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Introduction
Eravikulam National Park in Kerala is one of India’s most celebrated national parks. Located in the Idukki (Munnar) district, Eravikulam National Park at Rajamala near Munnar protects the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and South India’s highest peak, Anamudi (2,695 m).
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| State | Kerala |
| Districts | Idukki (Munnar) |
| Year of Notification | 1978 (UNESCO World Heritage Site) |
| Total Area | 97 sq km |
| Landscape | High-altitude rolling montane grasslands (Patana) interspersed with dense Shola stunted evergreen valleys. |
| Major Rivers & Waterbodies | Pambar River and Lakkom Waterfalls stream |
| Nearest Airport | Cochin International Airport (COK) – 120 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Aluva Railway Station (AWY) – 120 km / Pollachi (80 km) |
| Best Time to Visit | September to May (Park closed Feb-March for Tahr calving) |
Location
The national park lies in the Idukki (Munnar) region of Kerala. 15 km from Munnar town.
History
Formerly Rajamala game preserve of British tea planters; declared a Sanctuary in 1975 and National Park in March 1978.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
Covering an expansive area of 97 sq km, the park’s terrain features High-altitude rolling montane grasslands (Patana) interspersed with dense Shola stunted evergreen valleys.
Flora
Dominant vegetation and floral species include: High-altitude rolling montane grasslands (Patana) interspersed with dense Shola stunted evergreen valleys.
Fauna
Primary Mammals & Key Species: Nilgiri Tahr (largest surviving population – over 750 Tahrs), Golden Jackal, Leopard, Tiger, Gaur, Sambar Deer, Nilgiri Langur, and Atlas Moth.
Other Wild Animals & Wildlife
Avifauna & Bird Species: Nilgiri Pipit, Black-and-orange Flycatcher, Kerala Laughingthrush, Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, Crested Serpent Eagle, and Shaheen Falcon.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The lifeline of Eravikulam National Park is sustained by: Pambar River and Lakkom Waterfalls stream.
Other Attractions
Major nearby tourist attractions, historic monuments, and viewpoints include: Anamudi Peak (2,695 m highest peak in South India, 0 km), Rajamala Viewpoint (0 km), Lakkom Waterfalls (15 km), Munnar (15 km), Neelakurinji Bloom (once in 12 years).
Weather & Climate
Cool mountain climate (5°C to 20°C).
How to Reach
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (COK) – 120 km
- Nearest Railway Station: Aluva Railway Station (AWY) – 120 km / Pollachi (80 km)
- Road Connectivity: 15 km from Munnar town.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal tourism season for wildlife viewing in Eravikulam National Park is from September to May (Park closed Feb-March for Tahr calving).
Accommodation
KTDC Tea County Munnar, State Eco-lodges.. Advance booking through official State Tourism or Forest Department portals is highly recommended.
Conservation Highlights
World’s largest protected refuge for the endangered Nilgiri Tahr (mountain goat).
Visitor Tips
Book Rajamala safari bus tickets online in advance via Kerala Forest Department website.
Did You Know?
- Contains Anamudi Peak (2,695 meters), the highest mountain peak in India south of the Himalayas.
- Home to the world’s largest population of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.
- Famous for the spectacular Neelakurinji flower blooming once every 12 years.
Last Updated: August 2026