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Mathikettan Shola National Park, located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, India, is renowned for its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystem. It offers a serene environment, perfect for nature enthusiasts and trekkers. The park is home to various endangered species of flora and fauna, making it a significant conservation area. Visitors can enjoy trekking, bird watching, and experiencing the lush greenery. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat amidst nature.
Quick Details About Mathikettan Shola National Park
Best Time To Visit Mathikettan Shola National Park: April – September
Mathikettan Shola National Park Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Where To Stay: Spice Villas Holiday Munnar, Chill Berg Resort-Bodimettu, Avondale Munnar, Rajappara Estate
Where To Eat: Sagar Ratna, Three Tuns Cafe and Bar, Mister Veg, Bites and Brew, Haldirams
Mathikettan Shola National Park Ticket Price: ₹40
About
Photo credit: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
Mathikettan Shola Park was established in the Idukki district of Kerala in 2003. The park is protected under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, focusing on reducing illegal activities like poaching and logging. It is considered one of the world’s eight “hottest hotspots.” The park is vital for water resources; supporting the hydrological cycle ensures the survival of numerous rivers and streams, which are critical for ecosystems and human populations.
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How To Reach
Photo credit: Johannes Plenio / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Tourists can reach Mathikettan Shola Park through various modes of transportation, like airways, railways, and roadways.
By Air: 150 kilometres from Cochin International Airport (COK) via taxi or bus.
By Rail: 130 kilometres from Kottayam railway station via taxi or bus.
By Road
From Kochi (Cochin): 150 kilometres from Kochi, accessible via NH85, which takes 4-5 hours to drive.
From Munnar: Munnar is 35 kilometres away and can be reached via a taxi or local bus, taking 1-2 hours.
Things To Do
Mathikettan Shola Park provides a serene environment for nature enthusiasts, offering adventure, learning, and relaxation opportunities.
1. Trekking and Hiking
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The park offers diverse hiking trails through forests, streams, and meadows for an immersive nature experience. You can hire a local guide for an informative trek.
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2. Wildlife Spotting
Photo credit: Nam Anh / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The park boasts diverse wildlife, including elephants, gaurs, Nilgiri tahr, leopards, deer, and endemic species like the Nilgiri wood pigeon and white-bellied shortwing. Wildlife spotting is most effective in the early morning and late evening due to the increased activity of animals during these periods.
3. Bird Watching
Photo credit: Sid Balachandran / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
You can see rare and endemic species like the Rufous babbler, white-bellied blue robin, and black-and-orange flycatcher. You can use binoculars to watch birds. The melodious chirping of birds and the delightful ambience make this a delightful experience.
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4. Nature Photography
Photo credit: Christian Wiediger / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The park’s dense forests and rolling hills provide excellent photography opportunities, particularly for macro photography.
5. Botanical Exploration
Photo credit: Fabien BELLANGER / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The park boasts diverse endemic plant species, including rare orchids and medicinal plants, making it an educational and fascinating destination to explore. The park is great for botanists and researchers who are eager to study plant species.
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Places To Visit Around
Apart from visiting Mathikettan Shola Park, you can also explore other places that offer a beautiful natural environment with diverse flora and fauna.
1. Munnar
Photo credit: Arshad.ka5 / Wikimedia Commons
Munnar spans over 350 square kilometres, also known as the “Kashmir of Kerala” is a popular hill station in Kerala. It is best known for its tea gardens, refreshing climate, and picturesque landscapes. It is a popular destination for its natural beauty and romantic ambience. Tourists can watch Nilgiri marten, Nilgiri langur, and the Nilgiri tahr, a mountainous goat. Key attractions include the Tata Tea Museum, Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, and Eravikulam National Park.
Things To Do: Visit the Tea Garden; Rock Climbing; Jeep Safari; Spice plantation
2. Kolukkumalai Tea Estate
Photo credit: niraksharan / Wikimedia Commons
Kolukkumalai is famous for having the world’s highest tea plantation, with an elevation of 7900 feet above sea level. It provides stunning views of hills and valleys, promising a beautiful sunrise overlooking the Palani Hills. The tea factory at Kolukkumalai, established in the 1930s, still follows a traditional method: leaves are handpicked, processed, and manually packed for distribution. The journey to Kolukkumalai itself is an adventure involving a rugged jeep ride.
Things To Do: Kolukkumalai Jeep safari- Tea Trail, and the Off-road Adventures
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3. Anamudi Peak
Photo credit: Mdmadhu / Wikimedia Commons
Anamudi, South India’s highest peak in the Western Ghats, is situated in Eravikulam National Park. With an elevation of 2,695 metres and a topographic prominence of 2,479 metres, the peak is not exceptionally steep but a fault-block mountain. Nestled among the Nilgiri mountain range, it provides great trekking routes and breathtaking views. It is home to Asian Elephants, Gaurs, Bengal Tigers, Amphibians, and unique Raorchestes, with lush vegetation at its summit.
Things To Do: Trek the Peak, Enjoy the Safari
4. Top Station
Photo credit: Sajith Erattupetta / Wikimedia Commons
From Mathikettan Shola, you can see breathtaking panoramic views of the Western Ghats and the surrounding valley stretching over 32 kilometres. With an elevation of 1,880 metres, heaven for campers, hikers and trekkers. A trip to the top station allows you to visit Palani Hills Wildlife Sanctuary. Visiting the top station almost feels like being among the clouds. The destination is famous for the Neelakurinji flowers (Strobilanthes), which bloom once in 12 years.
Things To Do: Ideal for Camping, Hiking, and Trekking
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Other Factors To Consider
Photo credit: Kelly Sikkema / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Tips For Travellers
- Check the weather forecast before you go out.
- Dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes for hiking.
- Consider a guided tour to learn more about the park’s flora and fauna.
- Observe animals from a safe distance and avoid disturbing them..
- well-equipped binoculars and a zoom-lens camera to capture the picturesque view.
- If needed, carry your backpack with sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, and medicine..
- Keep emergency numbers handy in case of any unforeseen situations.
Mathikettan Shola National Park allows visitors to explore a pristine environment with unique flora and fauna, making it a great destination for nature lovers and hikers. For those interested in exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations or enjoying the tranquillity of nature, this park is worth a visit. Tourists can also explore and enjoy stunning views and activities along with the park. Plan a memorable trip to this beautiful place with TripXL now!
Cover Photo: Vinay Robin Antony / Wikimedia Commons
