'' Eravikulam national park is spread over an extensive area of 97 sq km along the crest of Western Ghats in the high ranges of Idukki district. Located 15 km from Munnar, it is one of most important tourist destinations in Kerala. The national park is managed by the Kerala Department of Forest and Wildlife, Munnar.
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The park which is also known as Rajamalai National Park was a hunting preserve for the British planters and was owned by Rajamalai and Eravikulam during the British rule and then was forked over to Kannan Deven Hills for tea plantation. Later the area was declared as sanctuary with an objective of protecting the indigenous population of Nilgiri Tahr (most endangered mountain goat) when founded in the year 1975 and was then upgraded as the national park in 1978.
The park holds the maximum viable population of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr including other little known fauna Nilgiri marten, ruddy mongoose, small clawed otter, dusky striped squirrel etc. Some of the other animals spotted here are Elephant, Nilgiri langur, Nilgiri Tahr, Nilgiri marten, small-clawed otter and a rare tiger or leopard and Nilgiri wood pigeon.
Attractions in Eravikulam National Park
Anamudi Peak : The Anamudi Peak serves as the crown for the reserve area being accomplished with variant flora and fauna. The peak is also being recognized for possessing the endangered species of animals like Nilgiri languors, leopards, tigers, and macaques. Lying at a peak of 2695 m, the Anamudi peak shelters many animals. This is the location that brings a perfect chance to meet the nature with the fantastic longing for trekking on the hills.
Atukkad Waterfalls : This is a scenic waterfall that lies 2 kms away from the town of Munnar. This is the most visiting site for the tourists to find some lucrative and romantic escapes along with the wildlife longings.
Lakkom Waterfalls : The Lakkom waterfalls is being located around 25 kms from Munnar towards Udumalaipettai and is an essential part of the Eravikulam stream of the national park belonging to one of the main tributaries of Pampar River. The Lakkom waterfalls even if having a lower heights will bring an amazing view to make the area ideal for swimming for the tourists due to the formation of a natural pool puckered in a complete privacy.
Best Time to Visit Eravikulam National Park
The best season for Eravikulam National Park is from September to December
How to Reach there
Air: Cochin is the nearest airport which is located at a distance of 135km from here.
Rail: Munnar is the nearest railhead town from Eravikulam, located at a distance of 13km from here.
Road: Private coaches and cabs are available on hire to reach Eravikulam from different parts of Kerala.