This article is all about Eravikulam National Park, wildlife in Eravikulam National Park, Nilgiri Thars, Neelakkurinji etc.
Eravikulam National Park
Eravikulam National park is an exotic ecosystem made up of beautiful grasslands and shade forests. This Park is a famous for Nilgiri Tahr which is facing the stage of extinction. This information is not enough to describe this charming ecosystem. Anamudi, which is the biggest mountain peak in South India, is a part of this natural park. The exclusive Neelakkurinji flowers which blooms once in 12 years is seen on the valleys of this park. The place is about 6000 feet above sea level and has a weather ranging from 7 to 27 Degree Celsius. The climate is a combination of Temperate zone and Tropical zone climate. The monsoon is in the months of June, July and August. The area of this park is 97sq km surrounding Anamudi. The place was declared as a national park in 1978.
Where is Eravikulam National Park
Eravikulam National Park is situated in Idukki district of Kerala. The place is about 15 kms away from Munnar, which is a famous hill station. The park is located in higher altitudes of Sahyadri (Western Ghats). It is in 90 degree 40 minute latitude and 77 degree 20 minutes longitude.
Important Dates in the History of Eravikulam
1975- Eravikulam- Rajamalli was declared as a Wildlife Sanctuary
1978- The Sanctuary was declared as a National Park
Attractions in Eravikulam National Park
The National Park is known as the home of Nilgiri Thars. There are the rare species of deers in the world which are in a threat of distinction. The main objective behind the establishment of this national park itself was to protect these Nilgiri Thars. The specialty here is that, we are able to see these Thars in close vicinity. Not only Nigiri Thars, The Park is also a habitat for elephants, langur, marten, tigers, leopards etc. Some of the endangered species of animals like hill goat can also be seen here.
The place is also known for its exotic flora. The green lush grasslands hold the majority. These grasslands are termed as ‘climax' grasslands by the scientists for its extensive beauty. This is also a calm place from the noises of the city. The scenic beauty of this park is a real feast to our eyes.
There are some rare flowers like Neelakkurinji which blooms only after 12 years residing the park. The flower was bloomed lastly in 2006 and the tourists are still waiting for 2018 to see that wonder again. We can also see many other flowers like Orchids. These flowers offer a perfect dwelling place for the birds. The commonly seen birds here include Nilgiri wood pigeon, Laughing Thrush, White Bellied Shortwing etc.
The park also offers trekking trails. The tourists can trek to Munnar from Eravikulam through the forest. It needs special permission from the tourist authorities. So the park is also an ideal place who loves adventure.
How to Reach Eravikulam National Park
The nearest railway station available to Eravikulam is Kottayam and Eranakulam. The place is about 142 kms from Kottayam and 130 kms from Eranakulam. The nearest airport is Madhura Airport in Tamilnadu and Cochin Airport in Kerala. The place is about 135 kms from Cochin International Airport. For those who coming via Munnar, it is only 13 kms. Many tourist cars and buses are available from different parts of Kerala to Eravikulam National Park.
Contact Information
DTPC Information Centre: Ph- 04865 231516
For communication:
The Wildlife Warden
Munnar PO, Idukki Dist.
Kerala, India.
PIN:685 612
Tel: 91-4865-231587
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