Eravikulam National Park: A Jewel of the Western Ghats

Eravikulam National Park, located in the Idukki district of Kerala, India, is a renowned wildlife sanctuary and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is best known for being the habitat of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, a species of mountain goat endemic to the Western Ghats.

Demography and History

Eravikulam National Park spans an area of approximately 97 square kilometers and is characterized by rolling grasslands, shola forests, and rugged terrain. The park was established in 1978 and is the first national park in Kerala. Historically, the area was managed as a game preserve by the Kannan Devan Hill Produce Company until 1971, after which it was handed over to the Kerala Government. The park is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including endemic species of plants, birds, butterflies, and mammals.

Things to Do and Activities

1. Wildlife Spotting: The park is famous for its population of Nilgiri Tahr. Visitors can also spot other wildlife such as sambar deer, Indian elephants, and various species of birds and butterflies.
2. Trekking: There are several trekking trails within the park that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, including the highest peak in South India, Anamudi.
3. Neelakurinji Bloom: Every 12 years, the park’s hillsides are covered in a carpet of blue when the Neelakurinji flowers bloom.
4. Photography: The park’s diverse landscapes and wildlife provide excellent opportunities for photography.
5. Nature Walks: Guided nature walks are available, offering insights into the park’s unique ecosystem.
6. Eco-Interpretation Center: Learn more about the park’s flora and fauna at the Eco-Interpretation Center.

Famous Foods

While the park itself does not offer food services, the nearby town of Munnar provides a variety of local Kerala cuisine. Some must-try dishes include:

• Appam with Stew: A type of pancake made with fermented rice batter and coconut milk, served with a vegetable or meat stew.
• Puttu and Kadala Curry: Steamed rice cakes served with a spicy chickpea curry.
• Kerala Sadya: A traditional vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf, featuring a variety of dishes including rice, sambar, avial, and payasam.

How to Reach from New Delhi

1. By Air: The nearest airports are Cochin International Airport (148 km) and Coimbatore Airport (175 km). From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Munnar.
2. By Train: The nearest railway stations are Aluva (120 km) and Coimbatore (160 km). From the station, you can take a taxi or bus to Munnar.
3. By Road: Munnar is well connected by road. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from major cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. From New Delhi, you can fly to Cochin or Coimbatore and then proceed by road to Munnar.

Eravikulam National Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.

References

1. Eravikulam National Park - Kerala Tourism
2. Eravikulam National Park - Wikipedia
3. A Complete Guide To Eravikulam National Park - Travel.Earth
4. Eravikulam National Park Munnar - Munnar Tourism