Eravikulam National Park

Eravikulam National Park, also known as the Rajamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, is one of the most important wildlife habitats in Kerala. It was originally managed as a game reserve but today stands as a protected national park known for its rich biodiversity. Many Kerala tour packages include a visit here because it offers a rare chance to see wildlife, rolling grasslands, and the famous Shola forest landscape in one place.

The park is home to an incredible variety of species, including 132 types of birds, 19 amphibians, 26 mammals, 101 butterflies, and 20 species of orchids. Some of the notable wildlife you may spot are the Nilgiri langur, small-clawed otter, Nilgiri marten, lion-tailed macaque, the giant Atlas moth, and even rare leopard varieties.

Bird lovers will especially enjoy this place, as it is known for species like the Black-and-Orange Flycatcher, Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, Kerala Laughing Thrush, White-Bellied Shortwing, and Nilgiri Verditer Flycatcher. One of the biggest highlights of the park is the Nilgiri Tahr, an endangered mountain goat found only in this region.

Apart from wildlife, the park is loved for its rolling grasslands, cool climate, and panoramic viewpoints. Visitors can also join eco-tourism programs that introduce them to the park’s natural attractions, guided walks, and conservation efforts. Educational camps are held regularly to help youngsters understand wildlife and environmental protection.

Before leaving, make sure to visit Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in Kerala, which stands within the boundaries of the national park and offers breathtaking views.

The period between September to October (end of monsoons) and then from April to May (summer) is the best time to plan your visit to Eravikulam National Park. This is the ideal period to spot the Nilgiri Tahr and the full-blooming grasslands. The presence of the lush green meadows presents a delightful sight to experience the fantastic nature walk trails. Apart from this, here’s a season-wise break sheet for the Eravikulam National Park –

1.Summers – Kerala experiences its summer period from March to May, where you can spot a plethora of indigenous animals here.

2. Monsoons – The period between June to August is the rainy season here in Kerala. The early showers further adds-on to the beauty of this National Park. However, during the peak monsoon period, the park may be restricted for the visitor entry.

3. Winters – Late October till the end of February marks the winter season of Kerala. The whole environment will give you a feel as if walking underneath a cloudy blanket and trespassing the lush green grassland covers. However, if the atmosphere turns out to be mistier, it might obstruct your ease of spotting the Nilgiri Tahr here.

History of Eravikulam National Park –

Eravikulam National Park is located at a distance of 13.2 km from the city center of Munnar. If you opt to travel via the Eravikulam National Park Road and Udumalpet Road, you will get to your final destination within 32 minutes. Here’s a quick road map for you to travel at ease – 

Via Udumalpet Road and Eravikulam National Park Road – 

-  Head towards west from the Munnar Top Station Highway to the Munnar Colony Road. 
- Now, take a sharp right turn on NH85. 
- Again, take a right turn towards Munnar-Udumalpet Road .
- Take a sharp left to stay on the Eravikulam National Park Road. 

Via Munnar – Udumalpet Road –

- Head in the east direction to stay on the Munnar Top Station Highway. 
- Take a left turn followed by a right turn.
- Take a right turn followed by a right turn to stay on the Munnar Udumalpet Road.
- Now, take a sharp left turn to stay on the Eravikulam National Park Road.