Eravikulam National Park is a protected area located in the Idduki district of Kerala, India, near the town of Munnar. It is renowned for its biodiversity, picturesque landscapes, and as the habitat of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, a rare species of mountain goat.
Eravikulam National Park is accessible from Munnar, which is well-connected by road to major cities in Kerala. The nearest airports are Cochin International Airport (about 150 km away) and Madurai International Airport (about 175 km away). From Munnar, local taxis and buses can take you to the park.
The best time to visit Eravikulam National Park is from September to November and from April to June when the weather is mild, and the park is open to visitors. The park remains closed during the monsoon months for the breeding season of Nilgiri Tahrs, usually from February to early April.
Yes, there are entry fees for visitors to Eravikulam National Park. The fees may vary for domestic and foreign tourists, with additional charges for camera usage. It's advisable to check the latest fee structure and booking procedures on the official Kerala Forest Department website or at the park entrance.
The most prominent attraction is the Nilgiri Tahr, an endemic species of the Western Ghats. Other wildlife includes Indian bison, tigers, leopards, Indian muntjac, sambar deer, golden jackal, and a rich diversity of birds, butterflies, and other insects.
Guided tours are often available and can be booked at the park entrance or through a tour operator in Munnar. Visitors are generally required to join a park-sanctioned vehicle tour to visit certain areas, such as the popular Rajamalai region, to protect the park's environment and wildlife.
Visitors can enjoy guided treks, wildlife watching, and photography. The park also offers a spectacular view of the tea plantations and the rolling hills draped in shola forests. Please note that activities are regulated to ensure minimal impact on the park's ecosystem.
The park has basic facilities including restrooms, a visitor information center, and a small snack shop. There are no accommodation facilities inside the park, but Munnar has a range of hotels and resorts.
Tourists should follow the park's rules, which include no littering, no feeding wildlife, sticking to designated paths, not disturbing the animals, and keeping noise to a minimum. Photography may be restricted in some areas. Always follow the instructions of park rangers and guides.
No, overnight stays are not allowed inside Eravikulam National Park to ensure the protection of wildlife and their habitat. However, there are various accommodation options in and around Munnar, which is close to the park.
