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Srivilliputhur Megamalai Tiger Reserve
Introduction
Srivilliputhur–Megamalai Tiger Reserve in Tamil Nadu was notified in 2021 as India’s 51st Tiger Reserve. Stretching across the southern Western Ghats, it links the Periyar landscape with Kalakkad–Mundanthurai and supports one of the country’s richest biodiversity hotspots. The reserve is known for evergreen forests, shola–grassland ecosystems, endemic wildlife and vital watershed functions.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
| State | Tamil Nadu |
| Districts | Virudhunagar, Theni, Madurai and Tenkasi |
| Tiger Reserve Notification | 2021 |
| Total Area | 1,016.57 sq km |
| Core Area | 641.86 sq km |
| Buffer Area | 374.71 sq km |
| Landscape | Southern Western Ghats |
| Forest Types | Tropical Evergreen, Semi-evergreen, Moist & Dry Deciduous, Shola-Grassland |
| Major Rivers | Vaigai catchment, Periyar tributaries and hill streams |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
Location
The reserve spans the southern Western Ghats across Virudhunagar, Theni, Madurai and Tenkasi districts of Tamil Nadu.
History
Created in 2021, the reserve merged the Srivilliputhur Grizzled Giant Squirrel Sanctuary with the Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuary under Project Tiger, strengthening landscape-level conservation.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
Covering 1,016.57 sq km, including 641.86 sq km of core and 374.71 sq km of buffer, the reserve contains rugged mountains, evergreen forests, shola-grasslands, tea-growing highlands and numerous perennial streams.
Flora
Vegetation includes evergreen forests with Cullenia, Mesua, Palaquium, wild nutmeg, bamboo, orchids, medicinal plants and montane shola species.
Fauna
The reserve supports Bengal Tiger, Asian Elephant, Leopard, Dhole, Sloth Bear, Gaur, Nilgiri Tahr, Grizzled Giant Squirrel, Lion-tailed Macaque, Sambar, Mouse Deer, Nilgiri Langur and more than 250 bird species.
Rivers & Water Bodies
Numerous streams feeding the Vaigai basin and Periyar catchment originate within the reserve, making it an important watershed.
Other Attractions
Megamalai hills, scenic viewpoints, waterfalls, birdwatching and rich endemic biodiversity attract nature enthusiasts.
Weather & Climate
The climate ranges from warm in the foothills to cool in the higher elevations. The reserve receives both southwest and northeast monsoon rainfall.
How to Reach
Nearest airports: Madurai and Thoothukudi. Nearest railway stations: Madurai, Rajapalayam and Theni. Good road access is available from Madurai and Theni.
Best Time to Visit
October to March provides the most comfortable conditions for ecotourism.
Accommodation
Forest Department rest houses and Tamil Nadu Tourism accommodation are available at authorised locations, subject to advance booking.
Conservation Highlights
The reserve secures a key wildlife corridor in the southern Western Ghats and protects globally important habitats for tigers, elephants and many endemic species.
Visitor Tips
Obtain permits where required, wear subdued colours, avoid littering and follow Forest Department guidelines.
Did You Know?
• Notified as India’s 51st Tiger Reserve in 2021.
• It protects the habitat of the endangered Grizzled Giant Squirrel and Lion-tailed Macaque.
• It forms an important link in the southern Western Ghats tiger landscape.
Last Updated
July 2026