Eravikulam National Park - Home of the Nilgiri Tahr in Munnar

Munnar, KeralaWILDLIFE

A high-altitude national park in Munnar, famous for its rolling grasslands and as the protected home of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.

iHighlights

Info

WILDLIFE

Info

2-3 hours

Accessibility

Not Wheelchair Friendly

Parking

Parking Available

Photography

Photography Allowed

About the Destination

Overview

Eravikulam National Park is a protected area located along the Western Ghats in the Idukki district of Kerala. Spread over 97 square kilometers, its primary purpose is the conservation of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, a type of mountain goat. The park's landscape is characterized by high-altitude rolling grasslands interspersed with patches of shola forests in the valleys. Visitors are not allowed to take their private vehicles inside; instead, they are transported on park-operated minibuses from the entrance to a drop-off point. From there, a paved pathway allows for a walk of about a kilometer, offering expansive views of the surrounding hills and tea plantations. The main draw for visitors is the chance to see the Nilgiri Tahr at close quarters, as they are quite accustomed to human presence in this area. Anamudi, the highest peak in South India at 2,695 meters, is located within the park's core area but is not accessible to tourists. The park remains closed for about two months early in the year during the Tahr's calving season.

Contact Information

Phone: -236361

Why This Place is Special

• The largest population of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr
• Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India
• The rare Neelakurinji flower, which blooms once every 12 years
• High-altitude shola-grassland ecosystem
• Scenic minibus ride with views of tea gardens
• Habitat for endemic species of butterflies, birds, and amphibians
• Expansive views of the Western Ghats

Ideal For

Nature loversPhotographersFamiliesCouplesSolo travelersGroups

Facilities & Amenities

• Parking
• Restrooms
• Drinking water
• Cafeteria
• Souvenir shops
• Information center
• Seating areas
• First aid

Visitor Tips

• Book your tickets online well in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid very long queues at the counter.
• Visit on a weekday morning right at opening time for the best chance of seeing wildlife and experiencing fewer crowds.
• Carry a light jacket or shawl, as the weather at the top can be chilly and windy, even on a sunny day.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip for the inclined path after the bus journey.
• Bring binoculars and a zoom lens for your camera for better views of the Tahr and distant landscapes.
• The park is closed annually during the calving season, usually from February to March. Always check the official website for exact closure dates before planning your trip.
• Plastic is strictly banned inside. Carry water in a reusable bottle.
• The last part of the visit involves a walk, so it may be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Rules & Restrictions

• No private vehicles are allowed inside the tourist zone.
• Plastic bottles and bags are strictly prohibited.
• Do not feed or disturb the wildlife, especially the Nilgiri Tahr.
• Visitors must stay on the designated pathways.
• No smoking or consumption of alcohol.
• Littering is a punishable offense.

Safety Information

• Always stay on the designated trail. The terrain off the path is steep and can be dangerous.
• Do not attempt to touch or get too close to the Nilgiri Tahr. They are wild animals and their behavior can be unpredictable.
• The weather can change rapidly from sunny to misty and rainy. Be prepared with appropriate clothing.
• Mobile phone reception is weak to non-existent inside the park.
• Keep a firm hold on children as the path has steep drops on one side.
• Be cautious while walking as the paved path can be slippery, especially after rain.
• Carry any necessary personal medications, as medical facilities are basic.

Discover Events in Munnar

Explore upcoming events, concerts, expos and experiences near you

Loading events...

Location & Address

The Wildlife Warden, Munnar PO, Idukki District, Rajamalai, Munnar, Kerala, India

View on map

Best Time to Visit

The best period to visit is from September to January. During these months, the monsoon has ended, leaving the hills green and vibrant. The weather is cool and pleasant, ideal for walking and sightseeing. Avoid the heavy monsoon season from June to August. Also, the park remains closed to visitors during the calving season of the Nilgiri Tahr, which typically falls between February and March each year. Always verify the exact dates of closure before planning.
Peak Crowd: December-January and April-May, coinciding with school vacations and holiday season. Weekends throughout the year are also very crowded.
Moderate Crowd: September-November and weekdays during the tourist season.
Low Crowd: The park is generally closed during the typical 'low' season for tourism (heavy monsoon or calving period). Weekday mornings just after the park reopens post-monsoon are relatively quiet.

How to Reach

Air

Cochin International Airport (COK) is the nearest airport, located about 120 km away. It takes approximately 3-4 hours to reach Munnar by taxi from the airport.

Train

The nearest major railway station is Aluva (AWY), about 120 km away, or Ernakulam Junction (ERS) in Kochi, about 130 km away. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from the station to Munnar.

Road

Munnar is well-connected by road to major cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. The park is located on the Munnar-Udumalpet road. Regular government and private buses run from cities like Kochi, Kottayam, and Madurai to Munnar.

Local Transport

From Munnar town, the park entrance is about 8 km away. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available for hire. Some local buses heading towards Marayoor or Udumalpet also stop near the entrance.