Sharing the borders with the states of Kerala and Karnataka, the Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most prominent wildlife sanctuaries in South India. Settled amidst the Nilgiri Hills, the Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary provides shelter to numerous endangered species like Indian elephant, Bengal tiger, long-billed vulture, white-rumped vulture, Indian leopard, and others.

It also serves as a part of the greater Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The Western Ghats area along with the Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary is under consideration for recognition as a heritage site by UNESCO.

Spreading across an area of 321 sq. Km, the Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary connects the Western Ghats with the Eastern Ghats. The northern part of this sanctuary comes under the state of Karnataka which is popular as Bandipur National Park. This sanctuary with a rich diversity is also declared as a tiger reserve.

Best time to visit :

February to June is the best time to visit Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary.

Flora and fauna

Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary has three types of forests which are tropical moist deciduous forest, Tropical dry deciduous forest and southern tropical dry thorn forest. Trees like Litsea Mysorensis, Cinnamomum malabatrum, Olea dioca, Sneez wort etc are found here along with moist bamboo breaks.

Plants like Mengifera indica, Terminalia Arjuna, Indian Roosewood etc. are found in this forest. This reserve is also a home for many wild species of plants and cultivated plants. In fauna, Mudumalai National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary has 55 species of mammal including tigers, elephants, chital, deer, wild pig, leopard, sloth beers, 227 avian species, 34 reptile species, 21 amphibian species and more than 50 species of fishes.

Activities

Elephant Safari is the most adventurous activity that you should not miss during your visit to this national park. Watch varieties of species of animals near the Mayor River when they come to drink water. Interact with elephants in elephant feeding camps, or go for camping near Kallatty Falls. Enjoy boating in Pykara Lake as this is also a best site for bird watching activity.

Opening & Closing Time:

Entrance Fee:

Way to reach

 By Air -  Coimbatore International Airport is the nearest airports to Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary which is situated at a distance of 160 Km.

 By Rail -  Ooty Railway Station is the nearest railway stations to Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary which is situated at a distance of 64 Km.

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

FAQs:

Why is Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary famous?

Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary is renowned for its rich biodiversity, serving as a critical habitat for endangered species like the Bengal tiger, Indian elephant, and long-billed vulture. As part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, it plays a vital role in preserving the region's ecological diversity. In 2007, Mudumalai was designated a Tiger Reserve, enhancing its importance in tiger conservation efforts. The sanctuary also gained global recognition as the setting for the Oscar-winning documentary The Elephant Whisperers, which tells the heart-warming story of two orphaned elephant calves, Raghu and Ammu, cared for at Theppakadu Elephant Camp, located within the sanctuary.

Can I take guided tours at Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary?

Yes, guided tours and safaris are available at Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary. Trained naturalists and guides lead these tours to provide insights into the wildlife and ecology of the sanctuary, ensuring a safe and educational experience for visitors.

What is Theppakadu Elephant Camp, and why is it popular?

Theppakadu Elephant Camp, located within Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, is a century-old elephant training camp that offers visitors a chance to observe elephants up close. The camp gained international recognition through the Oscar-winning documentary The Elephant Whisperers, which highlights the bond between humans and elephants and promotes conservation efforts.

What are the popular activities to do at Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary?

Some of the popular activities at Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary include:

• Jeep Safari/Bus Safari to explore the wildlife
• Birdwatching to spot rare bird species
• Visiting the Theppakadu Elephant Camp
• Staying in tree houses for a unique experience
• Camping in the wilderness
• Trekking through the scenic forest trails
• Visiting nearby waterfalls
• Taking a village tour to experience local culture
• Swimming in natural pools

What wildlife can be found at Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary?

Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, leopards, sloth bears, Indian Giant Squirrels, and gaur (Indian bison). The park also hosts over 260 species of birds, including the critically endangered white-rumped vulture and long-billed vulture, making it a birdwatcher's paradise.