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Introduction
Mudumalai National Park in Tamil Nadu is one of India’s most celebrated national parks. Located in the Nilgiris (Gudalur) district, Mudumalai National Park in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is one of South India’s oldest and most famous tiger and elephant reserves.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| State | Tamil Nadu |
| Districts | Nilgiris (Gudalur) |
| Year of Notification | 1990 (National Park & Tiger Reserve 2007) |
| Total Area | 103.23 sq km core (321 sq km Tiger Reserve) |
| Landscape | Moist deciduous forest, dry teak woodland, bamboo thickets, and Moyar river gorge. |
| Major Rivers & Waterbodies | Moyar River (carving Moyar River Canyon) and Pykara River |
| Nearest Airport | Coimbatore International Airport (CJB) – 160 km / Mysore Airport – 90 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Udhagamandalam Ooty (UAM) – 45 km / Mysore Junction – 90 km |
| Best Time to Visit | October to May |
Location
The national park lies in the Nilgiris (Gudalur) region of Tamil Nadu. On Mysore-Ooty Highway (NH-766) at Theppakadu.
History
Established as a Sanctuary in 1940; declared a National Park in 1990 and Tiger Reserve in 2007.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
Covering an expansive area of 103.23 sq km core (321 sq km Tiger Reserve), the park’s terrain features Moist deciduous forest, dry teak woodland, bamboo thickets, and Moyar river gorge.
Flora
Dominant vegetation and floral species include: Moist deciduous forest, dry teak woodland, bamboo thickets, and Moyar river gorge.
Fauna
Primary Mammals & Key Species: Asian Elephant (massive elephant herds), Royal Bengal Tiger, Indian Leopard, Gaur (Bison), Sloth Bear, Chital, Sambar, Dhole (Wild Dog), and Striped Hyena.
Other Wild Animals & Wildlife
Avifauna & Bird Species: Malabar Grey Hornbill, Crested Hawk-Eagle, Crested Serpent Eagle, Malabar Whistling Thrush, Emerald Dove, Indian Vulture, and Peacock.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The lifeline of Mudumalai National Park is sustained by: Moyar River (carving Moyar River Canyon) and Pykara River.
Other Attractions
Major nearby tourist attractions, historic monuments, and viewpoints include: Theppakadu Elephant Camp (Oscars movie ‘The Elephant Whisperers’ site, 0 km), Ooty Hill Station (45 km), Bandipur NP (contiguous border 5 km), Wayanad (40 km).
Weather & Climate
Pleasant climate (14°C to 30°C).
How to Reach
- Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport (CJB) – 160 km / Mysore Airport – 90 km
- Nearest Railway Station: Udhagamandalam Ooty (UAM) – 45 km / Mysore Junction – 90 km
- Road Connectivity: On Mysore-Ooty Highway (NH-766) at Theppakadu.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal tourism season for wildlife viewing in Mudumalai National Park is from October to May.
Accommodation
Tamil Nadu Forest Department Eco-lodges at Theppakadu & Abhayaranyam.. Advance booking through official State Tourism or Forest Department portals is highly recommended.
Conservation Highlights
Home to Theppakadu Elephant Camp, featured in the Oscar-winning documentary ‘The Elephant Whisperers’.
Visitor Tips
Visit Theppakadu Elephant Camp during evening feeding time at 5:30 PM.
Did You Know?
- Home to the iconic 100-year-old Theppakadu Elephant Camp featured in Oscar-winning ‘The Elephant Whisperers’.
- Formed as South India’s FIRST wildlife sanctuary in 1940.
- Forms a contiguous tri-state wilderness with Bandipur (Karnataka) and Wayanad (Kerala).
Last Updated: August 2026