Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1975 in Idukki district and was primarily set up to preserve the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. The Conservation History of Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary dates back to the time of the British rule.

The North Travancore Land Planting Society owned the lands of Rajamalai and Eravikulam during the British Rule. Later the Kannan Devan Hill Produce Corporation took charge of the regions of Rajamalai and Eravikulam. Recognizing that these areas are not suitable for tea plantations, the Kannan Devan Hill Produce Corporation converted the areas into a private hunting district.

The region was entitled as a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1936. But it was officially established as a Wildlife Sanctuary in the year 1975. But later in 1978, it was given the status of a National Park.

This Wildlife Sanctuary houses the largest number of Nilgiri Tahr in the world. The highest peak in South India, the Anamudi Peak that towers over the sanctuary is the pride of Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary.

 

Best Time to Visit :

September to May is the best time to visit Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary.

Flora and fauna

The main vegetation in this national park is grasslands, shrub lands and the rain forests. The fauna of Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary Kerala boasts of 26 different species of mammals which include famous Nilgiri Thar, Gaur, Indian Muntjac, Sambar, Golden Jackal, Jungle cat, Dhole, small clawed otter, Ruddy Mangoose, Leopards, Tigers and most important of all - the Elephants.

Apart from this there are about 132 species of birds that are found here that include Black and Orange Fly catcher, Nilgiri Pipit, Nilgiri Wood pigeon, hornbill etc. 101 species of butterflies and 19 species of amphibians have also been recorded in this park.

Opening Closing Time:

8 AM to 4:30 PM.

Entrance Fee:

Activities

The major activities that tourists enjoy here are trekking, camping, fishing and bird watching.

How to reach

 By Air -  Cochin International Airport and Coimbatore Airport are the nearest airports to Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary which are situated at a distance of 121 Km and 162.2 Km respectively.

 By Rail - Aluva Railway Station is the nearest railway stations to Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary which is situated at a distance of 122.3 Km.

 By Road - Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary is well-connected to major cities of the country via road.

FAQs:

What is the conservation history of Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary?

The conservation history of Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary dates back to British rule when the North Travancore Land Planting Society owned the Rajamalai and Eravikulam areas. These lands were later taken over by the Kannan Devan Hill Produce Corporation, which converted them into a private hunting ground. In 1936, the region was declared a wildlife sanctuary and officially recognized in 1975.

Why was Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary established?

Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary was primarily established to protect the Nilgiri Tahr, an endangered mountain goat species found only in the Western Ghats. The sanctuary is now home to the largest population of Nilgiri Tahr in the world and serves as an essential habitat for various other species of flora and fauna.

Is Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, as part of the Western Ghats, is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site for its unique biodiversity and conservation efforts. The sanctuary plays a critical role in preserving the delicate ecosystem of the Western Ghats.

What is the role of the Rajamalai region in Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary?

The Rajamalai region is the designated tourism area of Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, where visitors can explore the grasslands, spot Nilgiri Tahrs, and enjoy nature walks. Access to other parts of the sanctuary, such as the core and buffer zones, is restricted to protect the wildlife and environment.

What wildlife species can be spotted in Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary?

The sanctuary is home to various wildlife species, including the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, Nilgiri langur, sambar deer, jungle cats, wild dogs, leopards, and Indian elephants. In addition to mammals, the sanctuary hosts over 140 species of birds and 101 species of butterflies, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.