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
- 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.
- 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.
- Neelakurinji
Bloom: Every 12 years, the park’s hillsides are covered in a carpet of
blue when the Neelakurinji flowers bloom.
- Photography:
The park’s diverse landscapes and wildlife provide excellent opportunities
for photography.
- Nature
Walks: Guided nature walks are available, offering insights into the
park’s unique ecosystem.
- 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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.