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Introduction
Mathikettan Shola National Park in Kerala is one of India’s most celebrated national parks. Located in the Idukki (Poopara) district, Mathikettan Shola National Park is a crucial elephant corridor forest reserve in the Cardamom Hills.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| State | Kerala |
| Districts | Idukki (Poopara) |
| Year of Notification | 2003 |
| Total Area | 12.82 sq km |
| Landscape | Shola cloud forest, mountain ridges, and spice plantation surrounds. |
| Major Rivers & Waterbodies | Panniyar River tributaries |
| Nearest Airport | Cochin International Airport (COK) – 120 km / Madurai Airport – 110 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Kottayam Railway Station (KTYM) – 120 km / Bodinayakanur (35 km) |
| Best Time to Visit | November to March |
Location
The national park lies in the Idukki (Poopara) region of Kerala. On Kochi-Dhanushkodi Highway (NH-85) near Poopara.
History
Notified as a National Park in November 2003 to halt cardamom plantation encroachment and protect elephant corridors.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
Covering an expansive area of 12.82 sq km, the park’s terrain features Shola cloud forest, mountain ridges, and spice plantation surrounds.
Flora
Dominant vegetation and floral species include: Shola cloud forest, mountain ridges, and spice plantation surrounds.
Fauna
Primary Mammals & Key Species: Asian Elephant (vital elephant corridor connecting Periyar & Anamalai), Leopard, Gaur, Sambar, Flying Squirrel, and Sloth Bear.
Other Wild Animals & Wildlife
Avifauna & Bird Species: Kerala Laughingthrush, Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, Black-and-orange Flycatcher, Crimson Sunbird, and Malabar Grey Hornbill.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The lifeline of Mathikettan Shola National Park is sustained by: Panniyar River tributaries.
Other Attractions
Major nearby tourist attractions, historic monuments, and viewpoints include: Poopara Spice Gardens (5 km), Santhanpara (10 km), Munnar (35 km), Anayirangal Dam (12 km).
Weather & Climate
Cool climate (10°C to 24°C).
How to Reach
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (COK) – 120 km / Madurai Airport – 110 km
- Nearest Railway Station: Kottayam Railway Station (KTYM) – 120 km / Bodinayakanur (35 km)
- Road Connectivity: On Kochi-Dhanushkodi Highway (NH-85) near Poopara.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal tourism season for wildlife viewing in Mathikettan Shola National Park is from November to March.
Accommodation
Hotels in Poopara and Munnar.. Advance booking through official State Tourism or Forest Department portals is highly recommended.
Conservation Highlights
Vital ecological corridor for Asian Elephants moving between Periyar and Anamalai reserves.
Visitor Tips
Explore Cardamom plantation trails around Poopara and Santhanpara.
Did You Know?
- ‘Mathikettan’ in Tamil means ‘Mind-confusing’, referring to trails so dense travelers lose their way.
- Crucial elephant migratory bridge connecting Periyar Tiger Reserve with Anamalai.
- Rich in endemic Western Ghats flora, mosses, and medicinal orchids.
Last Updated: August 2026