Eravikulam National Park lies in the Idukki district of Kerala. This park is at an altitude of 7000 feet above sea level. The park has a rolling plateau at the center with an elevation of 2000 meters above sea level. Though the park comes under the latitudinal tropical region, it has extratropical climatic conditions due to its altitude.
The park has come out as the largest conservation network in the Western Ghats with Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kurinjimala Snactuary, Pampadum Shola National Park, Anamudi Shola National Park, and Manamali Tiger Reserve.
Till 1971, it was under the Kannan Devan Hills Produce Company. In 1972, the government of Kerala assumed the ownership. Then the Kerala government declared it a wildlife sanctuary. With this, the government ensured the protection of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. In 1978, it became a National Park.
Eravikulam National Park is the habibtat of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.You will get the opportunity to see them up close when you visit the park. In the Rajamalai region, you can view them in herds. If you are lucky, you can spot Nilgiri Marten, Small Clawed Otter, Ruddy Mangoose, and many more.
What makes the Eravikulam National Park unique? That is its shola grassland ecosystem. You can find such an ecosystem only in the high altitudes of the Western Ghats. Shola grasslands carpet the slopes of the park’s hills. You can find a variety of plants and animals that are endemic to the Western Ghats.
If you really want to enjoy pleasant cool weather, visit between September to March. The park has a closure period from February to March owing to the breeding season. The authorities have arranged trekking and shorter trails as well. The entry fee is economical and you have the option to book your tickets in advance.
Trekking is one of the proven activities to flex your muscles and calm your nerves. Eravikulam National Park offers trekking activities to the visitors. Kurinji Trail, Lakkom Waterfalls, and Cascade Walk are some of the trekking trails over there.
If you are in the mood for gentle trekking, then the Kurinji trail is the best choice. You can trek through the habitat of Nilgiri Tahr. Besides, wading your trail through the grasslands carpeted with Neelakurinji flowers( of course when they bloom) is quite an experience. Note that the trekking hours are limited to mornings and evenings.
When you plan a visit to the Eravikulam National Park, you will be getting a chance to observe both the national park as well as the Lakkom waterfall. The waterfall falls within the park. It is at an altitude of 7,300 feet above sea level. As the waterfall is enclosed by boulders, it is also famous for boulder hiking. You can visit the waterfalls on all days. Eravikulam National Park arranges a guided trek to the waterfall. If you have any plans to stay any longer, then, the Lakkom Log House near the waterfall is there.
This peak resembles an elephant’s head, and it is at an altitude of 2,695 meters above sea level. Anamudi is the highest peak in South India. Though you are not allowed to conquer the top of the peak, there are trekking trails within the park that offer breathtaking views of the peak. If you are a trekking enthusiast, never miss out on the chance.
This is the tourism section of the Eravikulam National Park. Here you find the Nilgiri Tahrs and other animals. Any trip to the park is a trip to Rajamala.
If you are into birdwatching, then the park is for you. There are hundreds of species of birds living here. Some of the species are endemic to the Western Ghats. You can see Jungle Bush Quail, Small Green Barbet, Indian Lorikeet, Indian Golden Backed Three-Toed Woodpecker, White Breasted Kingfisher, and many more in the park. Likewise, the park is a breeding ground for butterflies. Many endemic species are also there.
