Eravikulam National Park, the biggest draw on the tourism map of Munnar hills, is world-famous for the Neelakurinji flowers that transform the hills of this park into a purplish-blue color, once every 12 years. It is the first national park set up in Kerala. An abode of indigenous flora and fauna, this wildlife park is a habitat for many rare and endangered species of animals like the Nilgiri tahr (Nilgiri Ibex), moths like the world’s largest moth- the Atlas Moth, birds like the Nilgiri wood pigeon, and many butterflies- spread in the background of endless tea plantations. The park, which is a blueprint of majestic nature, is one of the best tourist destinations of Munnar, for travelers who are wildlife fanatics. One visiting the park will get ample opportunities to witness the breathtaking views of the dangerous creatures living in the wild, with bare eyes. Although the park boasts rich fauna, this park was established originally for conserving the Nilgiri Tahrs. The high rolling hill plateau along with terrains of green meadows and the music of mother nature here form a tranquil ambiance making a feast for its visitors, letting one get deep relaxation and quite an escape from the hectic busy life.
The park encompasses an area of 97 square kilometers and has the highest peak in south India- Anamudi that is 2695 m high. There are many trekking options available in this popular tourist spot- in the Rajamalai hills, situated in the tourism zone of this park. Apart from that, there are two more zones in the park, namely, the Core and Buffer zones, neither of which are accessible by tourists. The famous trekking trails here are:
- Kurinji Trails that often gets scheduled in mornings or evenings
- Lakkom Waterfall for seeing the breathtaking glimpses of the water plunging down the hills, and
- Cascade Walk through the rich Shola woods.
For those interested in gazing upon the blue carpet on the hills, the next year when Neelakkurinji will bloom is likely to be 2030. And, if one plans a trip to the park, remember to avoid the months between February and March because the park remains closed during that time as that is the calving season of Nilgiri Tahr. Additionally, if you arrive at the park and wish to stay, then you may camp here in the Lakkom Log House.
Visiting Hours:
07:00AM to 06:00PM
Contact Details:
+91 4865 231587, +91 9447979093
mail: ww-munnar@forest.kerala.gov.in, website: www.eravikulam.org
Getting there
Nearest railway station: Angamali, about 108 km
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 150 km