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Eravikulam National Park, situated in the Idukki district of Kerala, is a popular wildlife sanctuary with great biodiversity and exceptional natural beauty. This park is also known as Rajamalai National Park. Sprawling over an area of 97 square kilometres, it is a home to many species of flora and fauna, including the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. It gives a breathtaking overview of the Wilkinson range of Western Ghats from its viewpoints, making it one of the most visited destinations in Kerala.
Quick Details About Eravikulam National Park
Elevation: About 2,000 metres above sea level
Timings: 7:30 AM – 4 PM
Best Time To Visit: September to March
Location
Photo: Matthieu Aubry / Wikimedia Commons
Eravikulam National Park is situated in the Idukki district of Kerala, about 15 kilometres from Munnar. The park lies inside one of the UNESCO rated sites on the World Heritage list for its extremely high biodiversity value—the Western Ghats. Nestled at an altitude of about 2,000 metres, this attraction offers breathtaking views of rolling hills and green valleys, thus making it a picture-perfect place for vacation.
Suggested Read: Trekking In Kerala
How To Reach Eravikulam National Park
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By Road: You can reach the national park from major cities like Kochi, which is 135 kilometres away or hire a taxi from Munnar, which is only 15 kilometres away.
By Bus: Frequent bus services are available from Munnar itself to the park. The nearest bus stop is Rajamalai, from where you can get an auto-rickshaw or taxi to the park entrance.
By Train: The nearest train station is Aluva, about 120 kilometres away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Munnar in order to proceed to the park.
By Air: The closest airport is Cochin International Airport, located about 130 kilometres away. You can hire a taxi from the airport or take public transport to the park
Things To Do In Eravikulam National Park
1. Wildlife Encounters
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This park is home to endangered species of Nilgiri Tahr, elephant, leopard, and many birds and butterfly species. So, here you can enjoy animal spotting of these wildlife forms in their natural habitat. The park has different ecosystems, thus fostering a great variety of flora and fauna, making it a perfect place to indulge in if you are a wildlife enthusiast.
Suggested Read: Adventure Sports In Kerala
2. Trekking And Hiking
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The park contains a number of trails that you can hop on and trek through its lush landscapes and rolling hills. One of the famous routes is the Anamudi Peak trek, which is the highest peak in South India. Eravikulam trekking lets you explore its sceneries while offering you a chance to meet its different wildlife.
3. Bird Watching
Photo: Walton Lavonda / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
This park seems to be a paradise for bird watchers like you, with over 132 species of birds recorded around the vicinity. Some of the famous species can also be found in this sanctuary, such as the black-and-orange flycatcher, the Nilgiri flycatcher, and the Kerala laughingthrush. So, do carry a pair of binoculars and a bird guide along so as to enhance your bird watching experience.
Suggested Read: Wildlife Sanctuaries In Kerala
Places To Visit Around Eravikulam National Park
1. Munnar
Photo: Bimal K C / Wikimedia Commons
One of the picturesque hill stations, Munnar, is located at a distance of about 15 kilometres from Eravikulam National Park. It is associated with tea plantations, rolling hills, and serene landscapes. The town lies at an altitude of about 1,600 metres above sea level and offers an ideal blend of natural beauty and colonial charm. The cool climate, green scenery, and open tea estates make Munnar a must-visit destination for honeymoon couples, nature lovers, and adventure seekers.
Top Experiences: Boating at Kundala Lake
2. Anamudi Peak
Photo: Jiths / Wikimedia Commons
At 2,695 metres, this Anamudi Peak is the tallest in South India. It lies inside the Eravikulam National Park, where you can enjoy trekking and natural beauty. The journey to the top of Anamudi offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys, tea plantations, and rich biodiversity. The peak is covered with lush grasslands and inhabited by various endemic species of flora and fauna.
Top Experiences: Trekking, wildlife encounters, photography, picnic
Suggested Read: Haunted Places In Kerala
3. Mattupetty Dam
Photo: Bimal K C / Wikimedia Commons
Mattupetty Dam is one of the requisite destinations for a vacation, located nearly 13 kilometres from Munnar. The place is noted for its beautiful landscape and engaging activities. Constructed on Mattupetty Lake, lush green hills and tea plantations embracing the dam, therefore forming an excellent option for picnics, boating, and enjoying the serenity around. Different species of birds can also be found in the lake, thus making this a perfect place for bird watching activity.
Top Experiences: Boating, picnic, strolling through tea plantations, bird watching
4. Top Station
Photo: Bimal K C / Wikimedia Commons
Situated about 32 km from Munnar, Top Station is the highest point on the Munnar Kodaikanal road and provides you with a panoramic view of the Western Ghats and the valley below. With its divine beauty, cool climate, and rare Neelakurinji flowers blooming once every twelve years, this place is just the perfect destination for those of you looking to experience the finest landscapes of the Western Ghats.
Top Experiences: Panoramic views of the Western Ghats, exploration of tea plantations, photography.
Suggested Read: Caves In Kerala
Where To Stay
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Ranging from budget category lodges and mid-range hotels to luxury resorts at Munnar, there are a plethora of accommodation options available in the vicinity of Eravikulam National Park. Some of the recommended hotels and resorts in the region include: Hotel Emerald Inn, Birdwing Cottage, Rainforest Munnar Resort, K Mansion, and Kurinji Wanderlust Resort.
Where To Eat
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There are small restaurants and eateries near the entrance that serve local Kerala food. Besides that, you can also head to some nearby restaurants and cafes for a luscious treat after enjoying the sightseeing tour. Some of the best restaurants and cafes that you can visit there are: Rochas Restaurant, Saravana Bhavan, Tea Tales Cafe, Rapsy Restaurant, Al Buhari, and more.
Suggested Read: Kerala Nightlife
Other Factors To Consider
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Average Cost Of Trip
The budget for visiting Eravikulam National Park can vary on the basis of accommodation, travel, food, and other activities. The average budget trip cost ranges from ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 per day per person. This includes stay, food, travel, and entry fees of places of interest.
Tips For Travellers
- Wear comfortable clothes: Lightweight, breathable, quick-dry apparel is advisable, particularly, if trekking/hiking is on your agenda. Besides that, comfortable walking shoes are a must quite naturally.
- Carry Essentials: Sunscreen and insect repellents, a hat, and sunglasses are some basic things that you should carry. So, do carry a water bottle to remain hydrated.
- Stay Safe: Be careful while trekking/viewing the park. Obey all safety instructions and guidelines put up or displayed by the park authorities.
- Check Weather Conditions: Obtain the weather forecast before embarking on your journey. Avoid visiting during the heavy rain seasons since it makes the tracks too muddy and very slippery, thus making it uncomfortable for trekking.
Eravikulam National Park is a jewel in the heart of Kerala, offering you a chance to immerse yourself in nature and experience the rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes of the Western Ghats. Here you can enjoy trekking, encounter endangered species, or simply relax amid the serene environment. Its accessibility, combined with the range of activities and nearby attractions, makes it a must-visit destination. So, plan your trip with TripXL now for a remarkable experience.
Cover Photo: Kiranbharatbarapatre / Wikimedia Commons
