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Introduction
Mukurthi National Park in Tamil Nadu is one of India’s most celebrated national parks. Located in the Nilgiris (Ooty) district, Mukurthi National Park in the High Nilgiris preserves high-altitude montane shola-grasslands specifically for the Nilgiri Tahr.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| State | Tamil Nadu |
| Districts | Nilgiris (Ooty) |
| Year of Notification | 1990 (UNESCO World Heritage Site) |
| Total Area | 78.46 sq km |
| Landscape | High altitude rolling grasslands, shola stunted evergreen forest pockets, and Mukurthi peak cliff. |
| Major Rivers & Waterbodies | Pykara River, Mukurthi Reservoir, and Kundah River streams |
| Nearest Airport | Coimbatore International Airport (CJB) – 140 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Udhagamandalam Ooty (UAM) – 30 km |
| Best Time to Visit | February to May / September to November |
Location
The national park lies in the Nilgiris (Ooty) region of Tamil Nadu. 30 km from Ooty town via Bangitappal route.
History
Notified as a Sanctuary in 1980, National Park in December 1990, and UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
Covering an expansive area of 78.46 sq km, the park’s terrain features High altitude rolling grasslands, shola stunted evergreen forest pockets, and Mukurthi peak cliff.
Flora
Dominant vegetation and floral species include: High altitude rolling grasslands, shola stunted evergreen forest pockets, and Mukurthi peak cliff.
Fauna
Primary Mammals & Key Species: Nilgiri Tahr (primary protected habitat), Royal Bengal Tiger, Indian Leopard, Nilgiri Marten, Asian Elephant, Sambar Deer, and Barking Deer.
Other Wild Animals & Wildlife
Avifauna & Bird Species: Nilgiri Pipit, Black-and-orange Flycatcher, Nilgiri Laughingthrush, Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, and Crested Eagle.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The lifeline of Mukurthi National Park is sustained by: Pykara River, Mukurthi Reservoir, and Kundah River streams.
Other Attractions
Major nearby tourist attractions, historic monuments, and viewpoints include: Mukurthi Peak (2,554 m, 0 km), Pykara Waterfalls (20 km), Ooty Lake (30 km), Avalanche Lake (15 km).
Weather & Climate
Cold mountain climate (0°C to 18°C) with heavy monsoons.
How to Reach
- Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport (CJB) – 140 km
- Nearest Railway Station: Udhagamandalam Ooty (UAM) – 30 km
- Road Connectivity: 30 km from Ooty town via Bangitappal route.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal tourism season for wildlife viewing in Mukurthi National Park is from February to May / September to November.
Accommodation
Forest Department Rest House Bangitappal & Ooty.. Advance booking through official State Tourism or Forest Department portals is highly recommended.
Conservation Highlights
Created specifically for the protection of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.
Visitor Tips
Obtain trekking permits from the Wildlife Warden Office in Ooty.
Did You Know?
- Created specifically to safeguard the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.
- Contains Mukurthi Peak (2,554 meters), shaped like a pointed nose (‘Mukurthi’).
- Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the Western Ghats cluster.
Last Updated: August 2026