biodegradable materials into the park.
• Do not smoke or light fires in the park.
• Do not make loud noises or play loud music in the park, as it may disturb the wildlife and other visitors.
• Do not damage or remove any plants, rocks, or other natural resources in the park.
• Do not venture into restricted areas or zones that are off-limits to visitors.

By following these do’s and don’ts, visitors can ensure that they have a safe and enjoyable experience while also preserving the natural beauty and wildlife of Eravikulam National Park for future generations to enjoy.

Conclusion

Eravikulam National Park is an incredible destination to explore nature’s wonders. The park’s stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and rare flora and fauna make it an ideal destination for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. The park offers a range of
activities, including trekking, bird watching, and sightseeing. If you’re planning a visit to Kerala, make sure to include Eravikulam National Park in your itinerary.