Eravikulam National Park is a well-known park in Munnar which is known for Nilgiri Tahr, which is an endangered species of wild goat. This park spreads over an area of about 97 sq. km towards the Western Ghats.

Eravikulam National Park is managed by the Kerala Department of Forest and Wildlife of Munnar and is one of the most important tourist destinations in Kerala. Eravikulam National Park is recognized as the UNESCO World Heritage Site. And this park is the first national park in Kerala

. Eravikulam was declared as a wildlife sanctuary in 1975 and later it was given the status of a National park in 1978. The main aim behind this move was to provide protection for the rare Nilgiri Tahr which are only found in Munnar. The Eravikulam National Park is categorized into three areas, namely, the core area, the buffer area and the tourism area.

Tourists are strictly restricted from entering into the core and buffer area. The tourism area is unlocked for tourists to explore the beauty of the park.The hill station, Rajamalai is known to be the tourism area of Eravikulam National Park. Rajamalai is surrounded by deep forest and green grasslands.

The majority of grasslands constitute hill plateaus which is an added attraction. An abundance of wild orchids and other flowering plants grows richly in these grasslands. Many small streams flow across Rajamalai giving a visual treat to the eyes.

This National Park is the habitat for about 120 species of birds, 26 varieties of mammals, wild animals, shrubs, exotic trees, flowering plants, and orchids. The Rajamalai hills are the main stage for the Neelakurinji bloom. Neelakurinji flowers are beautiful blue coloured flowers that bloom only once every twelve years. Rajamalai suits best for the adventure junkies as it provides activities like strolling and trekking to the mountain peaks.

Nearest Tourist places :

Tea Gardens : It is at a distance of 10.6 Km. Tata Tea, Brooke Bond, AVT, Kannan Devan Tea are some of the famous Tea estates found here. You can also visit the Tea Museum established by Tata Tea Ltd.

Anamudi Peak : It is located at a distance of 7.1 Km from Eravikulam National Park. Anamudi is the highest peak in South India as well as in Kerala. It is about 2695m above at sea level.

Kalari Kshethra : It is at a distance of 21.8 Km. Kalari Kshethra is said to be the “Temple of Kerala Traditions”. Here you can watch the live performance of the traditional martial art of Kerala, the Kalarippayattu.

Punarjani Traditional Village : It is at a distance of 19.3 Km from Eravikulam National Park. This traditional village presents live shows of Kathakali and Kalarippayattu for the tourists.

Pallivasal Falls : It is one of the most popular and an ideal picnic spot in Devikulam area of Munnar. It is at a distance of 19.6 Km from Eravikulam National Park.

Best Time to Visit : September to November and April to June is the best time to visit Eravikulam National Park.

Way to Reach :

 By Air - Cochin International Airport is at a distance of 121 Km.

 By Rail - Ernakulam South Railway Station is at a distance of 122 Km.

 By Bus -  Munnar Bus Station is only at a distance of 12.7 Km.

FAQs:

How large is Eravikulam National Park?

The park covers an area of approximately 97 square kilometres, encompassing pristine grasslands and Shola forests.

Can tourists explore the entire Eravikulam National Park?

No, the park is divided into three zones: the core area, the buffer area, and the tourism area. Tourists are only allowed in the designated tourism area, known as Rajamala, while the core and buffer areas are strictly protected.

Is Rajamala open to tourists year-round?

No! Rajamala, the tourism zone of Eravikulam National Park, is closed from February to March annually due to the calving season of the Nilgiri Tahr. It is open to visitors during the rest of the year.

What activities can visitors enjoy at Eravikulam National Park?

Visitors can enjoy nature walks, trekking, and wildlife spotting at Rajamala. The park offers picturesque views of the Western Ghats, including the Anamudi Peak, South India's tallest peak.

What are the specialities of Eravikulam National Park?

Eravikulam National Park holds the distinction of being Kerala’s first national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It shelters the rare and endangered Nilgiri Tahr, inhabits South India's tallest peak - Anamudi Peak, and is home to the Atlas moth, one of the largest moth species. Additionally, a recent discovery unveiled a new species of frog within its bounds.