Mathikettan Shola National Park - A Trekker's Guide

Idukki, KeralaWILDLIFE

Explore the unique shola grasslands and evergreen forests of this critical elephant corridor in Kerala's Idukki district, known for its guided treks.

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WILDLIFE

Info

Half day (3-4 hours)

Accessibility

Not Wheelchair Friendly

Parking

No Parking

Photography

No Photography

About the Destination

Overview

Mathikettan Shola National Park is a dense evergreen forest region located in the Idukki district of Kerala, part of the Western Ghats. The name 'Mathikettan' translates from Tamil to 'mind-confusing,' which hints at the maze-like trails that once baffled locals. The park is primarily a 'shola' ecosystem, a unique mix of high-altitude grasslands and pockets of stunted evergreen forests found in valleys. Visitors experience a walk through a thick canopy that keeps the forest floor cool and damp, with sunlight filtering through in patches. The park's main purpose is to protect the rich biodiversity and serve as a crucial wildlife corridor.

Contact Information

Website: www.forest.kerala.gov.in/

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Location & Address

Mathikettan Shola National Park, Pooppara P.O, Udumbanchola Taluk, Idukki District, Pooppara, Idukki, Kerala, India

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Best Time to Visit

The best period to visit is from September to March. During these months, the weather is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for trekking. The forest is vibrant and green following the monsoon. Avoid the heavy monsoon season from June to August, as trails become slippery and inaccessible. The summer months of April and May can be hot and dry, and the park sometimes closes due to the risk of forest fires. Winter (December-January) offers the most comfortable trekking conditions.
Peak Crowd: December-January, especially on weekends and public holidays, aligning with the main tourist season in Kerala.
Moderate Crowd: September-November and February-March, during weekdays.
Low Crowd: April-August, due to the hot summer and subsequent heavy monsoon rains.

How to Reach

Air

Cochin International Airport (COK) is the nearest major airport, about 140 km away (4-5 hours by car). Madurai Airport (IXM) in Tamil Nadu is also an option, located around 135 km away.

Train

The nearest major railway station is Aluva (AWY) in Kerala, approximately 140 km away. Theni Railway Station in Tamil Nadu is closer (about 55 km) but has limited connectivity.

Road

The park is accessible via the Munnar-Kumily road. It is about 35 km from Munnar and 65 km from Thekkady (Kumily). You can drive to Pooppara and then hire a local jeep to the park entrance. KSRTC buses run to Pooppara from major towns in Kerala.

Local Transport

From nearby towns like Pooppara or Santhanpara, the best way to reach the park entrance is by hiring a local jeep, as they are well-suited for the terrain. Taxis are also available but might be more expensive.

Food & Dining

Nearby restaurants near Mathikettan Shola National Park

No restaurants found nearby