Home | INFORMATION | Tiger Reserves | Other National Parks | Wildlife Sanctuaries | Bird Sanctuaries | Elephant Reserves | Endangered Species
Kalakad-Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve
Introduction
Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve (KMTR), situated in the southern Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu, was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1988, becoming Tamil Nadu’s first Tiger Reserve. The reserve is part of the Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve, a global biodiversity hotspot renowned for its exceptional levels of endemism and watershed value.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
| State | Tamil Nadu |
| Districts | Tirunelveli and Tenkasi |
| Tiger Reserve Notification | 1988 |
| Total Area | 1,601.54 sq km |
| Core Area | 895.00 sq km |
| Buffer Area | 706.54 sq km |
| Landscape | Southern Western Ghats (Agasthyamalai Hills) |
| Forest Types | Tropical Evergreen, Semi-evergreen, Moist Deciduous, Dry Deciduous, Shola and Montane Grasslands |
| Major Rivers | Tamiraparani, Karayar, Servalar and Manimuthar |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
Location
The reserve spans Tirunelveli and Tenkasi districts in southern Tamil Nadu along the Kerala border.
History
Formed by merging Kalakad Wildlife Sanctuary and Mundanthurai Wildlife Sanctuary, KMTR became a Tiger Reserve in 1988 and is one of India’s earliest Project Tiger landscapes in the Western Ghats.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
The reserve extends from lowland forests to peaks above 1,800 metres, encompassing evergreen forests, sholas, montane grasslands, river valleys and numerous reservoirs.
Flora
The reserve supports teak, rosewood, mesua, wild jack, cane, bamboo, orchids, medicinal plants and many endemic Western Ghats tree species.
Fauna
Important wildlife includes Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Asian Elephant, Dhole, Sloth Bear, Gaur, Sambar, Nilgiri Tahr, Nilgiri Langur, Lion-tailed Macaque, Malabar Giant Squirrel, King Cobra, Great Hornbill and hundreds of bird, reptile and amphibian species.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The Tamiraparani River originates in these hills. Major reservoirs include Karayar, Servalar and Manimuthar, which are vital for wildlife and water security.
Other Attractions
Agasthyamalai landscape, Manimuthar Falls, Karayar Dam, birdwatching, trekking (where permitted) and rich butterfly diversity attract visitors.
Weather & Climate
The reserve experiences a tropical climate with heavy southwest and northeast monsoon rainfall. Winters are pleasant while higher elevations remain cool throughout the year.
How to Reach
Nearest airport: Tuticorin and Madurai. Nearest railway stations: Tirunelveli and Ambasamudram. The reserve is well connected by road from Tirunelveli.
Best Time to Visit
October to March is considered the best season for wildlife viewing and nature tourism.
Accommodation
Forest Department rest houses and Tamil Nadu Forest Department eco-tourism facilities are available at designated locations with prior permission and booking.
Conservation Highlights
KMTR safeguards the Agasthyamalai landscape, protects the catchments of the Tamiraparani River and conserves numerous endemic and threatened species through habitat management, scientific monitoring and anti-poaching efforts.
Visitor Tips
Obtain necessary permits, wear muted clothing, avoid plastic waste and strictly follow Forest Department regulations.
Did You Know?
• KMTR was Tamil Nadu’s first Tiger Reserve.
• It forms part of the Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-recognised biodiversity hotspot.
• The Tamiraparani River originates within this protected landscape.
Last Updated
July 2026