10 FAQS on Anamalai Tiger Reserve (Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary)
Anamalai Tiger Reserve, also known as Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park, is a protected area located in the Anamalai Hills of Western Ghats, in Coimbatore District, Tamil Nadu, India. It is named after the former Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi, and was established with the primary objective of tiger conservation.
The best time to visit Anamalai Tiger Reserve is from December to April when the weather is pleasant, and the chances of spotting wildlife are higher. The monsoon season from June to September is usually avoided by tourists due to heavy rains and the potential for landslides.
Anamalai Tiger Reserve is home to a rich variety of flora including tropical evergreen forests, moist deciduous forests, and shola grasslands. As for fauna, it houses the Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, Indian elephant, gaur, sloth bear, and a wide range of primates, reptiles, amphibians, and birds, including the endangered Great Indian Hornbill.
Yes, Anamalai Tiger Reserve offers safari tours that allow visitors to explore the wildlife sanctuary in jeeps accompanied by trained guides. These safaris have to be booked in advance and are subject to availability and weather conditions.
Tourists at Anamalai Tiger Reserve can engage in various activities like wildlife safaris, bird watching, trekking, nature walks, and photography. The reserve also offers some educational programs about wildlife conservation.
Yes, there are a few forest rest houses and guest houses available within the Anamalai Tiger Reserve. These need to be booked in advance through the Tamil Nadu Forest Department. Further, there are several accommodation options ranging from budget hotels to luxury resorts located near the reserve.
The entry fees for Anamalai Tiger Reserve vary for Indian nationals and foreigners, and additional charges may apply for camera usage and guided tours. The reserve is typically open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but it is recommended to check the latest timings and fees from the official website or local authorities before planning a visit.
Yes, visitors need to obtain prior permission from the Tamil Nadu Forest Department to enter the Anamalai Tiger Reserve. It is advisable to make arrangements well in advance to ensure a smooth visit.
Anamalai Tiger Reserve is accessible from Coimbatore, which is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The nearest airport is Coimbatore International Airport, and the nearest railway station is Pollachi. From Coimbatore or Pollachi, visitors can hire taxis or use public transportation to reach the reserve.
Tourists are expected to follow the guidelines set by the forest department, which include staying on designated trails, not littering, and maintaining a safe distance from wildlife. It is important to respect the natural habitat and adhere to all rules and regulations to ensure safety and conservation of the wildlife.
